Austin South Asian. June 2023

Asian American Pacific Islander Day

Austin, TX - On May 9th, 2023, the Texas State Capitol was abuzz with excitement as various Asian Amer-

of Commerce’s Austin Chapter, alongside prominent organizations like BAPS. The celebration

The U.S. Surgeon General Fears Social Media Is Harming the ‘Well-Being of Our Children’

ican and Pacific Islander (AAPI) organizations gathered to commemorate Asian American Pacific Islander Day. The event witnessed the presence of esteemed groups, including the US India Chamber

Children And Video Game

Video games are a popular form of entertainment for people of all ages, but they can be especially harmful for young people. There is a growing body of research that suggests that excessive video game playing can have a number of negative effects on young people’s physical and mental health. (Continued On Page 08)

aimed to honor the contributions of the AAPI community and foster closer ties within the diverse Asian diaspora. (Continued On Page 24)

Credit Score Awareness

On May 23, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy issued an advisory warning about the impact that social media is having on the mental health of young people.

11 Yoga Poses

If you sit at a desk for most of the day, these poses are for you. As you move through each of these shapes, bring your awareness to how the

“I issued this advisory because this is an urgent crisis,” Murthy tells TIME. “In the effort to maximize the benefit and minimize the harms of social media on children, we have not made enough progress. As a consequence, I worry about the mental health and well-being of our children.”(Continued On Page 16)

Rs.2000

Your credit score is a three-digit number that lenders use to assess your creditworthiness. It is calculated based on your credit history, which includes information such as your payment history, debt levels, and length of credit history. A good credit score can help you get approved for loans and credit cards with lower interest rates, which can save you money over time. (Continued On Page 23)

targeted body part responds when asked to move outside of your typical comfort zone.

In moments of discomfort, first maintain a steady and easeful breath and then, if necessary, lessen the in- tensity or come out of the pose. (Continued On Page 23)

On May 22, 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced that it would be withdrawing the ₹2000 banknote from circulation.

The decision was made as part of the RBI’s ongoing efforts to rationalize the currency structure and improve the availability of lower denomination banknotes. The ₹2000 banknote was introduced in November 2016, shortly after the government’s demonetization drive. (Continued On Page 20)

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How To Put Your Passion And Skills To Work In The Peace Corps

Since President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps in 1961, more than 240,000 Americans have served in 143 countries worldwide.

The agency has high needs for volunteers to deliver on its mission of world peace and friendship, particularly in the agriculture, health, education and youth-in-development sectors.

In more than 60 countries, Peace Corps volunteers are putting their purpose, passion and skills to work in partnership with welcoming host communities – growing, teaching, learning and making change.

Peace Corps volunteers live and work alongside community members on locally prioritized projects, receiving a stipend and other support as they immerse themselves in a new culture.

They build relationships, exchange knowledge and help transform

lives for generations.

The Immersive Volunteer Experience

The Peace Corps volunteer program is often called life-defining by the more than 240,000 Americans who have served. Volunteers get the chance to fully integrate into a host country community, where they live and work on proj-

ects ranging from education to business development

To be considered for global service, adult U.S. citizens should apply at peacecorps.gov/apply. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis.

As part of its recruitment campaign, the Peace Corps is sharing a few essential things that potential

volunteers need to know about service:

• Fast facts: Volunteers typically serve for 2 years, with an additional 3 months of training. These assignments are great for recent college graduates, retirees, career changers or anyone looking to make a difference in the world.

Additionally, there are 3-12 month service options ideal for experienced professionals and returned volunteers for specialized, high-impact, short-term assignments and part-time virtual opportunities.

• What volunteers do: Volunteers live and work alongside the people they serve, collaborating with local governments, schools, small businesses and entrepreneurs to create sustainable, community-based projects that address local develop-

ment priorities across six sectors.

• Post-service: Serving in the Peace Corps is a viable way to launch a career. It gives volunteers the skills needed in today’s global economy.

In addition to rigorous technical training at the start of service and regular opportunities to gain new skills related to work, language, culture and safety, the Peace Corps offers graduate school benefits and career support specifically tailored to volunteers when they return home to help them prepare for their next step.

For more recruitment information and to learn more, visit peacecorps. gov/volunteer/connect-with-a-recruiter/.

Whether you’re a recent college graduate or a retiree, you may have what it takes to make a lasting impact overseas through Peace Corps service. (StatePoint)

Job Searching? Why The Insurance Industry May Be The Path For You

Whether your career is just beginning or you’re looking to shift gears, the insurance industry may be the right place for you.

The industry employs nearly 3 million people in the United States and depends on a diverse workforce from various professional backgrounds. However, experts say that persisting myths may prevent talented job seekers from exploring these careers.

“Many job seekers have preconceived notions about what a career in insurance looks like, and they are not always accurate.

The fact is that an insurance industry career offers virtually unlimited job opportunities and chances to learn, grow, benefit from new experiences and make a difference in your community,” says Carrie Martinelli, vice president of Talent at Selective Insurance.

Martinelli also notes that you don’t need an insurance background to get hired and thrive. An informal

survey of Selective Insurance employees revealed that 42% had no prior insurance experience before landing their current role.

To help job seekers break into the industry and find success in their new careers, Selective Insurance offers the following tips and insights:

1. Don’t assume your background isn’t a fit: You may be surprised to learn that the industry does not

just hire talent for traditional sales, underwriting, safety management, actuarial and claims roles. It also requires the expertise of legal experts, innovation strategists, and finance, marketing and IT security professionals.

In fact, the Insurance Information Institute notes that even art historians and drone pilots are needed to make the industry tick. Before assuming your background isn’t a fit,

contact an insurance firm to learn how your experiences and interests translate to an insurance position.

2. Seek to grow in your new job: In a recent Conference Board survey, 96% of respondents said it was “important” or “very important” to develop their workrelated skills continuously.

There’s a good reason this sentiment is so popular. Professional development helps employees grow, learn and thrive, preparing them for more advanced positions or new areas of responsibility.

Consider how such opportunities can benefit your career and take time to learn about the company’s professional development program during any interview process. Selective Insurance, for example,

provides in-person and virtual training, simulations, peer coaching and mentorship opportunities for all employees throughout their tenure with the company.

3. Find a sense of purpose: Insurance industry employees are unsung heroes who can help improve challenging situations.

They provide expertise to help protect valuable assets like businesses, homes and vehicles. They also offer support and guidance after an unexpected loss, making these careers an ideal fit if you are passionate about helping protect your local community.

To learn about insurance industry job opportunities in your field, visit https://www.selective.com.

From recent high school and college graduates to mid-career professionals, the insurance industry offers many opportunities. (StatePoint)

New Treatments May Help Those With Advanced Breast Cancer Live Longer

As of January 2023, the number of women in the United States with a history of invasive breast cancer is estimated to be 3.1 million and is expected to increase by 12% to 4 million in 2024, according to the American Cancer Society.

Breast cancer is highly treatable when caught at the early stages -- there is a 99% five-year survival rate when the cancer is found only in the breast tissue. However, as soon as the cancer spreads to lymph nodes under the arm or to nearby tissues (regional stage), the 5-year survival rate drops to 85%, and once it spreads to other lymph nodes or body parts, (distant stage or metastatic cancer) the 5-year survival rate falls to as low as 27%. These figures suggest there is a significant need for more effective treatments for this deadly cancer.

New immunotherapies may provide the solution for patients with advanced breast cancer and fewer treatments options. Currently un-

der development, Bria-IMT and Bria-OTS from BriaCell Therapeutics (NASDAQ: BCTX), are two drugs that have shown promising results so far in clinical trials, with substantial tumor regression in several patients, even those with metastatic cancer. Both drugs work through a completely novel therapeutic mechanism, using breast

cancer cells to generate a strong immune response against breast cancer.

“For many breast cancer patients, the only option left is chemotherapy. We realize how hard chemotherapy is on the body, commonly causing nausea, vomiting, hair loss, lack of appetite, inflamma-

tion of the mouth and tongue, and bone marrow suppression, which can lead to serious and at times fatal infections.

Recently, immunotherapies have come to the fore as a type of therapy which avoids most of these side effects.

Unfortunately, immunotherapy only currently works in a small subset of patients, and then only when given with chemotherapy.

We are dedicated to developing new, more effective immunotherapy approaches that have very few side effects and may provide substantial benefits to more patients.

We hope our efforts will afford these patients another option that is

much better tolerated and can provide improved quality of life and prolong their survival,” says Dr. William Williams, CEO of BriaCell Therapeutics.

In the case of Bria-OTS, a simple saliva test can determine a patient’s cell type so they can receive personalized immunotherapy treatment. Dr. Williams notes that this technology is already being explored for other cancer treatment uses, including prostate cancer, lung cancer, and melanoma.

To learn more about the future of cancer treatment, visit briacell. com/about-briacell. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in U.S. women. Thankfully, drugs on the near horizon may transform the way we think about treating the disease, particularly in its later stages, and provide new hope to patients. (StatePoint)

Gen Z And Millennials Struggle To Keep A Tidy Home

Home organizing is more than a trend; it’s a lifestyle. From streaming shows demonstrating how to color-code your pantry to magazines offering tips to unclutter quickly and even a litany of organization products, there’s an abundance of information in the world of home organization. Yet, despite all this great content, younger generations still struggle with staying organized. In fact, a recent survey conducted by Pollfish on behalf of Duck brand finds that nearly 75% of Gen Z and millennials, ages 16 to 42, need a better organizing system or routine at home. Here’s what these generations struggle with the most:

Clutter is Chaos: While about half of Gen Z and millennials clean and organize up to an hour a day, they still have an issue with clutter. The survey finds that the kitchen counter is the biggest clutter hotspot, and car or house keys are the top misplaced items.

Among their worst organizing habits, 54% of the younger generations throw everything into a junk drawer, while 40% say they don’t hang up their purse or jacket. Additionally, their top challenges to staying tidy are too much clutter and not enough room.

Family Dynamics: Living with messy family members is another top challenge. Less than half of Gen Z and millennials say their spouses and children pick up after themselves and more than 40% wish their significant other was neater/tidier at home. Most Gen Z and millennials (nearly 64%) feel they are the best at staying organized at home compared to others they live with: about 30% of Gen Z say their parents are the tidiest and 16% of millennials say their partner is the neatest.

Personal Preference:

A quick and easy installation is at the top of their priority list when it comes to picking an organizing system, but 29% of Gen Z also favors stylish and modern aesthetics. Among the products

they’re willing to try, Gen Z is more likely to use shelves while millennials chose a wall organizer. As for the cost, most will spend $26 to $50 on organizing products.

Space-Saving Solutions: More than 75% of survey respondents feel they have limited space to store items and 70% wish their backpacks, jackets and hats were better organized.

“Americans are embracing a ‘less is more’

lifestyle and prefer clutter-free spaces, but it’s clear they have challenges when it comes to tidying up,” says Angee Mantell, Insights & Innovation product manager at Shurtape Technologies, LLC, the company that markets the Duck brand. “Simple solutions can help people of all ages create homes that are more efficient, livable and meet the demands of their busy lifestyles.”

From the entryway to the garage, Duck brand’s EasyMounts Heavy-Duty Drywall Hooks and Heavy-Duty Drywall Tool Holders help restore order to high-traffic areas and give out-of-place belongings, such as key, bags and garage gear, a designated home while keeping them off the floor. The universal mounting system comes in a modern matte finish and installs in drywall without the need for tools, solving the problem of limited storage.

For other expert tips on home organization, visit Tidy Up with Duck brand at www.duckbrand.com. While some factors are beyond one’s control, such as the amount of storage space available and the behavior of housemates, smart organizational tools can minimize mess and stress at home, for all generations. (StatePoint)

Wearing Eco-Friendly Footwear Is An Easy Way To Go Green

Protecting the environment can seem like a monumental task, but committing to small, meaningful changes can lead to substantial, positive outcomes. Embracing sustainability can be as simple as making earth-friendly choices when shopping for footwear.

With sustainable shoe selections for every family member, take a look at these four, fun and trendy brands actively participate in making our planet a better place.

1. Teva – Teva’s iconic sandal straps are made entirely from recycled materials, giving new life to plastic bottles that would otherwise end up in landfills. With vibrant styles for men, women and children, you can step into spring and summer with an earthfriendly flair.

2. Birkenstock – Committed to using natural and renewable materials like cork, natural latex and jute, Birkenstock stays true to their eco-friendly principles. Offering a range of stylish and comfortable sandals for the family, you’ll feel good about walking in their classic or modern designs.

3. adidas – The brand takes a strong stance

on sustainability with their “End Plastic Waste” initiative. Their shoes are made with materials like recycled ocean plastic and nat-

ural rubber to help reduce waste and protect the environment.

4. Nike – Nike’s Court Legacy low sneaker has at least 20% recycled content by weight. With their Move to Zero initiative, the brand is dedicated to achieving zero carbon and zero waste, giving you a stylish and sustainable option.

Rack Room Shoes understands the importance of promoting sustainability and collaborates with these eco-minded brand partners.

To make your earth-friendly shoe shopping experience even more enjoyable, they’ve created a dedicated page featuring shoes made with sustainable materials. Browse and shop at: rackroomshoes. com/cs/sustainablematerial.

