Austin South Asian. SEPTEMER. 2016

Monthly Community Paper | www.austinsouthasian.com | 512-828-6709 | Vol. 9 No. 09

Non Profit - MYNA GANESH FESTIVAL

By Sumaiya Malik MYNA- Austin is the affiliate of the larger Muslim Youth of North America, a non-profit geared to-

Pramukh Swami Maharaj

By Ashish Patel Sarangpur, Gujarat, India - Millions of tearful devotees gathered for the cremation rites of His Holi-

ness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, one of India’s most commonly known Hindu ascetics revered by millions around the world.

The fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and spiritual leader of the BAPS (Continued On Page 05)

ward.

It is in the process of acquiring a non-profit status and is a youth organization for Muslim teens geared towards empowering them and training them in leadership roles to become positive and effective citizens in their adult life.

MYNA’s philosophy of “For the Youth & By the Youth” that helps shape our youth into educated and skilled leaders with an attachment to the welfare of the people.(Continued On Page 11)

ONAM 2016

Onam is the biggest festival in the Indian state of Kerala. Onam Festival falls during the Malayali month of Chingam (Aug - Sep) and marks the homecoming of legendary King Mahabali. Carnival of Onam lasts for ten days and brings out the best

of Kerala culture and tradition.

Intricately decorated Pookalam, ambrosial Onasadya, breathtaking Snake Boat Race and exotic Kaikottikali dance are some of the most remarkable features of Onam - the harvest festival in Kerala.

2016 Ganesh festival is celebrated on Sunday September 4, 2016.

Mythology has it that Ganesha, who is also known as Vi n a y a k or Pillayar, was created

by Parvati.

She made the figure out of sandalwood paste and breathed life into him. Parvati set him to the

work of guarding her when she bathed.

L a t e r , when Shiva came home, Ganesha and Shiva got into a tussle which resulted in Shiva severing Ganesha’s head. Parvati, enraged at this act of Shiva, demanded that (Continued on page 8)

INDIA-US Pact

By Charles Tiefer (Courtesy: Forbes) Around August 30, in Washington, India and the U.S. will sign a major war pact that makes them logistical allies against, among others, the superpower China currently making a bold power grab in the South China Sea. Specifically, Indian Defense Mis-

ter Manohar Parrikar will sign the deal during a twoday visit in Wa s h i n g ton.

The deal is the Logistics Exchange M e m o randum of Agreement (LEMOA), a foundational agreement for India and the U.S.. In this instance, the agreement provides for each to use the other globally for supplies, spare parts, services and refueling. Effectively, U.S. armed forces can operate out of Indian bases, and vice versa, on a simple basis.

(Continued on page 8)

inside

Septem ber 2016

Eye Exams And Vision..02 Scribblings By Arun......06 Texas Children With Special Needs Have...........07 World Photo Day..........07 India-uS pact..............08 5 Mistakes To Avoid With Your Cash Holding8,10,25 Fun Ways To Help Kids

October 2016

HOME Special 512-828-6709

Back Into Classroom.....09 Gut Health...................10 Malik’s................12,13,16 Home Heating Tips.......14 Make Homeownership..14 5 Tips To Make Caring For Babies And Toddlers.....15 Study Of Breast Cancer.16 What To Look For In ....18 Gani’s Page..................18 Predictions...................19 Reduce Sugar...............20 Paying For College........20 Community Calendar....21 Children’s Page........22,23 Back To School Tips......24 Kealing School Teacher.25 Entertainment.........26,27

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Austin South Asian | September 2016

3 Tips For Keeping Your Kids Eye Exams And Clear Vision Empower Students To Learn More Drug-Free This School Year Every child deserves the opportunity to excel in the classroom, and clear vision empowers students to perform up to twice as well in school, according to research from the Rural Education Action Program.

In fact, experts at The Vision

Throughout the school year, parents should also periodically check in with children to ask how school is going and if they are having any trouble seeing the board.

All parents want to feel confi-

2. Open the lines of communication.

Many kids don’t share their vision struggles with parents or teachers and lose interest in the classroom.

dent that their children are happy, healthy and focused on the future.

The unfortunate reality is that drug use can derail these goals and put a strain on families. Parents can do a lot to curtail their child’s risk.

Here are three tips to help keep kids drug-free this school year and beyond.

Council confirm that 80 percent of children’s learning occurs through visual processing.

Unfortunately, many kids are missing out by not getting proper eye care.

Thirty-five percent of children have never seen a vision care professional, according to The Vision Care Institute. And of those that do take and fail a vision screening, a large portion don’t receive followup from an eye care professional.

“An eye exam should be part of every family’s back-to-school check list to help ensure children reach their full potential in the classroom,” says Lisa Curcuruto, Focus on Sight program manager at OneSight, an independent nonprofit that provides underserved students and communities worldwide with comprehensive eye exams and glasses.

“Through the OneSight Focus on Sight program, we are committed to helping students in need and their families have access to vision care and glasses.

We believe every child deserves the opportunity to excel.”

Families can also help all students see better and succeed in school by providing eye care to children in need.

OneSight works with local communities to provide vision care to students during their school day. Consider making a donation to OneSight, which works with school-based health centers to integrate vision care into their healthcare offerings.

The OneSight school-based vision centers provide students in need and their families access to comprehensive eye exams, quality glasses and repair of glasses.

In addition, the vision centers can provide referrals to ophthalmologists for complicated eye issues and education on the importance of eye health and wellness. To learn more, visit onesight.org.

The importance of clear vision can’t be overstated.

Help kids make the most of school by ensuring they are headed back to the classroom with the vision care they need to succeed.

(Statepoint)

interest, investigate offerings at local community centers.

1. Get kids active in extracurricular activities.

Adolescents aged 12 to 17 who participate in extracurricular activities are less likely to use alcohol, cigarettes and illicit drugs, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). Many extracurricular activities are known to have positive effects on students’ grades, attention span and behavior. Afterschool activities will keep kids engaged in something positive while they are outside the classroom and also provide an incentive for staying healthy. If your school lacks a particular activity in which your child expresses

The importance of communicating with your child can’t be overstated. A regular, open dialogue will make children more likely to talk to you about peer pressure and stress—the kinds of factors that can lead to drug use.

You can foster communication by regularly sitting down to dinner as a family and checking in on homework and school projects. Encourage children to invite friends over, so you know more about others with whom they spend their time.

3. Test your child.

If you suspect your child is experimenting with drugs, there are tools that can help you find out for certain in the privacy of your own home. Seventy-five percent of high school students have used addictive substances, according to CASAColumbia. Additional research

by NSDUH showed that 1.8 million adolescents had used marijuana in the past month since the time of the study.

Home drug testing kits are readily available at your local pharmacy so you can get answers quickly and confidentially. For example, First Check home drug tests detect up to 12 of the most commonly abused drugs in five minutes with over 99 percent accuracy.

Testing tips and resources for parents can be found at firstcheckfamily.com. Be proactive. You have the power to help kids make healthy choices this school year and beyond. (Statepoint)

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Austin South Asian | September 2016

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Austin South Asian | September 2016

Indian American Author Mystery Novel ‘Ten Days In October’ AuthorMalpani@gmail.com /Ashish Malpani Indian American author takes readers through intriguing crime drama unfolding in rural India with his debut crime fiction ‘Ten Days in October’.

A brief synopsis of the novel goes like this. ‘5 a.m. phone call broke Police Inspector Shivaji Chavan’s sleep informing him that local jeweler Anil Kokate, was found hanging from a tree on the banks of Pravara River in a small town of rural India.

Although the signs point to an open and shut case of suicide, Chavan suspects foul play. Can he navigate the system to reach the killer?

Can he solve the moral dilemma when he comes face to face with the killer?’

Readers of the novel have expressed that it was an exciting murder mystery with an unexpected ending and hard to put down till they finished reading it.

‘Right from the setting in the sleepy lyrical sounding town of Sangamner, to the armchair detective thrill as you ride the roller coaster of new scenes and incidents unfolding in the book and guess at the murderer’s identity.’ – A reader in the review on Amazon.com.

Ashish fell in love with reading and traveling at a young age. As a kid he had two dreams in life: to write a novel and to travel around the world.

Thirty eight countries and counting, Ashish has explored various cultures and captured the world through the lens of his camera with his wife Samta and son Ayan.

Read more at www.ashishmalpani.com

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Austin South Asian | September 2016

Emotional Cremation Rites Of Hindu Guru His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj

(Continued From Page 01)

Swaminarayan Sanstha departed his mortal body on Saturday, Au-

tals, and disaster relief services to provide infrastructure and support across communities of all sizes.

Dr. Kashyap Patel, a cardiologist in Atlanta, Georgia, expressed his feelings following the passing, “I grew up building a bond with Pramukh Swami Maharaj.

His travels from India would bring him to America, and he would take the time to get to know devotees in all corners of the world.

gust 13, 2016 at the age of 95.

Over 2.1 million devotees from around the world dashed to the village of Sarangpur in Gujarat, India, to pay their last respects before his final rites were performed on Wednesday, August 17, 2016.

The atmosphere was filled with comforting friends and strangers sharing memories with each other of their uplifting interactions with Pramukh Swami Maharaj, reminiscing upon the heartfelt connection that cemented his influence and wisdom in their lives.

Many had traveled overnight from the United States to attend the cremation. “Pramukh Swami Maharaj welcomed all people in search of guidance, spirituality, and self-improvement.

He had a heart in which the whole world could live. Those who love him are all different, but the divinity they saw in him is the same,” said Puja Patel, 22, from Columbus, Ohio.

Most remembered as a pious, selfless person, Pramukh Swami Maharaj had dedicated his life towards the service and personal development of others, establishing mandirs (Hindu temples) to preserve spirituality for current and future generations, as well as developing and overseeing schools, hospi-

He would reassure them in their faith, talk with them about their struggles, challenge them to improve their poor habits, listen to their seemingly insignificant worries – sharing the burden of life’s emotions with all who would lean on him.

As he aged, his travels slowed, and face-to-face meetings with him grew fewer for all devotees. During this time it became clear that his role as a guide, as a Guru, was not limited to his physical presence, it continues in the hearts of all those who accepted him as their teacher and friend.”

Once the official word was released from the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Sarangpur, Indian television networks began coverage of the memorials and tributes leading to the final rites rituals of Pramukh Swami Maharaj.

Heads of state from all over the country arrived to pay a final visit to the spiritual leader who has united communities in support of serving society.

Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, visited Sarangpur, Gujarat from Delhi and addressed saddened devotees before the funeral rites saying, “His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj was a stalwart among humans who embodied compassion and humility…

Today you have lost a Guru, but I have lost a father.”

Democratic Presidential nominee,

Hillary Clinton offered her condolences saying, “Bill and I offer our sincerest condolences to the devotees of his Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj and the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha worldwide.

Pramukh Swami didn’t just teach virtues – he lived them every day.

That’s what made him a Guru to millions of devotees around the world. From the Akshardham Mandir in New Jersey to the countless temples that he blessed in the United States, Pramukh Swami built a global faith and community founded on Vedic values.”

British Prime Minister Teresa May, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, HRH Prince of Wales, and other heads of states also sent condolences and tributes.

“His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj exemplified the values of British Hindus whose contribution helps make the United Kingdom one of the world’s most successful multi-cultural, multi-faith democracies,” stated British Prime Minister Teresa May. Speaking of his life of service she added: “This legacy of selfless service will continue to benefit humanity for a long time to come.”

Over 95 years, Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life work and travels acquainted him with curious minds from around the globe.

After news of his passing, many have extended their warm words on the loss of a beloved leader. Tributes are shared at http://pramukhswami.org/tributes.

Born as Shantilal Patel on December 7, 1921, Pramukh Swami Maharaj, was initiated as a swami (Hindu monk) on January 10, 1940 and received the name Narayanswarupdas Swami.

On May 21, 1950 he was appointed as Head of the organization and came to be known as Pramukh Swami Maharaj.

Ever since he became a swami, he has counselled seekers from all walks of life through comforting discussions, compassionate letters, early hour phone calls, and visits throughout Gujarat – home to home, hut to hut – often made entirely by foot.

The sheer amount of time given selflessly in working with people, listening to their pains and miseries to provide solutions rooted in unity and compromise, is the reason the entire Hindu community is experiencing an unparalleled sadness upon his passing.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj served individuals as a father, teacher, mentor, friend, advisor, and ally – he was a Guru who empowered people to live morally upright lives rooted in devotion that would transform their character, attitudes, and outcomes to provide greater happiness for both themselves and their families.

When the final rites were performed, thousands in Sarangpur were seated in prayer facing Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s funeral pyre, with hundreds of thousands watching through a live telecast streaming around the world.

In accordance with Hindu final rites His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, carrying a bundle of straw set ablaze by a holy flame from the site of the Akshar Deri located in Gondal, Gujarat, began the final circumambulations around Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s mortal body.

With each step, Vedic chantings could be heard resounding in the background.

The circumambulations were continued by senior swamis, who have shared a religious life with Pramukh Swami for decades, each bowing their head with utmost love and respect as they paid their final respects to both a guru and friend.

When the flame ignited Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s body, beginning at his toe, the audience was collectively stilled and quieted.

