Austin South Asian. December. 2023

Monthly Community Paper | www.austinsouthasian.com | 512-828-6709 | Vol. 16 No. 12

City Manager Announces Creation Of Homeless Strategy Office The Homeless Strategy Division, currently under Austin Public Health, will transition to a standalone office reporting directly to the City Manager’s Office.

The City of Austin’s commitment to making homelessness rare, brief and non-recurring was strengthened this week as Interim City Manager Jesús Garza announced the creation of a stand-alone office dedicated to this important effort.

Garza shared the news in a memo to Mayor Kirk Watson and Austin City Council members on Monday.

In June, Garza initiated a homeless strategy special assignment to focus on the broad spectrum of programs, policies, and funding the City utilizes in support of ad-

dressing homelessness in the Austin community. In his memo, he shared with Mayor and Council that a significant finding of the assignment is that the City’s current organizational structure does not effectively respond to this critical priority.

“While the Homeless Strategy Division was embedded within one department, the initiatives to address homelessness span multiple departments and require focused coordination,” Garza said. “Consequently, I am establishing a standalone Homeless Strategy Office (HSO) to serve as a focal point for addressing homelessness comprehensively, strategically, and compassionately.”

(Continued On Page 20)

Best Time To Meet Our Candidate Practice Yoga Miss Ashika Ganguli

Batting, Fielding Woes On D-Day Cost India at home on November 19 here at Narendra Modi Stadium.

By Chetan Sharma AHMEDABAD, (IANS) – India missed out on a golden opportunity to become the only country to win two men’s ODI World Cup titles

On 10th November a significant event occurred . Miss Ashika Ganguli has declared candidacy for Austin City Council District 10 - Election 2024. (Continued On Page 25)

Australia lifted their sixth men’s ODI World Cup title after defeating the hosts India in the finals of the showpiece event following a scintillating display of batting by Travis Head (137).

(Continued On Page 14)

‘Festival Of Lights’ in Capitol Hill

By Ashwin Ghatalia Board Member an past President IACCT

If you are planning to join a yoga teacher training and intend to make yoga an integral part of your daily regimen, you might well be wondering about the optimal time of day for yoga practice.

The good thing is that there is never a bad time to practice yoga! What’s more important is that you practice yoga regularly — as both morning and evening practices offer a lot of benefits. (Continued On Page 24)

December 2023

BAPS Public Affairs and multiple partner organizations, including the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA), Shrimad Ra- jchandra Mission Dharampur, Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA), the American Jewish Committee (AJC), the U.S. Indian Community Foundation, the U.S.

inside

Diabetes 21.................02 Sam Altman Back.........03 This FootBall Season....04 RSV Prevention............05 Users Go Crazy.............05 8 Smart Ways..............06 Scribblings By Arun......06 Protect Your Family.......07

January 2024 Tax Special

512-828-6709

Feeding Picky Pets.......08 Count Down To............08 Holiday Guests.............09 Make A Difference........10 Homebuying Renting....11 What To Look For.........11 Upgrade Their Kitchen..12 Voices Of Caregivers.....12 America Rallies.............13 Indigenous Families......13 Batting, Fielding Woes..14 India Security Council Inc, and the Host The Holidays........15 Indian American Relations Coun7 Home Solutions.........16 cil convened on Capitol Hill to celebrate Diwali. Over 300 members Ideas For New Home....17 of the Indian American community WCI Academy’s Austin..17 from across the United States gath- Prep Your Vehicle.........18 ered at the Dirksen Senate Office Kids Corner....18,19,22,23 Building, joining members of ConCell Phones For Seniors23 gress in the celebration. (ContinTime To Practice Yoga..24 ued On Page 25) Entertainment.........26,27

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

Diabetes 21 - Book Review

Diabetes 21 Bala Kumar Independently Published (2023) ISBN: 979-8857733851 Reviewed by Grace Braun for Reader Views (10/2023) 4* - A Useful Book Providing Straightforward Solutions to Complex Health Problems

are executed perfectly, allowing for an amazing outcome for the reader.

I have a background in nursing, previously working in a dialysis unit where I cared for many patients with diabetes.

“Diabetes 21” by author Bala Kumar is a beneficial read for those with pre-diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, or anyone looking to better their health and lose five to ten pounds within 21 days.

This book takes the reader through the necessary steps to understanding the key components of their personal health struggles, giving them solutions to facilitate positive change. In addition, the author provides ample resources such as helpful images and links to engaging websites.

Therefore, I am extremely proud of Bala Kumar for both attempting

No guessing is left to the reader, as the author even provides a sample routine to ensure “Bala’s Rules”

and writing a book about diabetes, as it is a very important subject to address.

Additionally, in “Diabetes 21” the author details the prevalence of diabetes and its effects on the body, which I find fascinating, and feel is important for others to know.

I commend the author for his simplistic writing style. Although there are some inconsistencies and typos, it is worth noting that the core information is effectively conveyed, and the author is able to explain complicated subjects in a basic way, which will help the reader fully understand the subject matter without confusion.

It is also worth noting there are some repetitive ideas delivered throughout the book that, along with the other issues, could easily be fixed using a professional editor to enhance the reading experience.

sage communicated, the author shares his personal journey with diabetes, which I fully appreciated.

I feel his openness and willingness to share his medical history added to his credibility as an author and will help readers apply the 21-day program to their own health journeys.

Personally, I related to the narrative as diabetes is very prevalent in my family. Therefore, I will be referring to the resources available in “Diabetes 21” to avoid becoming pre-diabetic.

This book is well-structured and is a beneficial resource for all. I appreciated the additional links and routine provided by the author, and I will be incorporating the health strategies I learned from this book into my daily life, allowing me to prevent diabetes and live a healthier life; all thanks to author Bala Kumar and “Diabetes 21.

When it comes to the overall mes-

Sam Altman Back In OpenAI With Nadella’s Support

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (IANS) – In what looks like the final twist in the OpenAI saga, Sam Altman on November 22 said he is returning to the ChatGPT developing company with a new board and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella’s support.

In a post, Altman said he loves OpenAI and everything he has done over the past few days has been in service of keeping this team and its mission together.

“When I decided to join Microsoft on Sunday evening, it was clear that was the best path for me and the team,” he posted.

“With the new board and with Nadella’s support, I’m looking forward to returning to OpenAI, and building on our strong partnership with Microsoft,” he mentioned.

OpenAI said that it has reached an agreement in principle for Altman to return to OpenAI as CEO with

a new initial board of Bret Taylor (Chair), Larry Summers, and

Adam D’Angelo.

Nadella said they are encouraged by the changes to the OpenAI

board.

“We believe this is the first essential step on a path to more stable, well-informed, and effective governance.

Sam, Greg, and I have talked and agreed they have a key role to play along with the OAI leadership team in ensuring OAI continues to thrive and build on its mission,” Nadella posted on X. “We look forward to building on our strong partnership and delivering the value of this next generation of AI to our customers and partners,” he added.

Nadella had announced that Altman and OpenAI co-founder and former president Greg Brockman will join the company to run its advanced AI research team. (Courtesy: https://indiawest.com/)

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

How To Score A Financial Touchdown This Football Season

If you’re like many football fans, your love of the game comes at a cost. A recent national survey by Experian found that fans are planning to spend an average of $743 this season on football-related expenses, with 29% of respondents saying they will spend more than $1,000.

utilities, residential rent and telecommunications to your Experian credit file to potentially increase your credit scores.

Beyond the cost of tickets, tailgates and game-streaming services, some football fans are willing to put their money on the line in more serious ways, too. In fact, 1 in 5 professional football fans would take on more than $5,000 of debt if it meant their team won the Big Game this season.

“Cheering on your favorite team or planning for life’s big moments doesn’t have to break the bank,” says Rod Griffin, senior director of public education and advocacy at Experian. “Taking a financial timeout to review your finances and budget can help you get the most out of your money.”

Whether you’re a devoted fan or a casual viewer, you can score a financial touchdown during football season and beyond by following these game-changing financial pointers: 1. Pay bills on time. Don’t fumble bill pay-

ments. Your bill payment history is an important factor in calculating your credit score. Even one late or missed payment can have a negative impact, whereas making payments on time can bolster your credit score for years to come.

2. Leverage tools. Look into financial products that help your money work for you. For example, the new Experian Smart Money Digital Checking Account & Debit Card embeds Experian Boost to allow you to contribute payments for eligible bills such as

3. Keep your credit utilization rate low.

Your credit utilization rate is the amount of credit you’re currently using divided by the total amount of credit you have available.

Credit scoring models generally interpret a low credit utilization rate as an indication that you’re doing a good job of managing credit and keeping spending in check.

4. Build a budget. A budget is a spending playbook that can help you practice responsible financial habits and live within your means. It needn’t require too much detail.

Simply categorizing spending into a few overall buckets will do the trick.

5. Frequently check your credit. Monitoring your credit score and credit reports can help you identify changes and course-correct if necessary. It’s recommended to check these regularly, especially before you plan to open new lines of credit or make a big purchase.

For more information, visit experian.com/ smartmoney.

Don’t get financially sidelined. By reviewing your credit and budget and by leveraging helpful resources, you can survive the season with your wallet intact. The Experian Smart Money Debit Card is issued by Community Federal Savings Bank (CFSB), pursuant to a license from Mastercard International. Banking services provided by CFSB, Member FDIC. Experian is a Program Manager, not a bank.

Experian Boost results will vary. Not all payments are boost-eligible. Some users may not receive an improved score or approval odds. Not all lenders use Experian credit files, and not all lenders use scores impacted

by Experian Boost. Learn more at https:// www.experian.com/help/boost-disclosure. html. (StatePoint)

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

RSV Prevention Options Can Help Protect Your Child This Season

Last fall, the United States saw an early and significant spike in cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV, which is the leading cause of hospitalizations in all infants.

Now, there are options available to help prevent RSV in babies, including a preventive antibody and an RSV vaccination during pregnancy.

During the first season the new RSV immunizations are offered, they may be limited in availability in provider locations. Public health experts are prioritizing use of the monoclonal antibody in infants at highest risk.

and doorknobs, for many hours and can be spread by touching a surface with the virus on it and then touching your face or your baby’s face.

If you have contact with an infant or young child, especially if they were born prematurely, are very young, have chronic lung or heart disease, a weakened immune system, or have neuromuscular disorders, you should take extra care to keep the infant healthy.

To help prevent severe RSV illness in infants, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the RSV vaccination during weeks 32-36 of pregnancy in September through January, or the new monoclonal antibody.

To ensure parents and caregivers of infants and young children have all the facts they need to protect their children during peak RSV season, the American Lung Association is sharing the following insights: • RSV is extremely common. RSV infects people of all ages, and nearly 100% of all children become infected by age two.

• RSV can be severe. Most people, including infants, develop only mild symptoms similar to that of a common cold, but for some, RSV can be severe and even life threatening.

The leading cause of hospitalizations in all infants, up to 80,000 children younger than

five are hospitalized due to RSV in the United States each year.

• RSV season is now. RSV season typically begins in the fall and peaks in the winter.

• Severity is unpredictable. Good overall health is not a safeguard against severe RSV. A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that 79% of children hospitalized with RSV were previously healthy.

Preventing Infection RSV is easily spread from person to person through close contact through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. It can also survive on hard surfaces, such as toys

7 Must-Have Mobile App Features To Make Users Go Crazy In 2023 Do you know that there are 5 billion mobile users in the world today? From ordering online food to booking a taxi, mobile apps managed to restyle everything, making things much easier for folks.

If you are a business owner, undoubtedly your app is an expression of your business.

But do you know what are the must-have mobile app features that drive profitable customer behavior? No matter what you answer, any app that saves time & cuts costs, gets higher customer engagement.

Key Takeaways Improved Usability: Must-have mobile app features streamline the user experience, making it easy for users to navigate, access essential functionalities, and perform desired actions.

Increased User Satisfaction: By offering features that cater to user expectations and address their pain points, your app can provide value and enhance overall satisfaction, leading to positive reviews and higher app store ratings.

Higher Conversion Rates: Including crucial mobile app features that facilitate seamless onboarding and user engagement can lead to increased conversion rates, signups, and in-app purchases, ultimately boosting your app’s revenue.

Retention and Growth: Unique mobile app features that keep users engaged and satisfied help to retain existing users, while also attracting new users through positive feedback and recommendations, contributing to the long-term success of your mobile app.

7 Must-Have & Unique Mobile App Features in 2023 Offline Mode Voice Search Augmented Reality Machine Learning Multitasking Personalized and Customization Experience Community Building 1. Offline Mode Offline mode is one of the must-have mobile

The preventive antibody is recommended for infants under 8 months old in their first RSV season and some young children between 8 and 19 months old at increased risk, such as children who have chronic lung disease as a result of being born prematurely. This onedose immunization is a long-acting preventive antibody that provides an extra layer of defense to help babies fight RSV infections for five months.

Monoclonal antibodies are man-made proteins that mimic the immune system’s naturally-produced antibodies to help fight off harmful viruses. This preventive antibody is not a vaccine, and not for children who are already sick with RSV.

app feature customers look for in an iOS or Android application. Making an app offline means it is able to work in two different modes, one is online and the other is offline.

If you are the parent or caregiver of a young child, you are also encouraged to:

The online feature is easy to create but managing offline mode can be a little complicated.

For the same purpose, you will need to hire mobile app developers. Many smartphone apps work by accessing a database located on the server and giving the requested data to the user. An offline approach is designing the app in a way that it has useful features even when it is not connected to the server.

• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue.