Making small, meaningful changes towards sustainability can have a big impact on our planet. By supporting these brands and their efforts to adopt earthfriendly practices, you can feel good about taking that important first step towards a more sustainable future. You’ll not only be making a fashion statement but also actively contributing to a healthier planet. (StatePoint)

Self-Care Tips For Moms And Caretakers

Carving out some “me time” is not just good for your mental health, physical wellness and confidence, as many moms know, it can actually make you a better parent. According to a survey of moms conducted by Hutchinson and Cassidy, those who had higher selfesteem had higher levels of perceived parenting confidence.

Here are three ways to practice self-care:

1. Get some rest: We live in a goal-oriented society where the value of rest and relaxation is not always emphasized. Whether it’s a spa day with your best friend or curling up with a good book at home, be sure your schedule includes adequate time to recharge your batteries.

2. Take care of your smile: One of the best ways to foster self-confidence is with a clean, healthy smile. In fact, a 2020 Cigna Dental Report found that smile satisfaction is one of the top three drivers of self confidence among U.S. adults. Give yourself the gift of innovative brushing technology. The iO Series 5 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush from Oral-B, for example, allows you to personalize your brushing experience with

its five smart modes: daily clean, intense, whitening, sensitive and super sensitive. No ordinary toothbrush, this one is designed to help you brush smarter and more safely. To help protect gums, a smart pressure sensor displays a red light when you’re brushing too

hard and a green light when you’re brushing just right, and its dentist-inspired round brush head cleans with micro-vibrations and oscillating action. Plus, a connected app tracks brushing behavior to ensure you’re targeting all six zones of your mouth, and a

vibrating timer lets you know when you’ve brushed for the dentist-recommended 2 minutes.

3. Take care of your mind: So much of motherhood is ensuring everyone has what they need, and often, your own needs can fall by the wayside. There are many ways to take time to check in with yourself though.

You could buy yourself a beautiful journal and jot thoughts down for a few minutes each evening or check out apps like Headspace, which can help get you started on a meditation practice. Even a 10 or 15 minute walk at lunchtime can be a powerful moodbooster and an opportunity to reflect. You might also consider taking up a hobby that offers the chance for self-expression, such as painting, poetry, music or crafting.

When it comes to parents and caretakers, the importance of self-care can’t be overstated. Kick-off new routines that boost your selfconfidence and your well-being. (StatePoint)

Top Tips To Win A College Scholarship

More than half of American families used scholarships to pay for college last year. From merit-based to artistic-focused, there are a variety of awards available.

High school senior Grace Vaughn of Trinity, Florida, knows how to successfully secure a college scholarship. After winning the $10,000 dress grand prize in Duck brand’s Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest in 2022, Vaughn is sharing helpful tips to increase students’ odds of earning funds for college:

Research, research, research

Search databases and websites to discover award options that may be new to you. Scholarships.com, FastWeb and Bold. org are resources to help narrow down opportunities that match your interests and unique talents.

Vaughn also encourages students to leverage social media, where she discovered the

Stuck at Prom contest, which challenges teens to create Duck Tape prom creations for a chance to win cash scholarships.

In addition to researching national opportunities, check in with your school counselor and teachers to learn about any local or regional scholarships that are offered through the school or other nearby organizations.

Apply early and often

Federal Student Aid recommends searching for scholarships during the summer between your junior and senior year, but some awards are open to teens as young as 14.

Vaughn says entering Stuck at Prom early on in high school gave her an edge on the competition. When she wasn’t selected as a finalist her sophomore year, Vaughn submitted for the contest again as a junior and went on to win the $10,000 dress grand prize.

“When I began working on my entry in 2022, I already knew how to construct the dress from Duck Tape, so I went into the process with confidence,” Vaughn explains.

If you have the time and energy, she suggests applying for multiple awards to increase your chances of securing funds for school.

Leverage your creative side

Not all programs are focused on academics and athletics, so flex your creative side to win scholarships that will reward artistic abilities in drawing, painting, music and more. Beginning at an early age, Vaughn excelled at visual arts and design, which is how she knew Stuck at Prom was a perfect

fit for her.

“Creative awards programs are a good outlet for students to show off their talents outside of typical schoolwork,” Vaughn says. “Even if you aren’t crafty, scholarship applications could be a chance for you to try something new.”

Make scholarships a priority

Vaughn spent 143 hours crafting her prom dress made from Duck Tape to enter Stuck at Prom. While not all scholarship program submissions will take 143 hours or require making Duck Tape attire, Vaughn says it’s important to block off areas on your calendar so you can balance busy school schedules and extracurricular activities along with applications—ensuring there’s enough time to work on a polished entry, whether it’s creating a piece of art or writing an essay.

While applying for scholarships is time consuming, it can make a huge impact when it comes to paying for college. Vaughn notes, “It takes commitment and drive to apply for scholarships, but the results are worth it.”

(StatePoint)

Optimism Prevails Among Minority Business Owners, Survey Shows

Even as minority business owners face new economic challenges, including supply chain disruptions and inflation, results from PNC’s recent Economic Outlook survey show an impressive resiliency and positive mindset among these business leaders, according to Marshalyn Odneal, national sales executive for Minority Business at PNC Bank.

According to PNC’s survey, more than two-thirds (68%) of minority business owners feel highly optimistic about the prospects of their own company in the next six months, compared to just 60% of non-minority-owned businesses. While business owners as a whole remain cautious about the national economy, the gap between optimism among minority business owners for their own company versus the broader U.S. economy is 40 percentage points, significantly higher than the 31-point difference among non-minority owners.

“I have no doubt that minority business owners who were able to manage through the pandemic had to make unprecedented decisions related to staffing, business models and pricing. In doing so, they faced a Goliath – and won. It’s unsurprising that their mindset about the future of their businesses, despite current economic challenges, is optimistic,” Odneal said.

According to PNC’s survey, 65% of Black- and Hispanic-owned business owners stated they have a business plan suited to the current direction of the economy, sig-

nificantly more than non-minority owned businesses (55%). This highlights the importance of access to crucial resources for these business owners.

The survey reinforces this point, showing that 86% of Black- and Hispanic-owned businesses interacted with or leveraged resources from the Small Business Association (SBA), a local chamber of commerce or a community economic development organization. Only 69% of non-minority business owners reported doing the same.

“The truth is that the unique financial challenges minority-owned businesses have long faced were amplified during the pandemic. As a result, more minority business owners are now seeking Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certification, which is also an important and needed resource,” Odneal said. Businesses that become MBE-

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certified gain exclusive access to premium networking events, affordable consulting services and technology programs, among other benefits, according to the National Minority Supplier Development

Council.

“Our survey revealed that 87% of Black-owned businesses are now MBE-certified, up from 69% last year. Three-quarters of Hispanicowned business are MBE-certified, compared to 67% last year. Of MBE-certified businesses, 80% of Black- and 84% of Hispanicowned businesses said that certification has been a helpful business development tool,” Odneal said. PNC has taken significant steps in doing more for minority-owned businesses and providing necessary resources to help them overcome roadblocks.

As a part of its Small Business organization, PNC’s Minority Business Development Group’s mission is to deliver solutions and resources that

foster financial wellness for small businesses within diverse communities. They’ve been able to do this, in part, through the PNC-Certified Minority Business Advocate initiative, a voluntary advocacy program that helps PNC employees understand the challenges facing minority-owned business owners.

“If the optimism of these entrepreneurs is realized and the U.S. business landscape prospers further down the road, minority business supporters must continue to execute against their mission and accelerate their efforts. The outlook is bright, but we must continue to do our part to advocate for these entrepreneurs and help their communities thrive,” Odneal said. (StatePoint)

11 Yoga Poses To Stretch Out After You’ve Been Sitting All Day

(Continued From Page 01) Hands and Knees With Wrist Stretch

Why it helps: Many of us are tethered to technology, which can be taxing on our forearms and wrists. This variation of Tabletop helps undo a day of typing.

How to: Come to hands and knees and flip your hands so that your palms face up and your fingertips point back toward your knees. Make sure that your wrists are still aligned beneath your shoulders and your hips are over your knees.

If the pressure feels too intense on your wrists, shift your weight back a little more into your knees so that the angle at your wrists is less sharp.

If it feels good to do so, slowly rock forward and back a few times or take a few Cat and Cow motions. Remain here for 5–10 breaths. With care, lean back slightly and bring your palms to the mat.

Vasisthasana Variation (Modified Side Plank Pose or Gate Pose)

Why it helps: This pose is a wonderful way to stretch your side

body, which often gets compressed when we sit. The sides of our torsos are home to our intercostal muscles, which help us breathe. Take time at the beginning of your practice to create space to breathe more fully on your mat.

How to: From Tabletop, extend your right foot toward the back of your mat and turn your heel down so that your entire foot connects to the mat and the edge of your foot is parallel to the back of the mat.

Pivot on your left knee to bring your left foot directly behind your left knee and your shin parallel with the back of the mat. Stretch your right arm overhead. Breathe into your right side to your capacity. Remain in this shape for 5–10 breaths. Come back to Tabletop and switch sides.

Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose)

Why it helps: This foundational pose helps lengthen the hamstrings and calves and develops upper body strength. The inverted nature of this yoga asana also improves circulation, which is imperative af-

ter you’ve been sitting all day.

How to: From Tabletop, lift your hips up and back to DownwardFacing Dog. Begin with a slight bend in your knees so that you can focus on lengthening your back rather than the backs of your legs.

Spread your fingers wide, and evenly distribute your weight between your hands. Turn your inner arms upward and relax your shoulders.

Draw your ribs in toward your back and lift your sitting bones toward the sky. Counter the arch in your low back by heavying your tailbone toward your pubic bone. With the knees slightly bent, press your thighbones back toward the wall behind you.

Spread your toes wide and evenly distribute your weight between your hands and feet. Soften your gaze and drop your head so that your upper arms line up with your ears. Breathe steadily into the entire length of your back body for 5–10 breaths. (Continued On Page 23)

Still we human beings, Consider ourselves great.

As we ponder beyond, Innovate to progress, Surviving against odds, With own found

Hair Thinning Because Of Menopause? These Tips Can Help

Women spend up to 40% of their life in menopause and, by 2025, 1.1 billion women worldwide will be going through this transition.

Menopause often brings disruptive symptoms that can impact all aspects of life, from family to work.

Hot flashes and trouble sleeping are often experienced during menopause and those signs can also be accompanied by under-discussed symptoms, like hair thinning.

“Hair thickness naturally decreases with age. When you add hormonal changes during menopause on top of that, many women become concerned with their hair health – from how fast it grows to how thick the hair strands are,” says author and renowned natural physician, Dr. Fred Pescatore.

If you are going through menopause and you notice your hair is thinner, you’re not alone.

Studies show more than half of

women over age 50 will experience thinning hair and one reason may be declining estrogen (hormone) levels that are associated with menopause.

tients come to me confused, looking for solutions that are effective with minimal side effects.

I direct them to lifestyle adjust-

Promising support from a natural ingredient

Pycnogenol is a natural supplement from the bark of the maritime pine tree that grows along the coast of southwest France.

For decades, studies have shown its benefits for skin health and menopause.

Now, new research finds it also significantly increases hair density in menopausal women.

“This new study demonstrates an exciting additional benefit of Pycnogenol.

After just two months, hair density in menopausal women increased by 30%. It is simple, safe and effective.”

For more information, visit https:// www.pycnogenol.com/home/.

Hydrate, massage, and a balanced diet

“Changes in hair health and appearance can take an emotional toll on many women, often leading to lower levels of self-esteem. My pa-

ments, along with a unique, science-backed natural ingredient called Pycnogenol French maritime pine bark extract.”

“I’ve recommended Pycnogenol to my patients for years as a natural ingredient for menopause and beauty support, and as an important building block of overall wellness since it acts as an antioxidant, circulation booster and natural anti-inflammatory,” says Dr. Pescatore.

There are other simple lifestyle adjustments that can help as well. Dr. Pescatore suggests, “Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help your scalp stay hydrated. Massage your scalp daily to enhance circulation.

Eat a balanced diet to ensure you are getting the nutrients your hair follicles need, including vitamin B6, folic acid and vitamin B12.” (StatePoint)

Children And Video Game

(Continued From Page 01)

One of the most well-known concerns about video games is that they can lead to increased aggression.

Studies have shown that playing violent video games can increase aggressive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in young people. This is especially true for children who are already at risk for aggression.

Another concern about video games is that they can lead to obesity. Sitting for long periods of time while playing video games can lead to weight gain.

In fact, one study found that children who played video games for more than two hours per day were twice as likely to be obese as children who did not play video games.

Video games can also disrupt sleep patterns. The light emitted from screens can interfere with the pro-

duction of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep. This can lead to problems falling asleep and staying asleep.

In addition to these physical health problems, video games can also have a negative impact on young people’s mental health. Studies have shown that excessive video

game playing can lead to depression, anxiety, and attention problems.

It is important to note that not all video games are bad for young people. There are many educational and creative video games that can actually be beneficial for young people’s development.

However, it is important for parents to monitor their children’s video game playing habits and to set limits on how much time they spend playing.

If you are concerned about the amount of time your child is spending playing video games, talk to your child’s doctor or a mental health professional.

They can help you assess your child’s risk for problems and develop strategies for limiting screen time.