The mood on the mandir grounds was solemn and awash with the profound devotion of pained people as they watched the light of the pyre grow stronger, recalling their Guru.

Heartfelt tears soaked millions of faces for whom this day was unimaginable, the day of the physical departure of their beloved Guru who has guided them through life’s peaks and valleys.

Chaitali Inamdar of Edison, New Jersey said, “Although I am deeply saddened by the news, I truly believe he will always be with us through his teachings.

I lost a friend but even in that loss, I have gained insight and wisdom in the reassurance that his message thrives in how I choose to live my life.”

Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life and message of spirituality has left a lasting impression on the community of Hindus who will now work to carry his work and teachings forward under the guidance and leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, Keshavjivandas Swami, sixth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and Guru of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.

All individuals who wish to send their condolences and fond memories with His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj are encouraged to send their notes to tributes@ in.baps.org, or share their stories on social media using the hashtag #pramukhswami.

More details on http://pramukhswami.org , www.baps.org https://www.youtube.com/user/ BAPSChannel (Continued On Page 07)

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Austin South Asian | September 2016

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Latest Innovation in Cardiology - A Free, Cardiologist-Designed App Educating Patients On Complex Heart Conditions and Treatments

By Prachi Khaneja Healthcare Professionals, Patients and Caregivers in 70+ Countries Benefit from Access to Clear, Accurate Heart Information

To break down the complexity, his Doctor pulled out an iPad and took help of the innovative CardioVisual app - playing video demonstrations on sleep apnea and its treatment.

When Dan Santema, a heart patient from Austin, TX, was repeatedly told he had sleep apnea symptoms, he could not understand what his alleged illness was about.

Dan was also told he could go home and download the app for free, and access all the relevant information about his condition, suggested treatments and procedures, from the convenience of his own handheld device.

Scribblings

By Arun EVENING

In their married life for peace of mind Many disdain their siblings and friends, Distance even their Parents, Not realizing that they too shall be Discarded at the end.

Childhood and teenage goes In Playing and learning.

Adulthood and middle age Vanishes In meeting both ends for surviving.

At last, every body’s heart Intends to live free from fret In the evening of life at least Admiring the sunset As long as possible, in the time little left.

As knowledge brought about confidence, Dan’s hesitation gave way to a feeling of control.

He was able to accept his diagnosis, underwent a sleep study and was confirmed to have sleep apnea.

Now, he wears a CPAP at night. “Understanding the problem helped me accept its treatment and, possibly, is saving my life while also controlling my blood pressure,” shared Dan. CardioVisual is an app designed by an Austin based cardiologist, Dr. Manish Chauhan who wanted to “empower medical professionals and patients to have more engaged, highlevel conversations, aided by videos and interactive visual displays, accessible on basic handheld devices”.

Short, curated, video-based content provides consistent, repeatable and reliable information to enhance patient understanding and satisfaction while saving time and improving quality of care.

Available to both patients and healthcare professionals for free, the 100+ professionally produced, patient-friendly videos and inter-

active illustrations of corrective treatments, allow Doctors to accurately portray each patient’s heart condition. Care providers can then share edited images with their patients.

They can ‘prescribe’ the app to patients to download and learn about medical treatments at their own pace.

The app uniquely allows better education for patients from their trusted providers and avoids the need for spending hours on the Internet searching for reliable and relevant information.

This first-of-its-kind multimedia resource makes it easier to explain and comprehend heart conditions and medical procedures, and has become a game-changer in the heart patient education realm.

Rated 5-star by MDLinx and reviewed regularly by expert cardiologists to provide accurate and updated information about heart treatments, this unique education tool is being adopted by leading cardiology practices, hospitals, physicians and heart patients.

Around the world, heart disease is the leading killer for young and old alike. Yet it is a complicated concept to discuss for doctors and patients.

Most physicians lack the instant material to easily explain and guide patients at the time of their visit with easy-to-understand information about life threatening heart conditions and their treatments.

Meanwhile, patients and caretakers need clear communication from a trusted source to understand their medical conditions, visualize the corrective procedures, achieve optimal compliance, and make informed deci-

sions (the absence of which can add to their anxiety.)

CardioVisual fills this critical information gap by offering providers and their patients everything one needs to know about heart health from the convenience of a handheld device.

The power of good information and an easy process, is how this simple app is making a global impact with thousands of patient downloads, a partnership with 20+ medical companies to provide useful and reliable heart information.

Cardiovisual was recently featured on KVUE and Fox7 Austin.

For more information, visit www.CardioVisual.com, follow the page on Facebook and download the app on iOS and Android.

Austin South Asian

Editor: Bala Kumar Marketing: Jayachitra Vijay -512-828-6709 info@austinsouthasian.com Production: Jyothi Mariswaran Admin: Sharada Dayanidhi Publisher: Vidya Kumar Circulation: Vasooda Kumar ©All rights reserved. No material herein or portions thereof be published without the wirtten consent of the publisher.

The deadline for advertisement and article is 20th of every month.

512-828-6709 info@austinsouthasian.com ww.austinsouthasian.com

7

Austin South Asian | September 2016

WIN Free Air Ticket

Credit Sneha Prakash

LIKE. UPLOAD. WIN. Here’s a ticket to your next vacation!

Like the Skypass Travel Austin page. Upload your favorite (original) vacation moment with a fitting caption to http://woobox.com/4jp8oc for a chance to fly with us! Share the link. Get popular and Get Lucky.

The winning photo will be chosen by the celebrity photographer Ash Gupta, who has photographed many high profile actors/models and famous musicians.

Winner will be announced on September 19th and will receive an American Airline ticket to their dream destination anywhere within the 48 contiguous states. Follow our page for contest updates and the most amazing travel deals. *T&C Apply

To Advertise In ASA 512-828-6709

Emotional Cremation Rites Of Hindu Guru His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj (Continued From Page 05) About BAPS The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a worldwide socio-spiritual organization in Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, is dedicated to community service, peace and harmony.

Motivated by Hindu principles, BAPS strives to care for the world by caring for societies, families and individuals.

Through a number of social and spiritual activities, BAPS endeavors to produce better citizens of tomorrow who have a high esteem

for their roots - their rich Hindu culture.

Its 3,300 international centers out of which over support these activities of character-building.

BAPS aspires to build a community that is morally, ethically and spiritually pure, and free of addictions.

ous initiatives.

With over 65 dedicated swamis giving spiritual guidance, the organization hosts over 630 weekly satsang assemblies for children, youth and adults.

More details on http://www.baps. org/Global-Network/North-America.aspx

BAPS North America

Contact:

Since 1970, BAPS has been serving families and individuals across USA and Canada through various spiritual and cultural activities.

BAPS North American Headquarters Phone: 732-777-1414 ext 140 or 732-497-2267 Email: media@na.baps.org Source: BAPS

Its 150 centers, including over 90 mandirs, form the hub of its vari-

Central Texas Children With Special Needs Have New Opportunities To Participate In The Fine Arts Joshua’s Stage provides experiences in theatre arts, dance, digital photography and film.

Joshua’s Stage is staffed by caring and qualified teachers who engage

Austin, Texas, August 2, 2016 – A new nonprofit organization serving Central Texas has launched its inaugural programs benefitting children with special needs. Joshua’s Stage offers specialized classes and performances for children ages 3 to 18 in theatre arts, dance, digital photography and filmmaking.

Children enrolled in Joshua’s Stage get the opportunity to explore fine arts activities specifically designed for children with special needs.

“Students learn to demonstrate creativity, develop self-confidence in the classroom and during performances, gain and maintain high self-esteem and form long-lasting relationships with children and families with similar needs,” said Founder and Executive Director Joshua Levy.

display their photographs in an exhibit; and produce, direct and act in their own films.

A parent of a child who participated in the theatre arts summer session shared, “Just wanted to tell you that my daughter had a great time at the class today! I was honestly shocked by how chatty and eager she was while there. She has always had a lot of trouble advocating for herself in a group, and today it seemed like almost the opposite extreme – ha!

the students in fun activities in a welcoming and accepting environment. During 6-week sessions, boys and girls learn to create and perform their own plays; dance and perform in a variety of genres; experience digital photography and

I think that must mean she feels very comfortable with you all and Ms. Maggie.

Please let her know we appreciate her leadership today (that’s not an easy crowd!) and are really tickled to see our daughter really out of her shell today in terms of participation – that’s a really big deal for her. She’s looking forward to com-

ing back!”

raphy or filmmaking.

To learn more about Joshua’s Stage, enroll in classes or to volunteer, please visit our website at https://joshuasstage.org or contact the Executive Director Joshua Levy at 512-825-2744 or joshua. levy@joshuasstage.org.

About our founder and executive director:

About Joshua’s Stage: Launched in the summer of 2016, Joshua’s Stage is a Central Texas nonprofit organization that enriches the lives of families and children with special needs. Classes are taught in a welcoming and accepting environment, allowing children to explore their interests in the arts.

While children with special needs at Joshua’s Stage learn their respective crafts, perform in productions and exhibit their work, their selfconfidence, their self-esteem, and relationship skills improve. Teachers at Joshua’s Stage have experience teaching children with special needs, and have backgrounds in theatre arts, dance, digital photog-

Joshua Levy, Founder and Executive Director of Joshua’s Stage, has taught special needs children in Central Texas for eight years at the elementary and high school levels.

Additionally, he has served as assistant principal at the elementary and high school levels. Following his career in public education, Joshua was with Pearson in State Assessments for nine years including positions as a project manager, test development manager, and program manager.

He has an undergraduate degree in Elementary Education and Special Education from the University of Nebraska; a Maters of Educational Administration from Texas State University; and an M.B.A. from the University of Texas at Dallas.

8

India-US Pact

(Continued from page 1) For the U.S., this is part of the “pivot” to Asia intended by President Obama to meet a rising China.

The U.S. Navy plans to deploy 60 percent of its surface ships in the Indo-Pacific in the near future. Instead of having to build facilities virtually from the ground up, as in Afghanistan and Iraq, the U.S. has the benefit of simple arrangements for the tremendous Indian facilities. For example, ISIS recently carried out a terror bombing in Bangladesh. What if ISIS got a substantial ground effort going, not as much as their “caliphate” in Syria and Iraq, but on the substantial scale of their effort in Egyptian Sinai and Libya? Having LEMOA makes it much simpler for American naval and air forces to fight there. The U.S. does not have actual bases in India. But, it has the next best thing – a simple way to use India’s bases.

tremendous importance for India, again, primarily to help it stand up to the emerging superpower of China. One upcoming deal is the Communications and Information Security Memorandum Agreement (CISMOA). Another, the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement for Geospatial Intelligence (BECA).

With prior pacts, thru LEMOA, ultimately to CISMOA and BECA, India increasingly can either buy (and use), from the U.S or others, or make itself, top-of-the-line technology for its air force and navy to stand up to China’s, particularly in the Indian Ocean. Pakistan, it must not be forgotten, is making itself a base for Beijing’s forces to operate in its region. Modi has made India a tremendous buyer of advanced weaponry. The U.S. is by far the world’s largest seller of weapons.

LEMOA is the key way-station on agreements still to come of military technology sharing of

Austin South Asian | September 2016

GANESH FESTIVAL

(Continued from page 1) Ganesha be brought back to life.

Shiva, who promised Parvati, searched for the severed head.

Even after the combined effort of Shiva and the devas, the head could not be found. Instead, they found the head of an elephant. The elephant’s head was fixed on to Ganesha’s body and thus, Lord Ganesha came into existence.

What is Ganesh Chaturthi?

Ganesh Chaturthi is the Hindu festival which observes the birthday of Lord Ganesha. The festival falls on the Hindu month of Bhaadrapada (mid August- mid September).

The festival lasts for ten days and ends on the fourteenth day of the waxing moon period.

How is it celebrated?

Many weeks or months before Ganesh Chaturthi, sculptors start making life-sized clay models of the idol. Many idols of varying sizes and colours adorn the streets.

They are placed on pedastals under temporary pandals or mandaps.

The Ganesha idols are decorated with garlands and lights, fruits and flowers are offered. Money is collected from the respective neighbourhood for the pandal erections and decorations.

Prasad, which also come as contributions from different households, are distributed after the evening pooja.

Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated throughout India. However, it is celebrated elaborately in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Goa. It is also celebrated in places outside India which

Celebrations at home: Simple clay models of Lord Ganesha are also available in the markets. Even to this day, traditional and orthodox families make these clay statues at home.

Flowers and durva grass or aru-

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Festivities conclude: As per traditions followed in different states and different families, the celebrations come to an end after 1, 3, 5, 7, or 11 days. By the end of the celebration, the idol is taken to a large water body for immersion.

Usually, there is a long procession involved in taking the huge idols to the lake, river, or sea. People dance, sing, and celebrate during this procession. Now-a-days, due to environmental reasons, families immerse the clay statue inside a bucket of water and let it disintegrate.

5 Mistakes To Avoid With Your Cash Holdings With yields seemingly as low as they can go, you don’t have to go far to run into trouble.

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kampul are used during the pooja along with chanting of mantras.

