Austin South Asian. APRIL. 2024

Austin ISD And Oak HE Celebrate 50 Years

AUSTIN, TEXAS (March 20, 2024) — Last night Austin ISD hosted a construction kick-off event for Oak Hill Elementary School, a celebration marking the start of an extensive school renovation project as well as the campus’ 50th anniversary.

Austin/ TX Teen

March 13th, 2024 - KAVYA GUPTA, a 14-year-old from Austin, has been selected as one of this year’s

64 Youth Ambassadors for the Tourette Association of America. She shared her personal story with representatives in Washington, D.C. during the Association’s National Advocacy (Continued On Page 11)

Constructed in 1974, Oak Hill’s campus was designed with an open-concept floor plan, meaning it was built without doors or full walls between many of the classrooms.

(Continued On Page 19)

Austin-based non-profit Indie Meme presents the official lineup for their 9th annual Indie Meme Film Festival (IMFF), taking place April 17 - 21 at the Austin Film Society Cinema (Continued On Page 18)

Cricket Lights Up

NEW YORK, NY (IANS) – West Indies legend and one of the most renowned players in white-ball cricket, Chris Gayle along with USA’s Ali Khan lit up New York’s Empire State Building to launch

the Trophy Tour for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.

The Global Trophy Tour will visit 15 countries, including all nine host.

(Continued On Page 03)

BMBB

By Gulshan Singh

Mark your calendars for the ultimate night of fun and a worthy cause - HC4A’s 11th annual Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt (BMBB) event is happening on Apr 21st, 2024, at the Shalom Austin Jewish Community Center!

BMBB is a unique event where the Indian and Jewish American communities come together to enjoy an evening filled with multicultural music, dance, and food. But it does not stop just there. BMBB has the noble mission of funding the school supplies of the homeless students in the Austin area. HC4A BMBB: Funding School Supplies for Students Since 2013! (Continued On Page 12)

What Foot And Ankle Issues Warrant A Doctor’s Visit

Most people have a foot or ankle problem at one time or another. So how do you know when to seek help?

Many symptoms—even those you can tolerate—require the professional attention of a foot and ankle surgeon to keep the underlying condition from worsening. According to Danielle Butto, DPM, FACFAS, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and a Fellow Member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS), “It’s important to remember that foot health is an important part of your overall health. You need to take care of your feet, which includes going to the doctor when you have pain, sustain an injury or develop a condition needing professional evaluation and treatment.”

Here are five examples of when you should make an appointment with your foot and ankle surgeon.

1. When you have diabetes: Living with diabetes means being more prone to a variety of condi-

tions that affect the feet, including foot sores and ulcers. At the same time, diabetic nerve damage makes it harder to detect when there’s a problem. Regular visits to a foot and ankle surgeon should be part of your holistic diabetes treatment plan. The doctor can screen for the loss of protective sensations in the feet, as well as diagnose and treat any structural issues leading to ulcers and wounds. Swelling, temperature and color changes in the feet, and calluses, are all telltale signs an ulcer may be around the corner and warrant a trip to a foot and ankle surgeon.

2. When children experience pain: When it comes to pediatric foot problems, early intervention is key to long-term successful treatment. As a parent, you may find distinguishing between growing pains and injuries or deformities difficult. But foot and ankle surgeons stress that pain isn’t normal and if it lasts more than a few days or is severe enough to limit your child’s walking, it should be evaluated. Foot problems commonly experienced by children include flat feet, ingrown toenails, calcaneal apophysitis and plantar warts.

3. When you’re at risk for falling: Falls have become the lead-

ing cause of injury deaths among Americans 65 and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While the reasons falls occur are numerous, painful foot conditions are a contributing factor, as they make it difficult to maintain balance and coordination. Fortunately, many such conditions are treatable. See a foot and ankle surgeon to alleviate pain and reduce your risk of a life-changing fall.

4. When you can benefit from medical advances: A loss of cartilage once meant a loss of functionality. Today, joint reconstruction surgery with cartilage regeneration offers real hope for long-term functionality, nurturing the body’s own ability to heal itself—with a little boost from technology and a knowledgeable surgeon. Likewise, new surgical techniques for ankle arthritis, including arthroscopic ankle surgery, total ankle joint replacements and bone or cartilage replacement, are helping people stay active. Finally, platelet-rich plasma therapy can promote the healing of bones,

cartilage, blood vessels, tendons and tissue for many patients, and is associated with easier recovery than traditional treatments. If you suffer from a foot and ankle ailment, ask your healthcare provider about game-changing medical advances.

5. When pain is sidelining you: It’s important for athletes and fitness enthusiasts to rest and recover rather than push through foot and ankle pain caused by an overuse injury. If the pain doesn’t improve in three to seven days however, it’s time to see a foot and ankle surgeon for evaluation and treatment.

With the highest level of education, training and board certification, foot and ankle surgeons are the leaders in surgical and non-surgical foot and ankle care.

For more information, or to find a foot and ankle surgeon near you, visit FootHealthFacts.org, the patient education website of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. (StatePoint)

Cricket Lights Up Empire State Building

(Continued From Page 01)

venues in the countdown to the historic ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 in the West Indies and USA

An official ceremony to launch the Trophy Tour was held at the Empire State Building, where Gayle and Khan had the honor of pulling the lever down to light up New York’s iconic building in the navy and pink colors of the event.

Following the huge demand of more than 3 million ticket applications in the public ballot, additional tickets have been released to 51 of 55 matches, including to fixtures where allocations were previously exhausted.

The event marks the first time an ICC World Cup will be held in

the USA, including eight matches at the brand new, state-of-the-art modular 34,000-capacity stadium in Nassau County, New York.

The newly renovated existing venues, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium in Dallas and Broward County Stadium in Lauderhill will each host four fixtures. (Courtesy: https://indiawest.com/)

House Democrats on Rep. Tom Oliverson’s Speaker Race Announcement

Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer (DSan Antonio) issued the following statement:

“Today, Rep. Tom Oliverson announced his intention to run for Speaker of the House. In the first sixty-seconds of his remarks, Rep. Oliverson asserted that his two top priorities are passing private school voucher scams and dissolving bipartisan leadership in the Texas House, ending a House tradition that goes back to Sam Houston in the 8th Legislative Session—and Tom Oliverson is no Sam Houston.

“As Rep. Oliverson takes his campaign to the body, I look forward to debating him on his new-found hate for bipartisanship in the

House—name the time and place.

I look forward to reminding him that perhaps his greatest legislative achievement was ending Surprise Medical Billing, a bill he worked on with myself and Democratic Chair Eddie Lucio III to pass. Members are smarter than the Dan Patrick approved talking points.

“Bottom line is that the Texas House is, and always will be, a deliberative body that employs the talents of all people from all walks of life.

The People’s house doesn’t belong to any one party—it belongs to those who want to make a difference.”

To Advertise In ASA 512-828-6709

Why Financial Planning Is A Great Career Option For Women

Financial planning was once thought of as a male-dominated industry, but that’s quickly changing.

The number of women getting their CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification is growing year over year — and for good reason:

The benefits of entering this field as a woman are numerous. Below are a few to consider.

• It’s lucrative. Financial planners are in high demand and are wellcompensated for their expertise. A financial advisor can pull in a generous salary right out of the gate, and earning the right credentials can boost compensation significantly.

achieve their life goals — from sending their children to college to securing a comfortable retirement — can be extremely gratifying.

Research also finds that female CFP® professionals have a unique dedication to providing holistic financial planning.

Working as a financial planner provides opportunities to uplift and empower other women, as well as members of groups historically given fewer opportunities to accumulate wealth.

Some firms subsidize the cost of CFP® certification and give employees time away from work to study for the CFP® exam.

Additionally, women’s networks and business councils can help build leadership skills and professional confidence, and many firms are even paying their employees’ membership fees.

CFP Board also administers scholarships for individuals underrepresented in the field, along with a mentoring program.

The median income for those with CFP® certification and less than 5 years of experience is $100,000 — and that median figure grows to $206,000 with 10 or more years of experience. In general, financial advisors with CFP® certification earn 12% more than those without.

ed to those looking for flexibility and a desirable work-life balance.

• Being a CFP® professional offers good work-life balance. With the potential to work remotely and create one’s own schedule, financial planning is a career path well-suit-

• Financial planning can be personally fulfilling.

Providing competent, ethical financial advice that helps others

• Women who aspire to become CFP® professionals will find support in many places. CFP Board, for example, has implemented initiatives to recruit women and advance their careers.

To learn more and get started today on your path to becoming a CFP® professional, visit getCFPcertified. org.

With demand for personal financial advisors expected to grow significantly in the coming years, and the industry making way for more women professionals, it’s worth exploring this rewarding career path. (StatePoint)

Try This At The Grocery Store To Reduce Stress And Save Time

With grocery store shelves loaded up with new and unfamiliar products, and social media influencers touting this or that food brand, a trip to the supermarket is not always quick or easy. After all, there are few consumer decisions more important than what you feed your family.

Fortunately, there is a way to tell whether a certain product is already loved by other shoppers. Whether you’re shopping online or ordering a grocery delivery through an app, Product of the Year USA can be a go-to resource. Each year it identifies the best new products as voted on by tens of thousands of consumers. The largest such consumer-voted award of its kind, you can be sure when you spot the iconic red seal that a given product is tried and true.

“Great products deserve to be celebrated and consumers deserve to know about them,” says Mike Nolan, global CEO of Product of the Year Management. “In a crowded physical and digital marketplace, we’re eager to help people cut through the noise and clutter.”

To reduce stress and save time on your supermarket visits, consider adding these 18

2024 Product of the Year food and beverage winners to your shopping list:

• Bread | ALDI-exclusive Specially Selected Sliced Italian Loaf – ALDI Inc.

• Breakfast | Quaker Fruit Fusion Instant Oatmeal – PepsiCo

• Cereal | Quaker Chewy Granola – PepsiCo

• Chocolate | Kinder Chocolate – Ferrero

• Cooking Essentials | ALDI-Exclusive Simply Nature Spray Oil – ALDI Inc.

Attend a CapMetro Public Hearing

• Hard Seltzer | Truly Red, White & Tru –Boston Beer Company

• Healthy Beverage | Blender Bites – Blender Bites (Holdings) Limited

• Healthy Snack | Del Monte Fruit Refreshers – Del Monte Foods Inc

• Juice | ALDI-exclusive Nature’s Nectar OJ Blends – ALDI Inc.

• Meal Ingredient | Take Root Organics –Take Root Organics

• Meat Entree | Boar’s Head FireSmith(TM)

Flame Grilled Chicken Breast - Frank

Brunckhorst Co, LLC (Boar’s Head Brand)

• Non-Chocolate Candy | SKITTLES Littles

– Mars

• Pasta | ALDI-Exclusive Priano Hearty Ravioli – ALDI Inc.

• RTD Cocktail | Absolut and Ocean Spray

Vodka-Cranberry RTD Range – Pernod Ricard USA

• Salty Snack | Pringles Harvest Blends –Kellogg Company (Pringles)

• Specialty Dairy | Organic Valley Reduced Fat Eggnog – Organic Valley

• Spirits | Buchanan’s Pineapple – Diageo North America PLC

• Wine | ALDI-Exclusive Belletti Prosecco –ALDI Inc.

To enter the 2024 Product of the Year Sweepstakes for a chance to win a selection of this year’s winning products, visit productoftheyearusa.com/sweepstakes. For more information and for the complete list of this year’s winners, visit productoftheyearusa. com, and follow along on social media with #POYUSA2024 on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn. Time to restock the pantry and fridge? Let the “hivemind” help you make great decisions for your family quickly and with ease. (StatePoint)

• Wednesday, April 10 at 12:15 p.m.

• CapMetro Headquarters

• Rosa Parks Boardroom at 2910 E. 5th Street

Share your thoughts on proposed updates to our Title VI policy. Sign up to attend via phone, email or in person before the hearing begins. You can attend virtually by registering before 9 a.m. on April 10th.

For more information, visit capmetro.org/titlevi

Want to speak?

Contact boardofdirectors@capmetro.org or call (512) 369-6040, leave your name and telephone number.

To ensure accommodations are met or to request information in alternative formats, please send a request at least 2 days in advance to Martin Kareithi at (512) 389-7583 or via email at martin.kareithi@capmetro.org. To request interpretation services and materials in other languages, please contact engage@capmetro.org 72 hours in advance.

PROPOSED CAPMETRO SERVICE CHANGES AUGUST 2024

ATTEND A CAPMETRO PUBLIC HEARING

Wednesday, April 10 at 12 p.m.

CapMetro Headquarters

Rosa Parks Boardroom at 2910 E. 5th Street

Share your thoughts on proposed changes to our service in August. Sign up to attend via phone, email or in person before the hearing begins. You can attend virtually by registering before 9 a.m. on April 10th.

Want to Speak?