Here are some tips for parents to help their children have a healthy relationship with video games:

• Set limits on screen time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children and adolescents under the age of 18 have no more than two hours of screen time per day, and that this time should be limited to high-quality

programs.

• Choose age-appropriate games. Make sure that the games your child is playing are appropriate for their age and maturity level.

• Monitor your child’s gaming habits. Talk to your child about how much time they are spending playing video games and how it is affecting their other activities.

• Set a good example. If you want your child to limit their video game playing, you should set a good example by limiting your own screen time.

• Encourage other activities. Help your child find other activities that they enjoy, such as sports, hobbies, or spending time with friends and family.

By following these tips, you can help your child have a healthy and balanced relationship with video games.

How To Control Your Asthma When Outdoor Air Quality Is Bad

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Asthma, a lung disease that makes breathing difficult for over 24 million Americans, is often exacerbated by air pollution and the effects of climate change. However, understanding how the environment impacts asthma can help you minimize your exposure to air pollutants and prepare for extreme weather events.

As part of its Promoting Asthma Friendly Environments through Partnerships and Collaborations Project, the American Lung Association is offering these important insights:

1. Outdoor Air Pollution. While outdoor air pollution can make breathing more difficult for everyone, it’s particularly harmful to those with asthma, causing symptoms and increased need for medical attention, and to children, whose lungs are still growing and who breathe in more air per pound than adults. Children with asthma can be especially vulnerable to experiencing negative health effects caused by air pollution.

2. Climate Change. The effects of climate change increase air pollutants like ozone, particle pollution pollens, molds from increased rainfall and floods and smoke from wildfires. As temperatures increase, warmer air helps to form ground-level ozone pollution, also known as smog, a powerful air pollutant. Smog acts like a sunburn on your lungs and may trigger an asthma attack. Before doing any activities outside, check the pollution level in your area by visiting Airnow.gov. When the air is bad, limit the time you and family members spend outdoors and try to move outdoor activities inside.

3. Wildfires. In some areas of the country, climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of wildfires, and extending wildfire season. Wildfires produce smoke that contains particle pollution, consisting of dangerous particles tiny enough to travel deep into the lungs and sometimes even into the bloodstream. Particle pollution can cause asthma attacks, heart attacks, lung cancer and early death. But you don’t need to live in an area prone to wildfire to be impacted. Winds can carry these particles for thousands of miles, meaning many people may have an unknown exposure.

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Get Ready. Stay Ready.

Know what to do in case of an outage.

Weather disasters keep coming, with bigger storms that last longer. As Austin Energy prepares for future power outage emergencies, you can get ready, too.

• Know what information you need and where to get it.

• Make sure Austin Energy has your cell phone number and email address.

• Learn how Austin Energy prepares for outages. Visit austinenergy.com/go/outage or learn more at a Utility Customer Service Center.

Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird Lake, formerly known as Town Lake, is a beautiful and iconic body of water located in the heart of Austin, Texas.

The lake is named after Lady Bird Johnson, the former First Lady of the United States, who was instrumental in the creation of the Town Lake Beautification Project. Lady Bird Lake is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a wide range of recreational activities and scenic views.

The lake is fed by the Colorado River and stretches over 400 acres, making it the perfect spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing.

One of the most popular ways to experience Lady Bird Lake is by renting a kayak or paddleboard. Several rental companies offer hourly or daily rentals, allowing visitors to explore the lake at their own pace.

The calm waters and stunning views of downtown Austin make for a unique and memorable experience.

In addition to kayaking and paddleboarding, Lady Bird Lake also offers several hiking and biking trails. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, a ten-mile

trail that circles the lake, is a popular destination for runners, walkers, and cyclists.

The trail is well-maintained and offers several scenic viewpoints, including the Congress Avenue Bridge, which is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America.

Lady Bird Lake is also home to several parks and green spaces, including Zilker Park, Auditorium Shores, and the Waller Creek Boathouse. Zilker Park, located on the south shore of the lake, offers several recreational activities, including a swimming pool, playgrounds, and a miniature train.

Auditorium Shores, located on the southeast corner of the lake, is a popular destination for outdoor concerts and events.

One of the most iconic landmarks on Lady Bird Lake is the Stevie Ray Vaughan Memorial. Located on the north shore of the lake, the memorial honors the legendary blues guitarist who was born in Dallas, Texas.

The bronze statue, created by artist Ralph Helmick, depicts Vaughan in mid-guitar solo and is a popular spot for music fans and visitors

alike. Another popular attraction on Lady Bird Lake is the Congress Avenue Bridge.

The bridge is home to over 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats, which emerge from beneath the bridge at dusk each evening from March to November.

Visitors can watch the bat flight from the bridge or from boats on the lake, creating a unique and unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, Lady Bird Lake is a beautiful and iconic destination in the heart of Austin, Texas. With its calm waters, scenic views, and abundance of recreational activities, the lake is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Whether kayaking, hiking, or watching the bats fly, visitors to Lady Bird Lake are sure to have a memorable and unique experience.

© Austin Energy

Turn Up The Flavor This Summer With Bold, Bright Meals

From the hearty and warm flavors of winter to the bold, rich and bright flavors of summer, herbs and spices are not only a delicious and better-for-you addition to any dish, they can transform it into unforgettable memories.

June 10 is National Herbs and Spices Day and the perfect time to celebrate food, flavor and time with family or friends.

As you prepare for the occasion, and all your summer gatherings, remember to shop carefully, as freshness is essential when it comes to herbs and spices.

“Fresh flavors and aromas are strong triggers that ensure that experiences today are remembered tomorrow,” says Giovanna DiLegge, vice president marketing, North America Consumer at McCormick, a global leader in flavor.

That’s why for the first time in nearly 40 years, McCormick is debuting a brand new design for its red cap branded products that audibly seals in aromas and flavors, for long-lasting freshness of herbs and spices.

And to help you make the most of summer, McCormick is sharing this recipe for Fresh Peach Pie, which incorporates rich and bright summer fruits, and a sweet note of cinnamon spice:

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds fresh peaches, peeled, pitted and sliced (about 7 cups)

• 1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons sugar, divided

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1/4 teaspoon plus 1/8 teaspoon salt, divided

• 1 1/2 teaspoons McCormick

Ground Cinnamon, divided

• 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts, (2 crusts)

• 3 tablespoons corn starch

• 1 tablespoon McCormick All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract

• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:

1. Mix peaches, 1/2 cup of sugar, lemon zest and juice, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in large heat-safe bowl until well blended.

Let stand 30 minutes. Drain peaches, reserving 8 tablespoons of juice. Return peaches to bowl; sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Set aside.

2. Meanwhile, prepare pie crust as directed on package. Roll each crust into 12-inch circles on lightly floured surface.

Press 1 crust into bottom of 9-inch pie plate. Cut remaining crust into

10 strips, about 1-inch wide. Refrigerate pie plate with bottom crust and prepared strips until ready to assemble pie.

3. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Mix 2 tablespoons of remaining sugar, remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt, remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon and corn starch in small bowl.

Add 2 tablespoons of reserved peach juice to cornstarch mixture, whisking to mix well; set aside.

4. Place remaining 6 tablespoons peach juice in small saucepan. Bring to simmer on medium-low

heat. Stir in vanilla. Whisk cornstarch slurry into saucepan.

Cook and stir just until thickened and smooth, about 30 seconds. Remove from heat. Pour syrup mixture over peaches; toss to coat. Allow to cool slightly.

5. Spoon peach mixture into chilled pastry-lined pie plate. Arrange pie dough strips over top to create a lattice (see below for instructions).

Trim dough strips about 1/2-inch longer than bottom pie crust. Fold strips underneath crust and pinch to adhere.

Crimp or flute crust edges, as desired. Brush lattice with water and sprinkle evenly with remaining 1 tablespoon sugar. Place pie plate on large shallow baking pan.

6. Bake 25 minutes or until crust is lightly browned. Reduce heat to 375 degrees F. Rotate pan.

Bake 30 to 35 minutes longer, until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly. Cool on wire rack. Serve with vanilla ice cream, if desired. How to weave a lattice top crust: Using longer strips for the center

of pie and shorter strips for edges, arrange 5 pie dough strips vertically over top of filling, leaving about 1 inch of space between each strip.

Fold back every other strip (2 and 4) to just above midline of pie. Place one of the longer strips across pie horizontally, just below the fold.

Fold vertical strips back down over top of the horizontal strip. Fold back the opposite vertical strips (1, 3 and 5) and place another strip below the first horizontal strip, again leaving about 1 inch of space between them.

Fold vertical strips back down over top. Repeat this process with one more strip below, and then 2 strips above first crosswise strip.

Work quickly, as the warm filling may make the dough difficult to work with.

After 15 to 20 minutes of baking, cover edge of crust with foil strips to prevent excessive browning.

(StatePoint)

How To Control Your Asthma When Outdoor Air Quality Is Bad

(Continued From Page 08)

Preparation is key to protecting yourself and family. Check out American Lung Association’s resources, which includes information about using N-95 masks for protection and creating a clean room inside your home. Visit lung. org/clean-air/emergencies-andnatural-disasters/wildfires to learn more.

4. Taking Action.

Did you know you can reduce your own contribution to air pollution and climate change? Prioritize walking, biking and public transit over diesel or gasoline-powered vehicles.

Conserve electricity and purchase your power from clean, non-com-

bustion sources if you can. Don’t burn leaves or trash and avoid burning wood whenever possible.

Additionally, when looking for a place to live or upgrading your home, look for efficient, zeroemission appliances like induction

stoves or heat pumps. You may even be able to take advantage of tax incentives for making these upgrades.

If poor air quality, wildfires, pollen and mold cause asthma symptoms or flare-ups, follow your asthma

action plan, and call your doctor if your symptoms don’t improve or get worse.

To get your asthma under control, check out the American Lung Association’s many resources, found at https://www.lung.org/lunghealth-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/asthma, which align with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s EXHALE strategies.

The strategies can help reduce asthma symptoms, prevent emergency hospital visits and help you avoid missing school or work.

If you have asthma and have been impacted by poor air quality, consider sharing your story on Lung. org.

Proper Ventilation While Cooking

There’s a reason 96% of professional chefs love cooking with gas.

Propane-powered cooking appliances offer greater control of heat levels, a modern design and excellent performance in any kitchen - from starter homes to high-end custom projects.

On average, propane-powered ap-

Top Fire Prevention Tips

Ventilation when cooking is key, as is the energy source you choose to power kitchen appliances.

However, there are steps you can take to improve indoor air quality when creating meals.

Consider these tips from the experts at Propane Education & Research Council for proper ventila-

According to the National Fire Protection Association, local U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1.35 million fires in 2021 – an average of every 23 seconds.

are used and stored safely. These are general safety tips, so you will need to refer to each device’s owner manual for specific safety and maintenance instructions.

safety and performance of your battery.

Location, Location, Location: When it comes to safety, where you use a lithium-ion battery device or charger is extremely important.

Because these batteries can pose a significant fire risk, it is crucial that they aren’t located in front of an exit or escape route. If the battery is mishandled or exposed to extreme conditions and a fire erupts, you will need an unobstructed escape route.

pliances are better for the environment as they generate fewer greenhouse gas emissions than electric ranges.

That’s because more than 60% of electricity production comes from natural gas or coal generation plants, which release more carbon dioxide emissions.

There’s been a lot of misinformation about cooking with gas. The act of cooking reduces indoor air quality, regardless of the energy powering the stove.

tion in your kitchen.

* If you have an exhaust fan or range hood, use it every time you cook no matter what cooking equipment you’re using.

* Open doors and windows if you don’t have an exhaust fan or range hood.

* Clean your cooktop after each use to remove food particles.

* Use the right cooking oil at the right temperature.

* Engage a qualified technician to install and perform regular service of the stove. (Family Features)

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These fires resulted in 3,800 civilian deaths and 14,700 reported civilian injuries, but the devastation didn’t stop there. They also resulted in an estimated $15.9 billion in property damage loss.

Fires can affect not just the health and safety of family, friends and community, but also take a major financial toll on homeowners and businesses.

The International Code Council’s 2023 Building Safety Month campaign focuses on general building safety awareness, including how to recognize and practice fire prevention strategies and be aware of potential risks in your home or business.

Potential Dangers of Lithium-Ion Batteries and Chargers

Over the years, lithium-ion batteries and chargers have caused many fires with sometimes devastating consequences. Found within common household products such as electronic toys, small and large appliances, headphones, cellphones, laptops and more, their popularity has grown thanks to their highenergy density and longer lifespan. But with this growth comes the need to learn how to properly handle these products.

Below are actionable steps and fire prevention tips from Beth Tubbs, chief fire protection engineer for the Code Council, to help ensure lithium-ion batteries and chargers

Buyer Beware: Only purchase an appliance or device with a lithiumion battery and charger from reputable manufacturers to ensure it’s designed, manufactured, tested and maintained according to applicable safety standards. This is a critical first step in battery fire prevention.

Use an Approved Battery Charger, Correctly: When charging a lithium-ion battery, use a proper charger that is manufacturer-approved or listed as acceptable on the device.

Lithium-ion batteries are highly sensitive to charging conditions and using an incorrect charger, or using it incorrectly, can result in the battery overcharging. When a battery overcharges, it can overheat, catch fire and, in the worstcase scenario, explode.