The data is downloaded to the user’s device and can still be accessed offline. Well, the offline features depend on the type of app. Do you know the qualities of a good app? I f you have an app that is something akin to a large database that gives the user to look for specific information, the offline functionality will be useful.

(Continued On Page 16)

• Avoid close contact with sick people.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.

• Avoid kissing your child while you’re sick.

• Talk with your healthcare provider about your baby’s risk and options to prevent severe RSV illness.

For more RSV information, visit Lung.org/ RSV. RSV impacts millions of people in the United States annually. Fortunately, this RSV season, there are more ways you can help protect your infant. (StatePoint)

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

8 Smart Ways To Save On Holiday Expenses

While often regarded as the most wonderful time of year, the holiday season is also an expensive spot on the calendar. Even as many families feel the squeeze of inflation and rising costs, there is hope for your budget when it comes to gatherings, gifts, food and beyond.

Consider these tips from the money-saving experts at Slickdeals and Head of Deals Vitaly Pecharsky to avoid overspending without sacrificing your festive spirit.

Stick to a budget. Beyond gifts and stocking stuffers, holiday costs can add up quickly once you factor in travel, decor, pet care, special events and more.

Create an all-encompassing budget for the season then break it into segments for each type of expense, including hidden expenses like wrapping paper or extra toiletries for guests, so you don’t end up with an unexpected credit card bill.

Split up food costs. Instead of putting yourself under the pressure of full-time holiday chef (and taking on all the expenses that come with it), consider hosting a potluckstyle gathering. Providing the main

Buying new holiday decorations and replacing worn out crafts are seasonal expenses you may not immediately factor into your budget.

Rather than heading to the store for (likely overpriced) ornaments and tablescapes, put your creative cap on and repurpose goods from around the house.

Reusing items like glass jars to make homemade snow globes, for example, can be a crafty way to save. Plus, it’s a fun activity for family members to enjoy together.

course and encouraging guests to bring an appetizer, side or dessert is an easy way to avoid a hefty hosting bill.

Send an e-vite with a list of musthaves that allows loved ones to sign up for specific dishes to ensure everything is covered without doubling up.

Search for the best deals. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift from toys to technology or trying to save on travel costs and home decor, make sure you find the best price.

Consider a site like Slickdeals, where a community of millions of people work together to save money so you can be confident you’re getting the best deal. With 12 million shoppers assisting others by vetting and voting up the top deals from renowned retailers, your holiday needs are covered without sacrificing quality.

You can also set Deal Alerts that

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But we ignore to reciprocate, Overlooking the value of it.

We seek and expect love from others, Including from our committed

spouse.

Like mirage traps you to run behind, You will be left just disappointed.

Like parent’s love pristine and sublime, Unselfish love is too rare to find. (arunsunderraj@gmail.com)

send notifications directly to your inbox when a deal that matches your criteria is posted to the site.

Share experiences, not just “things.” Gadgets and gizmos may come to mind when brainstorming holiday gift ideas but remember some family members and friends just want more time together.

If you’re considering a special experience for – and with – that special someone, think about their favorite hobbies and activities.

Animal lovers may be overjoyed with a day at the local zoo and gearheads would cherish tickets to the next auto show. Integrating experiences into your gifting repertoire often makes for a more memorable (and cheaper) solution.

Take advantage of gift cards.

A quick internet search can lead you to discounted gift cards, allowing you to save cash on holiday purchases.

Or, for the one on your list who has everything, simply give the card as a gift so he or she can pick out what’s truly needed. As an added bonus, discounted gift cards are typically available even at the last minute so procrastinators can still save.

Show off your DIY skills.

Seek out post-holiday sales. Once the holidays are over, it’s a perfect opportunity to get ahead of the game for next year. Stock up on gift wrap, decorative items and

other nonperishables that are often heavily discounted in the new year.

Save throughout the year. A handy tip for holiday seasons to come, try creating a fund each year where you can save up for gifts, food, travel and other end-of-year expenses.

Set up a special bank account specifically for holiday savings where you contribute a small amount each month to be financially prepared for the festivities.

Find more ways to save this holiday season by visiting Slickdeals. com. (Family Features) Photos courtesy of Shutterstock

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

How To Protect Your Family From Tornadoes When clouds loom overhead and winds pick up in your area, it’s crucial to keep an eye on the sky and an ear toward local news broadcasts. Capable of destroying buildings, uprooting trees and sending dangerous debris flying, tornadoes are rotating columns of air that extend from the base of thunderstorms to the ground.

With the potential to reach wind speeds of up to 300 miles per hour, these violent storms can wreak havoc on communities and put families in danger. Keep your loved ones safe with these tips to prepare for and shelter from tornadoes.

Pay Attention to Weather Forecasts Staying weather alert is always a good idea, particularly as strong thunderstorms build and approach your location. Check the forecast regularly to understand the risk for severe weather and, if possible, sign up for smartphone alerts or notifications.

propriately.

• Tornado Watch: Tornadoes are possible in or near your location.

Review emergency plans with loved ones and be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued.

• Tornado Warning: A tornado is active according to sightings or weather radar. It’s time to take action and follow your family’s safety plan.

Build Your Home with Resistant Materials Put a Plan in Place Each member of your family should understand what to do in an emergency situation. Create a plan that includes where to shelter in the event of a tornado warning. Typically, this is a basement, storm cellar or interior room on the lowest floor of the home with no windows.

If you have a safe room or storm shelter, which is a hardened structure designed to provide near-absolute protection in extreme weather

events like tornadoes and hurricanes, this is the time to utilize it.

Clearly define who is expected to gather emergency materials, such as flashlights, blankets, a first-aid kit and extra food and water.

Understand Watches vs. Warnings Key phrases from sources like the National Weather Service include “tornado watch” and “tornado warning.” Make sure you understand the differences to react ap-

If constructing a new home is on the horizon, consider the benefits of building with durable materials like insulated concrete forms (ICFs), which are a more resilient alternative to wood framing. For areas prone to natural disasters, ICF walls from Nudura provide superior strength to withstand extreme wind and impact damage from tornadoes and hurricanes.

They also protect against wildfires due to a fire protection rating of up to four hours, compared to 45 minutes for wood framing, and provide

greater comfort, durability and lower life cycle costs compared to wood structures.

Shelter Safely When a tornado warning is in effect, acting quickly is crucial. If at home, head to the basement, safe room or interior room away from windows and, if possible, stay tuned to local news for updates.

At school or the workplace, follow the guidelines in place from tornado drills and proceed calmly but quickly to the shelter location.

If driving and unable to get to shelter, pull over and get down in your vehicle with your head covered or leave your car and seek shelter in a low-lying ditch or ravine.

Find more ways to protect your family from natural disasters at nudura.com/tornado-prep.

(Family Features) Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

4 Tips For Feeding Picky Pets

Similar to humans, dogs can also experience digestive discomfort, picky palates and sensitive stomachs and it can be hard for pet parents to anticipate their pets’ changing diets and needs.

Beef Tripe recipe, now with nutrientboost, a proprietary blend of superfoods, amino acids and plasma to support nutrient absorption as well as digestive and immune health.

If your four-legged friends are picky eaters or showing signs of sensitive stomachs, consider these tips from the experts at Solid Gold.

Consult a Veterinarian A visit to a trained veterinarian is one of the best resources for getting recommendations and advice specific to your pet’s diet, conditions and needs. Sensitive stomachs can arise from a variety of causes, including diet, age, health status and stress levels, but veterinarians can conduct tests such as blood panels, stool samples and X-rays to help identify the cause of discomfort and provide information to help guide your next steps.

Make Dog Food More Appealing If your vet has confirmed your dog is healthy and there are no significant reasons why he or she is being picky at mealtimes, it may be time to try to improve his or her relationship with food.

If your dog is just uninterested in food, try adding toppers like chopped carrots

or bone broth or warming up wet food in a microwave-safe bowl to release the flavorful aromas.

You may also consider adding an appealing ingredient like tripe. Palatable to even the pickiest of dogs, green tripe is frequently given to help working dogs, competition dogs and other dogs who may be experiencing digestive upset due to stress or excitement to encourage them to eat. Beyond being an excellent source of protein and omega fatty acid, green tripe has multiple nutritional benefits and contains vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. To help entice picky eaters with decreased appetites, Solid Gold included this standout ingredient in its Green Cow Green

can create stomach issues.

Whenever you make a change in your pet’s diet, remember to do so gradually, as introducing a new food too abruptly

Skip the Table Scraps If you and your family members have a habit of giving your dog food from the table or sneaking too many treats, this can cause him or her to not only fill up on your food, but it can also impact digestion as human food can be too rich and fatty or contain too much

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Make Dinnertime Fun Helping your dog overcome picky eating habits can start in your own kitchen. In fact, it’s likely you know your pet’s preferences best.

Whether you opt to create a homecooked meal or add nutrient-rich food toppers, there are multiple ways to easily encourage him or her to eat. A picky eater often plays with his or her food instead of eating it, so a feeding toy or bowl that makes it fun and time consuming can also get your dog to be more excited about the food. Additionally, rotating the types of foods, flavors and other ingredients you add to meals can incorporate variety and encourage your picky eater to chow down.

Find more tips for caring for picky eaters or dogs with sensitive stomachs at SolidGoldPet.com (Family Features)

Count Down To Christmas With An Advent Calendar

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sodium to properly digest. While it may seem harmless to give your dog a bite or two here and there, these kinds of table scraps can quickly throw off his or her nutrition and do more harm than good.

As Christmas approaches, there is no better way to kick off the holiday season and get the entire family excited about the approaching fun and festivities than with an advent calendar.

For over a century, celebrants have marked the days before Christmas and enjoyed a daily treat, with advent calendars. Fun thematic twists on this tradition have included everything from games and puzzles for kids to dog

chews for furry friends.

O f course, in the modern era, there are now digital options, too, such as the interactive Jacquie Lawson Advent Calendar. This unique virtual calendar offers beautiful illustrations of a fictional English country estate with daily exciting features like a scavenger hunt, gifts, animated stories, books, games, creative activities, puzzles and more.

An advent calendar is not just a daily treasure trove of surprises, it’s a rich holiday tradition for people of all ages that embraces the beauty of the season. (StatePoint)

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

Give Your Holiday Guests ‘Pumpkin’ To Talk About Nothing evokes the spirit of the holidays more powerfully than the hearty aroma of seasonal dishes and treats.

To help you share in the joy, nostalgia and tastes of the season, while making meaningful new memories, the McCormick brand is putting twists on classic favorites with its recent release of a limited-edition collection of holiday-themed doughnut bites in partnership with Dough Doughnuts.

As part of this reinvention of classic holiday dishes, they’re sharing their Pumpkin Pie Spice Doughnut recipe inspired by the collection, so you can give guests “pumpkin” to talk about. Incorporating McCormick Pumpkin Pie Spice into the dough and filling, these homemade doughnuts are topped with a pumpkin glaze and mouthwatering cinnamon pecan streusel for an extrasweet finish.

Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 24 Ingredients: Dough: • 3 cups all-purpose flour • 1/3 cup sugar • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 2 teaspoons instant yeast • 1 tablespoon McCormick Pumpkin Pie Spice • 1 egg • 3/4 cup milk • 4 tablespoons butter, melted • 1 teaspoon McCormick All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract • 6 cups peanut oil or vegetable shortening, for frying Filling: • 1 cup pumpkin puree • 1/2 cup canned vanilla frosting • 1 teaspoon McCormick Pumpkin Pie Spice • 1/8 teaspoon salt Glaze: • 3 tablespoons pumpkin puree • 2 cups confectioners’ sugar • 1 tablespoon water

Topping: • 1 cup finely chopped pecans • 2 tablespoons light brown sugar • 1 teaspoon McCormick Ground Cinnamon Instructions:

about 1.5-2 hours.

or until dough is proofed and puffy.

3. Meanwhile, whisk all filling ingredients in medium bowl until well blended. Transfer to piping bag fitted with small tip. Refrigerate until ready to fill doughnuts.

6. Meanwhile, fill large, deep skillet with 2 inches of oil. Heat to 350 degrees F. Working in batches of four to six, carefully place doughnuts in hot oil. Fry 2 minutes per side, until golden brown and puffed. Remove with tongs or slotted spoon; place on wire rack lined with paper towels. Cool completely.

1. For the dough, whisk flour, sugar, salt, yeast and pumpkin pie spice in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk egg, milk, melted butter and vanilla. Add wet ingredients to flour mixture, mixing until dough comes together. Mix until well blended and dough begins to pull away from bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest 5 minutes.

Turn dough out onto lightly-floured surface. Knead 6 to 8 minutes until dough forms a smooth, soft ball.

(Or use stand mixer on low speed 6-8 minutes.)

4. Whisk all glaze ingredients in small bowl until smooth; set aside.

Mix all topping ingredients in separate small bowl; set aside.

2. Spray large bowl with no-stick cooking spray. Place dough ball in bowl. Spray lightly with no-stick cooking spray. Cover with plastic wrap. Store in warm, draft-free place to rise until doubled in size,

Place doughnuts on lightly-floured rimmed baking sheet. Spray plastic wrap with no-stick cooking spray and cover doughnuts. Return doughnuts to a warm, draft-free place to rise 30 minutes to 1 hour,

5. Once dough has doubled in size, transfer to lightly-floured surface.

Knead 2 minutes to work out large air bubbles, sprinkling with additional flour as needed if dough is sticky. Roll out dough into large circle, about 1/2-inch thick. Cut out doughnut shapes using a 2-inch round cutter, re-rolling scraps as needed.