Modak, a steamed preparation made using rice flour dumpling stuffed with jaggery, grated coconut and dry fruits is offered to Lord Ganesha on this special day.

Laddu, paayasam are other delicacies made on this occasion and are offered along with the modak.

Combine cedar lap siding with fiber cement shingle panels, or mix vertical board and batten paneltype engineered wood siding with stucco-style panels. There are no set style rules; let your home’s personality be your guide.

A new stand-out front porch area on the home with an easy-care cedar floor and vertical cable railing can add an extra punch of curb appeal to any home exterior!

look with simple siding, railing, porch and trim tricks,” says Patrick Graham, strategic product manager with Weyerhaeuser Distribution

have a fair share of the Hindu diaspora.

This National Curb Appeal Month, take steps to make your home exterior pop.

(Statepoint)

The Federal Reserve’s zero-interest-rate policy has had an uplifting effect for stocks and bonds, while cash-holders have gotten crunched.

In fact, I’ve argued that a lack of good alternatives has been the major driver of stock returns over the past several years; even though equity valuations haven’t been compelling, investors naturally want the opportunity to earn a decent return on their money.

An environment in which traditional cash vehicles have yields of less than 1%--and well below the inflation rate--is bound to encourage yieldchasing. While investors want to wring more from their cash, here are some of the key pitfalls to avoid.

Mistake 1: Accepting a minimal yield pickup while taking a lot more risk.

(Continued On Page 10)

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Austin South Asian | September 2016

Fun Ways To Help Ease Kids Back Into The Classroom

After a summer of fun, getting back into the swing of the classroom can be difficult for students of all ages and family backgrounds. But parents can help, say experts.

“It’s easy for parents to feel like

a great tool for combatting the learning loss common during vacations!) To register, visit camp.wonderopolis.org. For younger kids, NCFL offers these great back-toschool tips for families.

or her choice of vocabulary. Encourage your child to paint a picture of the character with his or her words. At the end of the game, compliment your child on any unusual or new words used.

• Talk to your child about his or her day. Pretend to be a television

reporter. Try questions like “what was the most surprising (curious, funny, eventful) thing that happened today?”

You are giving your child opportunities to increase vocabulary, recall and reflect, and you are receiving a more detailed version of the time

you spent apart. Be prepared to answer the same questions. You and your child will begin looking for events to report to each other. The beginning of the school year can be hectic for everyone. Help kids get a leg up on their lessons by boosting literacy skills at home.

(Statepoint)

Tips To Beat Wardrobe Wars When Back-To-School Shopping For Kids It’s no secret that kids have strong opinions when it comes to style and that their tastes are always evolving.

With 38 percent of parents spending between $100 to $249 per child on back-to-school clothing,

there isn’t enough time to add more activities to an already packed schedule.

But, there are many easy ways you can set the tone of making learning fun, ease the back-to-school transition, and foster literacy skills at home,” says Jon Reigelman, creative director of the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL).

Reigelman suggests seeking out free resources, such as Camp Wonderopolis, a virtual camp and online learning tool available to all families, libraries, schools, and community organizations.

you can see what still fits and create an accurate checklist of needed items. Then, look for the best deals to help you stay within budget. Online retailers like zulily.com can be a go-to destination to discover great deals on back-to-school shopping, including a variety of shoes,

• Sorry Mom, girls say you are not their number one style icon.

While many moms use their own style as the main source of inspiration when shopping for their kids (38 percent), girls are more likely to turn to friends (41 percent) first for inspiration, then to Mom (26 percent), followed closely by television (22 percent). Boys continue to go with the flow and frequently turn to parents for style inspiration first (38 percent), followed closely by friends (34 percent), with television being the smallest source of their style inspiration (14 percent).

• Choose a letter of the day. Look for the chosen letter in any printed materials you see -- the newspaper, street signs, billboards, or advertisements. Make up a silly sentence using only words beginning with the letter of the day. (For example: Cats can cuddle. Dogs don’t drive.

Amy always acts awake.)

• Singing songs can be a literacy activity.

Try this twist: Sing short songs like “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” several times, leaving off the last word each time until there are no words left.

It can be a great weekend or afterschool activity for busy families that can be completed at any pace.

This activity always produces giggles from children and parents alike.

The site features “Maker” projects that can be created with items found around the house, and virtual, collectible Wonder Cards that can be earned by interacting with the site.

• Play “Guess Who.” Describe a cartoon character, celebrity or historical figure.

Getting kids into an out-of-classroom learning habit now will set them up for future success.

Expand your child’s vocabulary by using unusual words, and then explain their meanings.

(Looking ahead to winter break or next summer, the program is also

Take turns. Listen carefully to your child’s descriptions, especially his

Allow a guess after each detail is disclosed.

• The classic, yet cool, color of blue is the top choice among all kids (26 percent). However, for girls, pink (29 percent) and purple (25 percent) reign supreme. Boys still prefer blue (42 percent), with red (15 percent) and black (12 percent) coming in as second and third choices.

according to statistics from online retailer zulily, parents and kids alike should feel confident in their purchases. “It’s never a good feeling to buy your child new clothes, only to find a favorite color, pattern or style has changed,” says Shawn Redman, senior buyer and kids’ fashion expert for zulily.com.

“This back-to-school season, our ‘Kids’ Trend Report’ uncovered that now, more than ever, it’s important to involve kids in the shopping process to lessen potential power struggles and inspire smiles on the first day of school.”

Redman recommends planning ahead to avoid stress. Start by cleaning out your kids’ closets so

apparel, accessories and school supplies. Daily, the site features a new assortment of unique looks at great prices. To help parents shop for kids, zulily is offering key survey findings from kids ages five to 12, in its inaugural “Kids’ Trend Report.”

• Girls go against gender norms while embracing the combination of comfort and style, with their top look being athletic (40 percent), followed by boho (33 percent).

Boys, however, are looking to a more adult-influenced approach for fashion inspiration, preferring city chic (48 percent) and preppy (33 percent) for their back-toschool wardrobe.

• Style inspiration isn’t the only thing moms and daughters may not see eye-to-eye on, with 36 percent of moms admitting to disagreeing on clothing choices with their daughters.

To beat the wardrobe wars, a majority of moms (58 percent) recommend giving their children choices and letting them ultimately pick their own outfits.

“The back-to-school season is a perfect opportunity to inspire kids to express their individuality and boost their confidence,” says Redman.

(Statepoint)

10

Austin South Asian | September 2016

What To Know About Your Gut Health Your gut health affects more than just how your stomach feels.

Recent scientific breakthroughs

and even cancer and its treatment.

Experts say that understanding the gut microbiome may change how

“The gut microbiome is currently subject to intense and growing interest within the medical and pharmaceutical industries, but is also of great interest to average people,” says Michael Farrell, PhD, Managing Director of Biome360, an emerging biotechnology and probiotics company.

Farrell says that with the right tools and knowledge, anyone can positively influence and manage his or her own gut microbiome in the pursuit of better overall health. He is offering the following tips:

have uncovered links between the state of the gut microbiome and a range of human health issues such as obesity, diabetes, gastrointestinal disease, cardiovascular disease, immune system disorders, asthma

these diseases are diagnosed and treated.

Additionally, specific microbes have been linked to good digestive health.

• Assess your existing gut health and monitor changes over time.

New tools, like the Gut Microbiome Sampling Kit, from Biome360, make it possible to do so at home.

The sample collection process requires no training or preparation and the Biome360 dashboard allows users to learn about and explore their gut microbiome, and compare it to age and gendermatched healthy peers.

• Supplement your gut health with targeted probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Streptococcus.

Probiotics support digestive and immune health, can aid in weight loss and can lower the bad bacteria in your body that can cause infections and other problems.

Probiotic supplements are especially important after a course of antibiotics.

• What you eat matters. Make sure you get high-quality fiber in your diet -- the recommended daily intake of 25 to 38 grams -- and take steps to limit processed carbohydrates.

crobial communities for the better, promoting healthier brain and metabolic activity over the course of a lifetime, according to recent research at the University of Colorado.

Include fermented foods in your diet, which are packed with beneficial bacteria.

You may not realize how much control you have over your own health.

Good choices include yogurt, cottage cheese, kimchi, tempeh, natto, kambucha, sauerkraut, miso, milk kefir and pickles.

With the right information at your fingertips, you can learn more about what is happening inside your gut, and take informed action to improve your health.

• Exercise early and often. Exercise, early in life, can alter mi-

(Statepoint)

5 Mistakes To Avoid With Your Cash Holdings (Continued From Page 08) The net effect of declining yields is that the yield differential between higher-risk/higher-yielding securities and lower-risk/lower-yielding securities has gotten compressed.

Along the way, something unusual has happened: Security types that offer FDIC protection, such as certificates of deposit, bank-offered money market accounts, checking and savings accounts, and online savings accounts, are actually outyielding security types without those guarantees.

(Credit union savings accounts don’t offer FDIC protection, but they are backed by the National Credit Union Insurance Fund, which is backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government.

For that reason, credit union accounts are usually deemed on par with FDIC-insured accounts from a safety standpoint.) In essence, you’re currently getting paid more to take less risk.

On the flip side, money market mutual funds, which are not covered by FDIC insurance, are generally yielding less than their FDIC-insured counterparts right

now. Meanwhile, some security types currently offer yields as high as or even a bit higher than FDICinsured instruments, but their risks are substantially higher, too.

I’d put floating-rate demand notes in that category; these are shortterm notes offered directly to consumers by large companies.

They offer liquidity as well as check-writing privileges in some cases, but they are not FDIC-insured and they are tied to the fortunes of a single company.

Duke Energy has been a big purveyor of the notes; the most recent yield figure for a $50,000 deposit was 0.90%.

To my mind, that seems like insufficient compensation for the risks, especially when you can readily pick up online savings accounts with yields in that same ballpark.

Ditto for short-term bond funds and floating-rate funds; while such investments may be reasonably components of investors’ long-term portfolios, their lack of guarantees makes them a poor cash alternative.

(Continued On Page 19)

11

Austin South Asian | September 2016

Non Profit Of The Month: MYNA -Muslim Youth Of North America – Austin Affiliate

(Continued From Page 01)

There are chapters of MYNA all over the United States, Canada and now Mexico. MYNA has touched the lives of many North Ameri-

can Muslim youth over the past 30 years offering the social support and national networks to mold “MYNA kids” into leaders in their local communities and the next generation of Muslim activists in America.

MYNA is not just another youth group. The reason behind this is simple - MYNA is dedicated for youth, and managed by youth.

Unlike many other youth groups, their management structure is made up by its youth members who themselves develop and carry out initiatives, with adult advisors taking on a minimal role to mentor and guide them along the way.

Over the past 30 years, MYNA has built an expansive network of empowered youth leaders and advisors across the United States and Canada - they not only bring one community together, but also work to unify communities and regions together to form a larger community together.

The friends you make at a MYNA retreat will be people you will always be able to rely on, talk to, and who will always support you, regardless of distance.

Zafar Choudhry is the backbone

of MYNA in Austin. He joined MYNA when Farzana Khan and her husband Mohammed, set up the Austin Chapter in the year 2000 focusing on 12 to 18 years old students in Austin and surrounding areas.

Zafar immediately took a leadership role and began helping them. He stayed with it and literally took over the reigns until 2010 when he decided to take a break to raise his own young toddlers.

In 2015, he began work to revive MYNA and in January of 2016 it became official with 20 members.

The membership since then has increased to 150 and is steadily on the rise. Right now the membership is free.

In conversation with the Austin South Asian, Zafar said that

the political climate of Islamophobia and anti-immigration laws have created the need now more than ever before to train kids to take on leadership roles and to stand with their head high as proud citizens.

The new MYNA has every leadership position taken on by a teen that is advised by a mentor. Right now there are 15 advisors who are the senior members of the community who were involved with the initital setup.

Some names in these are Yasmin Turk, Pamela Hamid, Junaid and Amanda Qureshi, Farzana and Mohammed Khan. They supervise 15 officers.

There is a president, vice president, leaders of community outreach, media, marketing, registration and active work which is taken hands on by the youth of Austin.

Each leader is elected for a term of 1 year. The current President is Maryam Khawar.

Anyone can apply to be an officer and get elected to office. MYNA

is a non-profit so the community service hours that students earn go a long way in their college application.

The current 150 students are of Middle-Eastern, European, African, Hispanic, and South Asian origin as well as second or third generation Muslims. There are about 60% girls and 40% boys.

MYNA has done many community events this year and they just got done with a successful school supply drive for the Syrian Refugees.

The collection and distribution happened in the ICGA Mosque on Manor Road.

The MYNA team raised $5000 in cash and collected in kind donations of backpacks, lunch boxes, school clothing, books and supplies.

Syrian refugees and all needy people were welcome regardless of who they were. The donation amount was collected through ICGA. They have also done Ramadan

Gift baskets where flour, sugar, dates, juices, tea, dry milk, cooking oil, and rice were put in boxes and delivered to needy families.

In March MYNA tied up with the Muslim filmmakers in SXSW. They invited the filmmakers to the NAMCC mosque on Lamar to talk to the kids about film making as a profession.