Never charge lithium-ion batteries when you aren’t home to supervise it. If a potentially dangerous situation does arise, you can act quickly to rectify it by unplugging the battery, using a portable fire extinguisher or calling your local fire department for help.

When charging appliances, such as micromobility devices (scooters and e-bikes), plug them directly into the electrical receptacle, not through multiplug adaptors or extension cords.

Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, including the recommended charge time. This will increase the

Store batteries in a cool, dry environment to maintain their performance and safety. It is recommended to store batteries indoors, away from direct sunlight, excess heat, combustibles and potentially flammable substances.

Follow Maintenance Guidelines: Reputable manufacturers provide instructions on how to best maintain the performance and safety of their batteries, often found online or in the device or appliance’s maintenance guide.

Some common maintenance tips include:

• Regularly inspecting the battery and charger for visible damage

• Routinely checking the battery’s charge status

• Observing and noting the runtime of your battery (and any changes in this time)

• Disconnecting the battery from the charger once it reaches full capacity.

Resources for Fire Prevention

Lithium-ion battery fires can start in a matter of seconds; it’s important to use them safely.

The Code Council’s Building Safety Month website has several resources to help you understand and implement key fire prevention measures and protect your home or business. Access these resources by visiting iccsafe.org. (StatePoint)

5 Ways To Live Your Best Travel Life This Summer

Summer travel is heating up despite packed airports, crowded destinations and rising prices.

In fact, 80% of Americans are planning to travel as much or more than they did last summer, according to a new Harris Poll survey from T-Mobile.

No matter where you’re going, here’s how to watch your wallet while making the most of your adventures.

Plan Ahead: With international travel restrictions lifted, global bookings have surged by over 200% compared to last year, according to AAA.

And some of the most popular destinations searched for on Google Flights for this summer are London, Cancun, Paris and Rome. If you’re planning to travel internationally and need a passport, estimated processing

times are 11 to 13 weeks instead of the usual 8 to 10 due to an uptick in applications and demand. So, get going!

Be Flexible: If you can avoid traveling during peak summer travel season from mid-June through August, try booking during the “shoulder season,” which is the time just before and after.

For this summer, travel experts

recommend booking travel in September to reduce cost.

Stay Connected: Reliable wireless when traveling is no longer a luxury, but an absolute necessity, with 95% of American travelers in the T-Mobile survey saying it’s a travel essential.

Some phone plans — like the new Go5G Plus from T-Mobile — give customers built-in travel benefits

and coverage that works the minute you arrive.

With free in-flight Wi-Fi and free high-speed data in more than 215 countries – the journey is seamless from start to finish and all included in the price of your monthly plan. To learn more about T-Mobile’s travel benefits and their new Go5G plans, visit t-mobile.com/cellphone-plans.

Pack Smart: An estimated 2.2 million bags were lost or mishandled on U.S. airlines in 2022, an increase from 1.4 million in 2021, according to the 2022 Air Travel Consumer Report.

If you’re nervous about checking your luggage, place an Apple AirTag in your bag or luggage to know where it is at all times.

Some bags, like T-Mobile’s limited edition Un-carrier On, even come packed with the tech you need to ensure a smooth trip, including a

power bank and smart tag device.

Use Points: According to T-Mobile’s Harris Poll survey, nearly half (47%) of summer travelers used miles, points or rewards to book their summer travel this year and nearly two-thirds of all travelers (66%) rely on discounts and deals when booking travel accommodations.

Certain credit cards give you points or miles to use for future travel when you sign up. If you’re a T-Mobile customer, you can save up to 40% on select hotels and car rentals by booking through T-Mobile TRAVEL from Priceline.

Most bookings come with free, flexible cancellations so you can plan with peace of mind.

Americans are eager to travel this summer, and with a little planning, nothing should get in the way of some much-deserved R&R. (Statepoint)

Prioritizing Your Health Now That The Public Health Emergency Is Over

With the national COVID-19 Public Health Emergency officially over, medical experts say it’s time to address the health challenges that may have been neglected during -- or created by -- the pandemic.

“Making time for you and your family’s preventive medical care and investing in your mental health is essential right now,” says Jack Resneck Jr, MD, president of the American Medical Association (AMA). “As you settle into old routines or find new ones, you may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, afraid or depressed. Give yourself permission to express these emotions, while taking steps to get needed care.”

For better health and wellness, the AMA offers these tips:

1. Stay connected: According to the U.S. Surgeon General, the health consequences of isolation include a 29% increased risk of heart disease, a 32% increased risk of stroke, and a 50% increased risk of developing dementia for older

adults. Spending time with loved ones, friends or community groups can quickly have a positive impact on mental and physical health.

2. Practice self-care: Getting regular exercise, practicing gratitude and getting enough sleep are all forms of self-care that can improve mental health. Check out the National Institute of Mental Health’s resources, which include ideas for better understanding what causes your symptoms and what coping techniques might help you manage your mental health.

3. Know the signs: Feelings of hopelessness or irritability, loss of interest in hobbies and activities, and decreased energy or appetite can all be signs of depression. If you are experiencing signs of a mental health condition, speak to your primary care physician or a psychiatrist.

Be aware of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a national hotline available 24/7. Anyone experiencing a suicidal, substance use or

mental health crisis can call or text 988 to speak to trained crisis counselors.

4. Get screened: It’s estimated that since April 2020, 3.9 million breast cancer, 3.8 million colorectal cancer and 1.6 million prostate cancer diagnoses may have been missed due to pandemic-related care disruptions. If you’re due for preventive care, tests or screenings, make an appointment.

5. Don’t wait: An estimated 41% of adults with one or more chronic health conditions reported delaying or forgoing health care since

the pandemic started. Additionally, one in three of those adults reported that doing so worsened one or more of their health conditions or limited their ability to work or perform other daily activities.

Whether you have a chronic health condition or not, don’t wait until something is wrong before seeing a doctor. If something does feel off, schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

6. Get vaccinated: Adolescents and adult immunizations sharply declined during the pandemic and an estimated 26 million recommended vaccinations were missed in 2020 as compared to 2019. Make sure your family is up-to-date on vaccines, including the annual influenza vaccine and the bivalent

COVID-19 vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. Your doctor can let you know if you’re due for a COVID booster. If you have questions, consult your physician and trusted resources, including getvaccineanswers.org.

7. Know your numbers: Track health data such as height, weight, body mass index and blood pressure in order to share trends with your doctor and take action if needed. Visit ManageYourBP.org to understand what your blood pressure numbers mean and how to get your blood pressure under control. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects millions of Americans and can increase heart attack and stroke risk.

For more tips and information, visit http://www.ama-assn.org.

“It’s vitally important to prioritize mental and physical health. Contact your health care professional to schedule the care you need to keep you and your family healthy,” says Dr. Resneck. (StatePoint)

Educating School Districts About The Importance Of Clean Transportation

Although most school districts have implemented technology that makes it easy to connect with teachers, you may still wonder how to create dialogue within your district about larger scale issues than your child’s homework assignments.

One example is sustainability, which is an issue many parents feel strongly about.

Opening conversations with leaders in the school district can result in many kinds of eco-friendly changes, such as a greater commitment to recycling and teaching kids about the importance of protecting the environment.

Transportation is another area where districts can make more sustainable choices, which can also save money over time.

Most of the school buses on the road today run on diesel, which is known to cause respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis.

There are two primary energy alternatives to diesel for clean stu-

dent transportation: propane and electric. While both can achieve clean transportation, the cost to do so is not equal.

Propane is a fraction of the cost for the initial bus purchase and infrastructure is affordable, scalable and available in communities across the country.

What’s more, propane has a range of 400 miles, allowing a sizable vehicle like a bus to reliably travel long distances without stopping to refuel.

If you’d like to talk with your

school district about reducing emissions in your community and saving money for your district’s budget, consider these tips:

Compile Information to Share

Your concerns are more likely to attract attention if you collect meaningful details and data to support your request.

In addition to statistics and research that explain why your school district should reconsider traditional diesel transportation, you might also gather information on the dis-

trict’s transportation expenses.

You can make your points more relevant by learning about how other districts in your area are making sustainable choices like choosing propane buses.

Write a Letter to District Officials

Once you thoroughly research and organize the details most relevant to your community, you can begin to share it with others.

One important step is a letter to the school district that documents your concerns and conveys the importance of clean, safe, healthy transportation for children.

The key is to not only spell out the harm being caused, but also to provide a viable solution.

Educate District Officials

Once you’ve gone on record with a letter, you can work to educate leaders in the school district about clean energy buses.

Often, a school board meeting is the most efficient way to open this dialogue because you can address

the entire board at once.

An added benefit is other members of the community who are deeply interested in school operations are likely to attend, and reporters covering the school district may also hear and report on your information, which can spread word to the larger community.

Call a Parent-Teacher Meeting

Working together, parents and teachers have a strong voice within the school system.

A meeting among like-minded parents and teachers can be a forum for you to collectively develop a strategy for gathering further support for your cause, educating about the importance of the issue and ultimately driving change for your community.

Visit BetterOurBuses.com to find resources to talk to your school district about important matters like switching to propane school buses. (Family Features)

Advocating For Mental Health As A Universal Child Right

Mental health and psychological well-being are essential for children, adolescents and communities to thrive.

With crises in locations such as Ukraine, Syria, Turkey and Afghanistan, the mental health and well-being of children and young people around the world are causes for concern.

Globally, more than 1 in 7 adolescents ages 10-19 live with mental health conditions, according to UNICEF.

Children and youth globally, including those in the United States, face challenges bridging the gap in terms of mental health needs and proper access to quality services.

The COVID-19 pandemic coupled with school closures and disruptions in learning impacted nearly

1.6 billion children globally. Anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions actively threaten children’s ability to be healthy and happy. Addressing key mental

health and psychosocial issues to support their development can allow them to meaningfully participate in society.

Together, UNICEF and UNICEF USA are advocating on a local, national and global scale to provide children with the tools they need to support mental health.

On a global level, the organizations are calling on Congress to pass the Mental Health in International Development and Humanitarian Settings (MINDS) Act, the first federal legislation that addresses mental health and

psychosocial support through U.S. foreign assistance.

It focuses primarily on populations with increased risk factors for developing mental health disorders including children and caretakers in crisis-affected communities, gender-based violence survivors, displaced populations and more.

Raising awareness, engaging youth and sharing resources to support parents, adolescents and children are core ways to address the current state of global mental health.

To learn more about how you can support these efforts and call on elected officials to prioritize mental health services for children and caregivers in U.S. foreign assistance, visit act.unicefusa.org/ MINDSAct or text “MINDS” to 52886. (Family Features)

3 Ways Seniors Can Redefine Retirement Through Community Connection

This time of year always provides plenty to celebrate and commemorate with the warmer weather and longer days.

May is also Older Americans Month, a time for celebrating the contributions that older adults make in our country from coast to coast. This year’s theme, “Aging Unbound,” promotes the independence, fulfillment and joy older Americans can experience by choosing their own paths as they age.

Instead of letting age define their circumstances, older Americans are embracing change, pushing boundaries and transforming their communities through creativity, commitment and service.

As a first stop for anyone looking

to explore volunteer opportunities, AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors connect individuals and organizations through service and volunteering. AmeriCorps Seniors matches Americans 55-plus with opportunities to improve their communities through the contribution of time, passion, skills and experience.

“AmeriCorps Seniors is tailor-

made for those aged 55 and older,” said Atalaya Sergi, director, AmeriCorps Seniors. “It provides a space for older adults to take charge of their ‘second act’ and use their time in valuable and impactful ways. All of our volunteers share a goal of making a difference in their communities, and many see their involvement as a chance to make friends and form meaningful connections.”

More than 140,000 Americans are matched with volunteer opportuni-

ties each year through three programs: RSVP, the Foster Grandparent Program and the Senior Companion Program.

Consider these ways older adults can get involved in their communities.

Respond to the Needs of Your Community

With more than 115,000 volunteers, RSVP is the largest of the programs. The program partners with national, state and local organizations to offer volunteers a wide range of service opportunities, from building houses to delivering food.

“All the people you meet when you’re a volunteer tell you their stories and experiences,” said Srini Srinivas, a volunteer serving with

5 Natural Wound Care Solutions

Many people look for natural products with “clean” ingredients, especially in the food, beverage, skin care and beauty categories. In fact, the market for clean label ingredients is projected to reach $64.1 billion by 2026, according to Allied Market Research. For many common ailments or minor injuries, there’s a natural treatment that can be used in place of hardto-pronounce ingredients and preservatives.

“This same kind of clean ingredient demand is migrating to the first-aid space with many of these natural alternatives being used to treat anything from scrapes and bug bites to wound odor and pulled or sore muscles,” said Dr. Billy Goldberg, a “New York Times” best-selling authorand emergency room physician. “In fact, some companies are beginning to incorporate these kinds of natural and efficacious ingredients right into their products.”

Goldberg and the first-aid experts at CURAD, which have made adhesive bandages since 1951, offer these suggestions for natural ingredients you can use at home to treat common ailments:

Epsom Salt - Named for a bitter

saline spring at Epsom in Surrey, England, Epsom salt is not actually salt but a naturally occurring mineral compound of magnesium sulfate. Long known as a natural remedy for several ailments, Epsom salt can be used to relax muscles and relieve pain in the shoulders, neck and back. It can also be applied to sunburns or dissolved in the bath to help relieve sore muscles or detox.