7. Poke a hole in the side of each doughnut, using a wooden skewer or small paring knife, being careful not to poke all the way through.

Pipe filling into opening, dividing evenly among doughnuts. Dip top of each doughnut in glaze, allowing excess to drip off, then immediately dip in pecan topping. Turn right side up and place on wire rack to set. Serve immediately.

This holiday season, let flavor and spice bring family and friends together, and transform your ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. (StatePoint)

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

Record:1.25 Million Fans Turned Up In Cricket Mad India For World Cup AHMEDABAD, (IANS) – The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 has made history by being the most attended ICC event ever, after 1,205,307 fans passed through the turnstiles to witness the biggest Cricket World Cup, culminating in Australia winning a remarkable sixth title.

Chris Tetley, ICC Head of Events said, “The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 has been a great success, showcasing the best aspects of the game and capturing the hearts of hundreds of millions of fans across the world.

With six games to go the spectator figures had already surpassed the one million mark with the momentum escalating as the World Cup culminated in front of a packed crowd at the Narendra Modi Stadium on November 20.

The event which ran from October 5 to November 19 and promised to place fans at the center of the action recorded the biggest attendance for a Men’s Cricket World Cup opening match when England faced New Zealand in a repeat of the 2019 final, followed by the most attended India against Pakistan fixture in ICC World Cup history when fans flocked through the turnstiles on October 14. The

figure of over 1.25 million fans is a new benchmark in the history of cricket, surpassing the attendance figures of any other ICC event.

The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2015, held in Australia and

New Zealand, witnessed 1,016,420 spectators, while the 2019 edition in England and Wales saw 752,000 fans come through the turnstiles.

The 13th edition of the Men’s

Cricket World Cup held in India has eclipsed these figures as well as breaking multiple broadcast and digital viewership records, proving the global reach and ever-growing popularity of the sport.

The staggering attendance demonstrates the enduring appeal of cricket and the excitement the ODI format continues to offer. It has been an event that has not only entertained but also united cricket fans globally in a celebration of the sport. “ICC events play an important part in growing our game and inspiring the next generation of fans and players around the world. We would like to thank all the fans who contributed to making the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 such a resounding success and look forward to sharing more thrilling experiences for everyone in future ICC events.” (Courtesy: https://indiawest.com/)

Make A Difference For Children This Holiday Season This holiday season, you can spread the spirit of meaningful giving and deliver impact for children globally. With crises and emergencies all over the world, make a difference with gifts that give back while showing your loved ones just how much you care. Handcrafted by talented artisans from all around the world, UNICEF Market is a unique collection of carefully curated gifts ranging from jewelry to apparel, home decor, kitchenware and more. The gifts give back three times over by supporting artisans and helping local economies thrive, assisting vulnerable children in need and making for thoughtful and compassionate gifts for loved ones. By purchasing gifts from the market, individuals can contribute to creating a more equitable world for every child.

Additionally, UNICEF Inspired Gifts provide meaningful opportunities to make a difference by donating important resources in the name of a loved one alongside a personalized print-at-home card

provide warmth, safety and lifesaving nutrition.

or e-greeting. With millions of children on the move, driven from their homes by conflict, poverty and climate change, you can make a donation to provide essential sup-

plies such as blankets, first aid kits, vaccines, lifesaving Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food and more. You can also send warmth to children in need in places where freezing

winter temperatures and heavy snowfall are approaching. Your purchase of a “Warm Winter Kit” could provide four fleece blankets and 24 cans of therapeutic milk to

To help support the organization’s lifesaving mission of protecting every child, consider UNICEF USA’s partners, including Cle de Peau Beaute, Hallmark and Marriott Bonvoy when shopping and traveling this holiday season. For every purchase of Cle de Peau Beaute’s Serum, $3 will be donated to support impactful programs for the education and empowerment of girls around the world; Hallmark’s UNICEF greeting cards and keepsake ornament, which are holiday favorites, can be purchased in store and online to support the world’s most vulnerable children; and Marriott Bonvoy members can donate their points to the organization. Elevate your gift-giving this year for friends, family and loved ones by making a real impact for children globally. Visit market.unicefusa. org, where you can support efforts to ensure every child is healthy, educated, protected and respected.

(Family Features)

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

What To Look For When You Need A Law Firm

Let’s face it, no person or business gets a thrill out of hiring a law firm.

Fortunately, peer-reviewed rankings have simplified the process.

Best Lawyers, which has been tracking trends and innovations in the legal industry for more than four decades, serves as a trusted resource for identifying what it takes to be a preeminent law firm in the United States. Their recently released 14th annual rankings of Best Law Firms, found at bestlawfirms.com, provides keen insight, not only into the most successful law firms, but also the key factors to keep an eye out for when going through the reliably trying task of retaining counsel.

Here is some of Best Lawyers’ advice: 1. Does the firm use the latest technology?

Right now, even the legal profession is abuzz about generative Artificial Intelligence (gen AI) tools.

than just word of mouth when choosing legal representation. After all, hiring a law firm isn’t like choosing which novel to download next. Through Best Laywers’ research process, a firm’s performance is assessed by its peers, ultimately helping consumers make better-informed decisions.

With its ability to parse information more quickly, gen AI offers the immediate potential to automate routine tasks such as research; summarizing long, complex content; and writing first drafts of simple documents such as NDAs. All of which can save both time and money.

And smart firms are closely watching regulations and any risks that this new technology may bring, all while using it for the benefit of the firm and its clients.

2. What do other legal experts think about the way they do business?

There are better options available

Why is this important? At its heart, a robust peer-review process like Best Lawyers’ asks legal professionals to answer this key question: “If you had a legal issue and could not represent yourself, what firm would you hire?”

This peer-review method is critical, and offers a straightforward way to help identify the most trusted firms.

3. Does the law firm embrace diversity?

Today’s leading law firms know that to be successful, the makeup of their staff should represent the communities they serve. Inclusion is a necessary element of wellrounded representation because a team with different backgrounds and experiences will bring diverse points of view to solving clients’ unique and complex challenges.

Fortunately, in recent years there has been an uptick in law firm diversity. In 2023, 21.6% of attorneys were members of traditionally underrepresented ethnic groups, according to an American Lawyer survey. That’s up more than 20% from the same survey just three years prior.

As a consumer, consider asking a law firm about its diversity track record. In fact, the best law firms will not only expect the question but welcome it. (StatePoint)

Common Homebuying And Renting Scams And How To Avoid Them In difficult economic times, fraudulent housing schemes become more prevalent, impacting homeowners and renters alike. To help you avoid becoming a victim of fraud, Freddie Mac is sharing the following insights and tips about the most common tactics and scams.

Predatory Lending Previous financial disasters have led to more robust consumer protection laws. Nevertheless, you should remain vigilant about predatory lending. Look for warning signs, such as pressure tactics, incomplete, confusing or contradictory loan terms, and high rates and fees, including penalties for paying your loan off early. Additionally, lenders should not suggest you take out more credit than you need or suggest a monthly loan payment that does not cover the interest due on your loan. It’s important to work with someone you trust. If you’re hesitant to move forward with a lender, consult a HUD-certified housing counselor or lawyer to gain a better understanding of the

loan terms.

Foreclosure Rescue Fraud Fraudsters often target those in distress. During times of financial hardship, be especially aware of foreclosure rescue fraud, where someone falsely promises to be able to save your home from foreclosure. Common elements of this scheme include the fraudster requiring you to sign over the title to your home, asking you to sign unfamiliar documents or share personal information, and charging you rent to stay in your home.

They may also offer to pay your delinquent mortgage by purchasing your home with the promise that you can repurchase it when your

foreclosure.

financial situation improves. If you’re struggling with mortgage payments, don’t deal with unknown entities. Directly contact your loan servicer, a HUD-certified housing counselor or a Housing Finance Agency for legitimate options to help avoid

Fraudulent Leases and Units Millions of Americans have lost money due to fraudulent rental listings. You can avoid becoming a victim of this scam by always seeing a unit in person or over video conference before renting it, and by never paying a security deposit until you have signed a lease. Be sure to read your lease thoroughly before you sign it, asking questions about any concerning details early in the process. When rental unit hunting, be wary of red flags such as prices that are too good to be true, listings riddled with gram-

matical errors and property managers asking for personal information before you’ve seen a unit.

Moving Fraud Typically, moving fraud occurs when scammers who act like legitimate movers provide a low estimate and, once you move, demand a higher price and withhold your belongings until you pay. To avoid this scam, research the company to ensure it is legitimate, insured and has good reviews. You should also know that reputable moving companies never require advance payments or use high-pressure sales tactics.

Report Scams Immediately If you believe you’ve been a victim of a scam, take the following actions: • If a criminal has your identification information, call your creditors to cancel your credit cards.

Review your transactions to make sure you recognize them. You can

also request that creditors receive your written consent before changing your mailing address or sending a replacement credit card. Your creditors may advise additional precautions.

• Contact the credit bureaus to freeze your credit reports so that there’s no activity on your reports unless you approve it.

• Report the scam to one or more of the following entities: the Federal Trade Commission, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, HUD’s Office of the Inspector General Hotline, and the U.S. Department of Justice.

To access Freddie Mac’s collection of fraud prevention resources, visit myhome.freddiemac.com. Whether you’re a prospective homebuyer or seasoned renter, a scam could potentially impact you. Familiarizing yourself with common tactics can help you identify a scam before it’s too late. (StatePoint)

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

Upgrade Their Kitchen With These Holiday Gift Ideas The holiday season is the perfect time of year to upgrade the kitchens of home chefs with the latest tech and tools. Here are three cool holiday gift ideas that will elevate the way your loved ones cook, host and clean up.

just 20 decibels. It is now available at Amazon.com, Walmart. com, eBay.com, Newegg.com and Thinkwarestore.com.

Sparkling Water on Demand

Smarter Composting According to a recent report, the United States discards more food than any other country in the world, equating to 325 pounds of waste per person annually, with nearly half this waste generated in home kitchens. Whether you’re shopping for someone living in a region with mandatory composting or simply someone striving to be more sustainable at home, you can now gift them an effective solution to this issue.

ing, messy and emitting unpleasant odors. Fortunately, new technology is addressing these challenges, making composting a convenient, clean and odor-free process for any household kitchen.

While many people are aware of the environmental benefits of composting, such as reducing food waste, diverting trash from landfills and enriching garden soil, composting has also garnered a reputation for being time-consum-

The THINKWARE BLUEVENT MUMU is the world’s first AIpowered smart food composter to use a new cutting-edge Metal Organic Framework (MOF) to block and inhibit the propagation of fungi to ensure clean and harm-

less use. Smart technology automatically measures food waste by weight then automates the disposal process accordingly. Additionally, AI storage automatically monitors food temperature and humidity to prevent spoilage.

In summary, it eliminates the need for guesswork, leading to more successful composting. With a powerful, triple-activated carbon eco filter, this 4-liter capacity composter is odorless and whisper-quiet at

One million plastic bottles are purchased every minute, according to Giving Compass. Unfortunately, the majority of them never get recycled. Help your loved one reduce their own contribution to this growing problem and bestow upon them an endless supply of carbonated beverages with a sparkling water maker.

With a slim countertop profile, they’ll be able to transform tap water into seltzer in just few easy steps. This gift is great for mixologists who love to make and batch fizzy mocktails and cocktails for parties, as well as anyone with a thirst for reducing plastic waste.

Precision Cooking

cision cooking and baking, they also connect to smartphone apps for real-time nutritional analysis, recipe inspiration and instruction, and more.

The best models ping the user’s device when they’ve added the correct amount of a given ingredient, easily toggle between different units of measurement, and allow users to save and share recipes via the app.

This makes for a great gift for beginner cooks who want to get a feel for measurements, expert bakers looking for better results, those focused on portion control in the New Year, and anyone looking to optimize food prep.

By putting game-changing smart kitchen appliances at the top of your holiday shopping list, you can brighten the season for home chefs.

(StatePoint)

Today’s kitchen scales don’t just simply weigh ingredients for pre-

Amplifying The Voices Of Caregivers And Families As we celebrate National Family Caregivers Month, advocates say it’s important to not only honor caregivers’ dedication, compassion, and resilience, but to also acknowledge their challenges and aspirations. Doing so can help families thrive. Here are three ways that can happen:

selves. As a case in point, a network of advocates and parents in New Mexico worked for 12 years to codify a right to child care and early education within the state constitution.

1. Put families at the center of efforts to help families.

3. Through commitment you can see impact.

Ascend at the Aspen Institute uses the two generation (2Gen) approach long used by Indigenous communities in the United States and around the world. This approach recognizes that the goal of supporting families’ well-being and helping children thrive is most attainable when advancing the interests of children and the adults in their lives together.

As one example, Ascend worked with a father who grew up in pov-

erty, but now serves on his local school board and informs state efforts to help others experiencing homelessness or poverty.

2. Lift voices, build power, expand equity.

That’s the refrain of the Raising Child Care Fund, which advises and supports local efforts around the country to expand access to child care. These efforts work best when they are informed and led by parents and caregivers them-

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has committed itself to some of these principles in its own work, establishing the Family Advisory Committee—a collective of 12 parents and caregiver leaders from across the country with unique and diverse backgrounds, races and ethnicities, and family dynamics. The group has informed

funding and grantmaking decisions by the Foundation, and contributed to efforts to align its own family supportive policies with these principles. To learn more about the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s programs aiming to create a brighter, more supportive future for families and caregivers, visit https://www.rwjf.org/.