The future plan of MYNA is to prepare for counseling for victims of substance abuse, sex abuse, prevention of suicide, depression or anxiety so that the teens channel their grief into making a positive difference in society. MYNA has applied for a hotline.

Zafar Choudhry said that much work needs to be done, but fortunately the advisors and the mentors are committed and funds are continuously generated to make the event possible.

Call Zafar Choudhry at 512-9131811 to make in kind or cash donations. Please also visit: http:// mynaaustin.org

HC4A Awards $45,000 In Scholarships

By: Rama Tiru, Photographs by: Rama Tiru, Tiru Galleries Thank you Austin for helping Hindu Charities For America (HC4A) raise funds last year so that HC4A was able to award $45,000 in scholarships.

This is one of the largest amounts raised by an Asian American group for scholarships in Austin area. A large amount of funds was raised from 1st Annual Aadhaar Gala last December, rest from individual donations and placements of donation cans placed at GAMA affiliated stores.

Austin Council Member Greg Casar hosted an Award Ceremony on Tuesday August 16, at 3:00 pm in the Mayor’s Ceremonial Room (2nd Floor) at the City Hall.

Austin Mayor Steve Adler and Manor Mayor Rita Jonse, attended the event along with most of the City Councilors Ora Houston.

Greg Casar, Don Zimmerman, Leslie Pool, Kathie Tovo and Sheri Gallo.

Also present were the Manor ISD’s newly appointed superintendent Dr. Royce Avery, TX House Representative Celia Israel, Student and Family Support Services Director Rebecca Lott, Director of Counsel-

Board Members were present to lend their strong support.

HC4A, was proud to distribute the scholarship awards: $27k to Students of Austin Community College, $10k to Capital

ing & Guidance Tabita Gutierrez, Steve Jacobs, Nikki Graham of Capital Idea, Cassandra Wiggins from ACC. HC4A was represented by Mr. Harish Kotecha, Dinesh Vakharia and Dr. Ishwar Thakkar (IACT) Indian American Coalition of Texas

Idea $8k to Manor Independent School District. HC4A founder Harish Kotecha, Director of Programs Dinesh Vakharia, Mayor Steve Adler, Council Member Don Zimmerman, and Ashwin Ghatalia from IACT gave short speeches

about the importance of educating children for a better future.

HC4A pledged to raise more funds in the years to come. Overall it was a great event!

This ceremony is an example on how that the Asian community can help with income disparity issues facing Austin metro area.

HC4A’s mission is to “Bridge Income Disparity through Education”.

To this end, it has two programs – annual donation of school supplies for homeless with Jewish Community and Vocational Training Scholarships for those students who are economically disadvantaged. HC4A was founded in 2010.

To raise funds for next year, 2nd Annual Aadhaar Gala will be at Crown Plaza at 6:30 pm on November 5th 2016.

More information on HC4A, Aadhaar Gala and to get involvedis found at www.hc4a.org or by calling 512.994.4638.

12

Austin South Asian | September 2016

Super Stars Atif Aslam From Pakistan And Sonu Nigam From India To Perform Live In Austin

By Sumaiya Malik

On the evening of October 1, Atif Aslam and Sonu Nigam will perform live at the Cedar Park HEB Center in front of a live audience.

The two stars have Austin on the map for the first time.

Two of the biggest icons from Pakistan and Bollywood music come together on stage for the first time on a North American tour.

The concert will feature an extensive line-up of musicians and dancers. Vishal Dave, of Dhoom Entertainment told the Austin South Asian that they would bring an entourage of 55 musicians.

Atif Aslam is a Pakistani singer and film actor. His movie debut was the 2011 social drama Bol, which was the one of the highestgrossing Pakistani films of all time.

Sonu Nigam has been one of the highest paid Indian singers. His singing style is considered similar to the legendary Mohd. Rafi whom he also considers his motivation.

The stars will arrive the day of the concert and leave the nest day for the next venue.

mance along with. There is a preshow at the venue from 6 to 8 p.m.

It will have karaoke with songs of Sonu Nigam and Atif Aslam. Food stalls and traditional clothing will also be available at the pre-show.

Concert doors will open at 8 p.m.

Vishaal Dave of Dhoom Entertainment told the Austin South Asian that the tickets are going fast in the Pakistani and Indian circles.

They are available at https:// www.facebook.com/ events/1781791675441472/

APPEAL TO NON PROFITS Please help us in updating the contact information.

Please email correct information if you think the published information needs update.

We appreciate if you can also provide a contact number so that your members / community can reach you.

We will also carry this on our website and keep it updated for the benefit of community.

info@austinsouthasian.com 512-828-6709

Local news chanel KLRU is also interested in seeing the perfor-

Americans Upbeat On Making Progress In Their Lives If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. That’s the spirit Americans are embracing in pursuit of their own progress.

A new survey for Citi’s #StandFor-

(94 percent).

More than half of the Americans surveyed by Toluna, the online insights platform, also believe that the road to progress passes through

be competing at the Games for the fourth time. Garcia-Tolson, who is participating in the Citi campaign, added: “I’m inspired by encouraging others to take on a challenge. I love to prove people wrong.”

Better Health, More Money Asked to identify the three areas where they most wanted to make progress over the next year, Americans listed better health (59 percent), more money (47 percent) and better family relationships (44 percent).

Progress campaign shows nine in 10 Americans are optimistic about making progress in their lives in the next year.

Just as many Americans agree that progress comes from within (93 percent) and that it’s the small steps every day that lead to success

the lessons you learn from setbacks.

“You can spend your life either focused on your limitations or work hard to overcome them and reach your full potential,” said Rudy Garcia-Tolson, a two-time Paralympic Gold Medalist who will

And while many Americans say the economy needs to improve before they can make real progress, or that they don’t know how to go about it, other respondents say that tracking progress, planning and organizing and celebrating the milestones all contribute to success.

More than half of Americans agree that progress is hard to achieve alone.

Men and women, meanwhile, see progress differently. Nearly eight

in 10 men (78 percent) say they are satisfied with their progress in life, against fewer than seven in 10 women (67 percent).

Women are also more likely than men to say that people close to them are making more progress than they are.

Some 75 percent of men said they were doing better than their spouse or partner and friends, against 62 percent of women.

Sharing Progress #StandforProgress is designed to inspire people across America to celebrate personal achievement.

Members of the public can set goals for themselves alongside the

nation’s elite athletes.

The campaign invites Americans to use #StandForProgress to share the small or big steps they want to take this year or recognize others who support and inspire their efforts – from finding a new job to saving for a vacation, buying a home or starting a business.

Readers can follow #StandForProgress and see video content @ Citi on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit citi.com/progress.

While everyone has their own idea of what success and progress look like, you can get inspired by those around you -- from world class athletes to the people in your life.

(Statepoint)

To Advertise In ASA Call

512-828-6709

13

Austin South Asian | September 2016

Sitara-e-Imtiaz holder, Pakistani American Prof. Adil Najam To speak At TCF Gala On September 24

By Sumaiya Malik ON Saturday, September 24, The Citizens Foundation will hold their annual dinner/fundraiser at the AARC at 6 p.m.

This year the organizers have in-

dation and it’s role in the lives of the underprivileged idn Pakistan today.

focusing on the relationship between climate change and sustainable development.

Dr. Adil Najam was appointed the Inaugural Dean of Boston University’s new school of international affairs in 2014.

After the publication of its Fourth Assessment, the IPCC was awarded the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize for advancing the public understanding of climate change science.

He also serves as a distinguished professor of International Relations and of Earth and Environment at Boston University.

He has earlier served as the Vice Chancellor of the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), one of Pakistan’s leading universities. Prior to these, he has taught at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, vited the receipient of Sitara-eimtiaz, Prof Adil Najam of Boston University to come and share his thought about the Citizens Foun-

Dr Najam served as a Lead Author for the Third and Fourth Assessments of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC),

In 2009, Dr Najam was appointed by the UN Secretary General to serve on the UN Committee on Development (CDP).

In 2010, he was awarded the Sitarai-Imtiaz (Star of Excellence), one of Pakistan’s highest civil awards by the President of Pakistan, and was elected as a Chairman of the Board of Governors of LEADPakistan.

Dr. Najam has been passionate about education and he will be joined by one of the founders of

TCF, Ateed Riaz,.Asif Hasan, well known in Pakistan for his jingles for Pakistani dramas, will provide the vocals for entertainment at AARC. Baby sitinng is available at AARC. Dinner will be arranged by Mezbaan restaurant of Houston.

The Citizens Foundation USA is

a non-profit, which has set up and runs schools all over Pakistan.

Clinton Global Initiative has recommended it.

Tickets to the gala are $50 and can be purchased online at https:// www.tcfusa.org.

For more information, please contact Imran Baqai at 512-577-4231.

To Advertise In ASA 512-828-6709

Hajj Is On September 12 And Austin Has Some People Going

By Sumaiya Malik Photo credits: Al Arabiya News Like every year, Austin joins the rest of the world in sending Ameri-

They too will abide by the restrictions and benefits provided to them and comeback with good memories and the satisfaction that a big journey of life is behind them.

According to the Islamic calendar the dates are 8th to the 12th of ZulHijjah, the last month of the Hijri calendar. The Austin-South Asian talked to two Austin couples going for Hajj this year.

Going with separate sponsors, one couple leaves on the 31st of August and the other on September 4. Farheen Yusuf who is going for Hajj this year with her husband is ecstatic.

She said once the decision for Hajj was made, everything came into place. They join conference calls arranged by Dar el Salaam every so often from home to understand the obligations of Hajj.

can Muslims to Hajj.

Along with ten thousand US Muslims who will be Hajis this year, the Austinites too will perform their religious journey with the help of Saudi Government approved sponsors.

Hajj is the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia undertaken each year by 2-3 million Muslims from all over the world.

The approximate dates for this year’s Hajj are September 9-14, 2016.

The Hajis from USA use Saudigovernment-approved sponsors groups like Dar el Salaam, HajjUSA, Labaik and others to apply for visa. Once they get approved the sponsors guide them through every step of Hajj.

Saudi Arabia tries to continuously

improve upon the Hajj experience based on the short falls of the previous years.

The unfortunate death of 769 hajis last year has prompted the Saudi Government to introduce water resistant electronic identification bracelets for all pilgrims heading to Mecca as part of a safety drive.

Containing personal and medical information, the e-bracelets will help authorities provide care and identify people, the official Saudi Press Agency SPA said on Thursday.

The US Department of State has issued an advisory to Hajj travellers to get immunization for Typhoid, Polio, Meningitis, Hepititis A, MMR and Flu. The Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus (MERS CoV) continues to pose risks in Saudi Arabia. The Austinites prepare in a number of ways including visits to the local REI for lightweight travel accessories.

One friend bought a camping blanket, which weighed less than an ounce for nighttime when Hajj was in winter.

Right now the temperatures in Mecca tend to range between 64 and 108 degrees Fahrenheit.

The main thing to remember is to stay hydrated, rest, and use protection from the sun.

Taking part in the pilgrimage at least once in one’s lifetime is a major obligation for all able-bodied Muslims of financial means.

Between two and three million people participate in the six-day ritual every year.

The annual Muslim pilgrimage reenacts the actions of the Prophet Muhammad in his “farewell pilgrimage” in AD 632.

The Austin-South Asian wishes the Hajis from Austin a safe journey in which fulfills their obligations and a warm welcome back home.

14

Austin South Asian | September 2016

Make Homeownership Home Heating Tips To Save Money And Energy Affordable For Your Family

Will your house be warm enough this winter?

With shifts in climate making winter weather harder to predict, it’s important to

It’s the only stove equipped with a programmable wall thermostat that maintains the temperature of your room, helping reduce heating bills up to 50 percent.

If homeownership feels like it’s beyond your reach, don’t throw in the towel just yet on the American dream. In the face of an

it costs to rent, providing an affordable path to homeownership for millions of Americans,” says Richard Jennison, president and CEO of the Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI).

Indeed, nationwide, there are 8.6 million manufactured homes, representing nearly 10 percent of the nation’s housing stock, according to MHI.

prepare your home for extreme winter temperatures as soon as possible.

It also alerts you when it’s time to add more wood, taking guesswork out of the equation.

Here are a few key ways to make your home comfortable and energy efficient.

Another option that can help you reduce your heating bill is the Encore FlexBurn from Vermont Castings, which can be burned with a catalyst to increase efficiency by more than 15 percent on the longest burn settings and lowering emissions to ensure you get the most out of each load of wood.

Supplemental Heating Consider reducing energy bills substantially by supplementing whole house heat in the zones of your house used most.

For example, why heat the unoccupied foyer to the same degree as the living room where your family spends their time?

Focusing your energy use where it is most needed will allow you to lower the thermostat for the central furnace.

Known as “zone heating,” this practice saves dollars and energy.

Wood Stove A wood stove is a great choice for a supplemental heating product that focuses on specific rooms of the home.

Not only does a wood stove create a cozy atmosphere, but new models are redefining this classic technology to be greener, safer and easier to operate.

For example, the Quadra-Fire Adventure II, an EPA-certified appliance, features Smart Burn Technology, which delivers controllable, efficient heat.

For those who want to green their home, wood is a good fuel choice, as it’s a renewable energy source that is carbon neutral.