Please contact boardofdirectors@capmetro.org or call (512) 369-6040, leave your name & telephone number.

Need Accommodations?

To ensure accommodations are met or to request information in alternative formats, please send a request at least 2 days in advance to Martin Kareithi at the number (512) 389-7583 or via email at martin.kareithi@capmetro.org.

To request interpretation services and materials in other languages, please contact engage@capmetro.org 72 hours in advance.

Pros

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT CAPMETRO.ORG/AUGUST2024

As you file your taxes, you may be wondering how a successful tax plan can help you reach your financial goals, whether you’re filing taxes for the first time as a young professional or approaching retirement.

During tax time, put this aspect of your financial plan on the front burner by working with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. Here are three ways a CFP® professional can help you make the most of tax deductions, tax credits and tax-advantaged accounts:

1. Avoid surprises: A tax refund may feel like a boon, but it means that you gave the government an interest-free loan. However, you don’t necessarily want to swing too far in the other direction and end up with an unmanageable tax bill. A CFP® professional can help you adjust your tax estimates or withholdings, so you are more likely to break even next year-end. And if you do end

up with a refund, they can help you redirect the money in a way that’s beneficial to your overall financial plan.

2. Plan for the future: The maximum employee deferrals to defined contribution plans such as 401(k)s and 403(b)s have risen considerably. A CFP® professional can help you determine how much you can comfortably contribute each month to shelter more

of your wealth from taxes. This move has an additional benefit if you’re close to the edge of a higher tax bracket — by trimming taxable income, you can fall into a lower bracket and save. And, of course, by boosting deferrals, you will be setting yourself up for a more comfortable retirement.

3. Become a strategic giver: As you file your taxes each year, you may have noticed that

there’s a high bar for claiming deductions for charitable donations. In fact, for 2023, that standard deduction is $13,850 for single filers and $27,700 for married couples filing together. To make more of your charitable dollars, a CFP® professional can help you establish a donor-advised fund. This allows you to “bunch” your donations and qualify for deductions immediately. This tax-advantageous method of giving is good for you, and good for your end recipients, as it allows your contributions to potentially grow while you decide which charities to support.

CFP® professionals know the latest tax code changes that average investors often do not. To find a CFP® professional committed to acting in your best interest during tax time and beyond, visit LetsMakeAPlan.org.

Taxes can be one of the most complicated aspects of financial planning. With the help of a financial advisor, you can avoid surprises, save more of your hard-earned money and be well-positioned to reach your goals.

(StatePoint)

Act Locally During Global Volunteer Month

April is Global Volunteer Month, a time to celebrate volunteers and inspire volunteerism in communities large and small. Volunteerism is on the decline, according to research from AmeriCorps and the U.S. Census Bureau.

And what’s more, Points of Light, a global nonprofit dedicated to inspiring, equipping and mobilizing people to take action that changes the world, shared that 73% of people believe that volunteering is more important than ever, yet 66% think they can’t make a big impact in their communities.

During Global Volunteer Month, advocates are trying to change that perception at the local level. “Volunteers are crucial to solving pressing challenges, creating vibrant communities and strengthening our social fabric,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO of Points of Light. “Every person has something to share or give.”

To boost volunteer engagement during Global Volunteer Month, Points of Light is sharing the following ways you and your family can make a positive impact in your neighborhood or town: Spread the word: Use the Global Volunteer Month toolkit, along with the hashtag #GlobalVolunteerMonth to thank volunteers. Be sure to tag a volunteer whose impact you appreciate.

Take the pledge: To show your commitment to volunteering, take Points of Light’s pledge. Then, discover ways to get involved that support your favorite cause and availability using Points of Light Engage, a database featuring hundreds of thousands of volunteer opportunities worldwide, including some in your area. Remember that volunteering doesn’t have to be through a formal organization. Lending a helping hand to a friend, family member or neighbor counts, too. In fact, 70% of volunteer work is carried out locally and informally, without the involvement of any organization, according to the UN.

Expand your impact: Learn about the Points of Light Civic Circle®, a framework that outlines the many forms of civic engagement. These actions include listening and learning, using one’s voice, social entrepreneurship, volunteering, public,

national or military service, using one’s purchasing power to express values, working, voting and donating. Get inspired: Points of Light recognizes ordinary people doing extraordinary things to strengthen communities and solve persistent problems with its Daily Point of Light Award. Know an outstanding volunteer in your community? Nominate them as a Daily Point of Light by visiting pointsoflight. org/dailypointoflight, or to inspire others, share these stories of recent honorees:

Daily Point of Light Award honoree T’Kiyah Threatt is a 21-year-old from Uniontown, Alabama, a town of just over 2,000 residents. She dove into service as a high school junior when she started working with C.H.O.I.C.E., an organization that ensures young people get needed resources.

Three years ago, she became the first president of the Youth Adviso-

SCRIBBLINGS BY ARUN

PRECIOUS THAN GOLD

For its qualities unique, appealing is gold,

With attractive colour, sheen, shine and brightness bold.

Can be given any shape as malleable, Less indestructible and it is durable.

People shape them as jewels, wear it and adore, Preserve safely more than any, with utmost care. Minimum its supply but demand is higher, Since scarcely available, it costs fairly more.

More valuable than gold are clean

air and water, Without them living beings can survive never.

Since made available in plenty and freely,

We take for granted, slighting their utility.

Parents are to be treasured, worthy than others,

Before we demand them, they meet all needs of ours, Had they not given birth, we would have not been here, We take them for granted and sacrifice of theirs.

More than else, need be honoured our Great Creator, Had HE not created, we would

ry Council and began leading mentoring efforts, going above and beyond to find funds for a scholarship for a deserving mentee. Even after moving away for college, Threatt returns to work with her own mentee while recruiting community partners and soliciting funding for programs.

Daily Point of Light Award honoree Teresa Gerald of Ridgeland, Mississippi, channels her passion for literacy into volunteer work through Friends of the Ridgeland Library, where she has held the elected position of president since 2014, contributing thousands of volunteer hours. Twice a year, Gerald manages, promotes and works the Friends of the Ridgeland Library Book Sale. When

the library’s funding was cut by $110,000 in fiscal year 2021-2022, her fundraising efforts with Every Library Institute raised $112,000 in emergency funds.

No matter the scale, Points of Light recognizes the spirit of volunteerism as a driving force of change around the world. “We’re celebrating volunteers around the world all month long, as well as calling on people to take action.

Throughout April, lend your time, talent and passion to a cause you care about and invite others to join you, creating a ripple effect of change,” said Sirangelo. (StatePoint)

INDIE MEME MASTER CLASS

have not been here. Giving us everything HE forgive our wrongs, We rarely do express, our gratitude to Him.

We cannot lead life like the birds and animals, Have to care and share, as wiser human beings, Honour the Creator and all HIS creations, Save the entire Nature, including our ownselves.

Basic needs in plenty provided by Nature, We must for valid reasons preserve and nurture.

(arunsunderraj@gmail.com)

Indie Meme Expands Offerings with Master Class Series"

Indie Meme, known for its Independent Film screenings, is diversifying its portfolio with the launch of the Indie Meme Master Class Series, all part of its expansion into literary art!

Following the success of the Indie Meme Lit series, the first class features an Acting Workshop led by renowned international filmmaker Adil Hussain. Set to take place on April 22nd from 2-5pm at an iconic Central Austin venue, this threehour, in-person session promises an immersive exploration of acting.

Participants will have the unique opportunity to learn from Adil Hussain's vast experience, spanning over 10 years of theater across Europe, Africa, and India, along with his extensive film career. With over 80 films under his belt and multiple Best Actor awards, Hussain brings a wealth of knowledge to the workshop.

Hussain has been the artistic director and trainer of the Society for Artists and Performers in Hampi, and a visiting faculty at Royal Conservatory of Performing Arts, The Hague. He is also a visiting faculty at his alma mater, the National School of Drama.

Spaces for this exclusive session are limited, fill out the interest form available on the Indie Meme website, if interested. Whether you're an aspiring actor or looking to enhance your skills, this master class offers an engaging and accessible learning experience tailored to all levels of expertise. For more information and to sign up, visit the Indie Meme website. https://www.indiememe. org/indie-meme-masterclass

Why You Should Avoid DIY Dental Trends

DIY activities, like swapping a lighting fixture or painting your living room, are popular ways to accomplish your to-do list.

But as anyone who has tackled too big of a project knows, some jobs are best left to the professionals. That includes your dental health.

You may have already seen DIY dentistry products, such as at-home whitening kits, mouthguards or teeth aligners.

These often guarantee fast, easy ways to solve your oral health issues without the involvement of a dentist or an orthodontist (a dentist who specializes in the bite and alignment of your teeth).

“Dental products are never onesize-fits-all,” said American Dental Association (ADA) president, Linda Edgar, D.D.S. “No two mouths are alike, which is why it’s important to work directly with an ADA dentist or orthodontist to determine the precise care that your body needs.”

Skipping the dentist chair and “fixing” your teeth at home can lead to bigger, sometimes irreversible problems.

For some people with more complex dental health needs, using an at-home aligner may cause bone

loss, lost teeth, receding gums, bite problems, jaw pain and other damaging and permanent issues. You might also not be aware of other dental issues that should be addressed before you start moving teeth.

“Patients are understandably drawn to these DIY treatments because

they might struggle to fit a dentist appointment into their schedule or they assume athome care will cost less,” Dr. Edgar said.

“But when these products cause major issues, patients end up spending more time and more money trying to reverse that damage.

Instead, trained ADA dentists and orthodontists can talk through patients’ budget concerns and offer them a wider variety of dependable, approved treatment options.”

In between dental checkups, look for products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. These have been independently evaluated by experts

and recognized to be both safe and effective. When you choose one of these options, you can be assured that your care is backed by evidence-based research and generations of scientific knowledge.

Whether it’s teeth grinding or a toothache, talk to your dentist before trying to solve your dental problems on your own.

A dentist can help you find a personalized treatment plan that’s right for you, monitor your progress and make recommendations on how to manage your oral health outside of the office.

To look for an ADA dentist in your area, visit findadentist.ada.org.

“The ADA’s primary concerns with DIY dentistry are, and always have been, patient safety and quality care,” Dr. Edgar said. “Our job as dentists is to put patient health first.” (StatePoint)

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AFSSA supports all survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and trafficking. Our services are all free and confidential.

Safety planning & 24-hour hotline (877-281-8371) in all languages

Emergency & long-term housing resources

Youth & adult therapeutic counseling

Education & job training opportunities

Immigration resources Medical resources & appointment accompaniment

Legal advocacy

5 Women Leaders Share Their Best Advice With The Next Generation

Setting and reaching goals is never easy, and if you’re a woman, you will likely face additional challenges on the path to achieving your dreams.

To foster the success of future female leaders, five Wells Fargo honorees of American Banker’s “Most Powerful Women in Banking” are sharing their best advice with the next generation of female leaders:

1. Stick it out. Tracy Kerrins is Wells Fargo’s head of technology, a position equivalent to chief information officer. One of the only women at a large American bank with this role, Kerrins knows that roadblocks are a part of the journey that you should anticipate and plan for.

“Stick to your goals, even when obstacles emerge, and rely on those who are truly invested in your success,” she says.

This focus on preparedness keeps Kerrins on her toes in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Recently, she and her team implemented a number of personalization technology solutions that are improving the banking experience, including beefing up

fraud detection and delivering a virtual assistant to customers.

2. Stay curious. Transforming the banking industry is fundamental to Kristy Fercho’s role at Wells Fargo as head of diverse segments, representation, and inclusion.

Her motto amounts to “The 3 B’s,” which include, “Be excellent at your job. Be curious.

And most importantly: Be your authentic self.”

This attitude is valued at a time when Wells Fargo continues to commit to its diversity, equity and inclusion programs both inside the company and in communities where they operate.

3. Uplift others. For Ellen Patterson, general counsel for Wells Fargo, her own success is a reflection of the diligence and hard work of the team of over 1,200 attorneys and legal professionals she leads.

She views every experience as an opportunity to learn from others and to teach others, regardless of seniority, and she values coming together as a team to put forth the strongest work product.

That’s why she advises: “Be great at what you’re doing, and actively look for ways to be helpful to those around you. That applies in the early days and later on as well.”

4. Solve problems. Given her educational background, it’s no surprise that Tanya Sanders, head of Wells Fargo’s auto division, has confidence that solutions to most problems are just waiting to be discovered.

Not only is she a banker looking to simplify the process for consumers to obtain auto loans and vehicles, she’s also a mechanical engineer who believes, “There is incredible power in forging new and inclusive solutions.”

She advises future leaders to “Find ways to collaborate with professional and community colleagues to develop solutions that expand economic and social benefits for everyone.”

5. Communicate effectively. Kara McShane, head of Wells Fargo’s commercial real estate division, believes strong communications are a critical component of business acumen.