Initiatives and programs across the country are committed to emphasizing a collective approach that places families at the center of developing effective caregiving solutions.

Collaboration is key to engaging families in decision-making processes and internal procedures, and the creation of initiatives that address the diverse needs and aspirations of communities is vital to improve the health and well-being of families today and in the future.

(StatePoint)

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

America Rallies For Afterschool Programs Afterschool programs keep children safe, inspire them to learn, and give working parents the peace of mind that comes with knowing their kids are supervised and learning after the school day ends. There is an urgent need for greater investments in these programs, as U.S. children and youth try to recover academically and socially from the pandemic. Studies show there aren’t nearly enough afterschool and summer learning programs. For every child in an afterschool program, four more are waiting to get in. Some 24.7 million U.S. children not in an afterschool program would be enrolled if a program were available to them. Additionally, there are significant inequities, with unmet demand for afterschool programs significantly higher among Latino and Black children than children overall. Each year, “Lights On Afterschool” celebrates the achievements of afterschool students and draws attention to the need for more afterschool programs. A million people are participating in more than 8,000 “Lights On Afterschool” events around the country this fall. Organized by the Afterschool Alliance, this year’s events include academic contests, STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) demonstrations, community service events, debates and discussions, student art shows and performances, family fun nights, runs and walks, and much more. Events are focused on academics, health and well-being, the arts, civic engagement, STEM learning, fitness and healthy eating, cyberbullying prevention and more. To learn more about “Lights On Afterschool” and how to participate, visit afterschoolalliance.org. “Communities are coming together to showcase the skills students gain and the talents they develop in their afterschool programs,” says Jodi Grant, executive director of the Afterschool Alliance. “We need to celebrate and support the programs that do so much to help students succeed in school and in life. We need sustained investments and increased support, so all students and families will finally have access to the afterschool programs they need.” (StatePoint)

KATHA:

BUILDING STORYTELLERS • Six one-hour weekly writing workshops for kids aged 9 – 14 years old.

• Workshops provided through a partnership with the non-profit Peerbagh: www.peerbagh.com

5 – 6 PM

Thursdays September 28th October 5th, 12th, 19th, & 26th November 2nd

INCLUSIVE CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOPS FOR TWEENS Each week will introduce South Asian inspired, inclusive storytelling techniques and creative writing, specifically designed for kids from 9-14 years old.

Kids will gain the creative confidence and tools to tell a story authentically, while being exposed to South Asian literature in a fun and engaging way!

Click on the QR code below to register.

Hampton Branch at Oak Hill 5125 Convict Hill Road | (512) 974-9900 library.austintexas.gov | Free and open to the public The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance please call 512-974-7449.

Does Someone in Your Home Rely on Life-Support Equipment?

Register now for extra help before a power outage.

Call 512-494-9400 or visit coautilities.com/go/mvrapp Scan Now to Get Started

© 2023 Austin Energy

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

Batting, Fielding Woes On D-Day Cost India The World Cup

(Continued From Page 01) Be it batting, bowling, or fielding, Australia completely dominated the set-up and Team India looked clueless in the game. The loss couldn’t be attributed to a single player obviously but there were instances where the team didn’t just put up the show.

We just lost wickets just when we felt that we built a partnership, and we can start going. We lost a wicket, we lost Virat (Kohli), then we lost Jaddu (Jadeja) and then we lost (KL) Rahul.”

Batting first on a pitch which is very slow and a tricky surface, had already put India onto the backfoot. Rohit Sharma said he would have batted first only even if India have won the toss. Australian skipper Pat Cummins won the toss and chose to bowl first so he had a fair share of idea of what could be a par score in this tricky wicket.

Also, Suryakumar came after Jadeja which never allowed him the time to get settled. The righthanded batter struggled to even middle the ball, and, in the end, India was only able to score 240 runs.

Also, when India lost three wickets, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul to steady the ship played slow. The duo added 67 runs in the 18 overs.

The defensive approach coupled with Australia’s brilliance in the field made sure, the hosts fell 4050 runs short.

While both Kohli and Rahul reached their fifties, their failure to capitalize on the starts contributed to India’s struggle. Rahul’s innings of 66 off 107 balls was deemed too slow for modern-day cricket standards. Suryakumar Yadav, coming in after Ravindra Jadeja, faced challenges settling in, hindering India’s scoring momentum. The team could only manage to post a

total of 240 runs.

Speaking about the partnership, Dravid in the post-match press conference said, “There was that period where I think the ball was stopping. We couldn’t get boundaries. We were rotating the strike, but we couldn’t hit those boundaries.

And yeah, there was a conscious effort to try and take the game deep, but we kept losing wickets.

SUPPORT THE DESIGN OF THE NEW LIGHT RAIL!

In the bowling department, Mohammad Shami and Jasprit Bumrah provided India with a promising start. However, the field setup for a new batter lacked aggression, missing opportunities to put pressure on the opposition.

Head’s brilliance also made sure India were never in the game. He first took a blinder to dismiss Indian captain Rohit and then hit a scintillating century to steer Australia to an ODI World Cup win.

India, who had enjoyed a remarkable run in the World Cup with ten consecutive victories, seemed unprepared for a collapse. Coach Dravid acknowledged that the team fell short by 30-40 runs of the par score, emphasizing the challenging conditions during their batting innings.

“I think we fell about 30-40 runs short. It’s not that we were looking to bat it out. I thought they bowled well through that period. I thought it just felt like the ball was stopping in the afternoon a little bit more than it did in the evening. And not that there was a lot of dew, to be honest, but just felt like the ball came on to the bat a lot better in the evening,” said Dravid in the postmatch press conference. (Courtesy: https://indiawest.com/)

Be a part of our design process that puts people first In-person events: Nov 16, Dec 5 & 6 Virtual event: Dec 13 If you live, work, or play in Austin, the Austin Transit Partnership wants to see the city from your perspective.

Show us how you move, whether you use the bus or train, walk, scoot, or roll, and what you love about your neighborhood. Maybe it’s your favorite park, school, library, restaurant, or shop. Your perspective will shape mobility and neighborhood improvements across the city.

SHARE YOUR PERSPECTIVE: www.atptx.org/events Translation is available in English & Spanish for all events. For translations in other languages, contact us by email at input@atptx.org or phone at 512-389-7590.

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

5 Things We Learned About Alzheimer’s Disease In 2023 2023 was a landmark year for Alzheimer’s disease research, including advancements in treatment, risk factors and diagnosis. Here are five significant discoveries made this year: There are three new approved treatments for Alzheimer’s, with a fourth on the way.

In July, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted traditional approval for Leqembi for mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer’s and mild Alzheimer’s dementia. This treatment slows cognitive decline and can help people with early Alzheimer’s maintain their independence.

In June 2021, the FDA granted accelerated approval to Aduhelm for the same purpose. At the Alzheim-

er’s Association International Conference (AAIC) in July 2023, Lilly reported positive results for a third similar treatment: donanemab. The company expects FDA action in early 2024.

In May, the FDA approved the first treatment for agitation in people with Alzheimer’s — brexpiprazole.

Hearing aids could slow cognitive decline for at-risk older adults.

How To Host The Holidays Affordably From getting your home ready for guests and finding the perfect gifts to preparing a delicious meal, the holidays can seem overwhelming and expensive – but they don’t have to be.

Take the following steps to save time and money on seasonal essentials.

Prepping Your Home To get your home ready for holiday hosting, begin by decluttering surface areas such as tables and kitchen counters. Next, take an inventory and purchase any additional cleaning supplies you’ll need for a deep clean. Remember, air care products like festive candles or sprays can freshen cleaned spaces. Next, decorate by sprinkling different holiday décor pieces in the rooms’ focal points. For example, add themed table settings in the dining room and wrap holiday garland around fixtures such as the fireplace mantle or staircase.

any holiday celebration. To get started, set a menu that consists of a variety of appetizers, light snacks, side dishes, entrees and desserts to accommodate guests’ cravings and preferences. Consider using healthier variations of the season’s comforting and tasty dishes with DG Better For You recipes, which include Potato Crusted Chicken and Green Bean Casserole. Before heading to the store, write your grocery list in advance and make a plan to purchase private brand products to stretch your budget further.

Making the Menu

Gift Guide

Food is a unifying component of

Shopping for the perfect gift for

everyone on your list can be easy when using DG’s holiday gift guide found at dollargeneral.com.

Consider placing three self-care products such as soap, a face mask and a bath bomb into a decorative basket with tissue paper to shine on presentation. To have children of all ages jumping for joy, save on national toy brands at your local Dollar General such as Melissa & Doug, LEGO, FisherPrice, Play Doh, Barbie, Pokémon, L.O.L. Surprise!, ZURU 5 Surprise and more.

For additional savings, use DG’s app for digital coupons and weekly ads with new sales and promotions.

By planning ahead, you can celebrate this season in style and within budget, giving you more time to create lasting memories with friends and family! (StatePoint)

for three years.

In the largest clinical trial to investigate whether a hearing loss treatment can reduce risk of cognitive decline, researchers found that older adults with hearing loss cut their cognitive decline in half by using hearing aids

The intervention included hearing aids, a hearing “toolkit,” and ongoing instruction and counseling.

Though the positive results were in a subgroup of the total study population, they are encouraging and merit further investigation.

Blood tests for Alzheimer’s are coming soon.

Blood tests show promise for improving how Alzheimer’s is diagnosed. Advancements reported for the first time at AAIC 2023 demonstrate the simplicity and value to doctors of blood-based markers for Alzheimer’s.

Blood tests are already being implemented in Alzheimer’s drug trials. And they are incorporated into proposed new diagnostic criteria for the disease.

Blood tests — once verified and approved by the FDA — would offer a noninvasive and cost-effective option for identifying the disease.

First-ever U.S. county-level Alzheimer’s prevalence estimates.

The first-ever county-level estimates of the prevalence of Alzheimer’s dementia — in all 3,142 U.S. counties — were reported at AAIC 2023. For counties with a population of more than 10,000 people age 65 and older, the highest Alzheimer’s prevalence rates are in:

• Miami-Dade (16.6%)

County,

Fla.

• Baltimore City, Md. (16.6%) • Bronx County, N.Y. (16.6%) • Prince George’s County, Md. (16.1%) • Hinds County, Miss. (15.5%) Certain characteristics of these counties may explain the higher prevalence, including older age and a higher percentage of Black and Hispanic residents, which are communities disproportionately impacted by Alzheimer’s disease.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, these statistics can help officials determine the burden on the health care system, and pinpoint areas for culturally-sensitive caregiver training.

Chronic constipation is associated with poor cognitive function.

Approximately 16% of the world’s population struggles with constipation. This year, researchers reported that less frequent bowel movements were associated with significantly worse cognitive function.

People in the study with bowel movements every three days or more had worse memory and thinking equal to three years of cognitive aging.

These results stress the importance of clinicians discussing gut health with their older patients.

To learn more about Alzheimer’s and dementia research, plus available care and support — and to join the cause or make a donation — visit the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.

While there is still much to learn about Alzheimer’s, 2023 was a year of discovery, giving researchers and families impacted by the disease hope for the year ahead.

(StatePoint)

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

7 Smart Home Solutions That Enhance Convenience And Security videos so you can test your skills with a virtual assistant.

Oven Wi-Fi connectivity is the key feature of smart ovens, improving the cooking experience with increased control. By using an app on your smartphone, you can remotely preheat the oven and set timers. You can even cook like a pro with models that allow you to import recipes for automatic temperature control.

Dishwasher

Devices that allow you to stay connected to your home from virtually anywhere are all the rage. If you’re looking to seamlessly integrate innovative solutions into your home for added convenience, security and peace of mind, you’ll need smart tech with the right features.

The experts at Masonite, a global industry leader in interior and exterior doors and door systems, share these seven smart home solutions.

Garage Door Leave behind that nagging feeling that you forgot to shut the garage door when you’re a block away from home. Smart garage door openers that connect to an app on your phone mean you can always check on the status of your door to ensure it’s closed when it should be.

It provides the added benefit of keeping track of who’s coming or going while allowing you to remotely open the door for friends, family, neighbors and others who may need access when you’re away.

Front Door Take your front door to the next level with a high-performance model incorporated with top tech like the Masonite M-Pwr Smart Door, the first residential front door to fully connect to your home’s electrical system and wireless internet network.

Homeowners can create a customized welcome-home experience with the door’s motion-activated LED welcome lights and a smart lock that recognizes your arrival and automatically unlocks.

Whether at home or away, homeowners

can use the door’s smartphone app to program the lighting, confirm if the door is open or closed with a door state sensor or monitor the entryway with a built-in video doorbell.

Plus, the integrated connection to the home’s power means there’s no need to charge or replace device batteries, providing peace of mind that you’re always connected and protected. Available at The Home Depot, homeowners can select from a range of designs, colors and glass styles all made with the Masonite Performance Door System.

The system is designed to protect your home from the elements and provide superior weather resistance, energy efficiency and comfort with premium fiberglass construction, a rot-resistant frame and a 4-Point Performance Seal so there’s no need to sacrifice style for enhanced performance.

Mirror Hectic mornings may never completely be a thing of the past, but you can smooth out the start to your day with a smart mirror that displays important information like weather, news updates and your schedule. Many interactive displays allow you to check notifications and play music for a sleek, stylish addition to the bathroom that helps you stay on track and on time.