Regular Maintenance Your heating system, supplemental heating products and insulation all require regular maintenance to operate at their highest capacity and keep your home warm at a reasonable cost.

Certain tasks you can perform yourself include changing HVAC filters, sealing drafts and ductwork, and weatherstripping windows and doors.

You may want to have your central furnace serviced professionally, however. A handy checklist is available at energystar.gov.

For a comfortable and affordable winter, take smart steps to warm your home wisely.

(Statepoint)

ever-widening housing affordability gap, there are options you may not have considered, say experts.

“Manufactured homes are commonly available at lower monthly payments than what

These days, manufactured homes are being built with quality construction to meet up-todate federal standards for extreme weather safety, wind resistance and energy efficiency; and boast modern design elements with features like luxury bathrooms, wood-burning fireplaces and state-of-the-art kitchens with energy-efficient appliances.

(Continued On Page 15)

15

Austin South Asian | September 2016

5 Tips To Make Caring For Babies And Toddlers Easier

Caring for a baby or toddler is not easy, but today’s millennial parents have more options to help make the job easier.

parents. Karyn Ravin, the presenter of Babypalooza, shares an inside look at the biggest highlights from this year’s event.

Parents of young children can

1. Embrace mealtime messes.

and develop their sensory skills, fine motor skills, and hand-eye coordination.

Inspired by parents who stress the mess, Fisher-Price created the new 4-in-1 Total Clean High Chair, complete with a seat and tray that actually fit in the dishwasher, as well as other easy-to-clean features.

2. Get high-tech with car seat safety.

When installed correctly, car seats save lives, yet four out of five times seats are not installed properly and there is not an easy way to check and monitor the seat over time -until now.

take a cue from special events like Babypalooza, which brings together top baby brands, parenting influencers and media to showcase the latest products and trends for new

Parents are encouraged to embrace the mess at mealtime when little ones are trying new foods.

It can inspire a child’s creativity

The brand new 4moms self-installing car seat will be available this fall. It installs itself by automatically leveling and tensioning.

It then continuously monitors its status during use to ensure it is always installed correctly and sends alerts to your phone if anything needs to be adjusted.

3. Kick some rash.

Eighty-two percent of millennial parents wish they had more tricks up their sleeve to prevent diaper rash, according to a recent survey by Boudreaux’s Butt Paste, the maker of rash relief formulas that are fast acting without harsh ingredients.

Free from parabens, preservatives, phthalates and talc, and formulated by pharmacist George Boudreaux, this

product is a trusted way to treat and prevent diaper rash.

4. Carry to connect.

According to experts, there are many benefits in carrying your baby, from emotional development, to advances in learning, social abilities and IQ. Look for smart carrier designs that make multi-tasking while holding your baby easier, such as the Baby K’tan, a versatile baby carrier that slips on like a shirt and fits like a wrap.

5. Find your formula.

It is important to remember that nutrition is a not a one-size-fits-

all solution but there are healthy options for all different types of needs.

For parents concerned about the digestive comfort and nutritional needs of their baby when it comes time to wean, Kabrita offers a new and unique solution based on naturally easy to digest goat milk.

Kabrita formula, yogurt and fruit pouches are non-GMO, gentle, and taste great.

For more information about this year’s top baby trends, visit Facebook.com/BabypaloozaNYC. Stay on top of new innovations that help to ease the stress of parenting.

Make Homeownership Affordable For Your Family (Continued From Page 14) What’s more, many are often situated in communities with swimming pools, playgrounds and club houses.

While these amenities may sound like they come with a hefty price tag, manufactured homes provide quality housing at a lower cost.

Indeed, the average price of a new, single-section manufactured home is less than $45,600 (excluding land), compared to $177,000 for a traditional home, according to MHI statistics.

“It’s important to remember that the affordability of manufactured homes is not a product of lesser quality, but rather the efficient way building materials are produced, a savings that is passed on directly to the homebuyer,” says Jennison.

“Furthermore, they appreciate in value, just like site-built homes.”

The terms of a manufactured home purchase differ from site-built homes.

Be sure to ask the right questions at signing, including whether the home and its components come with warranties and what the terms are.

Manufactured homes can be found anywhere in the country, in rural, suburban and urban communities.

To learn more about the benefits of investing and living in a manufactured home, visit Facebook.com/ManufacturedHousingInstitute.

If you are ready to take the step of saying goodbye to writing rent checks, do your research to discover the varied paths to affordable homeownership available today.

(Statepoint)

16

Austin South Asian | September 2016

So What’s Happening on Eid?

By Sumaiya Malik

on Eid.

Photo Credits: Nida Azwer

It’s the norm for half people to maximize on the number of events happening on the first day and try to hop homes or venues so that

The Parties

ure out when and who are hosting the parties so their party does not clash with someone else.

There is always the threat of people jumping guest lists. The smartest are those who plan their party first. No one has done that yet!

The Fashion – placing order for clothes on Whatsapp People are ordering clothes, no doubt.

Saniya Maskatiya and Nida Azwer remain the top sell although they are expensive.

It’s still a month away, but the people of Austin are already asking each other what is happening

they are seen everywhere.

The other half is busy trying to fig-

Sapphire, Khaadi, Junaid Jamshed are safe bets and so are exhibitions that happen one week before Eid.

The best part about Pakistani fashion is that every designer is on facebook, has posted their phone numbers and detailed Whatsapp contact information, all their designs are on Instagram and are willing to work with you even from far way.

Saniya Maskatiya was open till 3 a.m. to accommodate for the US clientele. Phone calls are super courteous and mostly handled by women. Payment is easy through Western Union.

The Fashion – What is in?

The Tulip Shalwar has taken the world by storm. The prices range from $25 to up to $100 for one Tulip shalwar and stitching varies, but the fall and the grace is to die for.

Shirts are short and loose. Very chic! The colors range from vibrant to neutrals and classics.

Truck art in shoes is a must buy for all those who shop on the Internet.

What about the men?

Not far behind, men’s kurtas are also becoming shorter, but they are on the slimming side. Men are wearing them on jeans. Oh so cool!

At least we know there is Henna Night!

Jiaa Jabbar is holding a Henna Night on the lines of Chaand Raat (ladies only) at Riverbend Church on September 10.

We love her for bringing the whole community together in such a fun way. The nominal $5 entrance fee is practically free. h t t p s : / / w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / events/573479969479521/ Qurbani in Austin anyone?

Study Of Breast Cancer Treatment Reveals Paradox Of Precision Medicine

One can not complete this eid without the fanfare of Qurbani, Most South Asian stores that sell meat also make arrangements for Qurbani.

A major study about the best way to treat early-stage breast cancer reveals that “precision medicine” doesn’t provide unambiguous answers about how to choose the best therapy.

One has to place the order many days ahead and pay in advance.

The store calls you after Eid to set up pick up time when they have already packed the meat for pickup.

“Precision doesn’t mean certainty,” says David Hunter, a professor of cancer prevention at Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

That point is illustrated in a large study published Wednesday in the New England Journal of Medicine, involving decisions about chemotherapy.

As is true for many cancers, breast cancer responds best to treatment when it is caught early, before it has spread throughout the body.

Dr. Fatima Cardoso, the study’s lead author and a breast cancer specialist at the Champalimaud Clinical Center in Lisbon, Portugal, says that creates a conundrum for doctors and patients alike.

Because it’s the only opportunity to cure the cancer, “when in doubt we tend to treat” women with earlystage breast cancer, she told Shots.

cer return eventually after surgery, but who seemed to be at low risk of recurrence based on the genetic test results.

“So we know that we overtreat the patients with early breast cancer.”

They were invited to participate in the study, which would randomly assign them to have chemotherapy or not.

That means that women could end up undergoing chemotherapy even if it wouldn’t really improve their survival odds.

Hoping to refine those treatment decisions, Cardoso helped organize a huge study throughout Europe to see whether a commercially available genetic test called MammaPrint could help reduce that overtreatment.

More than 6,600 women participated at 112 institutions in nine nations.

Scientists identified women with breast cancer whose physical exams suggested they were at relatively high risk for having the can-

“You know that chemotherapy is a treatment that scares people, so overall and for the majority of patients, it was not difficult to convince them,” Cardoso says.

The genomic test, which studies 70 distinct features of a tumor, did a pretty good job of predicting who was at low risk for recurrence of breast cancer and could therefore avoid the pain, discomfort and risks of chemotherapy.

(The test, priced at $4,200, is covered by some insurance in the United States.)

The scientists found that 46 per-

cent of women who were deemed to be at high risk of recurrence based on physical symptoms could actually skip chemotherapy with little consequence to their longterm survival.

But the test results weren’t always definitive.

About 95 percent of women who skipped chemotherapy as a result of the genetic test results were free of metastasis five years later, but those who had the additional treatment did about 1.5 percentage points better, give or take.

“It’s possible that the benefit is zero, and it’s possible that’s 2 percent or maybe even a little more, you can’t be sure,” says Dr. Clifford Hudis, chief executive officer of the American Society of Clinical Oncology.

(Continued On Page 17)

One third for charity can either be left there for the people in need or can be delivered to MCSS, which has a meat donations program for distribution to the refugees or less fortunate.

Qurbani overseas?

Most Austinites who do not want to be tied down with the handling of meat, or want to donate the meat overseas go online and find a nonprofit which is equipped with the Qurbani and distribution of meat and place their orders. In this case all the meat is distributed.

Well, that’s all, folks! In the next issue, we will do a sequel of this article. Stay tuned.

17

Austin South Asian | September 2016

Study Of Breast Cancer Treatment Reveals Paradox Of Precision Medicine

(Continued From Page 16) He was not involved in the Euro-

rial accompanying it. It would take another huge clinical trial to figure out whether chemotherapy does in

tage.

But the study raises a bigger point here: The genomic test, as precise as it is, offers only probabilities, not absolute guidance.

And that’s a lesson that applies to the whole new realm of precision medicine, which is billed as potentially transformative for medical care.

“The new tools will definitely be helpful, but they often will pose challenges about what the right decision is,” says Hunter, who wrote a perspective piece noting that people will need to develop a tolerance for uncertainty when using precision medicine tests.

pean study but co-wrote an edito-

fact add a small survival advan-

Is it worth all the trouble of chemotherapy for women who are found to be at low risk for recurrence in this genomic test?

That’s a tough call, because it requires grasping the rather abstract idea of improving survival odds by maybe just 1 percentage point.

Women shown to be at low genetic risk on the MammaPrint test are usually opting not to have chemotherapy after their surgery.

“As humans, we’re notoriously poor at assessing risk and making those calculations,” Hunter says.

“But there always [are] some patients for whom 1 percent benefit is enough — and you need to respect the wishes of each individual patient.”

He says doctors and patients need better tools to understand and communicate the subtleties that are inherent in precision medicine.

Cardoso is already seeing this play out in her clinic.

She says the women clearly benefit from the new information, even though it doesn’t provide an absolute answer.

Children Email Us Your Articles To See It In Print info@austinsouthasian.com

18

Austin South Asian | September 2016

Gardening With Arches

By Venkappa Gani Vegetables gardens:

Then vertical cattle fence 4x16 feet as a climbing media for climbing beans and cucumbers.

with adequate height so that walk under the arch to pisch fruits Easily.

area to keep ecosystem safe without any disturbance 11) Easy weeding and feeding plants 12) Plants exposed to full sun for better growth 13) No fruits touching the to avoid rotting 14) Easy to locate fruits with better visibility 15) Easy to maintain 16) Arch is movable so that relocate as needed

1) Cattle fence is strong and bend-

able 2) Easy to assemble on site by anchoring 3) Place arch in full sunshine 4) Provides full sun from top to bottom 5) Good aeration to help pollination 6) Plenty of space and shade under the arch 7) Easy access underneath to pick fruit 8) Plant shady plants under the arch 9) Potted plants can be used at the base 10) No deep digging the whole

These can be classified into four main categories

Found out high speed wind almost knocked out the fence.

I created two arches with material on hand one for cucumber and another one for squash in the spring.

Between strong winds, heavy rains,

Whether you live in an area prone

or have a professional roofer assess for damage you may not be able to see from the ground. They can make repairs or recommend a new roof replacement.

See the two arches with cucumber and squash shown in pictures with abundant healthy fruits visible and easy to pick and eat it too.

ADVANTAGES:

I highly recommend this for growing vines.

What To Look For In A New Roof

1) Root bound crops for Radishes, Beets, Carrots 2) Above ground Leafy vegetables 3) Above Ground Bush type peppers, tomatoes 4) Vining types cucumbers, melons Vining type take lot of space above

Then I switched to large grow area by building Mantap using four steel poles and placed cattle fence on top.

Durability No matter where you live, it’s important that roof tiles can handle wear and tear. Ideally, roof tiles should resist curling, fading, cracking, mold, algae, fungus and insects. Roofing products that come with a strong warranty can offer you peace of mind.

Plants found to be restricted unless trained as they started growing and got too much sun on top and plants

and threats like fire and natural disaster, simply having a roof over one’s head is not always enough.

When choosing a strong roof designed to protect your home and its occupants, here are some things to consider: Fire Prevention

the ground.

got burnt.