Her advice is to, “Learn how to communicate clearly, concisely and confidently in order to be effective. Be direct but diplomatic. How you say it is as important as what you say.”

Whether you’re in school, recently graduated or in the middle of your career, applying the tried-and-true lessons of successful women leaders can help you meet challenges head on and make a bigger impact. (StatePoint)

How To Green Your Home Or Apartment For Maximum Savings

Whether you own or rent the place you call home, ensuring that it’s energy efficient can help you save money, increase your comfort and contribute to improved indoor air quality. It’s also better for the planet. To help you make choices that will trim your monthly expenses and reduce your carbon footprint, Freddie Mac is offering the following tips:

Home-Searching Tips

When house hunting, your realtor can help you learn about the current energy usage of the homes you’re interested in purchasing. If you’re explicitly looking for green housing, it’s helpful to work with a professional with specific expertise or credentials in this area.

Whether you’re in the market to buy or rent, basic energy- and water-saving features to check for when visiting properties include good insulation, properly sealed doors and windows, smart thermostats, low-flow or dual-flush toilets, high-efficiency or tankless hot water heaters, and front-loading

washing machines. The ENERGY STAR and WaterSense labels are good indicators that the property, and the appliances within it, are designed with efficiency in mind. You should also consider which direction the building faces and whether it’s shaded. The amount of direct sunlight your potential home receives can have a large impact on your HVAC needs.

Making Updates

There are many steps you can take to improve your home’s energy and water efficiency. If you’re unsure

where to start, consider referencing the Department of Energy’s datadriven tools and calculators.

You could also hire a professional to perform an energy audit. This will pinpoint where you’re losing energy and what renovations will save you money. Some quick DIY updates to make right now include caulking window casings, weatherstripping doors, replacing incandescent light bulbs with CFLs or LEDs, and installing low-flow faucets and showerheads.

Additional money-saving updates include installing a smart, programmable thermostat, replacing older appliances and installing a tankless hot water heater.

Renting? Reach out to your landlord to determine what updates they’re willing to make. You may not be allowed to make permanent changes, or interested in making investments in someone else’s property, but energy-saving habits, such as washing clothes in cold water and adjusting the thermostat when leaving town, can help.

The Return

You may be asking yourself whether all this effort is worth it. The answer? Up-to-date, energy- and water-efficient technologies can save you 20% to 30% on your bills. And because today’s savvy buyers are looking for a home that will be kind to both their wallet and the environment, efficiency improvements can also boost resale value. In fact, Freddie Mac research found that homes with high energy-efficiency ratings sold for 2.7% more

on average than unrated homes. Fortunately, there are programs available, such as Energy Efficient Mortgages, to help finance these improvements upfront. With the understanding that reducing home utility costs places families in a better financial situation and helps preserve home affordability over time, Freddie Mac offers GreenCHOICE Mortgages that can be applied to a new home purchase or a no cash-out refinance and can be used to cover basic energy efficiency improvements up to $6,500 without the need for an energy report.

With a GreenCHOICE Mortgage you can borrow up to 15% of the home’s “as complete” appraised value to pay for basic energy and water efficiency improvements. Speak with your lender about the financing options available to you and which may best suit your needs. There are no doubt longterm savings and gains to be reaped from greening your home. And thanks to new programs, paying for these updates is easier for more American families. (StatePoint)

How To Raise A Healthy, Active Child

Many factors impact your child or teen’s wellness, including where you live, genetics and other influences. According to experts though, you can encourage a healthy lifestyle for your child, and help prevent obesity and other illnesses that can extend into adulthood.

“Raising a healthy, active child is about much more than nutrition and physical activity,” says Natalie D. Muth, a pediatrician and registered dietician. “It also entails adequate sleep, a positive approach to screen use and social-emotional wellness, and to the best of your ability, helping ensure your surrounding environment supports healthy routines.”

At a time when few children and adolescents meet the recommendations for nutrition and activity, a new clinical report from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP),

“The Role of the Pediatrician in the Promotion of Healthy, Active Living,” offers guidance to help optimize a child’s health regardless of their weight, as well as strategies based on the best science that can also help prevent obesity at every stage, from infancy through adolescence.

Here are some practical tips from the AAP that you can use to tackle issues within your control:

• Learn about good nutrition. Visit MyPlate.gov for great ways to take a team approach to planning and making meals so that kids have an active role in what they eat. The site takes into account cultural traditions, giving examples of healthy meals that include familiar foods.

• Reach for water. Sugary drinks such as 100% fruit juice, sodas, sports drinks and fruit drinks, account for 24% of added sugar

intake in the U.S. diet in people 1 year and older. Consumption contributes significantly to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, childhood obesity, type 2 diabetes and other health risks, according to USDA statistics. Ideally, aim for one sugary drink or fewer per week. Bonus: drinking water cleanses teeth and gums, preventing cavities now while setting the stage for lifelong dental health.

• Limit ultra-processed foods. It may not be realistic to avoid ultraprocessed foods altogether, but try to limit their access and help children and adolescents learn the benefits of eating whole foods like fruits and vegetables. You can also talk with them about the health risks of too much “junk food,” which is generally loaded in sugar and salt, doesn’t increase feelings of fullness, and prompts overeating.

• Adopt a family media plan. Everyone benefits from sensible screen time limits that make room for healthy activities. Engage kids in creating a plan for the whole family.

• Move more. It can be challenging to get up and move more, but when you make it a priority, kids benefit. Organized sports aren’t the only option. Your family can also enjoy walking, biking, swimming and dancing. Indoors, you can try active gaming or online fitness classes to strengthen muscles, build coordination and release tension.

• Manage stress. If your schedule is jammed with so many commitments that there’s no room for healthy downtime, consider what you can let go. Rest rebuilds the body’s systems after the challenges of a tough day or week, so reserve time for it.

• Lean on support. Not all neighborhoods have safe places for children to play and walk to school, or offer nutritious and affordable food nearby. Additionally, factors like racism, toxic stress, housing or food insecurity and safety risks can impact your child’s health. Creating a safe environment at home, and leaning on the support of schools, health care systems and the wider community can create a healthier life for your child. One important resource is your pediatrician. Talk to them about ways to support an active, healthy lifestyle for your child.

For more tips and resources, visit healthychildren.org. “Remember that feeling loved, seen and appreciated are just as central to your child’s health as nutrition and exercise. The brain and the body are one system – so when kids feel safe and secure, their bodies function well,” says Dr. Muth. (StatePoint)

Advocating For Yourself Or Loved Ones When Bladder Cancer Is Suspected

If you or someone you know may have bladder cancer, being well informed could get you the best diagnosis and treatment.

In fact, according to an article published in “Urologic Oncology,” in 46.5% of the cases where a bladder was removed because of advanced cancer, a very serious type of tumor called carcinoma in situ (CIS) had been missed in past transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) procedures.

This alarming statistic magnifies the need for urologists to have enhanced tumor visibility during TURBTs.

There is one procedure that can offer visibility of hard-to-see tumors including CIS; it’s called Blue Light Cystoscopy (BLC). Here’s what to know:

TURBT can be a critical diagnostic step when done properly and precisely. The TURBT provides essential information regarding the number of tumors, tumor sizes, locations and depth of invasion. All these factors significantly inform the identification of a patient’s risk category, which can subsequently impact treatment decisions.

Currently, White Light Cystoscopy is most commonly used for a patient’s first TURBT and is considered the standard level of care.

However, research suggests that using White Light Cystoscopy alone may be inadequate, causing:

• Incomplete tumor resection: After one year, there is a rate of up to 61% of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer recurrence, suggesting incomplete tumor resection when using only White Light Cystoscopy.

• New tumor growth: Up to 70% of patients have tumors recur after standard TURBT.

• Tumors found during subsequent TURBT procedures: Up to 86% of residual tumors are found at the original resection site after initial white-light TURBT.

So, how can patients ensure better diagnostics and treatment? Experts say that asking for BLC during the first TURBT is a great way to advocate for yourself or a loved one. BLC is a technology that allows urologists to see tumors that white

Helping Infants, Toddlers And Families Thrive

A bipartisan package that recently passed in the U.S. House of Representatives, would expand the child tax credit (CTC).

As the Senate decides whether to follow suit, advocates press that the CTC is a critical policy vehicle to help all infants, toddlers and their families thrive, and it should be implemented as soon as possible.

“Uplifting children out of poverty gives them better chances in life, so it’s critical that families advocate for CTCs, as well as understand how they work,” says Jacob Pinney-Johnson, trainer with the Early Childhood Investment Corporations, National Center for Family and Parent.

“For families like mine that have struggled to make ends meet, a child tax credit will make all the difference in helping them feed, clothe and house their child.”

Studies show that inadequate housing, food insecurity and familial stress during the first three years of a child’s life pose risks to their rapidly developing brain and body. These effects can have long-lasting impacts, impairing their ability to

be healthy and thrive in adulthood.

If the House version of the federal CTC goes fully into effect, roughly 16 million children under age 17 will benefit in the first year, including nearly 3 million infants and toddlers, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

While more modest than the 2021 credit, the measure would lift hundreds of thousands of children above the poverty line in the first

year, and include further increases in 2025, along with inflation adjustments in future years.

Given these figures, it’s no surprise that the measure is popular with parents across the political spectrum.

In a November 2022 poll by the nonprofit Zero to Three, an overwhelming 85% of parents said it’s important for Congress to reinstate Child Tax Credit reforms.

light alone may miss. Unfortunately, it is not always utilized at the first encounter with the patient.

Suzanne B. Merrill, MD, FACS, Colorado Urology said, “By using Blue Light Cystoscopy for first TURBT, urologists can more completely assess the bladder, achieve greater tumor eradication and provide more data for appropriate diagnosis.

Doing the procedure with enhanced visibility right at the start of patient care can better establish the appropriate treatment regimen for each patient and lower the risk of disease recurrence.”

Dr. Merrill recommends that patients and their loved ones be their own advocates when it comes to their diagnosis.

Need some tips for how to talk to your urologist about TURBT and BLC? Follow these steps:

1. Find a trusted urologist in your area.

The National Collaborative for Infants & Toddlers, or NCIT, an education and advocacy movement committed to ensuring that children prenatal to 3 years old and their families have what they need to thrive, along with thousands of aligned organizations, is supporting strong CTCs that don’t simultaneously exclude many families with onerous restrictions.

To learn more, visit https://www. ncit.org/CTC.

Advocate stress that federal CTCs are critical, but state governments have a role as well. States can institute their own CTCs to help infants, toddlers and their families thrive now. (StatePoint)

2. Inquire about BLC with your urologist.

3. Explain to your urologist that you’re interested in BLC at your first TURBT to ensure better tumor visibility.

4. If your urologist does not offer BLC, find one that does.

To find locations that offer BLC, visit https://rebrand.ly/BLC-Locations.

“When it comes to your medical care, you should always feel comfortable advocating for yourself,” says Dr. Merrill.

“You may need to speak to more than one urologist, but doing so can mean better outcomes for your health in the long term.”

This article is sponsored by Photocure, Inc. (StatePoint)

Taking Care Of Teeth Brings Families Peace Of Mind

Tooth decay is the most common preventable chronic disease among children in the United States.

If left untreated, it can negatively affect a child’s physical and social development, as well as their school performance.

Toothaches and cavities can cause pain, infection, and ultimately affect overall wellness, including children’s behavioral health.

Mental health and oral health can be intertwined; mental health conditions like anxiety and depression can lead to poor oral health, and dental health problems often exacerbate behavioral health issues.

As a parent or caretaker, there are steps you can take to protect your child’s oral health today – and overall health tomorrow.

Through the dental health benefits provided through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Pro-

gram (CHIP), children will have access to essential oral health care, including regular cleanings, fluoride treatments, fillings, X-rays and more.

Schedule Routine Dental Care Routine dental care is essential to preventing and treating many of the most common oral health issues children experience.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that a child’s first pediatric dental visit occur before their first birthday and that as they get older, they see the dentist twice a year for cleanings, X-rays and treatment.

Regular dentist visits can help identify and treat potential issues early. Once your child is old

enough, visits can also include preventive care like sealants, which help stop cavities from forming.

Use the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ ‘Find a Dentist’ tool to find dental providers in your area that accept Medicaid and CHIP.

Practice Healthy Habits at Home

Encouraging good dental hygiene is another way you can reduce your child’s chances of experiencing negative side effects from poor dental health.

Helping them brush their teeth twice a day and flossing regularly can keep cavities, gum disease and tooth decay at bay.

During pregnancy, you can even positively impact the health of

Austin/ TX Teen To Raise National Awareness For Tourette Syndrome

(Continued From Page 01) Day on Capitol Hill March 6th and will advocate for public policies and services for people affected by Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders.

“There are a lot of misconceptions about Tourette Syndrome. As a Youth Ambassador, I want to help educate people about the disorder and create a more understanding and accepting environment,” said Gupta.