Refrigerator Smart refrigerators are often inherently newer models, meaning they’re typically more energy efficient to save money on electric bills. With built-in features like cameras and sensors that aid in keeping track of grocery lists, they can help reduce food waste by reminding you to consume perishables before they spoil. Some models even include an interactive display that lets you watch recipe

Similar to smart appliances like refrigerators and ovens, smart dishwashers bring added convenience to your day along with improved function and efficiency. Connection to Wi-Fi and remote accessibility via smartphone app allow you to start wash cycles and check cycle status while away, receive notifications when detergent is low and more.

Washer and Dryer If laundry feels like a chore, you can make it less of a hassle with smart washers and dryers that connect to your home Wi-Fi network.

These smart appliances allow you to remotely start and stop washing and drying cycles from your smartphone and can send notifications when cycles are finished. Built-in diagnostics send alerts to your phone when there’s a malfunction or it’s time for required maintenance. Plus, they can help you maximize energy efficiency by automatically starting a cycle during off-peak hours.

Visit Masonite.com/MPWR-Smart-Doors to find more innovative solutions. (Family Features)

7 Must-Have Mobile App Features To Make Users Go Crazy In 2023 (Contniued From Page 05) If a smaller version of the database is downloaded to the user’s device, the app is not only useful but the user has access to the information even when the connection is abruptly ceased.

How to Create an Offline Mobile App? The major task in creating an offline mode in the app is how the app will handle the absence of an internet connection to the database. If you are naive about this process, then working with a team of full-stack developers can be the best choice for your business.

There are three different ways of storing, syncing, and updating the local data: 1. Caching The easiest way to manage the local data is to simply cache it so that it gets accessible regardless of connectivity. If the app is simple, caching will certainly do the trick. However, if the app has the ability to edit data and apply changes, don’t consider caching in that case.

2. Manual Replication With the help of manual replication, the user can change the viewed data while staying offline and by marking objects as changed.

When the app is connected to the server, the user can easily upload all the changes manually and download the new data.

This is a unique mobile app functionality that

is more advanced than caching, and manual replication, and can crash due to problems. It is a bit prone to data conflicts and can cause the app to perform poorly.

3. Real-Time Data Synchronization This approach is quite similar to manual replication but here the data is uploaded automatically and not manually. With the help of synchronized protocols, the offline app using this method can transfer the changed version and the actions that were made to edit.

This allows the system to completely resolve the conflicts while enhancing the overall app performance. Understanding the app’s capabilities is one thing, but making them clear to users is a completely different challenge.

(Continued On Page 21)

Children Email Us Your Articles info@Austin SouthAsian.com

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

Inspiring Ideas For Your New Home

Moving into a new home offers an opportunity to create a space that reflects your family’s values, enhances comfort and is better for the environment.

Whether you’re shopping for a new home, renovating your current space or building from scratch, consider some of the latest trends while searching for inspiration.

Home Automation From ovens that can be turned on remotely to skylights that open and close automatically and more, there are a multitude of ways to integrate smart home technology into your living space to make it more energy efficient and convenient. Start small with a voice assistant, smart light bulbs, home security system or a programable thermostat. After that, you can implement additional features like smart appliances, remote-controlled window blinds

and other electronic devices you can control from your phone for a complete smart home system.

Sustainable Design A long popular trend, sustainable design has evolved over the years to include more than energy-efficient appliances and LED light bulbs. Now, it’s about reducing

your carbon footprint and minimizing impact on the environment. To try the trend yourself, think big and get creative – install solar panels on your roof, choose highly insulated building materials that don’t require deforestation and upcycle old furniture or decor instead of buying new.

Disaster Resiliency From wildfires that last for months to devastating tornadoes and major floods that impact entire cities, an increase in natural disasters due to climate change has required changes when building homes. Opting for disasterresilient materials is an important first step. For example, using strong, energy-efficient insulated concrete forms (ICFs), like those from Nudura, instead of traditional wood framing helps homes better withstand extreme weather.

Additionally, ICFs can endure winds of up to 250 miles per hour (equivalent to an F4 tornado) and offer a fire protection rating of up to 4 hours.

Outdoor Living Transforming your backyard can help you make the most of your existing space. To take full advantage of your yard or patio, consider

incorporating elements from the interior such as a television and comfortable seating options. Outdoor kitchen setups complete with refrigerators and sinks can make entertaining easier and a fire pit or fireplace can allow your friends and family to enjoy the outdoors even on cool nights.

Customization You no longer have to settle for run-of-the-mill floor plans or what works for others. If you’re considering a new build, work with an architect to create exactly what you’re looking for, or speak with a contractor about including personalized architectural features and custom-built storage, for example, in your existing home.

To see how you can make sure your home lasts a lifetime, visit nudura.com/future-proof. (Family Features)

WCI Academy’s Austin Blasters: Pioneering Youth Cricket In Austin

By Gulshan Singh Youth cricket in Austin has been on a rapid rise, and WCI Academy’s youth team, the Austin Blasters, leading the charge. The team’s young players have been trained to compete at a national level, participating in numerous tournaments and leagues across the country.

The Austin Blasters have teams in various age groups: U10, U12, U14, and U17. These teams have traveled extensively: from California to Atlanta, North Carolina, and major cities in Texas like Houston and Dallas.

In 2023, the Minor League Cricket Junior (MLC Jr) drew the most competitive tournaments, but this did not deter the Austin Blasters.

They showcased their skills and determination, winning multiple games and proving they can hold their own against the best teams in the country.

Tromp, and Josh Tromp, run special clinics for batting, bowling, keeping & fielding, and strength & conditioning.

Training is a key part of the Austin Blasters’ success. Each age group team trains twice during the weekdays and plays a competitive game over the weekend.

Under the guidance of head coach Alok Singh, a Level-4 Elite coach of the World-Cup & IPL winning Gary Kirsten’s CoachED program, the players undergo intense and productive coaching sessions.

The coaching team, including Burt Cockley, Unmukt Chand, Harmeet Singh, Laksh Parikh, Matthew

The team practices regularly at cricket fields and net practice lanes in Williamson County Park in Cedar Park and Old Settlers Park in Round Rock.

For indoor sessions during cold and rainy days, they rent D-Bat batting cages in Lakeline.

The Austin Blasters continue to invite those interested in enhancing their cricket skills and playing at the junior state & national level to join them.

For more information or to schedule a tryout session, interested parties can reach out to WCI at contact@wcicricket.com.

18

Austin South Asian | December 2023

7 Tips To Prep Your Vehicle For Safe Winter Travel While snow may be one of the highlights of winter, wet roads and ice can make for dangerous driving conditions. Cold temperatures and slick roads can wreak havoc on vehicles, making even a short commute across town a hazardous trip.

In cold and icy winter weather, wiper blades can stiffen and become damaged. While your wiper blades’ lifespan will vary based on where you live and the weather you deal with, experts recommend replacing them every six months. If your wiper blades squeak or leave streaks on your windshield, it’s time to replace them.

Before you step into the driver’s seat this winter, pay special attention to the safety of your vehicle and consider these tips from the experts at your local Discount Tire to ensure you’re ready to hit the road.

Know the Age of Your Tires The older a tire, the higher its risk for failure. As tires age, the rubber becomes harder and brittle, losing elasticity and strength. Check the DOT number stamped on your tires’ sidewalls to see if it’s time for replacement. If you’re not sure what tires are right for your vehicle, a tool like Treadwell allows you to easily input vehicle information and driving habits to receive a personalized recommendation.

Install Winter Tires Built for the cold and designed for better traction in winter conditions when temperatures drop below 45 F, winter tires can provide better traction on slippery, wet and icy roads, which can lead to striking curbs and other objects that scratch, dent and scuff wheels.

Changing wheels and tires each season can ensure you have the best traction possible and protect summer or all-season wheels from the harsh effects of snow, ice and road-clearing chemicals like salt.

Keep Traction on Winter Roads

Tread depth determines a vehicle’s safe stopping distance, which is vital during winter weather when all-season tires can take an average of 110 feet to stop at 30 miles per hour compared to 81 feet in the same conditions for winter tires.

You can check the tread depth by

sticking a penny upside-down in a tread groove – it’s time to replace your tires if President Lincoln’s head is visible.

Check Tire Pressure Tires lose air due to impacts and pressure of bumps and turns. Cold-

er temperatures can also impact air pressure. For every 10-degree drop in ambient temperature, tires lose one pound of pressure (PSI). At least once a month, especially before long trips, check the pressure in your tires or stop by a Discount Tire location. Low pressure can lead to poor handling and gas mileage, excessive wear and overloading.

Keep a tire pressure gauge in your vehicle to ensure each tire is filled to the manufacturer’s recommended inflation level and add air as necessary.

Update Your Wiper Blades

Rotate Tires Often Regular tire rotations help ensure proper traction. Tires should be rotated every 6,000 miles, or earlier if uneven wear develops. One easy way to remember: Have your tires rotated every other time you have your oil changed.

Check for a Spare Tire Many newer vehicles have replaced spare tires with tire inflation kits that include puncture-coating sealants and air compressors or runflat tires. Check to see what your vehicle has and consider adding a roadside assistance plan in case you experience any issues during inclement weather.To locate a store near you, or search for winter tires specific to your vehicle and driving habits, visit discounttire.com, where you can save up to 30% on wait times in-store, or use the mobile app. (Family Features) Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Vasundhara Varadarajan

19

Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi, Fort Cochin in English, Cochim de Baixo (“Lower Kochi”) in Cochin Portuguese creole, is a neighbourhood of Cochin (Kochi) city in Kerala, India. Fort Kochi takes its name from the Fort Manuel of Cochin, the first European fort on Indian soil, controlled by the Portuguese East Indies.

This is part of a handful of waterbound islands and islets toward the south-west of the mainland Kochi, and collectively known as Old Cochin or West Cochin. Adjacent to this is the locality of Mattancherry.

In 1967, these three municipalities along with a few adjoining areas, were amalgamated to form the Kochi Municipal Corporation.

Fort Kochi is rich in heritage and culture, and is a prominent tourist destination for both domestic and international travellers- being ranked as ninth among the top 25 in National Geographic’s Top Tourist Destinations To Explore In 2020.

In the BC period, the region that is today known as Kerala was covered by mangrove woods. Turf and sand banks were created with the rise in sea-level which formed the shape of the coastal area as we see it today. The origin of the name

Kochi is thought to be the Malayalam word kochu azhi, meaning ‘small lagoon’. Mattancherry is the nerve town of old historic Cochin.

In old Malayalam it is Maadancheri, from cheri meaning town.

Maad or cow was the stamp of Old Royal Fort of Rajah of Cochin, who built his palace after the fall of Kodungallur or Muziris port due to a gigantic tsunami in 1341 AD. The Perumpadappu Swaroopam or the Fort of Rajah had its palace on the banks of the Calvathy River.

Owing to frequent wars between King Zamorin of Kozhikode and the western colonial forces, the Ra-

jah left the place for Tripunithura.

The king had his vaishnav leanings and the cow or maadu was his symbol.

The port at Kozhikode held superior economic and political position in medieval Kerala coast, while Kannur, Kollam, and Kochi, were commercially important secondary ports, where the traders from various parts of the world would gather. Fort Kochi was a fishing village in the Kingdom of Kochi in the pre-colonial Kerala.

The Portuguese arrived at Kappad Kozhikode in 1498 during the Age of Discovery, thus opening a direct

Austin South Asian | December 2023

sea route from Europe to India. The territory that would be later known as Fort Kochi was granted to the Portuguese in 1503 by the Rajah of Kochi, after the forces of Afonso de Albuquerque helped him fighting the forces of Saamoothiri of Kozhikode.

The Rajah also gave them permission to build Fort Emmanuel near the waterfront to protect their commercial interests. The first part of the name Fort Kochi comes from this fort, which the Dutch later destroyed.

The Portuguese built their settlement behind the fort, including a wooden church, which was rebuilt in 1516 as a permanent structure, today known as the St Francis Church. Fort Kochi remained in Portuguese possession for 160 years. In 1683 the Dutch captured the territory from the Portuguese, destroyed many Portuguese institutions, particularly Catholic including convents. The Dutch held Fort Kochi in their possession for

112 years until 1795, when the British took control by defeating the Dutch. Foreign control of Fort Kochi ended in 1947 with the Indian independence.

A mix of old houses built by the Portuguese, Dutch and British in these colonial periods line the streets of Fort Kochi. St Francis Church was built in 1503 by the Portuguese as a Catholic church.

Vasco da Gama was once buried in this church which now falls under the Church of South India and is one of the national monuments.

Catholic Diocese of Cochin was erected under Portuguese Padroado in 1558 with its headquarters in Fort Kochi. Santa Cruz Basilica, also built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, was later destroyed by the British and rebuilt near the end of 19th century. From this period there are other residential buildings and hotels such as the Old Harbour House, some of which have been renovated in more recent times. The landmark that causes more public and visitor interest is a series of precolonial Chinese fishing nets on the waterfront, believed to have been introduced by Chinese traders in the early 14th century.

Panchatantra Stories The Brahmani And The Mongoose “Think hard and do not do anything in haste”.

Dev Sharma was a Brahmin who used to live with his wife in a certain town. One day, his wife gave birth to a son and they were very happy.

The Brahmani And The Mongoose - Panchatantra Story PictureOn the very same day, a female mongoose gave birth to a baby mongoose very near his house. As destiny would have it, the mother mongoose died soon after the birth.

When they observed this, they took

pity on him and the Brahmin’s wife adopted the little mongoose and started looking after him as his own son.

The Brahmani And The Mongoose - Panchatantra Story PictureShe served her own breast milk to both her own son and the little mongoose, bathed them together and put oil on them together.