Aloe Vera - Few things soothe sunburn like aloe vera. With analgesic, anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that ease the healing process, aloe vera gel contains phytochemicals that help reduce pain and inflammation. Also helpful in the healing process of cuts

and scrapes, the CURAD Naturals line of adhesive bandages are infused with aloe vera in the wound pad and surface of the bandage, which is enriched with the antioxidant vitamin E to help soothe and moisturize skin.

Hydrogen Peroxide - A mild antiseptic that can be used to prevent infection of minor cuts, scrapes and burns, hydrogen peroxide is often used for the initial cleaning of wounds. Simply apply a small amount on the affected area - alternating with water to avoid killing good bacteria - to help release oxygen, which causes foaming that aids in cleaning and the removal of dead skin.

the RSVP program. “You find that very rewarding and it enriches your life. Doing this service is a way of paying it forward.”

Serve as Mentors

For older adults interested in working with children, the Foster Grandparent Program pairs volunteers with local schools and other programs focused on children, caring for and working with classes, groups or individual students.

“My motto is, ‘There is never a never, you can always accomplish something.’ I’m here to help the kids learn, be there for them and teach them as much as I can,” said Priscilla Tsethlikai, a volunteer since 2016. “They’re teaching me, and at the same time, I’m teaching them.”

Provide a Helping Hand to Other Older Adults

Baking Soda - Bicarbonate of soda, commonly known as baking soda, can be used for more than baking. From removing stains to cleaning teeth and more, it can also be used to help treat a variety of wounds. In addition to being an odor absorber, it can be applied to insect stings and bites, such as those from bees or mosquitoes.

Whether making a paste using baking soda and water then applying to the bite or using an option like CURAD Naturals adhesive bandages featuring baking soda, the chemical compound can help soothe the skin. In addition to absorbing wound odor, the bandages provide skin-friendly comfort and stretch with a four-sided seal to keep dirt and germs out.

Manuka Honey - A honey native to New Zealand, manuka honey contains methylglyoxal as an active ingredient and has unique antibacterial properties that speed healing and help prevent and fight infections when applied as a topical wound treatment. It may also help soothe coughs and sore throats, prevent tooth decay and improve digestive issues. Learn more about natural first-aid products at CURAD.com. (Family Features)

Fostering relationships with other older adults is also a rewarding, and needed, option. Volunteers serving with the Senior Companion Program give about 20 hours each week and spend time with older adults in need of companionship or help with day-to-day tasks such as grocery shopping, getting to appointments or paying bills.

“Volunteering has changed me, it keeps me grounded,” volunteer Carmen Swanson said. “When you help others and do for others, you enrich your life. My favorite part is being available and of service to them. Whatever their desire is, whatever they’d like to achieveif I can execute the task, follow it through and accomplish it then it makes my day.”

While it may mean different things to different people, this year’s Older Americans Month theme of “Aging Unbound” provides one overarching sentiment: growing older can and should be empowering.

For more information, and to find volunteer opportunities near you, visit AmeriCorps.gov/YourMoment. (Family Features)

Social Media Is Harming The ‘Well-Being Of Our Children’

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In a conversation with TIME, Murthy discusses how parents, policy makers, researchers, and technology companies can and should come together to make social media platforms safer for children. (This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.)

Since becoming Surgeon General, I have focused primarily on mental health and well-being, which I see as the defining public health crisis of our time.

And youth are a point of concern. As I traveled around the country and talked to families about mental-health concerns, the No. 1 question I get from parents is about social media: “Is social media safe for my kids?” And many kids raise the same concerns. At roundtables I’ve had with middle-school students, high-school students, and college students, they often proactively bring up social media.

The three things they have told me most consistently are: 1. That social media of-

ten made them feel worse about themselves; 2. That it made them feel worse about their friendships; and 3. That they couldn’t get off of it. As one student told me, “I feel great during the day, then take out my phone and get on social media and see all of these people doing things without me, or accomplishing incredible things—having incredible bodies and living incredible lives—and suddenly I feel worse about myself.” It’s a common theme.

The reason I issued the advisory is to answer the question that so many parents have been posing to me about social media.

What does your report conclude about social media and youth mental health?

After putting together the available data, which involved going through publicly available research and looking at published data as well as consulting independent experts, our conclusions are, first, that there isn’t enough data to say that social media platforms are safe for kids, and, second, that there is growing evidence that social media use is associated with harms.

Do policy makers and technology companies have a responsibility to ensure that their platforms are safe for children?

I 100% see this as a responsibility for policy makers and technology companies. Any company that produces a product consumed by kids has a fundamental responsibility to ensure it is safe for children—that it helps and not harms them.

We don’t ask parents to inspect the brakes on cars that children will ride in, or the ingredients in medications that children use, or ask them to conduct chemical analyses of the paint used in toys made for children to make sure that they are safe. We set standards and enforce them—that’s usually done by government—to make sure that manufacturers meet them.

That’s what is missing here. We can’t have technology companies set their own standards; we don’t do that in any other sectors where kids’ well-being is at stake. But that’s largely what has been happening over the past 20 years.

What are some specific standards that policy

Preparing Your Children For Kindergarten

Being ready for kindergarten is about far more than writing names and reciting the ABCs. It is also about building a foundation for deeper conceptual thinking, curiosity, creativity and social and emotional skills that can help children during their early school days and also in life.

For parents, this transition can be nervewracking and raise questions about how to best prepare their children for the next step in their educational journeys.

Dr. Lauren Starnes, senior vice president and chief academic officer at The Goddard School, and Lee Scott, chairperson of The Goddard School’s Educational Advisory Board, recommend helping children prepare for kindergarten through:

Building Strong Routines and Foundations for Learning:

1. Language and literacy: Practice writing by making place cards for the dinner table. For younger children, it can be the first letter of each person’s name or fun scribbles on the card. Early scribbles are part of developing writing skills.

2. Mathematics: Count while you work. Ask your children to put away toys. As they work, you can count the toys together.

3. Science: Make yard cleanup fun. As you clean the yard, talk about the leaves and why they turn colors and fall to the ground. Pile them up and jump in.

4. Executive function: Incorporate your children in planning for the family. Help your children stay organized with a daily or weekly chart. Have your children make the chart with you. For younger children, you can use drawings or pictures instead of words.

5. Creative expression: Sing and dance while you work. Make up songs or repeat favorites as your children go through a few basic chores such as putting clothes away.

6. Social-emotional development: Build a sense of responsibility and caring for others with real or pretend pets. Take the dog for a walk, feed the cat or water the pet rock. Taking care of a pet can help children develop a sense of responsibility and empathy for others.

7. Healthy development and well-being:

Daily routines help your children practice fine motor skills while doing a few chores, such as setting a table, helping you cook by mixing or stirring, putting their clothes on or brushing their teeth.

Incorporating Playful Experiences:

1. Puzzles: Solving puzzles supports the development of skills such as concentration, self-regulation, critical thinking and spatial recognition.

2. Board games: Playing games provides a number of benefits for children, including supporting memory and critical thinking, helping them learn to take turns and count, and developing early language skills.

3. Blocks: Block building supports creativity, cognitive flexibility, planning and organization. Take some time to build with blocks using different shapes and colors.

4. Clay: Children need to develop fine motor skills beyond using devices. Few things are better for developing fine motor skills than modeling clay. Learning to sculpt with clay also builds creativity, artistic expression and strategic thinking.

5. Recycled materials: Inspire creativity by finding things around the house to build with, such as cardboard, paper, paper towel rolls and plastic bottles.(Family Features)

makers can set for social media use among children?

We need to strengthen protections for kids through safety standards, especially by protecting kids from exposure to harmful content. Too many kids are exposed to sexual and violent content, as well as harassment and abuse online. That should not be happening.

We can take a page out of safety standards applied to other products for children, and should include standards around age. While 13 is the commonly used age many platforms use to allow users to join, we should keep in mind two things. First, it’s terribly enforced, because 40% of eight to 12 years olds are on social media. Second, 13 [years old] did not come from a health assessment that looked at what appropriate age kids should be on social media. It came from COPPA [Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule], a law that restricted the age under which data could not be collected and shared. We need to understand what appropriate age a child should start using these platforms.

Are there data to inform at what age children can safely start using social media?

That’s another thing that standards set by policy makers can do: ensure that technology companies share data that’s relevant from their platforms. I hear from researchers all the time who are not able to get full access to the data they need to fully understand the impact platforms are having on children. As a parent myself, I don’t want to feel that there is information that is hidden from me about the impact products my kids are using may have on their mental health and wellbeing.

Should standards also include restrictions on certain types of content for younger users? Effective standards would protect kids from harmful content. And these standards not only need to be set but need to be enforced. It’s important for parents and kids to be at the table to help inform how these standards are shaped.

These platforms have been designed to maximize how much time kids are spending on them. One thing new standards can do is to minimize the features that lead to excessive use, especially among younger children.

I acknowledge that companies are trying to take steps to make platforms safer, but it’s really not sufficient. Time matters. Children only have one childhood, and every day, every month, every year matters in the life and development of a child.

Kali Mandir In Kalighat

Kali Mandir, also known as the Kalighat Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali. It is located in the Kalighat neighborhood of Kolkata, West Bengal, India. The temple is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in India, and is visited by millions of people each year.

The temple was founded in the 16th century by Raja Krishnachandra, the king of the Kingdom of Nadia. The temple was originally built on the banks of the Hooghly River, but it was later moved to its current location. The temple has been rebuilt several times over the centuries, and the current structure dates back to the 19th century.

The temple is a large and elaborate structure, with a high roof and a large courtyard. The main shrine of the temple is dedicated to the goddess Kali. The image of Kali in the shrine is a black stone sculpture, which is about 6 feet tall. The image of Kali is depicted as a fierce warrior, with a sword in one hand and a severed head in the other. The temple is open to the public from early morning to late evening. The temple is a

popular tourist destination, and it is also a place of worship for many Hindus. The temple is a major center of religious activity, and it is a place where people come to pray, to seek blessings, and to make offerings to the goddess Kali.

The Kalighat Temple is a significant cultural and religious landmark in India. It is a place of great beauty and spiritual significance, and it is a popular destination for people

from all over the world.

Here are some additional facts about Kali Mandir:

• The temple is located in the Kalighat neighborhood of Kolkata, West Bengal, India.

• The temple was founded in the 16th century by Raja Krishnachandra, the king of the Kingdom of Nadia.

• The temple has been rebuilt several times over the centuries, and the current structure dates back to the 19th century.

• The temple is a large and elaborate structure, with a high roof and a large courtyard.

• The main shrine of the temple is dedicated to the goddess Kali.

• The image of Kali in the shrine is a black stone sculpture, which is about 6 feet tall.

• The image of Kali is depicted as a fierce warrior, with a sword in one hand and a severed head in the other.

• The temple is open to the public from early morning to late evening.

• The temple is a popular tourist destination, and it is also a place of worship for many Hindus.

• The temple is a major center of religious activity, and it is a place where people come to pray, to seek blessings, and to make offerings to the goddess Kali.

If you are ever in Kolkata, be sure to visit the Kalighat Temple. It is a truly awe-inspiring sight, and it is a place where you can experience the rich culture and history of India.

The Special 75 Rupee Coin

Image of the Parliament complex

“Sansad Sankul” in Devanagari script on the upper periphery

“Parliament Complex” in English on the lower periphery

3. Its diameter measures 44 millimetres. The edges of the coin will be embellished with 200 serrations, adding a distinctive touch to its design.

The Ministry of Finance is going to launch a special ₹75 coin to commemorate the opening of India’s new Parliament Building in New Delhi. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unveil the new coin on Sunday, May 28, 2023.

The coin is being minted by the center as a tribute to India’s 75th anniversary of independence. Here is everything you need to know about the special new 75-rupee coin:

1. The face of the special coin will bear the engraving of the new Par-

liament Complex.

2. The 75-rupee coin will feature these on its obverse Side:

Lion Capital of the Ashoka Pillar

“Satyamev Jayate” inscription below

“Bharat” in Devanagari script on the left

“India” in English on the right Rupee symbol and denomination value of 75 below the Lion Capital

2. The coin will feature these on its reverse side:

4. Weighing a total of 35 grams, it will be crafted using a four-part alloy composition.

5. The alloy composition will consist of 50% silver, 40% copper, 5% nickel, and 5% zinc.

6. The 35-gram coin will adhere to the guidelines outlined in First Schedule of the Indian Constitution.

The new Parliament Building of India will be inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi on Sunday, May

28, 2023. More than 25 parties are expected to participate in the opening ceremony, whereas over 20 have opposed the ceremony.

What Does The End Of The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Meant For You?

The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency expired on May 11, 2023.

Public health emergencies allow the government to spend money quickly on research, public health costs, vaccines, testing, and food benefits.

The end of the public health emergency does not mean that COVID-19 is no longer a threat.

Austin Public Health (APH) will continue to offer COVID-19 vaccines through the Shots for Tots and Big Shots clinics as well as the Mobile Vaccination Program’s

community events.

At-home COVID-19 test kits are available at APH Neighborhood Centers while supplies last.