An estimated 1 in 50 school-aged children in the United States has Tourette Syndrome (TS) or a persistent Tic Disorder, which causes them to make sudden uncontrollable movements and sounds called tics.

TS is a lifelong condition affecting all races, ethnicities, and genders.

Due to the complexities of the disorder, 50% of individuals are going undiagnosed. In addition, many children, parents, teachers and even physicians don’t fully under-

stand TS, which can lead to bullying, a lack of community support, an improper diagnosis and a host of other issues that impair the quality of life for someone with TS.

Kavya will complete a comprehensive training and join a network of over 1,000 Youth Ambassadors and their adult team members to learn how to speak publicly about the often misunderstood disorder.

In addition to the training, they will represent their state in the Association’s National Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C. where close to 150 congressional meetings will take place to raise awareness for the most pressing issues facing the community.

In addition, she will help to educate her peers and local community on how to promote understanding and social acceptance of TS and its symptoms through presentations at schools, clubs and community centers.

“Youth Ambassadors for the TAA

have a significant impact on awareness efforts in their local communities,” said Amanda Talty, President and CEO of the Tourette Association of America “Their efforts not only educate others about the disorder, but are a bridge to reaching other individuals who feel isolated to know they are not alone.”

Since the Youth Ambassador Program was launched in 2002; it has grown to consist of over 500 dedicated teens who have completed more than 1,000 activities including presentations, print and TV media interviews, and training other Youth Ambassadors to reach more than 5.5 million people through their combined efforts.

For more information about the Youth Ambassador program, visit www.tourette.org.

Media contact:

James Saracini

James.Saracini@tourette.org

Tourette Association of America

Director of Marketing | 718-2242999

your baby by taking care of your own teeth and gums. Daily brushing and flossing and regular dentist visits contribute to overall health and protect your baby’s teeth.

Get Insured with Medicaid and CHIP

Your child may qualify for free or low-cost health coverage through Medicaid and CHIP. The Connecting Kids to Coverage National Campaign wants families to experience the security that comes with knowing their child’s dental care and other preventive services are covered.

Medicaid and CHIP cover more than 39 million children in the United States and have helped ensure that more than 94% of the nation’s children have health coverage, even when their family may experience barriers to access like language differences and low health literacy.

Youth Contact:

Name Kavya Gupta

Email kavyaguptad@gmail.com

Phone 512 608 8530

About the Tourette Association of America

Founded in 1972, the TAA is dedicated to making life better for all individuals affected by Tourette and Tic Disorders.

The premier nationwide organization serving this community, the Association works to raise awareness, advance research and provide ongoing support.

The TAA directs a network of 32 Chapters and more than 80 support groups across the country and recognizes 20 Centers of Excellence.

For more information on Tourette and Tic Disorders, call 1-888-4-TOURET and visit us at tourette.org, and on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

Enrollment is open year-round, meaning your family doesn’t have to wait to see if you qualify. Dental care isn’t the only thing covered— preventive care, emergency care, behavioral health care, vision care, vaccines, prescriptions, and preand post-natal care are all covered when your child is insured through Medicaid and CHIP.

Eligibility varies by state and depends on family income and how many people are in your household. In most states, children up to age 19 with family income up to $80,000 per year (for a family of four) may qualify for Medicaid or CHIP.

You can learn more about finding coverage at InsureKidsNow.gov and explore the Find a Dentist tool to find care near you.

Your child’s smile shouldn’t be a source of stress. For peace of mind, take care of even the tiniest teeth with regular check-ups, healthy habits and health coverage, like Medicaid and CHIP.

Provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (StatePoint)

BMBB Event Coming Soon: Culture Meets Cause

(Continued From Page 01)

BMBB is an annual fundraiser event of HC4A, where people from the Indian and Jewish communities celebrate diversity and support a generous cause.

BMBB has supported the schooling needs of students below the poverty line since 2013.

Thanks to your generosity, our school supply initiative has supported over 14,000 homeless children, and this year, we aim to help another 1000 children by raising $50,000.

According to The Texas Tribune, as of the 2021-2022 school year, there were 5,402,928 students in Texas. Of these a whopping 53.5% of students were considered at risk of dropping out of school.”

These statistics indicate how lowincome families in Texas are struggling to keep their children in school.

This lively event is not just about coming together and enjoying great food, dance, and music but also about helping these underserved students have a reliable source of school supplies throughout the academic year.

As families and performers from different ethnicities are invited to join this special occasion, you can expect an unforgettable evening.

ISD, whose heartwarming words reflect the impact of our school supply packing event.

“For the past few years, Manor ISD has been helping me and my family and providing us with tons of resources and school supplies. It has been so helpful and so stressfree doing my time.

I would like to thank them from the bottom of my heart. I’m so grateful. And, I also would like to thank the Hindu Charities for America for helping and assisting Manor ISD to provide us with those resources to help all the families across Manor ISD.”

After the successful completion of BMBB, HC4A volunteers and many other families come together in August for the packing event of the school supplies.

Meet a student’s parent in Manor

Backpacks are organized for the entire academic year of supplies as requested by individual ISDs.

They are then sent out

for timely delivery so the students have all the supplies they need to start their school year.

To make this event successful, we have volunteers of all age groups, including kids.

One of our youngest volunteers is Riya Kyle who is 11 years old and has been volunteering with HC4A since the age of 6.

Here is what she says about her experience with HC4A:

“My first time volunteering with Hindu Charities, I had absolutely no idea what to expect.

I was definitely nervous because I thought I might be the only person there who had no idea what they were doing.

I thought people might judge me for not knowing what to do. Boy was I wrong!

As soon as I got there, I saw people all around talking, laughing, and just overall having a great time… Some people noticed that I needed some help and immediately assisted me.”

This packing event is a great time for children to join in and volunteer to help other kids who cannot afford school supplies.

This act of kindness helps the kids understand the bane of homelessness in America. As they contribute to the lives

of the underserved in the community, it also helps them become aware of the importance of education in every child’s life.

HC4A - Shalom Austin Partnership

HC4A is a nonprofit, nonpolitical, and non-religious organization based in Austin, Texas.

Our motto is “Serve Where You Live.”

As the number of Indian Americans has multiplied in the fast-growing cities of Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, and Leander, HC4A events have become a gathering place for the diaspora.

Such events have become an important platform in the Central Texas area to bring people from all states of India together in this faraway land.

Our mission is to ‘Bridge Income Disparities through Education’ in Austin, Dallas, Houston, and other nearby cities in the USA.

Our event partner, Shalom Austin, nurtures the vibrant spirit of Jewish life in Central Texas.

They provide a wide array of services including educational programs, social services, and cultural events to enhance the well-being and connections within the Jewish community.

Shalom Austin works with the wonderful mission of “building a vibrant Jewish community throughout greater Austin, connected to Jewish life in Israel and the world.”

While recalling how this partnership began, Dana Epstein shared, “Being part of the committee

that launched Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. I made a lot of new friends.

I got to learn a lot about homelessness in Austin and how much that affected the local community.”

Book Your Ticket Today - Join the Fun and Support the Cause

Book your ticket for BMBB and be part of an incredible night of folk and popular music, regional dances, and delicious cuisines.

The event is taking place on Apr 21, 2024, from 4 pm to 7 pm CT.

This fun-filled event is the perfect opportunity to meet people who share the same interests as you and support a cause that will help build a brighter future for youth.

The tickets are limited, so book yours today! Don’t miss this special event. It will be a night to remember.

Can’t come to the event? You can donate to the cause and be a part of the change.

Donation page: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/hindu-charitiesfor-america/bollywood-meetsborscht-belt-2024

Ticketing page: https://secure. givelively.org/event/hindu-charities-for-america/bollywood-meetsborscht-belt-2024/bollywoodmeets-borscht-belt-2024

Sponsorship Page: https://secure. givelively.org/event/hindu-charities-for-america/bollywoodmeets-borscht-belt-2024/sponsorbmbb-2024

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Pakistani Film Wakhri Highlights Women, Transgender At SXSW 2024

By Sumaiya Malik

This March, Pakistani film “Wakhri,” translated in English as “the unique one” called attention to the struggles of women and transgender people, who society expects should suffer in silence, at the South by Southwest Festival in Austin.

Attendees who saw the film said that rights of women and transgender people are also under attack in the U.S. and not just in Pakistan where the film is shot

The annual SXSW festival known to highlight parallel film, interactive media, and music presented “Wakhri” in narrative spotlight and multiple showings between Mar. 9 and Mar. 14 drew a diverse audience which lined up for more than an hour to catch the film.

Directed and written by Los Angeles based director Iram Parveen Bilal, “Wakhri” highlights the struggles of a young, widowed mother who while raising funds for girls’ education is caught in a social media frenzy that threatens her life when she lets her guard down.

“Wakhri is a tribute to all those of us who feel marginalized and who fit in between the checkboxes society places on us,” said Bilal who previously showcased a Pakistani film at SXSW in 2020. The film is inspired by [late] Pakistani blogger Qandeel Baluch, Bilal said.

Set in modern-day Pakistan in the city of Lahore, the film’s protagonist Noor (Faryal Mehmood of Pakistani drama “Raqeeb Se”) teaches girls in a highschool

while raising a school-going son (Shees Sajjad Gul). She lives with her father and step-mother in a low middle-class household and also faces a custody battle for her son with her wealthy inlaws. When she sees girls’ education sparsely funded, Noor decides to raise funds for a girls’ school by publicizing the cause on social media.

Instead of seeing parents and management encourage her, she finds obstacles in her path with parents discouraging girls’ education for marriage. “Even now it is difficult for a widow or a single mother to survive in Pakistan,” said Uzma Khan who grew up in Karachi and is a board member of AADI, a film and art related non-profit in Austin. Traditional roles sometimes expect women to silently set aside personal ambition for unjust patriarchal submission.

Noor’s only escape from harsh reality is in her best friend Gucchi (Gulshan Majeed), a hidden transgender female and crossdresser who runs

an ad-making photo studio. When Noor lets go of her inner emotions to don the garb of an outspoken and seductively attired Wakhri at a secret dance and music party hosted by Gucchi, her video goes viral and the situation spins out of control.

“Wakhri’s bold female protagonist was refreshing but perhaps a shadow of the woman who inspired her,” said Sahar Ali, editor of South Asia Institute newsletter at UT Austin.

“Qandeel Baloch was unapologetically expressive of her sexuality, while Wakhri’s was given a cloak of nobility by the girl’s school she was raising money for.”What ensues is quite different from Baluch’s true life events. Baluch shot to fame through making bold videos of herself that called attention to vices in society.

But she was murdered by her own brother who thought Baluch was an embarrassment to the family name. Wakhri’s message also resonates with those who have never been to Pakistan who see similar issues in Texas where they live.

“It’s really [bold]… so much fun to watch, like when [Wakhri] gets on the stage and starts talking as a feminist is empowering. I wish I could do that to get dressed up and get on stage and just like that,” said Michelle Mower, co-executive producer of Wakhri who lives in Texas.

When Bilal, who previously directed “I’ll Meet You There,” reached out to Mower with the script of Wakhri, Mower had no idea the script would also call attention to problems at home in Texas. “Little did I know that I’d be watching this film in Texas where transgender rights are under attack,” said Mower who is an advocate of transgender issues in Texas

where medical treatment of transgender kids has become increasingly difficult.

In many states in the U.S., women face binding laws in making medical decisions about their own wellbeing.

Gucchi also faces street brutality from local don Maqbool (Akbar Islam) and pressures of suppressive societal norms which frown upon non-conformity with birth gender.

When Gucchi wants to escape with his love interest, his partner replies, “You don’t run away from enemies,” thus setting the tone of the film.

Wakhri intertwines multiple lives that touch each other while facing their own struggles.

“First you ask me to make a video. Then you hate me and want me dead. Why are you so angry?” Noor faces society in a viral video donning a purple wig and heavy makeup.

“Why do we always praise our daughters for their looks?” she glares at the camera.

“Beauty fades… how about we praise something that doesn’t fade and grows, like education?”

The seductive call to action is unapologetic even though the message is age-old. “It’s a step in the right direction for films portraying Pakistani society that we get to see characters and stories that challenge the dominant narratives of misogyny and the subjugation of women,” Ali said. Bilal hopes that Wakhri makes people question age-old concepts that they might have held onto as they leave the cinema to go about their lives.

Running time: 99 minutes

Find Wakhri’s music on Spotify

Music Producer: Abdullah Siddiqui

Singers: Ali Sethi, Meesha Shafi, RFB, Eva B and Natasha Noorani

Costume Designer: Zoya Hassan

Austin South Asian

Editor: Bala Kumar

Marketing: Jayachitra Vijay -512-828-6709

Production: Jyothi Mariswaran

Publisher: Vidya Kumar

Circulation: Vasooda Kumar

info@austinsouthasian.com I ©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.