She was a fond mother for both of them. Both her son and the mongoose were very fond of each other, and spent all the time together.

However, she was not a fool and knowing that the mongoose was an animal in reality, she always kept a guard, “He is a mongoose and will soon develop the animal instincts that he

has inherited from his species.

Some day, he may harm my own son. I shall always keep a watch on him.” (Courtesy: https://www.talesofpanchatantra.com/)

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

7 Must-Have Mobile App Features To Make Users Go Crazy In 2023 (Continued From Page 16) What are the Benefits of Building an Offline App? 1. Poor Connectivity Won’t Frustrate Users In 2023, it is one of the top musthave mobile app features. Thus, if you have an offline mode app then it is more likely to be used in areas of poor connectivity. Have a note of where your potential users will be during the day. See if people have limited WiFi or data connectivity.

If so, your offline app increases user acquisition and retention rates.

2. Edge on the Competition The app market is too huge and every app has one or more competitors. Consider Uber and Lyft or WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger. If your business has an offline mode app in no network zone, you have a better chance of winning over the competition. Plus, integrating remote developers team into the process can help you increase the chance of launching your mobile app faster, that too at affordable rates.

3. Gain Users Loyalty When users know they can easily trust the app in poor connectivity areas, they will likely become more loyal. Users like offline functionality apps due to the following reasons: Apps work without any delays due to internet connectivity.

Sometimes, users want to access the app without using the internet.

When locally stored, the data has little to no chance of getting breached.

Offline mode apps are less likely to drain your device battery.

Note: 49% of users consider an app with high battery usage to be dealbreakers.

Best Examples of Apps with Offline Functionality: Netflix: Streaming live videos require high powered internet connection. Most of the apps can suffice internet connection but this is not the case with Netflix. Users can download content even if Netflix is used in poor connectivity areas or users have small data plans.

Google Maps: Google Maps gives an opportunity to the user to download the pre-determined area

of the worldwide map. Then, users can easily access the detailed map and directions anywhere. Many phones have GPS that works with no connectivity. Therefore, users can navigate on Google Maps even with zero internet connection.

2. Voice Search The Global Smart Speaker Market grew 187% in the second quarter of 2018. This is the increasing tendency for customers to depend on personal digital assistants and speech commands in order to manage their search queries.

This is the edge of the total search revolution so it is important to get ready for this change. Today, mobile development companies have realized that there are two elements on which the development of voice support features is based.

The elements include Text to Speech Synthesizer (TTS) and Speech Recognition Technology (SRT) where TTS is utilized for reading the text as per the user’s request while SRT is for dictating a voice command to the app.

There are two deployment models while integrating voice technology into the smartphone app: Cloud: Test-to-speech or automatic speech recognition is in the cloud.

With the cloud solution, the accuracy and app speed increase, and the overall app is lightweight.

Embedded: The complete app process id cone on a mobile device with embedded TTS or mobile speech recognition. The app then has the ability to work in autonomous mode with the embedded voice solution but it takes space.

The best option is to choose cloudbased solutions.

Benefits of Including Voice Search Feature in Your Mobile App: Convenience: When users don’t have to type and just speak for results, it is convenient. It is faster than typing a search. Voice search and commands help users to search through items quickly, scribble notes, write emails, and perform other functions. This clearly means there is no need to type a keyword to choose an item from the long pop-up list. Instead, the voice com-

mand will save users time.

Gives Variety: Unlike touch, voice search enables you to describe objects and terms of their characteristics and functions. This offers referral interaction with the device.

Enhances Customer Satisfaction: For customer retention, it is essential to give them what they want. A huge number of people use voice search as an effective way to get information. Voice search avoids modality errors that provide appropriate smartphone app interaction. If you wish to rank high in the search result in white grabbing new cus-

tomers, integrate the technology in the mobile app. Expands the Mobile Boundaries: As compared to laptops and desktops, mobiles are not that convenient when it comes to navigation. With the help of a small screen, mobile devices won’t be limited. This is as the feature attached to the voice search expands the boundaries of the mobile app.

The perspective for voice applications is huge. It is compatible with handicapped customers as well.

In case you are unable to find AI developers in your country, Your Team in India is here to help!!

Note: Wondering how much can

you save by outsourcing in comparison to working with an inhouse team? Use our outsourcing ROI calculator now and find out the answer yourself.

3. Augmented Reality Augmented Reality is a technology trend that gives an opportunity to the users to seamlessly combine the virtual and real world. 54% of consumers having eCommerce apps wish to use Augmented Reality Feature if it is available.

Industries that can Make the Best Use of this Must-Have Mobile App Feature: (Continued On Page 21)

City Manager Announces Creation Of Homeless Strategy Office (Continued From Page 01) The reorganization will be effective December 4, 2023. David Gray will lead the Office as the Homeless Strategy Officer, promoting him from the Interim role he has held since September. The primary responsibilities of the Homeless Strategy Office will include: Procuring, managing, and monitoring homelessness-related contracts between the City and third-party vendors.

Overseeing operations at City-run and City-owned homeless shelters.

Collaborating with City agencies and community organizations in efforts to expand the availability of housing across the continuum of need, including emergency shelters, rapid rehousing, permanent supportive housing.

Overseeing and approving plans for public space management, including outreach, clean-up, and compassionate encampment closures.

Working with the Communications and Public Information Office to help manage communications regarding the City’s approach to assisting individuals with resolving their homelessness.

Working with the Intergovernmental Relations Office to manage relationships between the City and local, state, and federal agencies and officials.

Collaborating with Austin/Travis County’s Homelessness Response System partners to uphold best practices, policies, and procedures for organizations that serve unhoused people in our community.

Engaging with local businesses and philanthropic entities to broaden the funding base for homeless response services.

The Homeless Strategy Office will also help facilitate an upcoming joint independent assessment to review not only the homeless services provided by the City, but also those provided by partners in

this endeavor, including Central Health, Integral Care, Travis County, and the Dell Medical School at The University of Texas in Austin.

“As a City, our goal is to set the standard for innovative and strategic approaches to addressing homelessness and strengthening partnerships with the broad base of stakeholders who care about and invest in this issue,” Gray said.

“Creating this stand-alone office and positioning it to marshal resources from many fronts is a strong indicator of the commitment and dedication of city leaders to helping people experiencing homelessness and to provide them with hope and help when they need it most.”

CHILDREN ARTICLES Children Email Us Your Articles To See It In Print

info@austinsouthasian.com

21

Austin South Asian | December 2023

7 Must-Have Mobile App Features To Make Users Go Crazy In 2023 (Continued From Page 20)

are equally important.

Retail: Virtual fitting rooms will help choose the right size and decrease purchase returns. The same is when you are confused between the colors of the car or furniture.

The consumer utilizes a camera in its device to preview how a piece of furniture would look at a particular place. The technology can also be used for promotional campaigns.

Manufacturing: Augmented Reality facilitate and accelerate the building process. The Project Manager can monitor the work progress in real time via AR marketers. This saves a lot of time with the help of digital maps and plants. Pointing to the device shows how the machine piece will fit the final construction.

Education and Training: There are unlimited possibilities in the education and learning process. Medical students can go for their surgeries without injuring patients.

Travel and Tourism: GPs mobile apps have the feature of AR so they can show tourist routes and directions to desirable destinations, translate road signs, and give information about sightseeing.

This awesome concept of augmented reality helped “Pokemon Go” to become one of the most popular and successful gaming apps of all time. Adding an additional reality layer in a museum ensures users with a new cultural experience. If you are thinking about developing a GPS navigation app, then think about adding an AR feature as it will prove to be a competitive advantage.

Personalization Customers highly value the app that offers a personalized experience. No user wants to feel like just a number that is being added.

Demographic information, geolocation, and users’ past behavior make interactions feel natural and personal. The sports team app uses a mobile marketing service to send parking updates, food ordering notifications, and more. The users can create a wish list and then push notifications when the listed item is available.

Example: IKEA Place gives an opportunity to the user to put life-size 3-D models in a real-time environment and InkHunter helps in previewing the tattoo on the user’s arm.

4. Machine Learning Whether you are aiming at B2B or B2C, an eCommerce app integrates machine learning and boosts the user’s experience while saving money. E-commerce apps utilize the data science to predict weekly demands, give recommendations, and offer discounts while keeping the inventory minimized. In order to create a highly customized app, you need help from a reliable tech-

nology partner.

Tube feature?

Machine learning is used in apps in different ways: identifying different objects at which the camera is pointing, giving battery-saving advice based on your mobile phone’s habits, and suggesting emojis based on the content of the message.

Yes, it is a multitasking feature where the YouTube video keeps playing in the background and you can do whatever you want side-byside. Although YouTube asks you to shell out $11.99 a month for the privilege as you should have a YouTube Premium subscription. Multitasking is the best unique mobile app feature. It allows the user to open different applications at the same time. The current app you are using while the other runs in the background. This gives an easy switch option for instant access.

Machine Learning Mobile App Feature is a very Multidisciplinary Technology Used in these Industries: Finance: It predicts future trends, bubbles, and crashes. This further results in the reduction of operational costs due to process automation and improved reinforced security and compliance.

Healthcare: Medical diagnosis combines the doctor’s knowledge making the treatment more efficient and reliable.

Media and entertainment: Machine Learning helps media companies to give relevant video content to on-demand platforms. These companies then utilize technology for building recommendation algorithms, creating custom artwork, and analyzing customer behavior.

E-commerce: Customer support and self-service providing tools like chatbots are in trend. This automated customer support makes it easier for you and your customers to have higher satisfaction.

Examples of Machine Learning Apps; Snapchat: The app uses a machinesupervised learning algorithm.

It finds faces in the photos to add fun elements like glasses, hats, dog ears, etc.

Tinder: With the help of a smartphone feature, the algorithm increases the user’s chances to find the perfect match per his/her liking.

5. Multitasking Feature Have you heard of the recent You-

Why Multitasking is a Unique Mobile App Feature?

Instant Switching: When the user opens a new application, the previous one doesn’t close until it is done manually. Instead, it stays in the background all set for a quick launch. It also helps to avoid the repetitive process of opening and closing various apps.

Continue from Where you have Left: The application running in the background resumes from where the user paused, so it becomes easy to continue with what the user was doing earlier.

6. Personalized and Customization Experience Personalization and customization are two important must-have mobile app features. Wherever you look, different brand is looking for ways to make the user experience more personal.

To build a personalized experience, it is important to work with a team of dedicated offshore development team, that will focus on all your business objectives and fulfill them.

There should be no surprise that personalization and customization

For example, Spotify’s playlist is customized to individual users. It includes discovering weekly, release radar, and daily mix which has been a key draw for the service.

Customization Users love customizing the app as per their personal preferences.

They are accustomed to a particular layout on the screen and mobile apps. They wish to see certain information organized in a particular way on the screen. There are a few users who want to receive some notifications but there are some who don’t. If users have this opportunity, it gives them a warm feeling that the app is working with them and not simply telling them what to do and how.

For example, Domino gives the customer the opportunity to customize the pizza as per his liking and then order accordingly.

7. Community Building This is the unique mobile app feature that grabs the attention of the users with the awareness that many others are using and loving the app.

Dieting, fitness, and health monitoring apps allow people to read and share progress reports and advice from fellow users.

Recipe and travel apps give the opportunity to users to share comments and favorites. Apps have the ability to sustain engagement via community via different forms while inviting users to participate in surveys and games.

Want to consult professionals regarding your app development

project? Get in touch with our top offshore developers across India and get a free consultation.

Here are the Two Main Reasons Why Community Building Feature is Worth Investing in; Increases Retention: Building a social community within an app, where the users can challenge or get inspire each other helps to improve user engagement and retention.

Understand your Users: Every business owner wants to have relevant information about their users.

This helps in building more engaging products with better features.

When the data is linked to specific user demographics within the app, you get a better understanding.

Example: After the “Fitr Woman App” added the social layer to their app and within a time span of one month, the retention rate increased by 35%.

“Lose it” and “Fitocracy” are two more examples of fitness apps that have milestone-sharing and community-building features.

The Bottom Line When you hone the design of your mobile app, always remember that the success of the app comes from the users that are using it. It all depends on if your app satisfies its goals and requirements quickly or not.

It is very important to exceed user expectations from the beginning with an engaging and intuitive landing screen that evokes emotions. The app should help the user effectively and effortlessly. Mobile usage is exploding and the opportunities for apps are growing. The mobile app marketplace is cluttered with high-level competition but that doesn’t mean it is difficult to create a box app.

When the must-have mobile app features are added, your app and brand will certainly be loved by potential customers alike. This is your formula for success and it will surely skyrocket your business.

(Courtesy: https://www.yourteaminindia.com/)

22

Austin South Asian | December 2023

THEME: MATH 101

DOWN

ACROSS 1. Loaded up 6. Tube in old TV 9. Pouches 13. Tequila source 14. Stick in water 15. Jig’s French cousin 16. TV’s “____ Secretary” 17. Money in Myanmar 18. Photoshop maker 19. *Result of multiplication 21. *Whole number 23. *Say 2+2 is 5, e.g.

24. Arctic floater 25. Dashboard acronym 28. Fountain serving 30. Spanky or Alfalfa 35. Short for “hurry up” 37. Live bait 39. Turn upside down 40. Cassette contents 41. Retire from military, for short 43. Jason’s vessel 44. Sicker 46. “Sight for ____ eyes” 47. Puppy cry 48. Denver option, at a diner 50. Apartment 52. Green turtle’s domain 53. Final 55. Personal trainer’s place of employment 57. *Venn ____ 61. *Point in 2.5 65. Barrel racing meet 66. Gobbled up 68. On the rocks (2 words) 69. *Fields Medal to a mathematician, e.g.