People use trellises against the wall or fences or stand alone trellises.

Air flow was restricted by other plants surrounding it.

I started using using trellises leaning towards wall and found out not enough sun and plants got squeezed for not having open spaces to crawl in different directions to get enough sunlight.

Soon I found out cattle fences are strong and bendable.

Decided to make an arch with single cattle fence long enough and width adequate to plant at the base

Real wood shake roofs can be extremely combustible and serve as kindling for wildfires. If you live in an area with even a remote possibility of wildfires, consider investing in a roof that resists flame spread. While no roof will resist a “ground up” fire that engulfs the entire home, polymer roofing tiles that are installed with proper underlayments can help protect a home from wind-driven embers that can ignite the roof.

Impact Resistance

to direct or indirect threats of tornadoes or hurricanes, or you simply live in a region that experiences strong storms, take note: flying debris associated with severe weather can become dangerous in high winds. Damage from airborne tree branches and flying loose items can be devastating to a roof not equipped for impact. Having a synthetic roof that has achieved the highest ratings on impact resistance tests can help protect your property. “Even if your roof has stood up to strong weather conditions in the past, it’s important to make sure it’s still in shape before the next round of bad weather hits,” says Mark Hansen, vice president of sales and marketing for DaVinci Roofscapes, which makes highperforming polymer roofing products that have achieved the highest grades possible on multiple industry tests. Examine the roof yourself

Other Considerations Protecting your home and family should be your number one consideration. Luckily, durable synthetic roofing options abound that offer the authentic look of real wood or slate beauty, as well as environmental sustainability. For the benefits of an eco-friendly roof, it’s a good idea to seek out products that are completely recyclable and meet standards set by organizations like the Cool Roof Rating Council and the U.S. Green Building Council.

For a complete free guide on upgrading roofing to protect a home long-term, visit ThisOldHouse.netline.com. For an important, lasting home project, evaluate your roof and consider making an upgrade that will protect your house from everyday wear and tear, as well as the worst case scenario.

(Statepoint)

19

Austin South Asian | September 2016

September - 2016 Predictions

ARIES (March 21 to April 20): Strong Venus will improve revenues and you may lay your hands on some easy money.

Business trip will be beneficial as you will get the commitment quickly. You will be very aggressive on phone and resolve several small issues. It is a very favorable month for people out of job for quite some time. Long distance trip will be finalized.

TAURUS (April 21 to May 20): Expenses will not leave you alone and you may continue charging on cards. You will get your chance to speak your mind in front of boss and soon you will have the positive results. It will be very favorable time for people in high tech industry. You will visit a holy place with family. You may gather the courage and call an old friend for advice.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Changes will occur at very fast pace.

Control your excitement and try to take short breaks. You will lay your hands on some real easy money.

It will be easy to convince others

and settle the accounts. Chances of getting some money out of legal channels are very strong. It will not be that smooth to implement your plans, there will be opposition.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): Planets in second gives you a big chance to make quick bucks.

You will sign an important contract, which will bring financial benefit for long. Some of you may initiate a law suit to prove your point and get what you really deserve. There will be some sudden changes at place of work; all you have to do is sit patiently.

Trip will be relaxing.

LEO (July 23 to August 22): Your projects will need more that budget. People in business will need to pour in more to stay ahead of competition. You will try to take time out of busy schedule to attend an important event. Do not make any impulsive move in career this month. You will devote more time towards prayers and may visit a holy place with family.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22): You will start to regain control over life. Hard work performed in

the past should start to pay off now.

You will have many reasons to celebrate. Money will go on buying gifts for others.

You may spend extra hours in order to finish an important project before deadline.

You will spend quality time with a close older family member.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22): People prone to litigation should not let their guards down even for a minute.

Saturn’s transit in second can cause some financial loss through land or investment property you have been holding onto for quite some time. People in jobs may have to settle for an assignment away from home. You will call an expert for advice.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 22): Things will keep improving in career and you will start to enjoy company of a new colleague.

Savings account will keep growing steadily. You may be able to avert minor surgery with the help of a new over the counter medication. You will find yourself leaning more towards

religion. Family will be working on a short vacation plan.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 to December 22): Spouse may feel irritated and loose temper frequently.

Money will come but run out quickly. You may be working on a future long distance trip. It will be a better time for people connected with financial world. Boss will listen to your argument but will take time to come up with solution.

Children will do well in school.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19): Saturn will bring an opportunity to improve revenues but at a price. Your concerns about an older family member will grow. You will become more health conscious and make big changes in food habits. Very favorable time for people looking to start a new relationship. You may miss to attend an important event because of last minute engagement.

AQUARIUS

(January 20 to February 18): You should be careful when making any long term financial

commitment or starting a new venture. You will be working with a very smart and focused person.

Observe carefully and Try to learn something from him. An old friend will make a short stop at your place.

A child will need more attention and some medication to overcome minor illness.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20): A Business relationship is on the verge of breaking.

You will be invited to attend a political event. Be careful when it comes to money and avoid buying things which are rarely used. There will be an increase in religious activities and you may even visit a holy place. You will be seriously thinking of making an investment in properties.

parashar@parashar.com www.parashar.com 510-886-4370

5 Mistakes To Avoid With Your Cash Holdings (Continued From Page 10) Mistake 2: Not actively managing for a higher yield.

Events of the past five years have illustrated that the spot to earn the best yield on your cash is a moving target.

Less than a decade ago, money market mutual funds offered better yields than FDIC-insured products--enough to make them compelling alternatives to CDs and other insured product types, despite money market funds’ lack of guarantees.

Today, that’s not the case, and investors who have cash sitting fallow in money market funds are likely paying an opportunity cost.

(Of course, there may be legitimate reasons for holding a money market fund alongside your long-term investments--to facilitate opportunistic purchases, for example.)

But stay alert to changes on this front. If and when yields finally go up, money market mutual funds may once again offer better yields than CDs and savings accounts.

In contrast with your stock and

bond investments, where buying and holding is often the right answer, you may have good reason to be more hands-on with your cash accounts.

Be aware, however, that, depending on the cash vehicle, you may need to lock your money up a while to earn the highest yields; otherwise, you could face a penalty for an early withdrawal.

Mistake 3: Holding more than you need to.

Cash is an asset class where you’re lucky to earn 1% today. That’s bet-

ter than putting it under the mattress (just barely) but it means that if inflation runs higher than 1%, you’re in the hole.

Thus, at the risk of stating the obvious, don’t hold more cash than you need to.

I usually advise retirees to hold anywhere from six months to two years worth of living expenses in true cash instruments. (This article discusses rightsizing your cash stake in retirement if you’re using the bucket system.)

Meanwhile, the usual rule of

thumb for cash holdings for people who are still working is three to six months worth of living expenses.

That’s fine for younger workers who have more latitude to rein in expenses in case of job loss, but people with higher salaries (whose jobs often take longer to replace) or those who work in the “gig” economy will almost certainly want to hold more.

Opportunistic investors aiming to pounce if the market sells off will also want to hold additional cash, above and beyond their bucket 1 or emergency-fund needs. (Continued On Page 25)

20

How To Reduce Sugar In School Lunchboxes

At a time when even yogurt has come under scrutiny for its sugar content, it’s hard to know what constitutes a healthful lunch anymore.

Any way you slice it, too much sugar can be harmful for your health.

The American Heart Association

ternoon snack.

messy liquid.

What’s a parent to do?

• Replace a juice box with water and a twist of lemon.

You don’t need to replace your child’s favorite food.

You don’t even need to say goodbye to any individual lunch item.

However, you can moderate the

• Instead of a granola bar, add a serving of almonds or walnuts.

• Other savory items to try: hard boiled eggs, cubed cheese, cheese sticks, different varieties of olives, peanut butter and celery, sliced pickles and air-popped popcorn.

Austin South Asian | September 2016

Paying For College: How To Make A Plan When it comes to planning for college, it can be easy to thumb through glossy brochures while ignoring one important reality: cost.

“The conversation about paying for college can be an overwhelming one to initiate, but it shouldn’t

Get a Ballpark Figure College costs can vary widely, depending on the institution. Will your student be attending a private or public college?

Will you be paying in-state tuition?

• For fun and flavor: Pack a puttogether mini pizza kit: small pita, shredded cheese, a tablespoon of sauce and a Pearls Olives to Go! cup of sliced or whole black olives.

• For dessert, swap out cookies for some blueberries or strawberries.

Sugars in whole fruit enter the bloodstream slowly, and don’t cause the same spikes in blood sugar as does junk food.

For more ideas, visit olives.com.

(AHA) recommends no more than 16 grams of sugar daily for toddlers and a maximum of 32 grams of sugar per day for teens.

total amount of sugar that’s being consumed on a daily basis by replacing just one sugary food with a savory one.

Many children as young as 1-3-years old already surpass daily recommendations -- typically consuming around 48 grams of sugar daily, according to an AHA study.

With this goal in mind, here are some great ideas for savory swaps.

This is an opportunity to talk to kids about making good food choices.

• Replace yogurt with hummus and carrots.

If the foods you’re trying aren’t working, keep experimenting.

Older kids consume even more.

Pediatric health experts recommend reducing sugar in children’s diets.

• Swap out a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for a cheese and mustard sandwich.

Most importantly, don’t try to change too much at once.

• Like the convenience of fruit cups?

Being a parent is hard enough without making lunchtime a battle.

Some foods that you may not consider “sweet” have more sugar than you may think.

A yogurt cup and a granola bar contain about 25 grams of sugar.

That’s an entire day’s worth of sugar in one seemingly nutritious snack.

Add a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and a juice box, and your child may have consumed more than 50 grams of sugar before af-

Replace them with Pearls Olives to Go! in a cup, which are gluten-free, sugar-free black ripe olives that are convenient because they have no

Ask your children for their input, too.

(Statepoint)

FREE CLASSIFIED info@Austin SouthAsian.com

be swept under the rug,” says John Rasmussen, head of Wells Fargo`s Personal Lending Group.

The average tuition and fees at private four-year colleges and universities increased by 11 percent (in 2015 dollars) over the five years from 2010-11 to 2015-16, according to the College Board.

With this figure in mind, Rasmussen and the experts at Wells Fargo are offering tips to help families make a financial plan for college:

Will you be factoring in housing costs or commuting costs?

“Having answers to these questions can help you avoid sticker shock down the line,” says Rasmussen.

Check out a specific institution’s published college costs for an accurate number that takes into consideration different factors. Many schools offer a cost calculator on their site to help you do the math.

(Continued On Page 24)

21

Austin South Asian | September 2016

September 2016 Community Calendar We have compiled this event listing based on the information available on the web site (where ever possible) of the community/organization as of third Friday. Please check with the organizers to confirm its accuracy. We request all South Asian organizations to email us (info@austinsouthasian.com) their community calendar on or before 20th of every month, for the events happening next month. We will carry listing of all South Asian non-profit organizations in Austin. If the Name, Contact info is not correct or has changed email us (info@ austinsouthasian.com) the changes you want to see. E&OE.

SCHEDULE:

Drive, Austin 78757.

September 02, Friday, 07:00 AM,

September 10, Saturday, 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM,

Sama Veda Upakarma at Austin Hindu Temple.

“My Gift of Grace” research on South Asian Indian advance care planning - Participants will test the “My Gift of Grace” game on cultural relevance to the South Asian Indian population. Refreshments provided. Transportation options available. RSVP: Kavita Radhakrishnan, 512-471-7936. FREE. Community Room 8, AARC.

September 03, Saturday, 10:00 AM, Ganesh Navarathri 1st Day - Sri Ganesha Navarathri Begins is at Austin Hindu Temple.

September 04 And 11, Sunday, 06:30 AM, Veda Parayanam is at Austin Hindu Temple.

September 04, Sunday, 10:00 AM, Ganesh Chathurdhi - Vinayaka Chavithi is at Austin Hindu Temple.

September 09, Friday, 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM, GAACC Business Basics: Business Finance - Learn the fundamentals of accounting including financial statements and profitability ratios. With special guest speaker Jessica Chan, Brown, Graham and Company, P.C. Presented by the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce. FREE, but please register online. Conference Room.

AARC Collaboration.

September 09, Friday, 06:00 PM - Midnight, Chand Raat Eid Festival 2016 is at Gama Hall, 8801 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78758. Free entry.

September 10, Saturday, 10:00 AM, Ganesh Nimajjanam is at Austin Hindu Temple.

September 10, Saturday, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cultural Asset Mapping Project (CAMP) - District Seven community meeting is at Northwest Recreation Center 2913 Northland

September 10, Saturday, 05:00 PM - 09:00 PM, VACAT Lantern Festival - Experience this fall festival, presented by the Vietnamese American Community of Austin, Texas (VACAT).

Includes children’s activities (balloons, face painting, lanterns), traditional mooncake and light refreshments. FREE. AARC Ballroom.

September 11, Sunday, 11:00 AM, AMM Ganeshotsav 2016 is at Vista Ridge High School Cafeteria, 200 South Vista Ridge Boulevard, Cedar Park, TX 78613.