Austin Public Health is finalizing updated COVID-19 dashboards to be in alignment with the Centers for Disease Control and Preven-

tion (CDC) and Texas Department of State Health Services, and to address changes or elimination of federal or state COVID-19 metrics.

A preview of the dashboard can be seen below. Previous dashboards have been archived and the data can be found in the COVID-19 data hub.

Wastewater surveillance of COVID-19 in Travis County can be viewed on the CDC’s National Wastewater Surveillance System’s data tracker.

Medicaid recipients will no longer be automatically re-enrolled for Medicaid each year but will have to prove they are eligible to keep using Medicaid health insurance.

Texas Health and Human Services shared guidance on ensuring Medicaid coverage.

To learn more, read the End of Continuous Medicaid Coverage FAQ (PDF).

Those who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to buy food will receive less money. Many households started seeing a reduction in March of this year.

To offset reductions in benefits, households should update their information as soon as possible about medical, housing, child or disabled adult care costs.

They can make these updates by visiting YourTexasBenefits.com, calling 2-1-1 and selecting option 2 to update their information, or finding their local HHSC benefits office and visiting in person.

Vasundhara Varadarajan

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.

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 name Cochin implies “cochin”, meaning “like-China”. It looked like China when the Chinese came to the region during the 14th century and installed Chinese nets. 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 Rajah 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 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 con-

trol 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.

Birbal’s Guru

that of a Brahmin and made him sit on the pedestal of a big temple and directed him to remain silent under all circumstances.

When Birbal brought Akbar to meet the monk, Akbar decided to test the monk and lure him with gold.

But following Birbal’s directions, the monk paid no heed to Akbar’s repeated offers and continued to meditate.

When Akbar’s guru paid him a visit from Mecca for a few days, it starts to intrigue Akbar to find out the details of Birbal’s guru who has tutored such a wise person.

So when he questioned Birbal about his master’s whereabouts, Birbal informed him that his guru always remained silent and never goes out. Akbar insisted Birbal to

introduce him to his guru.

On the way back, Birbal saw a humble woodcutter and pleased by him, Birbal converted his attire to

Angrily Akbar left the monk alone thinking him to be a fool. Among the many Akbar Birbal stories for kids, this one happens to be their favorite.

Rs.2000 Notes Withdrawal

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The note was intended to help meet the increased demand for cash that arose in the wake of demonetization.

However, the RBI has since said that the ₹2000 note is no longer needed, as there is now a sufficient supply of lower denomination banknotes in circulation.

The withdrawal of the ₹2000 banknote will take effect on September 30, 2023. After that date, the ₹2000 note will no longer be legal tender.

People who have ₹2000 notes in their possession will be able to deposit them in banks or exchange them for lower denomination banknotes until the deadline.

The RBI has said that it expects most of the ₹2000 notes to be de-

posited in banks or exchanged for lower denomination banknotes

The withdrawal of the ₹2000 banknote is likely to have a limited

lead to some short-term disruption, as people may need to adjust to using lower denomination banknotes.

Overall, the withdrawal of the ₹2000 banknote is a positive step towards rationalizing the currency structure and improving the availability of lower denomination banknotes.

The move is likely to have a limited impact on the economy, and it is expected to be completed smoothly.

demonetization. The RBI has since said that the note was not properly planned, and that it has led to some problems, such as making it easier for people to carry large amounts of cash.

• The ₹2000 banknote is not very popular with the public. Many people find it difficult to use, and it is often counterfeited.

• The ₹2000 banknote is not needed. There is now a sufficient supply of lower denomination banknotes in circulation.

before the deadline. However, the RBI has also said that it will be able to handle any notes that are not deposited or exchanged.

impact on the economy. The note accounts for only about a tenth of the total currency in circulation.

However, the withdrawal could

Here are some of the key reasons why the RBI decided to withdraw the ₹2000 banknote:

• The ₹2000 banknote was introduced in a hurry in the wake of

The withdrawal of the ₹2000 banknote is a positive step towards improving the efficiency of the Indian currency system.

It is expected to make it easier for people to use cash, and it will make it more difficult for people to carry large amounts of cash.

About Consciousness

We also know that consciousness is not limited to humans. Many other animals, such as dogs, cats, and primates, are also conscious.

Consciousness is important for many reasons. It allows us to make sense of the world around us, to experience emotions, to make choices, to create meaning, and to connect with others. Consciousness is a fundamental part of what it means to be alive, and it is something that we should all cherish.

Here are some additional thoughts about consciousness:

changes over time. As we learn and grow, our consciousness changes as well. We become more aware of the world around us and of ourselves.

• Consciousness is not limited to humans. Many other animals, such as dogs, cats, and primates, are also conscious. They are aware of their surroundings and they can experience emotions.

Consciousness is the state of being aware of and responsive to one’s surroundings. It is the ability to think, feel, and experience the world around us. Consciousness is a complex and fascinating phenomenon that has been studied by philosophers and scientists for centuries.

There are many different theories

about what consciousness is and how it arises. Some theories focus on the physical basis of consciousness, while others focus on the mental or cognitive aspects of consciousness.

There is no single theory that is universally accepted, and the debate about consciousness is likely

to continue for many years to come.

Despite the lack of a definitive answer, there are some things that we do know about consciousness. We know that it is a subjective experience, meaning that it is something that can only be experienced from the inside.

• Consciousness is not just a matter of being aware of our surroundings. It is also about being aware of ourselves. We are aware of our own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This allows us to have a sense of self and to make choices about our lives.

• Consciousness is not static. It

• Consciousness is a mystery. We do not fully understand how it arises or what its purpose is. However, we do know that it is a fundamental part of what it means to be alive. I hope this article has given you some insights into the nature of consciousness. It is a fascinating and complex topic, and there is still much that we do not know.

However, I believe that consciousness is one of the most important things about being human. It allows us to experience the world in all its richness and to connect with others on a deep level.

Planning A California Road Trip Adventure

With near-endless sunshine, worldclass theme parks and abundant outdoor experiences, California is an ideal destination to embark on an unforgettable adventure.

To make it easy for travelers to plan their trips, the 2023 California Road Trips guide includes 13 action-packed itineraries that begin and end at one of the state’s 27 commercial airports, highlighting how easy it is to fly into any region of the Golden State and hit the road.

“California’s natural beauty, diverse topography and culturally rich communities are the perfect backdrop for an epic road trip experience,” said Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California, a nonprofit organization that partners with the state’s travel industry to develop and maintain marketing programs that keep California top-of-mind as a premier travel destination.

“This year’s guide showcases how

the state’s vast network of international and regional airports provide travelers with convenient access to every corner of the California Road Trip Republic.”

The guide’s cover star, Dwyane Wade, a threetime NBA champion, dad and owner of Napa Valley winery Wade Cellars, moved

to Los Angeles after his retirement in 2019.

Wade said California granted him a soulful landscape and muchneeded quiet time. “I like to find moments where no one can expect anything of me and California allows me to have those moments,” Wade said. “I’ll drive to the beach and walk next to the water. I’ll drive all over to find those moments to connect with myself... I get my energy from that.”

While California’s world-renowned coastline provides a dramatic backdrop, adventures can be found in every region of the Golden State.

Featured drives take travelers to both cities and classic small towns, family attractions and far-reaching, otherworldly landscapes. A few sample road trip itineraries include:

* “Animals, Desert and Offbeat Art” combines kid-friendly experiences like LEGOLAND California and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park with the rich arts culture and stargazing opportunities in Borrego

Springs.

* “Cactus and Cocktails” explore both the cosmopolitan pleasures of Palm Springs and the rugged sceneries of Joshua Tree National Park and the Mojave National Preserve.

* “National Park Adventures” is a 412-mile adventure that begins at Fresno Yosemite Airport and explores the wonders of Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

* “Road to Gold” is a four-day trek that begins in Sacramento, explores Lake Tahoe and meanders back through Gold Country with photo opportunities at every turn.

* “Innovation and Agricultural Bounty” features a San Jose-based itinerary that showcases cuttingedge arts, charming seaside villages and bountiful farmlands on a 238-mile journey.

To order a guide, go to VisitCalifornia.com/Travel-Guides. (Family Features)

Keeping A Promise To The Area School Districts

Edited by Lakshmi Kondubhatla

It is an annual tradition for Hindu Charities for America (HC4A) to kick off the summer with Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt (BMBB), a joint event with Jewish Community Center.

At BMBB, they celebrate the power of various cultures through dance while also raising money for school supplies for their annual backpacking event.

HC4A provides school supplies to economically disadvantaged children by partnering with the local school districts of Manor, Austin and Del Valle.

In addition, they provide school supplies to other organizations such as Share the Will Foundation, Greater Love Baptist Church, Dow Spring Proud and Asian Families Support Services of Austin.

This year, they will also be sup-

porting the African American Youth Harvest Foundation that strives to enhance the quality of life for African American and lowincome youth and families in the Austin area.

Unfortunately, due to logistical reasons, HC4A had to cancel this annual opportunity to empower young children with education.

“Do you know how heartbreaking it is to tell the schools that we’ve been serving for 12 years that we cannot provide the school supplies and support [the students]?” Harish Kotecha said.

However, the tide turned when a few key supporters and donors encouraged the board to not back down and continue pursuing donations.

An email plea to the donors allowed people to open up their hearts, and HC4A quickly raised the needed money to provide school supplies

to 1,400 underprivileged children this year!

“It was a joyous moment to call back these schools and convey to them that we are indeed able to provide school supplies, “ Kotecha said. “It was the satisfaction you get from keeping a promise.”

Two notable sponsors that played an indispensable role in resuming the backpacking event were Sai Charities of Austin and D.M. Pest Control.

Sai Charities of Austin that supports the education and nourishment of disadvantaged kids, both in the Austin community and in India.

This organization works closely with LISD to support the backpack food program at various schools, which provides packaged food items to low-income kids for the weekends.

School supplies are also provided annually both at LISD Schools and through Hindu Charities for America.

Each year they provide four scholarships at Austin Community College, which provides a two-year degree to single mothers and a means to support their families.

D.M. Pest Control, which has sponsored HC4A events and provided services through silent auction, is a family owned & operated business that has been serving the

Central Texas area for over 25 years.

They provide a healthy and safe means to maintain a pest-free environment in homes and businesses.

The school supplies packing event on August 6th at 1:00 pm at Shalom Austin (JCC), 7300 Hart Lane, Austin, TX 78731.

More information will be available on our website with volunteering opportunities.

THEME: AT THE MOVIES

ACROSS

1. Mother Earth, to Ancient Greeks

5. Barrel, unit

8. Foot the bill

11. Quiet time

12. Nemo’s forgetful friend

13. Horace’s poem

15. One thing on a list

16. Ophthamologist’s check-up, e.g.

17. Range of hills in England, pl.

18. *Ticket booth (2 words)

20. “Odyssey,” e.g.

21. Biased perspective

22. Azog or Bolg in Tolkien’s Moria

23. *Siskel or Ebert

26. To the degree

30. Brick and mortar carrier

31. Governing authority

34. Key component of a loan

35. Highly skilled

37. E in CE or BCE

38. “____ ____ a high note”

39. End of the line

40. Like certain yellowish hair color

42. Compass bearing

43. Ambled

45. Warhol or Samberg, formally 47. Churchill’s sign

48. Anna Wintour’s magazine

50. “Heat of the Moment” band 52. *Like some seats 56. More slippery

57. Initial bet in poker

58. Popular dunking cookie

59. “Little ____ fact”

60. Simon and Gurfunkel, e.g. 61. *Sentimental movie, or ____-jerker 62. Literary “even”

63. *Shooting

DOWN

1. Not intellectually deep

2. ____pilot

3. Holly family

4. *Kate Hudson’s “____ Famous” (2000)

5. Put someone in a bind (2 words)

6. Modified leaf

7. Tick-born disease

8. Ralph Lauren’s inspiration

9. Puts two and two together

10. “Owner of a Lonely Heart” band

12. Vandalize

13. Pitchers

14. *Tub contents

19. Behave like a coquette

22. Comes before first Mississippi

23. Bracelet add-on

24. Barrel racing meet

25. Think tank output, pl.

26. *Widescreen cinematography abbreviation 27. Dimmer, e.g.

Do penance

Importance Of Credit Score Awareness For Young People

(Continued From Page 01) Before you come into the first posture, find an easy seat and give yourself time to consciously unplug from the events of your workday. Close your eyes and take a few slow and deep breath cycles to disconnect and reset your mind. Young people are often not aware of the importance of their credit score, but it is something that they should start thinking about early on. Here are a few reasons why young people should be concerned about their credit score:

• A good credit score can help you get approved for loans and credit cards. When you apply for a loan or credit card, lenders will look at your credit score to determine your risk. A good credit score will show lenders that you are a responsible borrower and that you are likely to repay your debts on time. This can make it more likely that you will be approved for the loan or credit card that you want.

• A good credit score can help you get lower interest rates. Lenders charge different interest rates to borrowers based on their credit scores. A good credit score will qualify you for lower interest rates, which can save you money over the life of the loan.

• A good credit score can help you qualify for better deals on insurance. Some insurance companies offer lower rates to borrowers with good credit scores. This can save you money on your car insurance, homeowners insurance, and other types of insurance.

• A good credit score can help you get a job. Some employers use credit scores as part of their hiring process. A good credit score can show employers that you are a responsible person and that you are likely to be a good employee. There are a few things that young people can do to start building a good credit score:

• Open a credit card and use it responsibly. The best way to start building a credit history is to open a credit card and use it responsibly. Make sure to pay your bill on time every month and keep your credit utilization low.