New Alzheimer’s Association Report Reveals Top Stressors For Caregivers And Lack Of Care Navigation Support And Resources

AUSTIN, TX, March 20, 2024 — The Alzheimer’s Association 2024 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report reveals that both dementia caregivers and health care workers report difficulties in navigating dementia care within the U.S. health care system.

The report provides an in-depth look at the latest national and state-level statistics on Alzheimer’s disease prevalence, mortality, caregiving, dementia care workforce and costs of care. The new report estimates that 6.9 million people age 65 and older in the U.S. are living with Alzheimer’s dementia, including 459,300 in Texas.

This year the cost of caring for people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias is projected to reach $360 billion — a $15 billion increase from a year ago. This does not include unpaid care provided by family caregivers and friends.

Last year in Texas there were more than 1 million dementia family caregivers, providing 1.5 billion hours of unpaid care valued at $23.9 billion dollars. Texas caregivers and those across the country face significant emotional, physical and health-related challenges as result of caregiving as well, according to the report:

● Dementia caregivers report higher rates of chronic conditions, including stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer compared to caregivers of people without dementia or non-caregivers. In Texas, 59% of caregivers reported at least one chronic condition.

● The prevalence of depression is higher among dementia caregivers when compared to caregivers for other conditions. In Texas, 26.7% caregivers reported depression.

● Seventy-four percent of dementia caregivers report they are “somewhat concerned” to “very concerned” about maintaining their own health since becoming a caregiver. In Texas, 11.2% report frequent poor physical health.

● Across the country, 59% of dementia caregivers report high to very high emotional stress due to caregiving and 38% report high to very high physical stress due to caregiving.

“The new Facts and Figures report sheds light on the continued challenges that many Central Texas families are going

through as a result of Alzheimer’s and other dementias,” said Andrea Taurins, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association Capital of Texas Chapter.

● Coordinating with multiple doctors (36%).

● Securing appointments (35%)

● Getting help taking a break (35%).

“As the number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s continues to grow, ensuring patients, their caregivers and families have a clear understanding of how to navigate dementia care resources is critical to improving health outcomes.”

An accompanying special report, “Mapping a Better Future for Dementia Care Navigation,” provides a comprehensive look into dementia care navigation by surveying dementia caregivers and health care workers on their experiences, challenges, awareness and perceptions of care navigation in dementia care.

Dementia care navigation provides clinical and nonclinical support to people living with dementia and their caregivers to overcome barriers that compromise care and health outcomes.

Key findings:

● In 2023, 11.5 million family and other caregivers of people living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias provided an estimated 18.4 billion hours of unpaid help. On average, this represents nearly 31 hours of care per caregiver per week or 1,612 hours per caregiver per year.

● A majority of caregivers (70%) report that coordination of care is stressful.

● More than half of the caregivers surveyed (53%) said that navigating health care was difficult.

● 2 in 3 caregivers (66%) also have difficulty finding resources and support for their needs.

● The top five stressors for caregivers are:

● Cost (reported by 42% of caregivers).

● Finding appropriate doctors (32%).

● Care navigation facilitates medical and social support to alleviate patient and caregiver stress.

Despite coordinating care and scheduling being top stressors for caregivers, only half of the caregivers surveyed (51%) have ever talked with a health care professional about challenges finding their way through the health care system or asked for help with dementia care.

● Black and Hispanic caregivers report managing care on a daily basis (43% and 45%, respectively) compared to white caregivers (31%).

● The vast majority of dementia caregivers (97%) say that they would find navigation services helpful. Services cited most often by caregivers include:

● A 24/7 helpline (36%).

● Help with coordinating care and communication between different specialists (34%).

● Getting help in understanding their care recipient’s condition (34%).

● 60% of health care workers surveyed believe that the U.S. health care system is not effectively helping patients and their families navigate dementia care.

Nearly half (46%) say that their organizations do not have a clearly defined process for care coordination and clinical pathways for patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia. “The big takeaway from this year’s special report is that dementia caregivers want and need help navigating the complex health care system and accessing community-based services,” said Taurins. “Given the added complexities of dementia care, we hope our report will encourage health systems and practices to think more intentionally about the challenges facing dementia caregivers and formalize dementia care navigation programs to help them.”

Get additional statistics from the report for Alzheimer’s disease prevalence, mortality, cost of care, caregiving and dementia care workforce.

Full text of the 2024 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, including the accompanying special report, Mapping a Better Future for Dementia Care Navigation, can be viewed at alz.org/facts.

The report will also appear in the May 2024 issue of Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association.

About 2024 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures

The Alzheimer’s Association 2024 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report is a comprehensive compilation of national statistics and information on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

The report conveys the impact of Alzheimer’s on individuals, families, government and the nation’s health care system. Since its 2007 inaugural release, the report has become the preeminent source covering the broad spectrum of Alzheimer’s issues. The Facts and Figures report is an official publication of the Alzheimer’s Association.

About the Surveys

A full breakdown of survey methodology used to inform the 2024 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report and accompanying special report, Mapping a Better Future for Dementia Care Navigation, can be found on p. 98 of the report.

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia®. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.

About the Capital of Texas Chapter

As one of 75 chapters of the Alzheimer’s Association, the Capital of Texas Chapter provides information, education and support to people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, their families and caregivers.

ISRO Achieves Yet Another Success In The RLV Landing Experiment

Green Energy For Millennials

March 22, 2024

ISRO has achieved a major milestone in the area of Reusable launch vehicle (RLV) technology,

landing conditions of RLV returning from space.

With this second mission, ISRO has re-validated the indigenously

for the flawless execution of this complex mission.

On the success of the landing experiment, Director VSSC Dr S

through the RLV LEX-02 landing experiment, the second of the series, conducted at Aeronautical Test Range (ATR), Chitradurga in Karnataka today morning at 7:10 hrs IST.

After the RLV-LEX-01 mission was accomplished last year, RLVLEX-02 demonstrated the autonomous landing capability of RLV from off-nominal initial conditions at release from Helicopter.

The RLV was made to undertake more difficult manoeuvres with dispersions, correct both crossrange and downrange and land on the runway in a fully autonomous mode.

The winged vehicle, called Pushpak, was lifted by an Indian Airforce Chinook helicopter and was released from 4.5 km altitude.

After release at a distance of 4 km from the runway, Pushpak autonomously approached the runway along with cross-range corrections.

It landed precisely on the runway and came to a halt using its brake parachute, landing gear brakes and nose wheel steering system.

This mission successfully simulated the approach and high-speed

developed technologies in the areas of navigation, control systems, landing gear and deceleration systems essential for performing a high-speed autonomous landing of a space-returning vehicle.

The winged body and all flight systems used in RLV-LEX-01 were reused in the RLV-LEX-02 mission after due certification/clearances.

Hence reuse capability of flight hardware and flight systems is also demonstrated in this mission.

Based on the observations from RLV-LEX-01, the airframe structure and landing gear were strengthened to tolerate higher landing loads.

The mission was accomplished by Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) along with the Liquid Propulsion System Centre (LPSC) and the ISRO Inertial Systems Unit (IISU).

Collaboration from various agencies including IAF, ADE, ADRDE and CEMILAC contributed to the success of this mission. Shri S Somanath, Chairman, ISRO / Secretary, DOS, congratulated the team

Unnikrishnan Nair mentioned that through this repeated success, ISRO could master the terminal phase manouvering, landing and energy management in a fully autonomous mode, which is a critical step towards the future Orbital Reentry missions

The team was guided by Shri Sunil P, Programme Director, Advanced Technology and Systems Programme, VSSC.

Shri J Muthupandian, Project Director, RLV was the Mission Director and Shri B Karthik, Deputy Project Director, RLV was the Vehicle Director for this mission.

For the success of this experiment, ISTRAC provided tracking support, SAC provided a Pseudolite system and a Ka-band Radar Altimeter, LPSC offered all pressure sensors on the wing body, IISU provided navigation hardware/ software and an integrated solution.

Metrological and wind measurement support was provided by SDSC-SHAR, and URSC offered ground power support. (Courtesy: https://www.isro.gov.in/)

By Apurv Modi Managing Director & Co-Founder, ATechnos Group

Millennials, the generation born between 1981 and 1996, are known for their tech-savvy, socially conscious, and future-oriented approach to life. But now, they’re adding another crucial element to their identity: sustainability. While climate change headlines paint a grim picture, millennials are increasingly choosing action over anxiety. We’re embracing a greener future, and that includes the energy powering our lives. But between navigating careers, relationships, and a rapidly changing world, where does one even begin with green energy?

Why Go Green?

Let’s be honest, climate change isn’t exactly “trending.” But beyond the headlines, it’s about building a healthy planet for us and future generations. And guess what? Green energy isn’t just good for the Earth; it’s good for your wallet. Renewable sources like solar and wind are becoming increasingly affordable, and the government even offers incentives for adopting them.

Beyond Buzzwords

Renewable energy: Energy sources that naturally replenish, like solar, wind, geothermal, and hydropower. Think sunbeams powering your phone. Sustainable energy: Meeting our energy needs without compromising the planet’s ability to meet future needs. Think efficiency and responsible consumption, not just switching sources. Carbon footprint: The total amount of greenhouse gases our activities generate. Reducing this is key to combating climate change. Think of leaving a lighter footprint, literally and figuratively.

Empowering Your Choices: Practical Steps for a Greener Lifestyle

Knowledge is power, so here are some actionable steps to incorporate green energy into your life: Switch to a green energy provider: Choose energy providers commit-

ted to renewable sources. Research options and make the switch! Invest in energy efficiency: Invest in energy-efficient appliances with Energy Star labels. Your wallet and the planet will thank you. Explore solar power: Consider installing solar panels on your home or supporting community solar projects. Rooftop sunlight can become your power plant. Reduce your energy consumption: Every watt counts! Unplug unused electronics, embrace natural light, and air-dry dishes when possible. Small actions have a big impact. Be a green influencer: Knowledge is power. Share your green energy journey with friends and family, inspiring them to join the movement.

The Role of Technology

Technology plays a pivotal role in the green energy revolution, and millennials are at the forefront of technological innovation. From blockchain-enabled energy trading platforms to smart grid technologies, millennials are leveraging digital tools to optimize energy efficiency and promote renewable energy adoption. Apps and online platforms provide millennials with information and resources to make informed choices about their energy consumption and support sustainable practices.

Empowering Future Generations

Millennials recognize the importance of education in fostering a culture of sustainability. They are actively involved in initiatives to educate young people about renewable energy and environmental conservation. Through school programs, workshops, and community outreach events, millennials are empowering future generations to embrace green energy solutions and become stewards of the planet. Remember, going green is a marathon, not a sprint. Start small, celebrate your progress, and be part of the generation that powers a sustainable future. By embracing green energy solutions, we can collectively create a brighter tomorrow, not just for ourselves but for the planet we call home. (Courtesy: https://indiawest.com/)

9th IMMF

(Continued From Page 01) (located at 6259 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX-78752).

This year’s festival will explore themes like women's rights, immigration, and human interests stories centered around child psychology, family, sexuality, societal pressures, religion and more. The festival includes parties, mixers, QAs & audience conversations with the Directors and Actors both in attendance and virtually.

Kicking off the festival on Wednesday, April 17th is “Sultana’s Dream”, a surreal, animated feature about a women’s search of “Ladyland”, the Utopian land of women. Thursday’s spotlight shines on the Kannada feature “Mithya”, a sincere tale focused on a young boy’s grief after losing both of his parents.

Friday’s opening night film entitled “Footprints on Water” is a dramatic thriller set in the UK that delves into immigration and family narratives. It will include a Q&A after the screening with director Nathalia Syam and lead actor, Adil Hussain. Hussain has appeared in over 80 films, and is best known for his work in Ang Lee's Oscar winning “Life of Pi”.

The weekend fare includes Marathi feature, “Sthal”(A Match) directed by Jayant Digambar Somalkar, which examines the practice of arranged marriage in rural India, and “Against the Tide”, a documentary on two indigenous fishermen striving against a cruel sea and climate change. A not-to-be-missed poignant film & live filmmaker Q&A, at the festival is Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World Is Family). It is veteran documentarian Anand Patwardhan’s rare personal story created from home videos and archival footage.

The final closing night film of this year’s incredible lineup is “Girls will be Girls,” centered around a young woman’s experience through a coming-of-age story shared with her mother. There will be a Q&A with director and writer Shuchi Talati following the screening.

“Indie Meme is a labor of love for everyone involved! I am truly proud of how the festival has maintained a soul and grown into a 5 day celebration of art & culture through film. Our programming is bold, pushing boundaries and showcasing some of the most amazing films and filmmakers from South Asia” - Alka Bhanot, Festival Director and Co-founder.