70. Sports official, for short 71. 8 of something 72. Like Gulf Stream 73. Big bang maker 74. Required things

1. “I lift my ____ beside the golden door” 2. Petri dish gel 3. Carpenter’s groove 4. Dodge, as in tax bill 5. Takes exception to 6. Native Egyptian, in Roman times 7. *Line with one endpoint 8. Path in the woods 9. Left or right, e.g.

10. Awestruck 11. *Three-dimensional figure with 6 square faces 12. Palm reader, e.g.

15. Cake with filling 20. Three people?

22. Neither here ____ there 24. Subcontract (2 words) 25. *1:2, e.g.

26. Sacred song 27. Canada’s favorite tree?

29. “Nobody ____ It Better” 31. Fix a cat 32. First discovered asteroid 33. *Measured in degrees 34. Parkinson’s disease drug 36. Banana remnant 38. Between dawn and noon 42. Brown shade 45. Retread, past tense 49. Non-alcoholic brew 51. Rockefeller or Bezos 54. Like today’s phone 56. Kind of pie 57. No-win situation 58. Wisconsin neighbor 59. Jewish month of Purim 60. Disease-causing organism 61. Clever 62. Indoor allergy cause 63. Crushed it, as in a test 64. “____ Make a Deal” 67. *X

Sudoku

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

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

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

Cell Phones For Seniors With Features They’ll Love

When it comes to cell phones for seniors, technology has adapted to offer features that make calling, texting and connecting easier for people as they age. If you, a parent or a grandparent is thinking of trading in a phone or looking for a good match for their Verizon senior plan, here are some things to look for.

Consider a flip phone for seniors.

As we age, reduced dexterity can make traditional keypads on many smartphones harder to use. Instead, opt for a cell phone for a senior with a feature such as larger buttons for easier typing or a blackand-white display to boost contrast and readability. These features can be found in flip phones. These paired down smartphones are simpler to navigate and ergonomically designed to be comfortable to hold.

Take a look at: The Alcatel GO FLIP V has big, tactile buttons as well as sound amplification and text-to-speech functions.

A long-lasting battery means less charging worries.

Look for a phone that has a long battery life, one that can last at least a full day — morning to night. Not having to worry about charging up mid-day can be a welcome relief for seniors looking for a phone that

can keep them connected during active, full days.

Take a look at: The Samsung Galaxy A10e supplies 29 hours on a single charge as well as 32 GB of built-in memory to hold lots of photos and videos.

Replace keystrokes with voice-activated features.

Many of the smartest phones can do a whole range of things without a touch to the keyboard, thanks to an ever-increasing array of voiceactivated features. If it’s easier for your senior to use voice controls, ensure the phone they pick has voice dialing and voice texting as well as text-to-speech. (This enables the phone to read messages out loud.)

Take a look at: Plenty of smartphones, including the newest iPhone SE, offer voice-activated features at a budget-smart price — many under $500.

Reduce eye strain with a large screen or add-on magnifier.

Changes in vision also often accompany aging, and for that there are two solutions: a smartphone with a larger screen or a magnifying device used in tandem with a phone. The former offers more surface area to view emails, texts

and web pages; the latter is like a magnifying glass but sized proportionately for smartphones.

Take a look at: The Motorola edge+ features a unique display

that bends around the phone’s sides for even more viewing space.

Provide instant contact to help with an emergency feature.

Old-fashioned landlines provided emergency responders a quick way to locate anyone in need of help. Luckily, manufacturers and designers have figured out how to include that same connectivity in smartphones. The SOS Messages on Samsung phones, for example, allow you to send an emergency

November 2023 Sudoku Answer

Mr. Venkata Rao Tirupathi Mr. Hem Ramachandran Mr. Yudhveer Bagga Mrs. Saranya Ananda Subramoniyan

alert to four contacts simply by pressing the power button three times in a row.

Take a look at: The Samsung Gal-

axy Note10+ includes an S pen, helpful for a senior who wants to take handwritten notes and then digitally converted them.

Improve sound with apps or hearing aid compatibility.

Multiple apps — many of them free — for every type of phone can act as amplifiers for sound, helping seniors clearly listen to and hear conversations with others, family videos and more.

Some phones are also compatible with hearing aids, but it’s important to check that the two can match before making a cell phone purchase for a senior.

Take a look at: Sound Amplifier for Android and HearYouNow for iPhones are two examples of free apps that offer help for those who may have difficulty hearing when using a device.

Use a mini tablet as a phone for added features.

The smart size and enhanced features on mini tablets make them a great cell phone for senior option, especially when accompanied by a robust data plan.

The larger screen offers a way for seniors to get around any visual challenges and gives them a bigger keyboard too. And if your senior parents or grandparents aren’t aware of it, conference calling can be a great way to have a group

family catch-up.

Take a look at: Weighing in at just 10.6 ounces, the Apple iPad mini is light and slim enough to slip into a purse or backpack for daily use.

Consider a smart watch made for seniors.

Replacing standard watches with smart watches can be a good way to supplement a cell phone for seniors and make one-touch responses that much easier. Helpful features include a highcontrast background for readability and simple buttons to manage dexterity issues.

Take a look at: The Verizon Care Smart watch offers both pre-loaded messages and a limited number of 10 pre-approved contacts to minimize the risk of fraud calls.

Prevent phone damage with the right accessory.

As with any new tech, a sturdy case to accompany cell phones for seniors is almost a must-have. A more tactile finish on the case may be easier for older fingers to hold, and a screen protector offers extra protection in case of accidental drops and bumps.

Take a look at: The OtterBox family of phone cases includes options for both Android and iPhones as well as tablets.

Choose phones for seniors with features to help keep them connected.

Stay in touch with loved ones by giving you and them the ability to text, stream and share any time and any day. For older parents, grandparents and friends, key features offer empowerment and independence — and boost peace of mind for everyone. Discover more Verizon phones for seniors with features that everyone can depend on.

(Courtesy: https://www.verizon. com/)

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

What’s The Best Time To Practice Yoga?

(Continued From Page 01)

ther prepare your mind and body for a deep sleep.

Whether you do it right after you wake up or before going to bed, the time of your yoga practice is entirely up to you. Just keep in mind that you don’t want to stimulate your body before retiring to bed, so a certain understanding on which asanas to choose at what time of the day is essential.

A regular evening practice can also help with unhealthy practices that you’re trying to avoid – such as snacking or watching television. It’s definitely a better idea to practice yoga instead.

Choosing the time of day to practice can depend on many different factors. The yoga practice sessions can be planned in line with your personal schedule and your body’s rhythms.

Yoga is a spiritual as well as a physical regimen that can be beneficial at any time of the day. The morning person would appreciate the stimulating effect of several asanas to kick off the day, while slow risers would equally benefit from a gentle morning practice that gradually wakes up body and mind.

Most people find a practice session in the morning to be energizing and refreshing — the ideal way to start a day. Others practice yoga to unwind after a hectic day has taken its toll on the body and mind.

Value of Morning Practice It goes without saying that you’re more likely to get a yoga session done if you schedule it in the morning. Even if you aren’t the morning type, the morning might be the best time for you to practice The later you schedule it, the more conflict with other activities will arise, and greater the chance of the practice getting sidelined.

The same holds true if you are often committed to evening duties and find yourself exhausted at the end of the day. It’s definitely best to make sure you practice in the morning, and if you can manage to include a session in the evening too, that’s a bonus.

If you want to make steady progress in your asana practice, a twice daily practice routine is a must. You will notice a marked improvement in your flexibility and you body’s responsiveness.

The morning is generally the coolest part of the day, making it a good time to energize yourself. If you start your practice in the early morning before 6.00 am you will be surprised how pliable and flexible your body is. The longer you sleep in the morning the stiffer the body gets. Until the evening when it softens again.

It’s Your Choice

Doing asanas first thing in the morning, after your meditation, is a way to de-clutter your mind and ready your body for the day. You’ll also benefit from exercising on an empty stomach, with all those twists and spinebending postures becoming that much easier.

An ideal morning yoga session comprises of gentle warm-ups and stretches at the beginning. Energizing poses such as the sun salutation should feature prominently in a morning session.

This is highly beneficial in warming and waking you up as well as connecting you with your breathing. After a few standing and balancing poses, you can progress onto some gentle inversions and heart openers.

Such a coordinated session can leave you feeling awake and energized – so you can skip that morning cup of coffee!

A few days of early morning practice will soon find you waking up before the alarm, happy to face each day as it comes.

seated forward bend and inversions.

The perfect evening session should soothe and relax you. Keep in mind that if you’re practicing late in the evening, you’ll want to avoid energizing backbends and big heart openers, such as the bow..

What’s recommended are soothing surrender postures and inversions, such as shoulderstand and plough that can induce relaxation in the evening.

Practicing suitable yoga poses in the evening can help ease the stress of the day and fight insomnia. It can even turn a bedtime routine that can get your mind and body refreshed, helping you fall asleep faster. Wrapping up your yoga practice with meditation can fur-

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Benefits of an Evening Practice If your mornings are rushed with you barely making it out the door on time, commitment to a morning practice can be clearly unrealistic. Or with all the time in the world, if you still need an hour or two to get going in the morning, a morning practice may not be the thing for you.

Some of us may find more time in the evening, with no rush to complete the practice.

An evening yoga practice is best to also help you wind down after a busy day, especially with a calming practice that involves some twists, but mainly forward folds, such as

Austin South Asian Invites Contributions From Readers And Community

stomach

Your personal rhythm, your surrounding environment, the changing seasons, the heat and cold are all aspects to account for when determining the timing of your yoga practice. Let your energy levels guide and help you identify the right time of day to practice. Just make sure you practice on empty

The perfect way to determine it is to be honest with yourself and experiment. You may discover benefits in both and that on certain days certain time slots work better than others.

The best approach however according to the approach of traditional yoga is a twice daily practice, both in the morning and evening, to prepare the body/mind for the day’s adventure in the morning and to reset it for a good night’s rest in the evening.

Furthermore, a twice daily practice prevents the decline of the energy levels within the chakras, making it a valuable practice for meditators who require to maintain optimally balanced energy in the chakras, resulting in emotional balance, which is required for steady spiritual progress.

Final Thoughts: Making yoga a part of your lifestyle Remember that consistency is key in any practice. The more regular your yoga practice, the more you will notice its effect on your body, mind and life.

Disciplined yoga practice can help you discover yourself and by joining a yoga teacher training class, you can deepen your spiritual connection with the world and others around you. (Courtesy: https://www.himalayanyogainstitute.com/)

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

Capitol Hill Joins Indian American Community To Celebrate Diwali, The ‘Festival of Lights’ also increasing awareness about the Indian American community and interfaith harmony. Additionally, attendees had valuable interactions with representatives on Capitol Hill, enhancing the event’s impact and significance.

More photos and video on https://www.baps. org/News/2023/Diwali-Celebration-at-theUS-Capitol-24475.aspx About BAPS BAPS is a volunteer-driven spiritual organization committed to fostering individual growth through Hindu values of faith, service, and harmony.

It enriches society with the devoted efforts of tens of thousands of volunteers from di(Continued From Page 01) Senators and U.S. Representatives that attended the celebration included Sen. Cynthia Lummis (Wyoming), Rep. Deborah Ross (NC-02), Rep. Scott Perry (PA-10), Rep. Brad Sherman (CA32), Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17), Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13), Rep. Matt Cartwright (PA-08), Rep. Jim Costa (CA-21), Rep. Jen Kiggans (VA-02), Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI13), Rep. Dan Meuser (PA-09), Rep. Brian K. Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Rep. Darin LaHood (IL-16), Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Rep. Steny Hoyer (MD-5), Rep. Maxwell Frost (FL-10), and Ohio State Senator Niraj Antani.

Also in attendance were Roberts Peckar, Member of the Board of Governors of the American Jewish Committee, and Shri Jag Mohan, Minister of Community & Personnel at the Embassy of India.

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a vibrant celebration widely observed in India by Hindu, Jain, Sikh and Buddhist communities around the world. This festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

Diwali is celebrated by lighting diyas, or traditional lamps to illuminate homes, prepare delicious meals, and pray for wisdom and prosperity.

Diwali not only fosters a sense of togetherness and gratitude but also showcases the rich cultural diversity and traditions that make it a cherished holiday for millions of people around the world.

Elected representatives present at the celebration passionately emphasized the vital

role of diversity in their constituencies. They underscored the profound impact of sharing cultural traditions and celebrations, like Diwali, in promoting a deeper understanding, fortifying community strength, and building connections among diverse populations.

Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna joined in the diya lighting and shared his remarks on Diwali, “The principles of Diwali the triumph of good over evil, the triumph of righteousness, the importance of doing your duty - are good reminders to people of all faiths.”

“Celebration of this festival on Capitol Hill is not only a testament to the diversity and unity within our communities but it is also an opportunity to showcase the strength that comes from cultural preservation and understanding of the various communities,” shared Shri Jag Mohan in his address to the assembly.

Suhag Shukla, Executive Director of the Hindu American Foundation shared, “Diwali is a time to reflect on the good that is within each of us and to let its light shine through, allowing us to transcend our differences big and small, to alleviate the suffering of others, and to act with wisdom so that we can overcome the darkness of greed, hate, and violence.”

“May the festival of lights inspire us to lift our communities with hope instead of despair and stand up for what’s right. That’s what Diwali is all about,” remarked Rep. Jim Costa on the spirit of the celebration.