• Pay your bills on time. One of the most important factors in your credit score is your payment history. Make sure to pay all of your bills on time, including your credit card bills, car loan payments, and student loan payments.

• Keep your credit utilization low. Credit utilization is the amount of credit that you are using compared to the amount of credit that you have available. A good rule of thumb is to keep your credit utilization below 30%.

• Check your credit report for errors. Your credit report is a document that contains information about your credit history. It is im-

May 2023 Sudoku Answer

portant to check your credit report for errors at least once a year. If you find any errors, dispute them with the credit bureaus.

Building a good credit score takes time and effort, but it is worth it. A good credit score can help you save

money on loans and credit cards, qualify for better deals on insurance, and get a job.

If you are a young person, start building your credit score today. It is one of the best things that you can do for your financial future.

11 Yoga Poses To Stretch Out

(Continued From Page 06)

Anjaneyasana (Low Lunge With Locust Arms)

Why it helps: In a lunge, your back leg is in hip extension, which is a great way to counter the prolonged flexion of the hips that occurs when we sit for extended periods. The arm variation opens up your chest and upper back as well.

How to: From Downward-Facing Dog, step your right foot forward between your hands. Take care to slide your foot forward enough so your ankle lines up beneath your knee.

Lower your left knee down and untuck your toes. Slowly breathe in and sweep your arms overhead, and as you breathe out let your arms drape alongside your body. Interlace your fingers behind your back with your right thumb on top. If it’s difficult to touch your hands, use a strap, scarf, or towel to bridge the gap.

High Lunge with Cactus Arms

Why it helps: This strengthening version of a lunge also stretches the hip flexors. The arm variation opens the shoulders and provides a different backbend to release your chest after a day of hunching forward.

How to: Similar to the last pose, from Downward-Facing Dog Pose, step your right foot forward between your hands. Take care that your forward ankle lines up beneath your knee and keep your back knee raised. Inhale and sweep your arms overhead. Exhale and bend your elbows 90 degrees.

Take a moment to soften your back knee slightly so that you can move your pubic bone forward and recruit the low belly muscles.

Mr Venkata Rao

Tirupathi

Mr. Yudhveer Bagga

Mr Rishikasri Akurathi

Mrs Swarnalatha Srikanth

Press down through both feet for stability. Take a breath in and lift your chest as you slide your knuckles down your back leg. As you exhale, remain here and notice the sensations of opening your left hip and your upper chest. Keep the inner and outer corners of your eyes soft to create ease in moments of challenge.

To come out, release your hands and, as you inhale, sweep your arms overhead. As you exhale, release your hands to the mat to frame your front foot and step back to Downward-Facing Dog. Repeat on your left side.

Straighten the back leg any amount while keeping the engagement of the lower belly and the length you created in your lower back. Lift your chest and lean back to let your heart fall into the support of your back body. Breathe easily into the shape for 5–10 breaths.

To come out, breathe in and stretch your arms up. As you breathe out, release your hands to the mat to frame your front foot and step back to Downward-Facing Dog. Repeat on the other side or first come to Virabhadrasana II (Warrior Pose II), which follows.

Virabhadrasana II (Warrior II Pose)

Why it helps: Warrior II is an important foundational pose that gives your body a chance to open the inseam of your legs as well as strengthen your quadriceps, back, and arms. (Continued On Page 25)

US India Chamber Of Commerce’s Austin Chapter Long Green Card Wait Time For India, Says US Official

The long and agonising wait for Green Cards for people from India, China, Mexico and the Philippines is mainly due to the countrybased quota system in its allocation which can be changed only by the US Congress, a senior official has said.

A Green Card, known officially as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued to immigrants to the US as evidence that the bearer has been granted the privilege of residing permanently.

Douglas Rand, the Senior Advisor to the director of United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), said the annual limit established by Congress on family-sponsored preference Green Cards is 2,26,000 for the whole world while the annual limit on employment-based Green Cards is 1,40,000.

ly been more than a decade and many a time the Visa wait time goes back by years.

“Suffice to say for now that it is about supply and demand. Congress has constrained supply. Demand continues to go up. Not just from India, but all over the world. When the demand for a particular Green Card category or a country within a category exceeds the supply of numbers available then that category and country are considered oversubscribed,” Rand said.

The State Department applies a cut-off date in the Visa bulletin to ensure that Visa use remains within those annual limits as well as the category and per country limits. The order of consideration is established by Congress.

(Continued From Page 01)

The day commenced with a vibrant photo session featuring lawmakers and members of the Asian community. Capturing the spirit of unity and solidarity, a video of the event was shared, spreading the enthusiasm beyond the Capitol’s north stairs.

Senate Assembly dedicated formal recognition to Asian American Pacific Islander Day. Lawmakers highlighted the invaluable contributions made by the AAPI community to the growth of Texas’s economy and society. Notable statistics showcasing the community’s impact were shared during the addresses. Distinguished speakers, including the House Speaker, the Texas Secretary of State, and the Land Commissioner, delivered inspiring speeches. This momentous event was made possible with the support of Senator Joan Huffman and Representative Angie Chen Button.

Chirag P. Shah, Secretary of the US India Chamber of Commerce Austin Chapter, said to the Austin South Asian the significance of local businesses in Austin having a voice and representation to address the challenges and concerns that affect the business and professional community in Texas.

Lawmakers acknowledged and celebrated AAPI achievements, eliciting cheers from the crowd. The lawmakers also discussed the significance of major Fortune 100 organizations relocating to Texas and emphasized the efforts required to seal business deals. They addressed policies aimed at fostering a fa-

vorable business environment in the state, showcasing Texas’s growth and its relevance to the global economy.

Amidst the empowering speeches and acknowledgments, attendees were treated to a captivating performance by the Korean folkdance team. Their enchanting presentation further enriched the cultural tapestry of the event, symbolizing the diversity and talent within the AAPI community.

The US India Chamber of Commerce’s Austin Chapter played a significant role during the celebration, meeting with various leaders at the Texas Capitol. The chamber’s presence highlighted the establishment of an Austin chapter, representing a significant milestone for the organization, which previously had a presence in Dallas.

Asian American Pacific Islander Day at the Texas Capitol served as a testament to the diversity, achievements, and cultural richness of the AAPI community.

It showcased the growing influence of organizations like the US India Chamber of Commerce’s Austin Chapter, bringing together like-minded individuals who strive to foster economic growth, promote cultural exchange, and enhance the overall well-being of the Asian American Pacific Islander community in Austin, TX.

On top of that, the per-country limit is set at seven per cent of the total annual familysponsored and employment-based preference limits, he told Indian Americans during a virtual town hall organized by the State Department on visa and consular issues.

“That means 25,620. That is why individuals from India, China, Mexico and the Phil-

“Retrogression means that due to the high demand for visas exceeding the statutory limits, visas are not available to all non-citizens who want them even if they’ve already filed an application for adjustment of status or otherwise for permanent residency,” he said.

Rand emphasized the US plans to continue improving the accuracy and comprehensiveness of its data on employment-based adjustment of status applications. “Our goal is to resume publishing regular inventory reports.” He noted that even when there is retrogression there are enduring benefits.

ippines typically face such long wait times than people from other countries,” Rand said in response to a question.

“There is demand for so many more than 25,620 Green Cards for both family and employment-based every year. Unfortunately, only Congress can change these annual limits. So our job is to do everything we can within these constraints to ensure that when those Green Card numbers are available, we make sure that they’re utilised each and every year,” Rand said.

For hundreds of thousands of Indian professionals, the wait for Green Card has current-

“So, somebody who had the opportunity to file for adjustment of status but who then sees their cutoff date retrogress, they’re still able to seek certain benefits. They can apply for employment authorization which is not tied to a particular employer. They can apply for advanced parole authorizing travel outside the United States,” the official said.

“Once that adjustment of status application has been pending for 180 days or more, they can port the underlying job opportunity to a new employer. Depending on the facts of the case, children who have also applied for adjustment of status might not age out. That individual is generally considered to be in a period of authorized stay while the application is pending,” Rand added. (Courtesy: https://m.tribuneindia.com/)

11 Yoga Poses To Stretch Out After You’ve Been Sitting All Day

(Continued From Page 23)

In addition, the external rotation of the front leg helps you increase mobility and flexibility in your hip joints.

How to: Come to standing, facing the long side of your mat with your feet parallel to the short edges of your mat. Stretch your arms straight out and face your palms toward the ground. Turn your right toes to point forward and bend your right knee. Line your right knee up over your ankle. Angle your left toes in at 15 degrees and press into the outside edge of that foot. Notice the stability this small adjustment creates for the foundation of your pose. Slide your tailbone down and lift up through the sides of your torso. Stack your shoulders over your hips and stretch your arms in opposite directions with a sense of purpose. Take your gaze softly forward to rest over your right forefinger. Take a breath in to broaden across the chest, breathe out to remain here.

To add a shoulder opener, turn your thumbs to face down as you bring your hands behind your back. Grab for opposite elbows (note which arm is on top) or connect your palms for prayer hands behind your back. Notice if your shoulders have slumped forward as if you are sitting at your desk. If so, give your shoulders a little more space by separating your prayer hands slightly or take your elbows out wider. Feel the shoulder blades knit together on the back body and counter the sensation of curling forward. Ease your focus back to your breath for 5–10 cycles.

Breathe in, straighten your front leg and reach your arms overhead. Breathe out and repeat this shape on the left side, switching which arm is on top if you grab opposite elbows. After both sides, come back to Downward-Facing Dog.

Salabhasana (Locust Pose)

Why it helps: This pose is so important for creating strength and stability along the entire backside of our bodies. It opposes the shape of sitting in a chair and thus helps us strengthen the muscles that are periodically neglected all day. To put sthria sukha into practice, we must create and restore a sense of equilibrium for our bodies through the movements we choose to make, which makes backbends a must.

How to: From Downward-Facing Dog, roll forward to Plank Pose and lower down to lay on your belly. Rest your hands underneath your shoulders. Breathe in and raise your head, chest, hands, and feet. Breathe out and

stretch your arms back and interlace fingers above your bum. If your hands do not connect easily, use a strap, scarf, or towel to bridge the gap, or keep your arms alongside your body. Point your toes and lift your thighs as you keep your pubic bone on your mat. Move your heart up and forward to feel a sense of spaciousness in your back body. Keep your soft gaze about a foot in front of the mat so that your neck is a natural extension of your spine. Breathe with ease here for 5–10 cycles. Release your hands on an exhale and lower your forehead and toes to your mat.

Ustrasana (Camel)

Why it helps: This pose not only physically counters the typical shape of sitting in a desk chair all day, but also gives us a chance to practice finding ease in the more stressful moments of our days. The more we practice breathing a sense of ease and steadiness into the challenging moments on our mat, the more this tool comes with us off our mat and into our lives. Camel Pose is a challenging one for many of us. Backbends trigger the sympathetic nervous system, which is commonly described as the “fight or flight” defense system. This is why many people feel anxious in poses such as Camel. However, keeping a steady breath and gaze actually trigger the opposite and trigger our parasympathetic nervous system (think “rest and digest”).

How to: Come to stand on your knees and glance back at your feet to make sure they are in line with your hips. Check your knees to make sure they are under your hips. Place your hands on your low back with the fingertips pointing down. Use your hands to slide the skin of the low back downwards as if you are creating more space for your body to open from.

Choose one steady thing in front of you at eye level to look at when you come up out of the pose. Breathe in and lift up your chest,

breathe out to pause and take in your stable connection to the ground. You can keep your hands on your low back. Or reach back for the heels while being conscious of your hips staying in line with your knees. Lift through the sides of your torso to create a sense of elevation in your heart. Check in with your gaze and breath, bring a sense of sthira sukha to both. Breathe here for 5–10 cycles. To transition out, return your hands to your lower back and breathe in as you rise up. Sit your bum to your heels, rest your palms on your thighs, and gaze softly at the one steady point you selected in front of you. Breathe in ease, breathe out steadiness. Come to Downward-Facing Dog and focus on lengthening your back body here for 5 breaths.

Malasana Variation (Supported Squat)

Why it helps: This pose counters the shape of being seated at a desk through external rotation of your hips. The bound arms in this variation initiates spinal rotation and shoulder retraction, which counter the typical posture of hunching over a screen.

How to: From Downward-Facing Dog, maintain a softness in your knees as you walk your feet up to your hands. Separate your feet mat width distance apart and point your toes outwards. Take a breath in and lengthen your spine forward, with your exhale lower your seat into a squat position. You can place a block or two stacked blocks underneath your sitting bones for support. If it is hard to keep your heels on the ground, try angling the feet out further.

Place a block in front of your right foot and take your right hand to the block. Breathe in and raise your left arm up and out to the left. Breathe out and slide your left forearm behind your back any amount. If you find that this variation causes your left shoulder to slump forward, take your hands into prayer instead and use your elbows against your inner thigh to create a sense of spaciousness in your back. If you take the twist variation, breathe deeply into ease for 5–10 cycles before switching sides.

You can take a brief standing forward fold between sides if your hips need a break. After you’ve completed both sides, bump your hips up and slide your feet in line with the hips for a passive forward fold with soft knees. Let the base of your skull drop as you

let your breath ease you into the present moment.