You can attend the festival by purchasing a Regular Badge for all films, A Platinum Badge for all films & Parties or Individual Tick-

ets for each screening. The virtual edition is May 3-5 on demand, and a virtual badge or individual tickets are available for that too. All info is on the Indie Meme website.

Indie Meme is funded in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin, Economic Development Department, Texas Commission on the Arts, and Humanities Texas, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

For more information about Indie Meme and their mission to share the best of South Asian Film with the United States, see their website, indiememe.org

Vasundhara Varadarajan Air Pollution In Austin Neighborhoods Linked To Asthma Disparities, UT Study Finds

AUSTIN, Texas — Air pollution in Austin neighborhoods is linked to an increased rate of asthma-related trips to the emergency room (ER), especially in areas with a high proportion of Black and Latinx residents, according to a new study by researchers at Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin.

The study, published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, investigates how small differences in air pollution levels among neighborhoods in the five-county Austin metro area impact the frequency of asthma-related emergency care. (Continued On Page 23)

Austin ISD And Oak Hill Elementary Celebrate 50 Years And The Start Of Major Renovations Funded By 2022 Bond Program

(Continued From Page 01) This design style was popular in the 1970s but is not well-suited for today’s learning.

Oak Hill is one of four open-concept schools that will be renovated as part of the district’s $2.44 billion

bond program that voters approved in November 2022.

The open-concept facilities at Cook Elementary, Odom Elementary and Williams Elementary will also be renovated.

“Renovating our open concept campuses will help ensure that all of our students and teachers have the benefit of modern learning environments that meet our standards, and these upgrades will increase safety and security as we are doing across the district,” said

Seema Govil: Acknowledged Among The Top 20 Global Women of Excellence

Seema Govil, a prominent figure in the realms of media and franchising, has been honored as one of the Top 20 Global Women of Ex-

Adding to the moment’s significance, Seema was presented with a medal signed by Representative Danny K. Davis. Reflecting on this

cellence during the 12th Congressional International Women’s Day celebration at Capitol Hill, Washington D.C. Presented by United States Congressman Danny K. Davis, alongside Representatives Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Delia Ramirez, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Representative Shri Thanedar, and American Multiethnic Coalition’s President Dr. Vijay G. Prabhakar, this esteemed award acknowledges Seema’s remarkable contributions.

Hailing from New Delhi, India, Seema proudly stands as the sole recipient of this prestigious award, representing not only women globally but also the Indian community and the state of Texas. The ceremony, held on March 6th, 2024, spotlighted Seema’s inspiring leadership and notable achievements.

Seema expressed her joy and Gratitude and the honor of meeting some phenomenal women.

additional honor, she remarked, “I was deeply touched by the additional honor bestowed upon me by Representative Danny K. Davis. It further affirms the significance of this incredible achievement.”

Dedicating the award to her mother, Mrs Pushpa Madan, on Women’s Day, Seema emphasized her mother’s profound influence and unwavering inspiration throughout her journey. She attributed her success to her mother’s legacy of core values—Education, Giving, and Gratitude.

Seema Govil is renowned for her dynamic presence in business and media. Since 2013, she has been co-president of the India Franchise Council and the founder and CEO of Cosmo City Media, a full-service PR and media agency in Austin. Seema specializes in targeting the South Asian demographic.

Her expertise in franchising extends to seminars, trade shows, and panel moderation.

She guides individuals interested in franchising through discerning and choosing the perfect franchise, facilitating their journey to becoming part of a franchise organization.

As a TV Asia anchor with an eleven-year tenure, Seema has covered diverse topics ranging from South Asian success stories to spirituality, arts, lifestyle, healthcare, politics, and business.

Additionally, she hosts the Fablife360 podcast, showcasing uplifting stories from celebrities and ordinary individuals striving to achieve their dreams.

Seema’s philanthropic endeavors include active participation in nonprofit boards and film festivals. Her impactful documentary, “Let’s Rewrite Their Story,” produced for Akshaya Patra kitchens in India, is a powerful tool for raising awareness and supporting the cause. Seema’s commitment is further evident through her advisory role at Akshaya Patra Austin.

As an alumna of the Leadership Austin program and a dedicated franchise coach, Seema remains steadfast in mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs, leveraging her experiences to contribute positively to the community.

For reaching out to Seema directly, pls text or call her at 512 762 7387 or email

at Seema@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com

Matias Segura, Superintendent of Austin ISD.

Designed by Smith & Company Architects and built by Cadence McShane Construction, the school’s renovation will enclose the classrooms and create new open collaboration areas and small group spaces. It will also construct a new secure entry vestibule at the front entrance.

“With these new spaces, the school will be filled with light, vibrant colors, and flexibility for our teachers and students,” said Principal Lori Komassa.

“Beyond the appearance, one of the most important benefits of the redesign is that it will make our school safer.

I want to thank our project team, Campus Architectural Team and the entire Oak Hill community for their efforts and support throughout this process. We are thrilled to get this work started.”

In addition to the open concept renovations, the 2022 Bond program will also fund the modernization of 25 schools through full or phased renovations as well as district-wide

safety and security upgrades, repairs to failing building systems, technology upgrades and other improvements.

For information on the Oak Hill Elementary School construction project and 2022 Bond Program, visit www.AISDfuture.com.

ABOUT AUSTIN ISD:

Austin ISD is Austin’s home for inclusive learning: high expectations for all children, high outcomes for every student.

Austin ISD is the largest school district in central Texas and our students’ SAT and ACT scores exceed state and national averages.

The district has more National Board Certified Teachers than any school district in Texas.

Austin ISD is recognized as the largest No Place for Hate school district in the nation by the AntiDefamation League.

Follow Austin ISD on Facebook at www.facebook.com/austinisd, Instagram at @AustinISD or on X at @AustinISD. For more information, visit austinisd.org.

Celebrating Family And Flavor, One Recipe At A Time

No matter where you live or where you’re from, food is typically at the center of every family gathering. And, oftentimes, the dishes served come from recipes passed down for generations.

To celebrate family, flavor, food and their new pellet blend collection, Bear Mountain Premium BBQ Woods is hosting the “Family Full of Flavor” contest, along with Merry Graham, an award-winning celebrity home chef and grandmother, and Jennifer Plemmons, a southern influencer and grilling mom.

Families can submit their favorite recipes that are baked, or prepared on the grill, in the categories of appetizers, entrees, side dishes and desserts.

“Whether it’s a formal gathering or a casual picnic, good food enjoyed with loved ones helps us celebrate traditions and make memories,” says Graham. “We’re excited to try so many beloved family recipes with this contest and share them with others.”

Graham, Plemmons and the Bear Mountain team will review all recipes submitted between March 25 and April 19 and select three finalists. From April 22-30, anyone can visit BearMountainBBQ.com and vote for their favorite recipe once daily.

Throughout the voting period, Graham and Plemmons will try out recipes and post them on their social media channels.

The winner, announced May 1, will receive an all-expenses paid family reunion in the amount of a $5,000 gift card to Walmart. The two runners-up will receive a year’s supply of Bear Mountain pellets.

To kick things off, Graham offers her recipe for Smoky Parmesan Panko Chicken Thighs, a budgetfriendly meal for a crowd, and a tribute to her own cherished summer family barbecues.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Serves: 6

Ingredients:

• 10 chicken thighs, bone-in

• 1 cup Italian salad dressing or seasoned buttermilk

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic

• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

• 2 large eggs

• 2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard or honey mustard

• 1 1/2 cup panko crumbs

• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• Bear Mountain Smoky Apple

Whiskey BBQ Pellets

• Packaged salad or homemade coleslaw for platter (optional)

Instructions:

1. Trim chicken of excess fat and scraggly skin. Leave enough to wrap the entire thigh.

2. Place thighs into a large mixing bowl. Pour Italian dressing over the chicken and toss a few times. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or

overnight at most.

3. Meanwhile, in a shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, paprika, onion powder, garlic and coriander.

4. After marination, drain the dressing, wrap the loose skin tightly around the entire chicken thigh. It’s not necessary to rinse the chicken or pat it dry. Roll the chicken in flour mixture, and place on a baker’s rack to dry.

5. In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and mustard until smooth. In another shallow bowl, mix the panko crumbs, parmesan and black pepper.

6. Roll the floured chicken thighs into the egg mixture then press into the panko mixture to coat thoroughly. Place the coated chicken thighs on a baker’s rack to set.

7. Fill the hopper with Bear Mountain Smoky Apple Whisky BBQ Pellets. Set the grill or smoker to 400 degrees F.

8. Place chicken on the grill’s upper

rack for indirect heat, and smoke for 50-60 minutes or for optimal tenderness, until the internal temperature reaches 175-185 degrees F. If desired, open the flame broiler for direct cooking and rotate during the last 10 minutes.

9. Take off the grill or smoker and rest for 10 minutes. Spread coleslaw on a serving platter and top with chicken, fresh herbs and lemon slices.

Consider serving with biscuits, garlic mashed potatoes, peas, green beans or asparagus.

For contest instructions and rules, and to learn more about Bear Mountain BBQ’s new pellet blend collection, which includes Smoky Apple Whiskey, Maple Bourbon Pecan, Chef’s Choice, Chophouse Blend and Butcher’s Blend, and is available exclusively at Walmart, visit BearMountainBBQ.com.

Flavor and family go hand in hand. Celebrate your family’s traditions with your favorite dishes. (StatePoint)

Get Your Dream Hair This Spring With These Tips

Spring has sprung which means your tresses are going to be making more public appearances in the months ahead. But if you’re like many people, you’re not entirely satisfied with your locks.

In fact, 76% of women are concerned about their hair feeling weighed down. While they want to nourish hair that feels dry or dull, they fear that current product offerings will cause build-up or leave a heavy feeling on their hair.

To help you achieve your dream hair, consider these tips and new product recommendations:

1. Try double washing. It’s true that many people are washing their hair a little less frequently these days. That’s fine for some, but if your weekly washes have dropped and your hair is feeling heavy, try double washing next time.

Longer times between washes just

means more time for dirt, pollutants, products and sebum – hair’s natural oil – to build up. An occasional double-wash can help clear out all that build-up with round one and get to work on fully cleansing hair cuticles in round two.

2. Mind the elements. Protect your hair from the elements, which can

wreak havoc on hairstyles. Incorporate chic hats or scarves into your style routine to protect against UV rays, which can fade color. If you go swimming, rinse your hair afterwards. If you know you have hard water, try using a moisturizing hair mask every so often to ensure hair is getting the moisture it needs.

3. Fight frizz. Higher humidity can lead to frizz so it’s important to use a good conditioner to smooth and hydrate cuticles and help lock in moisture. Using a hydrating oil or spray can also help tame frizz when it strikes.

4. Change up your products. Your products should contain ingredients your hair will love. For example, Herbal Essences recently introduced new collections of shampoo and conditioner with a pure plants blend to deeply nourish hair without weighing it down. At the heart of each new formula is a blend of pure aloe and lightweight camellia oil, ingredients certified by plant experts at The Royal Botanic Gardens, KEW, and carefully selected

by Herbal Essences.

Camellia oil mimics the structure of oils found naturally in healthy hair, has a remarkable ability to absorb quickly into the hair and complements the moisturizing and protective powers of pure aloe. Together, these ingredients help deliver nourished locks that are surprisingly soft, flexible and lightweight.

Cruelty-free and paraben-free, these new collections have options to target a wide range of hair types and needs, from apricot oil shampoo and conditioner for curly hair, to a honey collection for daily moisture. Plus, there are frizz-fighting, volume boosting and repair options, too. For more hair care tips and information, visit herbalessences.com/en-us. This spring, give your hair the care and lightweight nourishment it needs with plant power you can feel.

(StatePoint)

Business Owners Are Optimistic As Economic Conditions Improve

What a difference a year makes. New research finds that smalland mid-sized business owners are increasingly optimistic about economic conditions and the prospects for their own businesses.

According to PNC’s Spring 2024 Economic Outlook Survey, nearly 80% of business owners surveyed feel optimistic about conditions for their business over the next six months -- up from 60% a year ago.

This optimism likely stems from an improving outlook for the economy as a whole as inflation pressures and recession fears appear to be easing. A majority of those surveyed (55%) said they are highly optimistic about the national economy -- a dramatic increase from the 26% who felt that way in the spring of 2023. Even more (63%) said they are highly optimistic about their local economy -- more than double the reading from a year ago. The uptick in optimism for the economy mirrors PNC’s revised

outlook for 2024, which shifts away from a predicted recession to a forecast of slow growth. PNC chief economist Gus Faucher said he expects the Federal Reserve will begin cutting interest rates later this year as inflation continues to ease. “Business owners continue to feel confident that good days are ahead,” Faucher said. “This time around though, the economy is seen as a supporting factor to that optimism instead of a limitation.”

Calming Inflation

fore the Fed likely cuts rates later in 2024.