Ticket Information: AMM Life Membership - $500.00 AMM Individual Membership $25.00 AMM Family Membership $40.00 AMM Member ticket (Elementary & Middle schoolers - $8.00 AMM Member ticket (High schoolers and Adults) - $12.00 Non Member ticket (Elementary & Middle schoolers) - $12.00 Non Member ticket (High schoolers and Adults) - $16.00 September 11, Sunday, 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM, Planet Music: ETHNOS Band Audience members at this Planet Music Series can expect an interactive, family-friendly, and engaging performance highlighting unique

combinations of instruments, styles, and music concepts from South and East Asia, with special focus on music practices from India, China, Taiwan, and Indonesia.

FREE, open to all ages. AARC Ballroom.

September 13, Tuesday, 09:30 AM, Shravana Nakshatram - Abhishekam to Lord Venkateswara is at Austin Hindu Temple.

September 13, Tuesday, 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM, Cultural Asset Mapping Project (CAMP) - District Four community meeting is at Grant A.M.E. Church, 1701 Kramer Lane, Austin 78758.

September 13, Tuesday, 07:00 PM, Onam is at Austin Hindu Temple.

September 14, Wednesday, 07:00 PM, Pradosham - Abhishekam to Lord Shiva is at Austin Hindu Temple.

September 15, Thursday, 05:00 PM, Sri Navavarana Puja - Sri Chakra Puja is at Austin Hindu Temple.

September 15, Thursday, 06:30 PM, Pournami Samuhika Satyanarayana Puja - Samuhika Sri Satyanarayana Puja - Devotees are requested to bring 8 Betel Leaves, 2 Coconuts, 20 Coins, 1 Red Blouse Piece for Kalasam, Flowers, Fruits and Prasadam is at Austin Hindu Temple.

September 15, Thursday, 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM, Cultural Asset Mapping Project (CAMP) - District Two community meeting is at Dove Springs Rec Center, 5801 Ainez Dr., Austin 78744.

September 15, Thursday,

08:00 PM, Austin Marathi Shaala Fall 2016 is at Austin Marathi Mandal, PO Box 200182, Austin, TX 78720.

Admission: Sunday In-class Learning student fee - $50.00 ; Marathi Home schooling student fee - $30.00 September 17, Saturday, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cultural Asset Mapping Project (CAMP) - District Ten community meeting is at Old Quarry Branch Library, 7051 Village Center Drive, Austin 78731.

September 17, Saturday, 06:00 PM - 10:00 PM, CSA Mid-Autumn Festival - The Mid-Autumn festival is one of the most beloved holidays in Chinese culture when families and loved ones reunite under the bright full moon. The Chinese Society of Austin (CSA) presents this evening of live music, dance and dinner. Tickets $10 to $23 available online. AARC Ballroom.

September 17, Saturday, 07:00 PM, Pratham Austin Gala 2016 is at Hyatt Regency Austin, 208 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704. For more information, contact Pratham USA at 713-774-9599.

September 18, Sunday, 01:00 PM - 05:00 PM, Austin Museum Day - Create your own patterns and learn the art of fabric dye from two Asian traditions, including Batik (Indonesia) utilizing wax and dye, and Shibori (Japan), a shaped-resist dying technique. 1 to 3pm: Batik workshop led by artist Evie Thompson; 3 to 5pm: Shibori workshop led by artist Lynne Brotman. Plus, Asian art exhibits and kids crafts. FREE, includes all materials. AARC Ballroom.

September 18 & 25 Sunday, 06:30 PM, Veda Parayanam is at Austin Hindu Temple.

September 19, Monday, 06:30 PM, Sankatahara Chathurthi - Bala Ganesha Abhishekam and Homam is at Austin Hindu Temple.

September 20, Tuesday, 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM, (CAMP) - District Six community meeting is at Spicewood Springs Library, 8637 Spicewood Springs Road, Austin 78759.

September 21, Wednesday, 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM, (CAMP) - District One community meeting is at Carver Branch Library, 1161 Angelina St., Austin 78702.

September 21, Wednesday, 07:00 PM - 08:30 PM, The Inner Matrix Book Club - Explore author Joey Klein’s proven approach to living a truly rich and meaningful life using his core teachings and the practices of “Conscious Transformation.”

Nine-week series, led by facilitator Preetam Alluri, through Dec. 14. FREE. RSVP preetam.alluri@ gmail.com. Community Room 1, AARC. September 24, Saturday, 11:00 PM - 12:30 PM, (CAMP) - District Nine community meeting is at Cultural Arts Division Offices / Training Room, 201 E. 2nd Street, Austin 78701. For more informtion, visit http://www. austintexas.gov/culturemapping September 27, Tuesday, 07:00 PM, Pradosham - Abhishekam to Lord Shiva is at Austin Hindu Temple.

22

Austin South Asian | September 2016

THEME: CHILDREN’S MOVIES ACROSS 1. Savvy 6. Churchill’s “so few” 9. Wolf in Mexico 13. Type of closet 14. “____ to Joy” 15. Giverny Impressionist 16. Select by a vote 17. Craggy peak 18. Eight voices 19. *Snow White’s posse 21. *Kevin, Stuart or Bob 23. *”Mr. ____body & Sherman” 24. Fodder holder 25. Dawber of “Mork & Mindy” 28. Maastricht Treaty (1992) currency 30. Goldfinger’s henchman 35. They’re hidden up a sleeve?

37. TV’s ____ at Night 39. *”____ Got a Friend in Me” from “Toy Story” 40. Lymph ____ 41. *E.T., e.g.

43. Arctic jaeger 44. Dismal 46. Muffin Man’s Drury ____ 47. Unagi, pl.

48. Not digital 50. Word-of-mouth story 52. Actor’s domain 53. Back talk 55. “____ populi,” or “voice of the people” 57. *Mr. Miyagi’s forte 60. *”____ Life of Pets” 63. Type of renewable energy 64. Parental involvement org.

66. Have dinner at home 68. Type of sweatshirt 69. H+, e.g.

70. Spiral-horned antelope 71. Augments 72. *Jack Sparrow’s “yes” 73. Ruhr’s industrial center

DOWN 1. Steinful 2. *”Where the ____ Things Are” 3. All over again 4. Summary 5. Dinner’s main attraction 6. Decomposes 7. Big fuss 8. Manhattan Project physicist 9. Locus, pl.

10. On top of 11. “____ there, done that” 12. Mel ____, Giant Hall-of-Famer 15. Accompanied solo song 20. The animals of a region 22. International Labor Organization 24. Parties 25. *Kung Fu-practicing animated mammal 26. Squirrel’s stash 27. Mythological princess of Colchis 29. Small stream 31. 2 aspirin, e.g.

32. Football move, pl.

33. Immature ovum 34. *Beauty’s true love 36. Finned mammal 38. Bingo-like game 42. Impulse transmitter 45. Prayer beads 49. Gangster’s pistol 51. Between Paleocene and Oligocene 54. Old photo color 56. Röntgen beams 57. Crazy one 58. Medicinal succulent 59. Unit of angular measure, pl.

60. Like spirit in sane body 61. Estimated arrivals 62. Bathroom flooring 63. Female pronoun 65. *Buzz or Woody 67. A Bobbsey twin

SUDOKU

Sudoku

Please email your sudoku answers to info@austinsouthasian.com.

Name and photo of the inviduvidual with first correct answer will be published in September 2016 issue.

To Advertise In ASA Call 512-828-6709

23

Austin South Asian | September 2016

San Fracisco Asian Art Museum to present Fresh Takes on ‘The Rama Epic’

SAN FRANCISCO — This fall, the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco will present The Rama Epic: Hero, Heroine, Ally, Foe, an original exhibition of ancient and contemporary artwork featuring the sacred stories countless generations have grown up with. Unprecedented in scale and scope, The Rama Epic features 135 sculptures and paintings, masks, puppets, and examples of temple architecture.

Objects and artworks originate from India, Myanmar, Cambodia, Thailand and Indonesia and borrowed from museums across the U.S., U.K. and Europe.

“This show is about more than introducing one of the world’s greatest stories to audiences in the Bay Area — it’s about gaining fresh insight into its chief characters, the hero Rama, his heroine Sita, their ally Hanuman, and their foe Ravana,” said museum curator Forrest McGill. “By focusing on key episodes of their journey, we can reveal perspectives on moral quandaries that continue to be relevant to our lives now.”

The exhibition showcases artworks from 1,500 years ago to today re-

centuries. Each gallery will focus on a main character, exploring pivotal episodes in their journey.

the plot by incorporating the voice work of four actors of South Asian heritage as the main characters.

with music effects to bring the whole mystical world of the Ramayana to life.

For families with children, specially designed “Art Cards” will create a guide for some of the more unusual creatures featured in the artwork (like a two-headed donkey demon from a centuries-old painting) as well as the interpretive magic provided by the museum live storytellers.

veal how depictions of these characters — as well as their regional variations — have evolved over the

An original 60-minute exhibition audio tour will immerse listeners in

Carefully crafted dialogue based on the classical Sanskrit version of the tale by Valmiki has been mixed

“We’ve organized our presentation around the four key characters so that each one can shine in a different light, uncovering the nuances in an ancient story that has continued to be retold in art and performance to emphasize new, relevant meanings,” explained McGill. “The story’s eternal — and vividly human — values of compassion, loyalty, duty, and valor are values all audiences can connect to in their daily lives.”

(Courtesy: India West)

August 2016 Sudoku Answer Correct Answer: Mr. Yudhveer Bagga

Ms. Ketika Tyagi

Ms. Shanti Rao

24

Austin South Asian | September 2016

Back-To-School Tips When You’re On A Budget Between new clothes and new school supplies, back-to-school season can put a strain on household budgets.

In 2015, families planned to spend $630 on back-to-school items, according to the National Retail Fed-

ping, buying in bulk and simply by making sure you don’t buy things you already own.

Here are some smart ways families can reduce costs as students head back to class this fall.

term savings. You can stock up on summer clothes now and great fall items once the weather gets chillier.

folders to unused or partially used notebooks, you may already have many things your kids need for the year ahead.

Stores will be offering deep discounts and clearance prices on items that eventually will come in handy for next back-to-school season. Remember to take into account that kids grow quickly!

For those necessities that kids will need all year long -- such as tape, paper, pens, pencils, markers and more -- take advantage of bulk sales at discount stores and online retailers. Buying more now can save you cash in the months ahead.

Add it Up Bigger ticket school supply items can cost you a pretty penny if you don’t comparison shop.

For example, required tools like a high-quality graphing calculator can come with a price tag of $75 or more!

Get more for your money with an affordable model, such as Casio’s fx-9750GII, which retails for under $50. eration, and this year’s numbers are also expected to be pricey.

With a little planning, your family can get the most out of your school shopping budget -- by taking advantage of sales, comparison shop-

End-of-Season Sales Take advantage of end-of-season sales to stock up. This concept may not help you this fall, but it’s a great habit to adopt now for long-

It offers useful features like a high resolution screen and compatibility with a personal computer.

Go Green Brown bags, plastic baggies and plastic silverware are small expenses that add up quickly. Instead,

Outside Funding

Students should spend time before graduation on a job search to help ensure they have income when loan payments start becoming due.

Next, investigate merit-based scholarships. From small grants to full rides, a scholarship of any size can reduce costs without the stress of payments or interest.

Take Stock and Buy in Bulk

A database of scholarships can be found online at tuitionfundingsources.com.

512-491-5055

(Take-Away is possible on all items on the menu)

Before making your shopping list take stock of what school supplies you already have in your closets -and your child’s backpack -- from the last school year.

From scissors to

At the store, take advantage of great deals and also consider different ways of eliminating perennial expenses.

ing prepared is essential.

More information about calculators can be found at CasioEducation. com.

Don’t buy things you already own, and take advantage of bulk discounts for the stuff you need!

Don’t let back-to-school make a hefty dent in your wallet.

(Continued From Page 20)

It is also permitted to be used in such major tests as the ACT and the SAT.

Authenitic Indian Cafe 100% Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly Tuesday - Sunday 11:00 am - 9:00 pm 1300 N IH35 Building #12, Unit # 216 Austin, Texas - 78753

It’s not only good for the planet, but kids will get on board if you let them pick items that speak to their sense of style. You’ll also save yourself trips to the store!

Paying For College: How To Make A Plan Explore every avenue for supplementing college costs. All families should start by completing the FAFSA, which is a free application for federal student aid, to determine your eligibility.

Bombay Express

opt for reusable lunch container alternatives and a one-time expense.

Private student loans can expand possibilities for many families, fully funding most college expenses.

To learn more about how private student loans work, visit wellsfargo.com/student.

Look Ahead Four years goes by more quickly than you think. Have a loan repayment plan in place.

While many responsible lenders defer repayment on loans until after school is over, and some even allow graduates to postpone payments for a number of reasons, be-

While students are in school, they should consider part-time work in order to earmark earnings for loan repayment.

Also, being mindful of spending and maintaining great credit will help students avoid significant credit card debt on top of student loan debt.

Get Savvy There are plenty of free resources available to prospective students and their families.

For information on scholarships, student loans, federal and state aid, building credit, as well as money management tips and tools, visit Wells Fargo’s “Get College Ready” website at wellsfargo.com/ getcollegeready.