Paschimottanasna (Seated Forward Bend)

Why it helps: An active forward bend creates length along the backs of your leg muscles, which are usually constricted when you sit in a chair with your knees in flexion. Additionally, the following variation asks you to keep your back body muscles engaged as you lengthen your spine to counter the laxity of slumping forward.

How to: Come to sit on your mat with your legs stretched out in front of you. If it is difficult to straighten your legs, you can keep your knees slightly bent or try a block or folded blanket underneath your seat. Take a breath in and stretch your arms overhead, let your breath out as you fold forward and reach for your feet. Focus on keeping a sense of length in your back body, even if that means your fold is not extremely deep, rather than rounding your back. You can rest your hands on your shins if it is difficult to reach your feet. Press your sitting bones back and your thigh bones downwards toward your hamstrings. Ease the muscles of your face and let your shoulders rest on your back body as you breathe for 5–10 cycles. Inhale and slowly rise.

Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-The-Wall)

Why it helps: This is a great pose to end a long day for many reasons. It’s calming and relaxing to the body and mind, yet it also stimulates your circulation after a long day of sitting still.

How to: Place a folded blanket or a shallow bolster about 4 inches away from a wall. Sit on top of the blanket or bolster with one of your hips against the wall. Slowly swing your legs up the wall as you lower your shoulders down to the floor. Slide your bum as close to the wall as is comfortable so that your sit bones are off the blanket. The bolster or blanket should be positioned between the bottom tip of your shoulder blades and your sacrum. If this is too much strain on your hamstrings, bend your knees slightly and scoot yourself slightly further from the wall. Your chest should feel broad and expansive and give way to easy breathing. Take in the feeling of the steady ground underneath you. Breathe a sense of ease into your shoulders, your back, and your legs. Rest here for 3 to 5 minutes.

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

All Upcoming Pan India Movies In 2023 & 2024

1. Adipurush

5. Kushi

Adipurush is based on the Hindu epic Ramayana and Prabhas will be seen playing Lord Rama on screen. Saif Ali Khan has been roped in to play mighty Lankesh aka Raavana and Sita Mata will be played by Kriti Sanon. The film will be helmed by Om Raut, and will be entirely shot in 3D and it’s going to be one of the costliest film of Indian cinema. One of the most-awaited Upcoming Pan India Movies.

2. SPY

SPY is an upcoming spy-action thriller film that features Nikhil Siddharth and Iswarya Menon in the lead roles. Helmed by Garry BH, a renowned editor, who is making his directorial debut with this project, Sricharan Pakala has composed the music for the film, and Julian Amaru Estrada has taken on the role of the director of photography. K. Rajashekhar Reddy and Charantej Uppalapati have jointly produced the film under the ED Entertainments banner.

Kushi is directed by Shiva Nirvana and stars Vijay Deverakonda and Samantha in the lead roles. Actors Murali Sharma, Lakshmi, Ali, Rohini, Jayaram, and others will be seen crucial roles. It will release in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam languages simultaneously.

6. Jawan

Upcoming Pan India Movies: Shah Rukh Khan’s action-thriller, Jawan will also star Nayanthara and Sanya Malhotra as the female leads with Vijay Sethupathi playing the bad guy. The movie will release during the summer of 2023 on June 02.

7. Salaar

Salaar, an action thriller written and directed by Prashanth Neel, stars Prabhas and Shruti Haasan in the primary roles and is produced by Vijay Kiragandur under Hombale Films. Simultaneously in Kannada and Telugu languages, the film will be dubbed in Hindi, Tamil, and Malayalam. One of the most-anticipated Upcoming Pan India Movies, this movie will also be preceded by a second part, as announced recently.

8. Japan

Japan is reported to be a heist thriller, and Karthi is spotted with gold ornaments in the background

language superhero film written and directed by Prasanth Varma. Produced by Primeshow Entertainment, the film features Teja Sajja, Amritha Aiyer, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar and Vinay Rai in main roles. The film is set in the fictional village Anjanadri. It will be the first film of the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU) followed by Adhira (2023).

11. Saindhav

Saindhav is an action thriller, starring Venkatesh Daggubati, Shraddha Srinath, Ruhani Sharma, Andrea Jeremiah and Nawazuddin Siddiqui in prominent roles. The

be playing the female lead in the movie.

14. Pushpa 2: The Rule

The Clash Continues as Pushpa Raj and Bhanwar Singh Shekawat continue their rivalry in this epic conclusion to the two-parted series. Eyeing for Sankranthi 2024, Pushpa: The Rule will once again stars Allu Arjun, Fahadh Faasil, Sunil, Rashmika Mandanna and others in feature roles. One of the most-awaited Upcoming Pan India Movies.

15. RC15

RC15 is the working title of the film directed by S. Shankar starring Ram Charan and Kiara Advani in the lead roles. From the story written by Karthik Subbaraj, the film also stars Anjali, Jayaram, Sunil, Srikanth, and Naveen Chandra in supporting roles. The film’s music will be scored by S. Thaman.

Upcoming Pan India Movies: Directed by ‘Siruthai’ Siva, Suriya’s next film after his magnificent entry in Kamal Haasan’s Vikram will be releasing in the 2024. Bollywood bombshell Disha Patani will be playing the co-lead in the film, which is now being planned to release in 10 languages.

3. Miss. Shetty Mr. Polishetty

Anushka Shetty and Naveen Polishetty will be sharing screen space in an urban romantic comedy titled Miss. Shetty Mr. Polishetty. The film is slated to release in summer this year in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam.

4. The Vaccine War

Vivek Agnihotri’s next film after the success of The Kashmir Files is about India’s incredible journey during the pandemic. The movie will focus on the country’s journey to develop coronavious vaccines.

of the first look poster. Karthi will be seen a never-before avatar on the film.

9. Tiger 3

Salman Khan, the Bhai of Bollywood is all set to entertain his fans on Eid 2023 with Tiger 3. The film, also starring Katrina Kaif in the lead role, and Emraan Hashmi in a supporting role. It will be released in three languages – Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.

10. Hanu Man

Hanu Man is an upcoming Telugu-

movie is directed by Sailesh Kolanu (known for HIT 1 and HIT 2) and produced by Venkat Boyanapalli under Niharika Entertainment banner.

12. Indian 2 Kamal Haasan and director Shankar are teaming up for Indian 2 after almost twenty-five years, which is a sequel to their 1996 blockbuster – Indian. The action-thriller is being shot in Tamil and will later get dubbed in Hindi, Telugu, and Malayalam. Kajal Aggarwal, Siddharth, and Rakul Preet Singh are playing crucial roles in Indian 2, and it’s being made on a lavish scale with a budget of around Rs

16. Hari Hara Veera Mallu

Upcoming Pan India Movies: Hari Hara Veera Mallu is an upcoming action-adventure drama directed by Krish Jagarlamudi. Depicting the life of legendary outlaw Veera Mallu, the film stars Pawan Kalyan in the titular role, alongside Nidhhi Agerwal, Arjun Rampal, and Nargis Fakhri. The story is set in the 17th century under the backdrop of the Mughal Empire.

Thangalaan is an action entertainer, which will be shot in 2D and 3D. Glam girl, Malavika Mohanan, will be playing a supporting role in the film and the ultra-talented, Parvathy will play the female lead. This Pa. Ranjith directorial is set in the backdrop of Kolar Gold Mines in the 19th Century pre-independence era.

20. Project K

13. NTR30

Directed by Koratala Siva, Jr. NTR’s next film after SS Rajamouli’s RRR will be releasing in the Summer of 2023, which is now being shot with a working title NTR30. Janhvi Kapoor will

Tovino Thomas will be seen in the first triple role of his career in his upcoming drama, Ajayante Randam Moshanam. Directed by debutant Jitin Lal, Thomas will be portraying the characters of Maniyan, Ajayan and Kunjikelu in the film. Alongside ‘South Indian Sensation’ Krithi Shetty, Aishwarya Rajesh and Surabhi Lakshmi will also be playing the leading ladies in the film.

Upcoming Pan India Movies: ‘Rebel Star’ Prabhas is on a roll with multiple mega movies in hand. He will join hands with Nag Ashwin for his next directorial, which will feature him opposite Bollywood diva Deepika Padukone. It is said to be a futuristic time travel venture that will be shot on a canvas never seen before in Indian cinema.

21.

Adhira is an upcoming Telugulanguage superhero film written and directed by Prasanth Varma. Produced by Primeshow Entertainment, the film features Kalyan Dasari in the lead role. It will be the second film of the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU). (Courtesy: https://justformoviefreaks.in/)

17. Ajayante Randam Moshanam

18. Kanguva

19. Thangalaan

Adhira

Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani

On his 51st birthday, filmmaker Karan Johar dropped first-look posters of his upcoming romantic comedy, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.

The film was originally slated for a February 10 release, but has now been pushed to July 28. Fans got new looks at both Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh as their characters in the film, Rani and Rocky, as well as their ‘parivaar’.

Sharing new posters of Rocky, Karan wrote on Instagram, “An absolute ‘heartthrob’, who wears his own heart on his sleeve – meet Rocky!”.

The posters show a bare-chested and bronzed Ranveer delivering his most over-the-top pose, as his hair flies in the breeze.

He’s also wearing a large chain, and a gold, animal-printed shirt. The second poster shows Ranveer pulling his large sunglasses down, as he poses in a studded leather jacket.

Also read | Love it or troll it, Karan Johar’s kitschy Koffee With Karan has leaned into its campiness, remained India’s gossip fix Sharing Alia’s posters, Karan wrote, “Ladies & gentlemen, the queen is here to steal your hearts – meet Rani!”.

Rani seems like a more reserved character, going by her attire. She’s wearing saris in both posters, and isn’t posing outrageously.

“A film by Karan Johar, in his 25th anniversary year,” reads the text below each of the posters. Karan made his debut with 1998’s Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, and has since become synonymous with opulent romantic dramas.

In another post, Karan wrote, “It’s Rocky & Rani’s world & you’re about to live in it! BUT stay tuned, because you’re about to meet their parivaar too!”

In an interview with PTI a couple of years ago, Karan said that the film exists in the same zone as KKHH. “I did go through phases

of evolution as a filmmaker. But right during the pandemic, I felt I just needed to make a movie that made me feel like I was 25 again.

“And when I was 25, the only movie I could think of or make was Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, because it was like an accumulation of all the movies that I had grown up watching. It’s a homage to Raj Kapoor, Yash Chopra, Sooraj Barjatya,” he said.

Karan also shared four new posters for the film, which feature both Alia and Ranveer together. It looks like they’re taken from different musical sequences from the film. “It’s Rocky & Rani’s world & you’re about to live in it!

BUT stay tuned, because you’re about to meet their parivaar too!” he wrote. Some time later, he shared pictures of the ‘parivaar’ as well.

Karan introduced the Randhawas and the Chatterjees, the two families at the centre of the film. While Dharmendra, Jaya Bachchan, Aamir Bashir, Kshitee Jog and Anjali Anan play members of Rocky’s family,

Shabana Azmi and Tota Roy Choudhury star as members of Rani’s family. “Meet the Randhawas & the Chatterjees – the two families of this ‘kahaani’!

The power of family will decide

the fate of love. Come, be a part of it all & more with #RockyAurRaniKiiPremKahaani, in cinemas 28th July, 2023,” he wrote in his post.

A previously released teaser for Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani revealed first looks at not only Alia and Ranveer, but also their co-stars Jaya Bachchan and Dharmendra. The film’s title was also spelled differently back then.

The new posters, in addition to revealing the altered spelling, also reveal that the film will stream on Prime Video after its theatrical release.

(Courtesy: https://indianexpress. com/)

Hrithik Roshan: Creating Iconic Dance Numbers

Hrithik Roshan, last seen in the critically-acclaimed Vikram Vedha, is known for his swift dance moves and delivering impactful performances. The actor is on a

is working with no egos, absolute communication, and no feeling bad.

And if you’re feeling bad, express

Mr Bhansali once gave me two months. Once you have time and you have the will, you just have to work hard.”

Mentioning a dance style he wishes to learn, Hrithik Roshan said, “I’ve been terrible in partner work. I feel relaxed when it’s just me, but when it’s partner work, there is a certain synchronizing and coordinating; there’s beauty in that.

I have never been able to achieve that. I am very fascinated by the Ballet form. Just the long lines, the expanse and the flight of it.

short hiatus and will reunite with Siddharth Anand in Fighter alongside Deepika Padukone and Anil Kapoor in 2024.

Speaking with IMDb in their exclusive segment ‘On The Scene’, Hrithik revealed his process that has led to some iconic dance numbers.

“It’s always about the process. I have a favourite process. Anybody who fits in the process, we create amazing things! The process

it. Be honest & work hard. Give me time to work hard. If you tell someone, I want one month to rehearse, and if it’s coming from me, they will think I’m joking. Prabhu Deva, and Farhan in Main Aisa Kyon Hoon (Lakshya), they gave me a month.

I had the opportunity in Guzaarish to train in the dance form, and it was an incredible experience. It was like a ball, and I was holding the ball and swirling.

During the take, I was not able to get three turns. You know, the pirouettes.

Finally, after two hours, we had lunch and tried again. In a single take, somehow it happened.”