“We’ve come a long way from 2022, as supply chain issues driven by the pandemic have largely dissipated,” Faucher said. “But more progress will probably be necessary before we can expect the Fed to start easing rates.”

3.7% -- below what is considered “full employment” in the U.S. economy. Faucher said he expects the shortage of available labor to ease as consumer demand softens and the effect of slower job growth across the economy becomes more visible.

Despite the trend across the broader U.S. landscape, few survey respondents anticipate workforce reductions over the next six months.

Easing inflation pressures are among the biggest factors reported in the survey. Last spring, 55% of respondents reported that they expected to raise prices in the ensuing

six months -- that dropped to 47% this round. Similarly, 40% expect prices from suppliers to increase over the next six months, that’s down from 47% last spring. Inflation overall has been gradually easing since a mid-2022 high of 9% -- its highest level since the 1980s. By January 2024, inflation was reported at 3.1%, with continued easing projected in the months ahead. Still, inflation remains above its pre-pandemic pace and Faucher says more progress is needed be-

Labor Challenges Easing

One such challenge has been the tight labor market, which has made hiring difficult for business leaders. Consistent with PNC’s Fall 2023 survey, respondents say the lack of overall applicants remains their primary hiring issue. Respondents cite lack of experience (22%) and high salary/benefit and flexibility requirements (9%) as other barriers. The nationwide unemployment rate for January 2024 was

Only 4% report anticipating a reduction, while 74% expect no change to their workforce numbers and 21% project an increase in their workforce over the next half of the year.

“Employers have been under pressure despite the improving conditions because the economy has been at or near full employment for an extended period,” Faucher said. “We expect some slack in the labor market in the coming months, which will likely further ease inflation.” (StatePoint)

THEME: SHAKESPEARE

ACROSS

1. Type of help center

6. Fake tooth

9. What geysers do

13. Lagoon wall

14. Acronym, in brief

15. Syrup producer

16. Papal court

17. It often comes with Aloha!

18. External

19.*Richard III “A horse! A horse! My----for a horse!”

21. *Romeo and Juliet: “Parting is such sweet ____”

23. Animal’s nose

24. Fail to mention

25. Capone’s family

28. *Hamlet: “O, this is the poison of ____ grief”

30. Soap froth

35. Iris holder

37. “He ____, She Said”

39. ____ Apso

40. Cheap form of payment?

41. Bert’s roommate

43. Not in favor

44. Hipbone-related

46. The Destroyer, in Hinduism

47. Thomas the Engine’s warning

48. “Heart of Darkness” author

50. Brewer’s kiln

52. Beer choice

53. Not a verb

55. Comic cry

57. *The Tempest: “We are such stuff as ____ are made on”

60. *As You Like It: “All the world’s a stage and all the men and women merely ____”

64. Primatologist’s concern, for short

65. “This land is your land”?

67. *Macbeth: “Our ____ master’s murder’d!”

68. Scoundrel

69. Hi ____ monitor

70. Wombs

71. “A Visit from St. Nicholas” beginning

72. Teacher’s favorite

73. Got ready for a close up DOWN

1. Nordstrom’s outlet

2. Purse for the red carpet

3. Cape on Tierra del Fuego

4. Set straight

5. Like a knife

6. Comes before a storm?

7. The “place with the helpful hardware folks”

8. Spectrum maker

9. Wild ox of India

10. Plotting (2 words)

11. Multitude

12. Having Everything Revealed, singer and songwriter

15. *Hamlet: “When we have shuffled off this ____ coil”

20. Corpulent

22. Tin Woodman’s “medicine”

24. “Two cents”?

25. *Twelfth Night: “If ____ be the food of love, play on”

26. Convex molding

27. Nigeria’s western neighbor

29. Listening devices

31. *Hamlet: “To be, or not to be: ____ is the question”

32. Capital of Vietnam

33. Bar by estoppel

34. Indian restaurant condiment

36. Petri dish filler

38. Prima donna

42. Artist’s tripod

45. High tea sandwich

49. P rignon’s honorific

51. Destroy a document (2 words)

54. Seize a throne

56. City in Japan

57. Type of sailing vessel

58. Capital of Latvia

59. Outback birds

60. “Blast from the ____”

61. “The ____ of Tammy Faye,” movie

62. Uncommon

63. Went down slippery slope

64. Cathode-ray tube

66. *Merchant of Venice: “But love is blind, and lovers cannot ____”

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

Name of the inviduvidual with correct answer will be published in May 2024 issue.

Step Into Spring: Find The Perfect Shoe To Elevate Your Style

Spring is here (finally!), and it’s time to ditch those winter boots for something a little lighter on your feet.

From sweat sessions to evenings on the town, here’s how to refresh your closet and get on top of this spring’s shoe trends to meet your style and functional needs.

1. Active Style: Prioritize both comfort and performance with an extensive selection of athletic shoes from top brands like Nike,

Adidas and Puma. Remember, everyone’s needs are different, so find a pair that works best for your feet shape and gait.

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting your fitness journey, you’ll find the perfect pair of sneakers to support your active lifestyle.

2. Sandal Season: From the timeless comfort of flip-flops to the elevated style of platform sandals, discover the ideal pair to complement

your spring ensembles.

Men and women alike can indulge in the flexibility of slides from various brands that they can dress up or down.

3. Effortless Comfort and Style: For those seeking a relaxed aesthetic, the selection of comfort and laid-back styles has never been easier.

The easy wearability of brands like Crocs and HEYDUDE is perfect for casual adventures, running errands or simply lounging at home.

4. The Appeal of White: The crisp, clean look of white footwear continues to reign supreme. White shoes effortlessly complement a variety of outfits, making them a staple for any spring wardrobe.

March 2024 Sudoku Answer

Mr. Yudhveer Bagga

Mr. Venkata Rao Tirupathi

Ms. Vishnu Priya Sanaboyina

Mr. Shashikant Date

Ms. Rishikasri Akurathi

Mr. Arnav Bondiga

Shopping at stores that offer a curated collection of white sneakers, sandals and flats ensures you can find the perfect pair to complete any outfit.For one-stop shopping, visit a Rack Room Shoes in your area, or online at rackroomshoes.com.

To step into spring with confidence, get outfitted with shoes that will elevate your style and allow you to embrace the warm weather adventures that await. (StatePoint)

Air Pollution In Austin Neighborhoods Linked To Asthma Disparities, UT Study Finds

(Continued From Page 18)

These findings come just weeks after the Environmental Protection Agency announced new, stricter limits on air quality standards in the U.S.

The updated standards mean Austin now has higher-than-acceptable levels of fine particulate matter — tiny particles that can be inhaled into the lungs and cause breathing problems.

It’s well established that a day of bad air quality carries a risk of worsening asthma symptoms. This study breaks new ground by examining whether higher long-term trends in air pollution in some Austin neighborhoods set those areas apart from less polluted neighborhoods in the rate of asthma-related ER visits among those living there.

This particularly affects Black and Latinx people, as neighborhoods with higher air pollution also tend to have a greater share of residents of color. Researchers found that despite relatively low air pollution levels within the Austin metro area, there was a significant linkage between ER visits triggered by asthma symptoms and higher pollution areas.

“We are exploring the connections between the neighborhood environment and lung health so that people can understand the risks they face when they live in places with consistently poor air quality,” said Sarah Chambliss, lead author of the study and a research associate in the Department of Population Health at Dell Med.

“But beyond understanding personal risks, this is also a critical piece to the puzzle of why Black and Latinx Austinites suffer a greater burden of asthma. We know the placement of highways and industry in East Austin contributes to greater local air pollution, and this research points to the consequences that may have for racial and ethnic health disparities.”

Key findings from the study:

Association Between Air Pollution & Asthma-Related ER Visits: Researchers found significant associations between census tract-level rates of asthma-related ER visits and average concentrations of multiple types of air pollution (fine particulate matter, coarse particulate matter, and sulfur dioxide) that come from a mix of urban sources, including diesel exhaust, road dust, manufacturing and landfills. These local sources are connected to more ER visits for asthma.

Disparities in Exposure to Air Pollution: Neighborhoods with higher levels of air pollution tend to have a higher proportion of Black or Latinx residents, and those groups were found to be exposed to higher concentrations of air pollutants than white residents were, indicating environmental inequities in urban areas.

Connecting Air Pollution With Health Disparities: Adding air pollution to statistical models reduces race- and ethnicity-related asthma disparities by up to 32%, indicating that pollution exposure may account for the higher number of asthma-related ER visits, especially in neighborhoods with a greater percentage of residents of color.

“These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to mitigate pollution in neighborhoods with higher asthma burdens, especially where Black and Latinx people live,” said Elizabeth Matsui, M.D., co-author of the study, a professor of population health and pediatrics, and director of the Center for Health & Environment: Education & Research at Dell Med. “By understanding the role of specific urban pollution sources, we can better address the underlying environmental injustices contributing to asthma disparities.”

The study’s insights pave the way for more informed public health decision-making and underscore the importance of addressing environmental disparities to promote health equity within urban communities.

Empower Yourself With Nutrition Know-How

Eating a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy and proteins is a crucial first step toward a healthy life.

Even with hectic schedules and convenience foods readily available, it’s important to incorporate habits like regular family meals and meal planning so you have a variety of better-for-you snacks and recipes on hand.

Also important is leading by example and

modeling healthy eating habits to help improve overall nutrition for you and your family members, especially children.

If you are looking for ways to make nutrition fun, the experts at Healthy Family Project, along with its fruit and vegetable partners, are offering an online nutrition resource center as part of Mission for Nutrition 2024.

Geared toward dietitians, nutrition profes-

sionals and anyone involved in nutrition education, the resource center is a one-stop shop to make nutrition education fun and inspiring, featuring more than 600 dietitianapproved recipes; tips to pick, prepare and store more than 50 fruits and vegetables during every season; a podcast, e-cookbook and monthly newsletter; and free downloadables, infographics, activities for kids and more.

Dietitians and nutrition professionals can sign up to receive this year’s Mission for Nutrition kit, which is full of resources to use in classrooms, in-store with customers or wherever they’re supporting nutrition education.

Available by request only, the kit includes a roll of “I’m a Healthy Eater” stickers, sea-

sonal counter cards, mini magazines, demo ideas, a Healthy Family Project spatula and additional resources and information from produce partners.

As part of the mission, the partner brands are making a donation to improve access to fresh produce in schools through the Foundation for Fresh Produce.

To find more resources, tips and recipes to encourage proper nutrition, visit HealthyFamilyProject.com.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock #16892 /Source: Healthy Family Project (Family Features)

Tanvi Grover: A Remarkable Trailblazer In The Global Teen Pageant Scene

14-year-old Tanvi Grover has emerged as the youngest titleholder of Miss Teen India NY, Miss Teen India USA, and now Miss Teen India Worldwide.

The Miss Teen India pageant, owned by Indian Americans Neelam and Dharmatma Saran of Worldwide Pageants based in New York.

It is a prestigious international competition for girls aged 13-18.

Contestants represent Indian communities across the globe, with contestants required to meet specific criteria, including age, height, and citizenship.

Organized by Neelam and Dharmatma Saran, the Miss Teen India Worldwide event is a flagship extravaganza held in different parts of the world making it one of the largest and most significant pageants on the global stage.

Founded in 1980 and headquartered in New York, the event has witnessed remarkable growth under Sarans leadership, evolving from Miss Teen India USA to its current in-

ternational stature. Tanvi Grover’s journey is as diverse as her talents.

A graduate of the renowned New York Film Academy, Tanvi is a versatile artist skilled in competitive American dance styles, violin playing, lacrosse, and writing.

Her commitment to various forms of expression is evident in her exploration of ballet, hip-hop, and traditional Indian dance like Kathak.

Beyond her artistic pursuits, Tanvi is a staunch advocate for authenticity over perfection on social media, challenging societal stigmas.

The Miss Teen India Worldwide competition serves as a unique plat-

form for young talents like Tanvi to showcase their skills and make a global impact.

The event, organized by Worldwide Pageants and spearheaded by Neelam and Dharmatma Saran, has become a beacon for emerging talents from around the world.

With auditions held in prominent cities and countries the pageant attracts a diverse pool of participants, contributing to its status as a premier international event.

As Tanvi Grover takes her place in the spotlight, she symbolizes the potential of young Indian girls globally.

With a life motto that emphasizes resilience and a positive approach to life’s challenges, Tanvi is set to make a lasting impact on the world stage, using her platform to encourage others to embrace their uniqueness and dance to their rhythm.

Media Contacts:

Pigeon Media- The PR Company

Abhishek Dubey

Mobile : 09699384240

Email : abhi23890@gmail.com

Treatment Options To Help Overcome Knee Pain For Sports Enthusiasts

Millions of people experience chronic pain, with knee pain among the most common. Athletes and active adults know the impact activities like running and skiing can have on their knees, but when chronic knee pain makes it difficult to do those activities, or even day-to-day tasks like walking up the stairs, people may often face challenges.