College-bound families should make financial plans as soon as possible. From identifying and securing funding to amassing adequate savings, the sooner you get the discussion started, the better.

(Statepoint)

25

Austin South Asian | September 2016

Kealing Middle School Teacher Awarded Prestigious Presidential Award from White House AISD teacher is one of two presidential award recipients in Texas for Grades 7-12 Cohort The White House awarded Austin ISD Kealing Middle School math teacher Patty Hill a Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

The Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is the highest recognition that a kindergarten through 12th grade mathematics or science teacher may receive for outstanding teaching in the United States.

“She’s really transformed the way Kealing students learn in math throughout our campus at Kealing Middle School.

The relationships that her students build in her classroom to create a community is really where her impact can be felt here,” said Kealing Middle School Principal Kenisha Coburn.

Hill is one of four overall winners selected from Texas and one of two in her cohort for grades 7-12 in Texas.

lem solving abilities and a deep understanding of mathematics.

She designs engaging activities and projects in which students learn through communication and collaboration, acquire new skills in a safe environment, and are challenged to take intellectual risks.

She believes that the flipped learning model can transform education by creating a level playing field for students of all backgrounds.

She was a finalist for the award in 2015 and has been teaching math at Kealing Middle School for 19 years.

Hill is a founding member of the Math Teachers’ Circle of Austin, which advocates for the incorporation of authentic problem solving into the classroom.

She currently teaches Algebra I, Algebra II and an elective she created called Math in the Arts.

She is also working with Querium to develop an artificial intelligence that provides adaptive tutoring and student problem solving analytics for teachers.

Hill transformed her classroom using the flipped learning model, creating an environment where students learn that perseverance and hard work will be rewarded with improved confidence in their prob-

Hill graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics.

5 Mistakes To Avoid With Your Cash Holdings

(Continued From Page 19) Mistake 4: Ignoring similarly safe uses of your cash if you don’t need the liquidity.

won’t make sense in every instance--if you truly need additional liquidity, for example, steering the money into a true cash instrument will be a better use of your funds.

For investors who are seeking a guaranteed “return” on their money but not liquidity, the best use of their cash may be hiding in plain sight: debt paydown. Of course, it’s a rare cash investor who’s carrying around high-interest credit card or even a home equity loan.

Ditto if you’re early in the life of your loan and your mortgage interest deduction is having a meaningful impact on your tax bill.

But plenty of cash investors also hold mortgages; even if their mortgage interest rates are ultralow, they’re still higher than what they’re getting paid on their cash holdings, and the “return” they earn by retiring debt is also guaranteed.

Many core-type bond funds are yielding anywhere from 1.5% to 3% today, whereas I just pointed out that you can pick up an FDICinsured savings account with a yield of about 1%.

Of course, prepaying a mortgage

Mistake 5: Assuming you’re better off in cash than bonds in every instance.

So why would you opt for the bond fund for any part of your portfolio, knowing that it courts interest-rate

and possibly credit risk, when you could hold cash instead? The key reason is that if your holding period is sufficiently long--say, at least five years--and you don’t need ready liquidity, a core bond bond fund is likely to out-earn cash, albeit with more bumps along the way.

While the bond fund can lose value when interest rates go up, over time it should be able to make up that ground by investing in new, higher-yielding bonds when they become available. And when bond yields go lower bond investors actually benefit, whereas the poor cash investor has to settle for everlower yields.

That has been the case so far in 2016, for example, though that pattern may not repeat itself any time soon. Courtesy: Morningstar.com

Winners of the Presidential honor receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation and are invited to Washington, D.C., for an awards ceremony and educational and celebratory events.

For the full release, please visit www.whitehouse.gov/the-pressoffice/2016/08/22/presidentobama-honors-outstanding-mathe-

matics-and-science-teachers.

AISD is the largest school district in central Texas, serving approximately 83,000 students at 130 schools.

Follow AISD on Facebook at www.facebook.com/austinisd, Instagram at @austinisd or on Twitter at @AustinISD.

Austin South Asian Invites Contributions From Readers And Community

Your Home Exterior: How To Select Color Curb appeal does not happen by accident. From siding to trim to your home’s entry door, these components should not be considered individually, but as parts of a whole -- especially when it comes to color, say experts.

with Sensational Color.

“It all starts with the roof,” says Kate Smith, a color trend forecaster

“Colors should flow down the home exterior cohesively.”

Smith recommends that when the main color of your home exterior is neutral, to add pops of color on the entry door and trim.

The color of your roof should guide these decisions, as the right accents will bring the look together and complement the roof’s beauty.

Smith recommends color selection tips and free resources that can be found at DaVinciRoofscapes.com.

Whether you want a subtle look or you want something bolder, take a top-down approach to your color selections. (Statepoint)

26

Salman Khan’s Sultan

Salman Khan-starrer Sultan completes successful 50 days at the box office and refuses to leave the theaters.

The film, which also stars Anushka Sharma, emerged as the highestgrossing film in the history for India’s leading movie production

third highest-grossing movie in the history of Indian cinema.

The sports drama film features Salman and Anushka as wrestlers.

In the opening weekend itself, it had crossed the Rs 300 crore mark worldwide.

Austin South Asian | September 2016

WOW Deepika Padukone Is B-Town’s Richie Rich!

Deepika Padukone, who is set to make her Hollywood debut, has already landed a spot in a list of the world’s highest paid actresses, with earnings of $10 million.

Trade analyst Taran Adarsh shared the new poster with caption: #Sultan completes 50 days. Still in theatres. Total till 25 August: ₹ 300.45 cr. India biz. ATBB… 50 days poster

Salman Khan-starrer Sultan completes its 50 days of release at the box office and is still running in theaters across the country.

The current figures clearly declare the immense success of the film.

banner Yash Raj Films (YRF) which has been in operations for over four decades.

A new poster has been released by the producers to mark Sultan’s 50 days run at the theaters. It is certainly is a matter of celebration for Salman’s fans.

Sultan acquired the first position as it did so in just three days while Akshay Kumar’s latest release Rustom took nine days.

As for Deepika, who will soon be making her Hollywood debut along ‘Fast and Furious’ star Vin Diesel in ‘XXX:

Akshay’s other two films, Airlift and Housefull 3 did so in 10 days and 13 days respectively.

Not to forget, Salman Khan is also in the recent released Forbes’ list of highest paid actors in the world and stands at number 14 with an earning of $28.5 million.

The list also features heavyweights like Hollywood stars Jennifer Lawrence, Julia Roberts and Jennifer Aniston.

Karthi Completes Another Milestone In ‘Kaashmora’

Deepika, daughter of India’s celebrated badminton player Prakash Padukone, is the only newcomer to the ‘World’s Highest-Paid Actresses’ ranking and is the only Indian star to make the cut.

And if it is not enough, its overall domestic profits till date are over Rs 300.45 cr, as the Indian box office collections sums it all.

Actor Karthi is presently shooting for director Mani Ratnam’s ‘Kaatru

Veliyidai’ and he has been simultaneously dubbing for his upcoming mega budget fantasy-horror flick ‘Kaashmora’.

The shooting of this ambitious flick directed by Gokul was completed in June. Now Karthi has announced that he has completed the

The Ali Abbas Zafar directorial, which released on July 7, has so far crossed Rs 580 crore worldwide.

According to a statement from the YRF banner, Sultan is now the

dubbing process for all the three characters he has played in the film

which will have a contemporary as well as a period setting.

Karthi has named it as one of the most challenging and tiring experience yet a gratifying one after director Selvaraghavan’s historic fantasy ‘Aayirathil Oruvan’.

This marks the completion of an important process in the progress of the film as the post-production team has been working hard to bring the film to the screens in October last as a grand Diwali 2016 treat.

Karthi plays Kashmora, a contemporary youngster who involves in black magic and Raj Nayak a warrior with grey shades who lived many centuries ago. The third character played by him has been retained as a suspense element.

Produced by S.R.Prakash Babu and S.R.Prabhu under the Dream Warrior Pictures banner the film stars Nayanthara and Sridivya as female leads. Santhosh Narayanan has rendered the musical score.

For the second year in a row, Lawrence became the world’s highest paid actress with $46 million earning while Melissa McCarthy was in the second spot by pocketing $33 million.

Lawrence’s impressive earnings consist largely of a profit slice from the big box office gross of her final ‘Hunger Games’ instalment and a mammoth upfront fee for ‘Passengers’.

Taran lately tweeted and compared the films released this year and the number of days the films took to join the Rs 100 cr club.

It has collected Rs 300.45 cr, as per Indian box office collections.

list for the first time since 2013, reported forbes.com.

She has found the tenth spot in the list, which is topped by Lawrence.

Of the 10 list members, 30 per cent, including Padukone, hail from outside the US. Chinese actress Fan Bingbing was also featured in the list for the second consecutive year, while Charlize Theron, a dual South AfricanAmerican citizen, returned to the

Return of Xander Cage’, she earns far less than her Hollywood counterparts for roles, but compensates with over a dozen lucrative endorsements.

The magazine also put the spotlight on the gender pay gap in the Indian film industry, stating that “though a top male star might earn close to $5 million a movie, prominent Indian actresses rarely clear $1 million a film”, adding that “it’s a discrepancy not uncommon in Hollywood”.

Other names to feature in the list include Mila Kunis, Amy Adams and Scarlett Johansson.

What may come as a surprise to many is that there was no mention of actress Priyanka Chopra, who is making waves in the west, be it for her American TV series “Quantico” or her Hollywood debut film “Baywatch”.

Austin South Asian Invites Contributions From Readers And Community

27

Austin South Asian | September 2016

Charan Trying To Win Where He Lost Two Countries In The Hands

Ram Charan is currently doing a dual role. Not in his film but in his life. While producing Chiru’s prestigious 150th film, he is also working on his upcoming film ‘Dhruva’.

all odds to score a hit.

This time Charan is going against

films like ‘Nayak’ and ‘Yevadu’

Star hero films are usually released in festive seasons. Ram Charan’s films are no exemptions. His hit

NTR To Miss Premier Records Again Young tiger NTR Jr is one of the top heroes in overseas market alongside Mahesh Babu and Pawan Kalyan. But, like the other two, he has been unable to score premier

joy a holiday on Monday, Sep 5.

But, the scenario in US is entirely different. Thursday release means the film will have its premieres on Wednesday itself.

were released during Sankranti season and did exceptionally well in spite of competing with other heroes.

But, Dussera season proved to be unlucky for Charan. His last two films, ‘Govindudu Andarivadele’ and ‘Bruce Lee’ were released during this season. While ‘Govindudu’ ended up as an average family drama, ‘Bruce Lee’ became one of the biggest disasters in his career. Nevertheless, Ram Charan once again steps in Dussera race with his film ‘Dhruva’.

This proves his confidence on the content of ‘Dhruva’ and hope this film turns successful and brings in happiness to everyone related to the film.

Of Telangana Director

Director N Shankar might have

from longtime now.

been away from the media glare

The director of Jai Bolo Telangana was in news last time when he had claimed he would be teaming up with Kamal Haasan.

Kamal Hassan Honoured French Chevalier Award Ulaganayagan Kamal Hassan has added a new feather to his hat.

His multi-talent skills helped him

in 1995.

However, it didn’t materialise and Shankar had been away from limelight.

Chevalier is one of the highly regarded International honours given

The latest is that Shankar is back in headlines after long hiatus.

He has beaten the star producers of film fraternity and bagged the Telugu remake rights of Malayalam super hit Two Countries.

The film was one of the most successful Malayalam films and hence there’s a great buzz on its Telugu remake especially after films like Drushyam worked well.

Shankar is going to remake the film in Telugu with Sunil as the star.

records courtesy bad release dates.

Makers of ‘Janatha Garage’ have announced that the much awaited action entertainer will hit screens on September 1, Thursday. Owing to the imminent national bandh on September 2, makers took this decision.

The September 1 release date looks very good in the two Telugu states as Janatha Garage can leverage a holiday-in-disguise-of-bandh on its second day. Alongside the four day weekend, the film will also en-

Apparently, Shankar himself going to direct and produce the film.

NTR’s last release ‘Nannaku Prematho’ missed the premier record and collected only $355K from premiers as it was screened on Tuesday. NTR is likely to miss the premiere record again with a Wednesday release.

to reach to more people.

for contribution in the art industry.

Janatha Garage has a perfect combination to rewrite record books by the end of its full run. But, premiere record is an impossible feat. Baahubali with $1,382K and Sardaar Gabbar Singh with $616K are sitting on top.

He has served the film industry in different roles as an actor, writer, director, dancer, lyricist, singer, and producer.

The entire Tamil film fraternity was very much happy over this and has been congratulating Kamal Haasan over the new honour.

The Government of France has now honoured this legendary personality with the Chevalier award.

Kamal Haasan is currently taking rest at home and would resume his work for Sabash Naidu after two months.

Earlier, the honour was accorded to legendary actor Sivaji Ganesan

Like its original, Shankar is planning to shoot the total film in US. The firm’s muhurat is expected to take place soon.

Looks like, Sunil doesn’t want to experiment much and wanting to go with a safe bet.

28

Austin South Asian | September 2016