The event was a unifying opportunity to celebrate Diwali in the nation’s capital, where attendees had the chance to reflect on the universal messages of Diwali, while

verse professional and social backgrounds, contributing millions of volunteer hours annually.

Under the spiritual leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS nurtures Indian traditions in over 100 North American and 3,500 communities worldwide.

Through these communities, it champions holistic personal growth, promotes social progress, and encourages diversity by embracing all.

CONTACT: Lenin Joshi BAPS North American Headquarters Phone: 732-777-1414, ext 3352 Email: media@na.baps.org

Meet Our Candidate Miss Ashika Ganguli (Continued From Page 01)

Austin Round Rock MSA

She comes with broad experience in public policy both from having a Masters Degree in public policy and also having worked as legislative director for Texas State Representative John Bucy - Texas State Representative District 136 . This district covers Pflugerville, Round Rock and North Austin.

She will bring a lot of energy and ideas to our city council, and indeed she represents our Indian American community’s young, energetic imaginative and dedicated member who is committed to wellness of our entire Austin community in general and Austin District 10 in particular.

Miss Ganguli has been a teacher for five years before she joined representative John Bucy’s office. Her experience both as a teacher and legislative experience will make her a very competent city council member with deep awareness for issues that face

I hope entire community will mobilize to support her in helping her fulfill her deep passion for public policy.

It is wonderful to see activism among our.

African American Youth Harvest Foundation Recognizes Harish Kotecha, Founder Of Hindu Charities For America The African American Youth Harvest Foundation (AAYHF) recently hosted its annual Gala featuring Martin Luther King III. Harish Kotecha, Founder of Hindu Charities for America (HC4A), was honored with AAYHF’s Humanitarian Award.

This is one of many awards that has been bestowed upon HC4A to recognize its work in the community.

Michael Lofton, Executive Director of AAYHF, said, “Please know that it is a true blessing to have you and HC4A as one of our strategic partners.

You and your organization have volunteered numerous hours in supporting The African

American Youth Harvest Foundation in the areas of Technology Support and Cyber-Security Certifications for our youth.

HC4A has provided more than 14,000 backpacks, filled with school supplies, for children and youth in homeless and high-poverty situations.”

Martin Luther King III also shared his appreciation for Kotecha’s and HC4A’s work, saying, “It is individuals like you that foster positive revolutionary growth in the many struggling kids and families we have supported.”

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

‘Label’ Series Review: A Well-Intentioned Series That Is Disappointingly Ironic In all of Tamil cinema’s history with stories set in North Madras, a complex social milieu that has paved the way for a plethora of stories, there hasn’t been a concrete argument against the stigmatisation that people who hail from these so-called “rowdy areas” are subject to. It’s quite ironic that these stigmas and stereotypes are inadvertently caused due to Tamil cinema’s overindulgence in making gangster films set in this part of Chennai.

So, while watching the initial few episodes of Disney+ Hotstar’s Label, you feel glad that the series not only tries to shed light on the realities of those suffering from the misconception around their neighbourhood but also attempts to expose the nasty truths that lie behind it. You also feel glad that Arunraja Kamaraj, a serious filmmaker who doesn’t mince words, has found a home in a long-format space to push boundaries.

The first two episodes point towards an anchored route the narrative aims to take to build its world. Prabhakaran (Jai) is a lawyer who bats for the youth of his neighbourhood, Vaali Nagar, even

unjustly imprisoned by the police, his only mistake being that he hails from an area infamous for criminal activities and that he was in the vicinity of a brutal murder that was committed by other youngsters around his age.

if they are guilty of crimes: “If you pardon them now, they might change their ways but if you send them to prison, they will come back with a ‘label’ and live a life of crime,” he says. But why does it matter to Prabha? We are told how as a 10-year-old boy, Prabha was

Law is the ‘label’ that Prabha, now proven innocent and released, chooses to change the mindset of society.

But Arunraja’s series isn’t just about this ‘label’. You can’t make an effective anti-caste or anti-drug case without showing what casteism and drug abuse do to society; so, for the same reasons one assumes, we are told of the different power-hungry factions — called

Animal Takes An Extraordinary Start In Advance Booking The Sandeep Reddy Vanga-directed Animal led by Ranbir Kapoor with Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol, and Rashmika Mandanna has taken an excellent start in advance bookings on Saturday. Within 12 hours of tickets going on sale in the three national chains – PVRInox and Cinepolis – the gangster drama has sold over 36,000 tickets already and is looking to top 50,000 tickets in 24 hours.

Animal has taken the best-ever start on the advance front for a Ranbir Kapoor film bettering Brahmastra, which had sold 30,000 tickets in the first 24 hours. The bookings in 24 hours are about 60 percent better than Brahmastra, and if the trend continues, the film could set itself up for an overall advance in the North of 4 Lakh tickets in the three national chains by Thursday

across the board. These bookings have come without an official announcement being made for a major part of the day, and the momentum is expected to continue even on Sunday, with a high possibility of Animal reaching closer to the 1 Lakh mark in just 36 hours into the cycle of advance.

night. The Sandeep Reddy Vanga film has sold around 30,000 tickets in PVRInox, whereas Cinepolis is estimated to have sold approximately 6,000 tickets.

The bookings have opened at some single screens too and the response is phenomenal to say the least, all

The non-national chains like Miraj, MovieMax, MovieTime, and Rajhans will open partial advances from Sunday and the data will be available through the weekdays, but the trends indicate a bumper opening all across the board. The pre-teaser and teaser had done the trick and Animal is certainly among the most hyped film of 2023. (Courtesy: https://www.pinkvilla.com/)

Labels — that are competing with each other to get government contracts and how many of these youngsters end up being pawns to the games played by the leaders of these Labels.

ten-episode season. Ghastly murder scenes bombard every single episode, one more blood-curdling than the previous, making Label one of the most violent titles to come out in Tamil.

Label Season 1 (Tamil) Creator: Arunraja Kamaraj Cast: Jai, Tanya Hope, Mahendran, Harishankar Narayanan, Suresh Chakravarthy Episodes: 10 Runtime: 25 - 35 minutes Storyline: A valiant lawyer courageously tries to save two youths from a life of crime while two rival Labels engage in a bloody battle for power In this season of the show, we follow Prabha’s attempts to save two youngsters — Veerasekhar (Mahendran) and Kumaraguru (Harishankar Narayanan) — from falling prey to this game of greed between two rival factions called Ayya Label and Senguttuvan Label. The hierarchies of these groups run so deep that more than Senguttuvan and Ayya, we follow the actions of their subordinates, Aadhi and Paadhaalam for the former and Bunk Suresh for the latter.

But violence per se is not the issue — violent gangster films are indeed a popular flavour and some action sequences in Label might impress the film-lover in you. That most episodes leave you with the memory of daggers slicing through flesh and the sight of blood spewing out is disappointingly ironic for a series that promises to break the harmful stereotypes that are attached to North Madras.

To get across the sheer barbarism of this inhumane world, we get some unbridled, gory scenes following how these murders are ‘sketched’ and executed. From the few initial episodes, it seems as if Arunraja might just attempt a tightrope walk in exposing the stark, violent realities but also ensuring that the ‘Label’ doesn’t take centre stage. A conversation between a young Prabha and his teacher (Subatra Robert), a scene featuring him and journalist Mahitha (Tanya Hope), and the scenes that show how young, underprivileged boys through the rehabilitative efforts of Prabha walk away from the allure of the Label life, leave a lasting imprint.

At one point, Prabha’s involvement in the chaotic power struggle between the Labels becomes a claustrophobic look at an innocent man pulled into the very quicksand he is trying to protect others from.

Unfortunately, however, it all goes for a colossal toss in the rest of the

With even Prabhakaran’s subplot, about his past catching up on him, directly tied to the Label narrative, you are left with little space to discuss the legal, social and other restorative measures that could help the cause of these youths.

Even if you remove such expectations from it, Label becomes just another predictable, routine gangster drama.

The narrative ends up weaning so thin that nothing makes the cases of Veera and Kumar compelling enough for us to back them. Throw in an unnecessary romance angle between Prabha and Mahitha and some songs to introduce levity, Label ends up eating all its potential.

The dialogue writer in Arunraja is impressive as always; a dialogue goes, “It (Label) is like an octopus; no matter which hand it uses to eat, it all ends up in the same stomach, with the destruction of lives.”

More of this and a riveting storyline that doesn’t reduce Label to a violent gangster drama could have done wonders.

The writer watched all ten episodes of Disney+ Hotstar’s Label in a preview screener provided by the streamer.

The first three episodes are currently streaming on the platform, with subsequent episodes releasing weekly on Fridays. (Courtesy: https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment)

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

From Vivek Oberoi To Janhvi Kapoor, Why Bollywood Stars Are Rushing South

Mainstream Bollywood stars are rushing to the South film industry.

And it is happening at a neverseen-before pace and volume.

So, what has changed in the last couple of years? What are the rewards?

In the vibrant mosaic of Indian cinema, the melding of talent from distinct regions has become a hallmark of creativity and cross-cultural brilliance.

A few decades back, the only kind of cross-collaboration between Bollywood and the South Indian film industry would be when Tamil, Telugu and Kannada movies would get remade in Hindi.

The other case is when prominent South actors forayed into Hindi cinema or Bollywood stars played the occasional part.

Tiger 3 Goes Past Tiger Zinda Hai, War There have been five films so far in the Yash Raj Films spy universe and Ek Tha Tiger has been its founder member.

Then came Tiger Zinda Hai, War and Pathaan before Tiger 3 arrived in theatres last week.

Tiger 3’s seven day collections are the second highest ever after Pathaan.

While Ek Tha Tiger crossed the Rs 100 crores (Rs 1 billion) mark in the first seven days, which was a big deal then, each of the other four films from the YRF spy universe crossed the Rs 200 crores (Rs

2 billion) mark.

Of course, Pathaan entered the 300 Crore Club straight away, but if one looks at the collections of Tiger 3, Tiger Zinda Hai and War, they are all pretty much in the same range.

Amongst the films from the YRF spy universe, Tiger 3 had the second biggest opening after Pathaan (Rs 330.25 crore/Rs 3.3025 billion), ahead of Tiger Zinda Hai (Rs 206.04 crore/Rs 2.0604 billion), War (Rs 208.05 crore/Rs 2.0805 billion) and Ek Tha Tiger (Rs 137.15 crore/Rs 1.3715 billion).

While Ek Tha Tiger narrowly

missed entering the 200 Crore Club by just one crore, War and Tiger Zinda Hai entered the 300 Crore Club.

As for Pathaan, it went on to be the founding member of the 500 Crore Club films for Bollywood.

There was a drop in collections for Tiger 3 on Sunday, which expected because of the World Cup 2023 final. As a result, only around Rs 10 crores* (Rs 100 million) came in which pushed the overall total to Rs 230 crores (Rs 2.3 billion)*.

While Tiger 3 has done well enough to reach the second spot after seven days, it would be a different story when it comes to the lifetime numbers.

It will go past the Rs 275 crores (Rs 2.75 billion) mark, but will need a lot of push to come close to the Rs 300 crores (Rs 3 billion) milestone.

(Courtesy: https:// w w w. r e d i ff . c o m / movies/)

The aberration has become the norm given the popularity of panIndia films after the Covid-19 pandemic. This has become obvious after the success of films like SS Rajamouli’s ‘RRR’ and Prashanth Neel’s ‘KGF’ where a number of Hindi cinema stars elevated the cinematic experience.

The South film industry, too, has grown in terms of the use of technology, scale, grandeur and reach.

ceived a huge positive response from moviegoers across the country.

Be it Ajay Devgn, Alia Bhatt, Anupam Kher, Vivek Oberoi, Sanjay Dutt, Jackie Shroff or Raveena Tandon, the whole galaxy is shining on the southern horizon. Deepika Padukone and Janhvi Kapoor are all set for their debut.

As the collaboration that transcends linguistic and cultural boundaries continues to grow, Vivek Oberoi who has worked with some of the big names in South cinema, including Prithviraj Sukumaran, Mani Ratnam and Mohanlal, expressed his admiration for South cinema.

“The collaborative thought process is extremely refreshing. As a predominantly Hindi film actor, I love working with their technicians and stars. My first film, ‘Company’ was helmed by Ram Gopal Verma, who grew in Telugu cinema and created landmarks in Bollywood.

‘COLLABORATIVE PROCESS IS REFRESHING’ Yash and Raveena Tandon-starrer ‘KGF: Chapter 2’ shattered the box office records in 2022. In 33 days, the action drama had entered the prestigious Rs 1,200-crore club worldwide.

Raveena, who played the powerful role of Ramika Sen, the prime minister, in the movie, had spoken to IndiaToday.

In about her experience of being a part of a pan-India film that re-

“KGF 2 was a wonderful experience. I had fun working with these youngsters and, especially Prashanth, as a director, was so focused. He knew exactly what he wanted and what he was doing. So, it was just an amazing experience working with them.”

Mohanlal collaborated with us in that film too,” Vivek Oberoi told IndiaToday.in an exclusive interaction. (Courtesy: https://www.indiatoday.in/)

Austin South Asian Editor: Bala Kumar Marketing: Jayachitra Vijay -512-828-6709 Production: Jyothi Mariswaran Admin: Sharada Dayanidhi Publisher: Vidya Kumar Circulation: Vasooda Kumar info@austinsouthasian.com I ©All rights reserved.

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Austin South Asian | December 2023

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