According to the journal “Cartilage,” unlike other tissues, cartilage does not repair itself and, without proper treatment, can worsen over time and become more difficult to treat. However, options like FDA-approved knee cartilage repair surgery MACI (autologous cultured chondrocytes on porcine collagen membrane) uses a patient’s cells to help repair cartilage defects and may help alleviate knee pain.

“Sports-related pain should be evaluated quickly, especially when it’s difficult to put weight on the knee, swelling occurs or there is restricted range of motion,” said Dr. Alexander Meininger, orthopedic surgeon and MACI consultant. Justin Keys, a former patient of Meininger and avid skier, knows that the long-term outcomes of knee cartilage surgery can be worth the short-term sacrifices. After several injuries, including an ACL injury, Keys struggled with most activities

except walking on flat, paved surfaces. After consulting with Meininger, Keys chose knee cartilage repair to help get back to his active lifestyle. Keys considered whether to manage the injury as-is or choose MACI and undergo rehabilitation to potentially get back to his favorite activities in the future. He knew he could no longer use short-term relief methods and had to address his pain with a treatment to help provide lasting relief. For athletes like Keys who want to fix knee pain, it’s important to consider these steps:

Discuss Options with Your Doctor

Patients should talk to their doctors and undergo an MRI to help assess the internal structures of the knee. Meininger recommends patients and their doctors discuss options for long-term knee restoration health, preserving function for future decades and recognizing the short-term sacrifice.

Set Yourself Up for Success

Experts like Meininger suggest patients take steps ahead of surgery to help their recovery.

“The important thing is to be as fit as possible and use the preseason months to undergo surgery and rehab,” Meininger said. Patients

can take steps to prep their home for recovery, which may include:

* Bringing necessities down from hard-toreach shelves

* Moving furniture to ensure clear pathways

* Installing shower safety handles to minimize potential falls

The Road to Rehab and Recovery

Rehabilitation takes time and everyone’s experience is unique. It can be as much of a mental challenge as it is physical. Committing to a physical therapy regime, staying hydrated and eating well are important aspects to support recovery. Patients should talk to their doctors with questions and before starting any exercises.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Do not use if you are allergic to antibiotics such as gentamicin or materials from cow or pig; have severe osteoarthritis of the knee, other severe inflammatory conditions, infections or inflammation in the bone joint and other surrounding tissue or blood clotting conditions; had knee surgery in the past 6 months, not including surgery for obtaining

a cartilage biopsy or a surgical procedure to prepare your knee for a MACI implant; or cannot follow a rehabilitation program post-surgery. MACI is used for the repair of symptomatic cartilage damage of the adult knee. Conditions that existed before your surgery, including meniscus tears, joint or ligament instability or alignment problems should be evaluated and treated before or at the same time as the MACI implant. MACI is not recommended if you are pregnant.

MACI has not been studied in patients younger than 18 or over 55 years of age. Common side effects include joint pain, tendonitis, back pain, joint swelling and joint effusion. More serious side effects include joint pain, cartilage or meniscus injury, treatment failure and osteoarthritis. See Full Prescribing Information for more information.

Find more information by visiting MACI. com.

*Testimonials by MACI patient and paid Vericel consultant

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock #16959

Source: MACI (Family Features)

Kamal Haasan To Play 3 Roles In Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life?

After a wait of almost 34 years, Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan are set to collaborate on an upcoming movie. Titled ‘Thug Life’, the movie has already generated enough buzz on social media.

While fans are eagerly waiting for updates on the movie, a recent report reveals that Haasan is set to play not one or two, but three different roles in the film.

According to a report by The Times of India, Kamal Haasan has been roped in to play three roles in ‘Thug Life.’ The roles will be different from one another.

While there has been no formal confirmation about the same, social media buzz mentions that he will be playing three characters under the direction of Mani Ratnam.

Reports also mention that the film will be shot extensively in Serbia and a filming schedule has already

AMIR KHAN BACK IN ACTION

been finalized.

With ‘Thug Life’, Haasan and Ratnam will be collaborating after 34 years. The last time they worked together was on ‘Nayakan’ in 1987 which turned out to be India’s entry to the Academy Awards.

The actor went on to win the Indian National Film Award for Best Actor for this film. Apart from this project, the actor is also shooting for ‘Indian 2’ which is slated for a theatrical release this year.

This sequel of his most loved action movie stars Kajal Aggarwal, Siddharth, Bobby Simha, Rakul Preet Singh, and Priya Bhavani Shankar in lead roles. Haasan is also gearing up for ‘Kalki AD 2898.’ Directed by Nag Ashwin, the actor will share the screen with Prabhas.

Aamir Khan will be seen in his untitled film next year, as per reports. His film is likely to clash with Akshay Kumar and Salman Khan’s films.

Actor Aamir Khan is all set to return to big screen after his recent setback. His last outing Laal Singh Chaddha failed to fulfil the expectations of the audience and since then, the actor has not announced any project.

However, he has now confirmed an upcoming film under his production house, Aamir Khan Productions. Also read: Aamir Khan, Rajkumar Hirani to reunite for a biopic.

Aamir Khan’s next film after Laal Singh Chaddha

As per film trade insider Taran Adarsh, Aamir’s next film as an actor, which is currently untitled, will be a Christmas release of next year. Reportedly, the film will start filming in January 2024. The film is said to be in its pre-production stage right now.

He tweeted, #Xclusiv… AAMIR KHAN LOCKS CHRISTMAS

2024 FOR NEXT FILM… Aamir

Khan Productions’ Prod No. 16 [not titled yet], starring #AamirKhan in the lead role, to release on 20 Dec 2024 #Christmas2024.

Pre-production of the film is ongoing and the film goes on floors on

Aamir Khan’s film to clash with Welcome To The Jungle

If this goes as planned, Aamir’s film will be clashing with Akshay Kumar’s much-awaited Welcome sequel.

Titled as Welcome To The Jungle, reports claimed that Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, Suniel Shetty, Disha Patani, and Jacqueline Fernandez will be a part of the third instalment of the Welcome franchise.

Reportedly, Akshay will also be reuniting with Raveena Tandon in the film.

Did Salman lock a Christmas release too?

Besides Welcome To The Jungle, a report on Pinkvilla also suggested that Salman Khan will most likely block Christmas 2024 for his yet another action entertainer.

Reportedly, this time, he will be reuniting with Karan Johar under his production’s untitled film.

It is said to be directed by Vishnu Vardhan. However, no official announcement regarding the film has been made.

Much like the success of OMG 2 and Gadar 2, who are equally ruling the box office, one can also expect some similar outcomes from the clash between Aamir, Akshay and Salman’s film.

However, the news of Aamir’s return to the film is good news for his fans as rumours of him quitting films after the debacle of Laal Singh Chaddha spread previously like wildfire.

The actor had also said at a press event during the trailer launch of Carry On Jatta 3, “Since you all must be curious, let me quickly give you an answer.

I haven’t decided to do any film as of now. I want to spend time with my family right now. I’m feeling good about it because that’s what I want to do right now.

I’ll do a film when I’m emotionally ready, for sure.”(Courtesy: https:// www.hindustantimes.com/)

20 Jan 2024… More details to follow soon.”

Manjummel Boys, the survival thriller based on a real life story, is continuing its sensational run and has now become the first Malayalam film to collect ₹200 crore at the box office across the world, according to the Film Exhibitors’ United Organisation of Kerala (FEUOK).

A good part of the film’s success can be attributed to the unprecedented run that it is having in Tamil Nadu, from where it has netted over ₹50 crore.

The film, directed by Chidambaram, broke the record of the highest grossing film in Malayalam currently held by Jude Anthany Joseph’s flood saga 2018, which collected over ₹150 crore.

Mohanlal’s 2016 film Pulimurugan became the first Malayalam film to enter the ₹100-crore club. Ironi-

cally, the Malayalam films which got much pre-release hype as ‘panIndian’ did not feature among the top grossers.

According to K. Vijayakumar, president of FEUOK, Manjummel Boys has collected over ₹70 crore

from Kerala alone, but was able to break most existing collection records with its performance at the box office worldwide.

“Although films such as Manjummel Boys or Premalu had elements appealing to people from the other

States, there is no specific formula for the unprecedented success that these films have had. But, if we can make films with subjects that will strike a chord outside Kerala too, maybe we can create an impact in these markets,” says Mr. Vijayakumar.

One of the factors that led to the success of Manjummel Boys in Tamil Nadu was its ingenious way of paying tribute to Kamal Haas-

an’s Guna, especially the placement of Ilayaraja’s classic song Kanmani Anbodu Kathalan.

But the universal appeal of the story of friendship at the film’s core also struck a chord with a wider audience. The timing of the film’s release also proved to be lucky for it, as it came at a lean period without any big releases of the major stars in Tamil.

The year has started well for the Malayalam film industry with Gireesh A.D.’s Premalu too crossing ₹109 crore at the box office, out of which ₹60 crore is from Kerala.

The film’s Telegu dubbing also is running to house full shows. Mammootty-starrer Bramayugam also had a strong run with a total gross of over ₹40 crore. (Courtesy: https://www.thehindu.com/)

Zee Cine Awards 2024 Complete Winners List

Zee Cine Awards 2024 complete winners list: Amid a Jawan and Pathaan sweep, Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Alia Bhatt and Kiara Advani emerged as winners.

Bollywood and TV’s biggest names attended the Zee Cine Awards 2024, on Sunday evening. After making a style statement on the red carpet, they not only swept home awards but also mesmerised the audience with their performance on-stage. Shah Rukh Khan, who won the Best Actor award for his roles in the films Jawan and Pathaan, emerged as the biggest winner of the night. His film Jawan’ took home the biggest awards of the night, including Best Film, Best Story and Best Music. Rani Mukerji, Kartik Aaryan and Bobby Deol were among the other winners of the night. SRK performed at the award after a gap of nine years.

Shah Rukh said in his speech, “I am grateful for considering me good enough for this recognition.

I would like to thank Atlee (Jawan director) and his beautiful wife Priya, who left her home in the South and has been living in Mumbai for

over four years. In fact, their son Meer was also born in Mumbai. Is film is kamyaabi ka sara shrey Meer ko jana chahiye (The credit for this film goes to Meer). So thank you Atlee and the whole team that has tirelessly worked to make this film.” Dressed in an all-black suit, the actor also made a style statement with his dapper look. His long hair and black shades complemented his look.

Alia Bhatt, Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, Ananya Panday, Bobby Deol, Ayushmann Khurrana, Mouni Roy, Utkarsh Sharma, Simrat Kaur and many others, entertained the audience with their performances. Bobby’s nostalgia-laced

dance performance on Gupt’s Duniya Haseeno Ka Mela had the audience roaring with excitement. Hosted by Ayushmann Khurrana along with brother Aparshakti Khurrana the award was ‘starry affair’.

The celebrities brought their fashion A-game to the Zee Cine Awards 2024, turning heads with their stunning ensembles on the red carpet. Impressing the fashion police and making heads turn on the red carpet was Ananya Panday, who stunned in a gorgeous green shimmer gown with a bold thigh-high slit. She completed the look with her hair styled in a sleek bun. Rani

exuded elegance in a stunning silk saree. Kartik made a dashing entry in a blue and white striped shirt, paired with a black coat and pants, and a matching tie. Alia wore a dark brown-golden saree, featuring intricate work on the blouse while Kiara Advani chanellised her inner Barbie in an off-shoulder pink gown, accessorised with a matching silver and pink necklace. Sunny Deol made a stylish appearance with his twin sons, opting for a classic black suit while his sons sported matching blue outfits. Check out the full list of Zee Cine Awards 2024 winners below: Best Actor- Shah Rukh Khan (Jawan and Pathaan)

Best Film – Jawan

Best Story – Jawan

Best Music – Jawan

Best Actor (Critics) – Rani Mukerji

Best Actor (Jury) – Kartik Aaryan (Satyaprem Ki Katha)

Best Actress (Critics) – Alia Bhatt

Best Actress (Jury) – Kiara Advani

Best VFX – Red Chillies Entertainment (Jawan)

Best Action – Spiro Razatos, Anal Arasu, Craig Macrae and team (Jawan)

Best Background Music – Anirudh (Jawan)

Best Music Director – Anirudh (Jawan)

Best Dialogue – Sumit Arora (Jawan)

Best Playback Singer (Male) –Arijit Singh (Jhoome Jo Pathaan – Pathaan)

Best Playback Singer (Female) – Shilpa Rao (Besharam Rang –Pathaan)

Best Lyrics – Kumaar (Chaleya –Jawan)

Best Choreography – Bosco Martis (Jhoome Jo Pathaan – Pathaan)

Best Costume Design – Manish Malhotra (Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani)

Best Story – Atlee (Jawan (Courtesy: https://indianexpress. com/)