Austin South Asian. March. 2024

Calls Grow In Nepal For Restoration Of Hindu State

KATHMANDU, (IANS) – Nepal is witnessing a growing call for the restoration of the Hindu state.

The erstwhile Hindu state adopted a federal, secular, and democratic identity in 2008.

The changes took place after the

Indie Meme, a non-profit organization supporting independent cinema and filmmakers from South Asia and Iran, is excited to announce the return of the Indie Meme Film Festival 2024 (IMFF2024). (Continued On Page 14)

CPN (Maoist) decided to join the political mainstream after shunning the decade-long “people’s war” in 2006 that killed over 13,000 people.

Leaders of major political parties are (Continued On Page 16)

Support Asha Austin

By Sowmya Suryanarayanan

Asha Austin, the local chapter of Asha for Education, is a non-profit organization geared towards catalyzing socio-economic change by providing underprivileged children with access to education.

Our chapter is completely volunteer driven, comprised of passionate individuals from Austin striving to make a difference to the society.

(Continued On Page 24)

30 Space Missions Planned From India In Next 14 Months

CHENNAI, (IANS) – A total of 30 space launches — commercial and non-commercial by government and private players– are being planned from India over the next 14 months from the Indian spaceport in Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) said on February 15.

Included in the proposed missions are the test flights relating to In-

BMBB

By Harish Kotecha An Evening of Cultural Confluence

The 11th Annual Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt (BMBB) on Sunday, April 21, 2024, is set to be an evening of cultural richness and community spirit. (Continued On Page 25)

dia’s human space mission, Gaganyaan.

This was stated by IN-SPACe, the regulator (Continued On Page 14)

First Youth Cricket Tournament In Austin

By Staff reporter Cricket continues to expand its footprint in Austin. The first ever youth cricket tournament for players across the country is being organized during the Spring break.

(Continued On Page 05)

6 Long-Term Care Myths That Could Impact Your Retirement

When it comes to planning their retirement, most people will rely upon their savings, 401(k)s and other forms of income to provide the security they will need for that phase of life.

However, many don’t consider a crucial need for their later years: long-term care insurance.

In fact, a recent Forbes study revealed only about one-quarter of adults nearing retirement have seriously considered getting long-term care insurance or a savings account dedicated to long-term care expenses.

Further, many consumers mistakenly think their health insurance or Medicaid will cover various aspects of long-term care services when that might not be the case.

In a LIMRA study, 29% of respondents said they believe they own some form of stand-alone longterm care insurance coverage or combination life/long-term care insurance coverage. The data shows

long-term care ownership is closer to 3.1%.

So why are Americans neglecting this aspect of financial planning?

For many, common misconceptions are preventing them from being prepared.

Here are six myths about long-term care and the truth you might not

know from Bankers Life, a national life and health insurance brand.

Myth #1: I won’t need long-term care.

Reality: Needing help with such daily activities as eating, bathing, dressing, toileting and continence, among others, may seem like an unlikely scenario.

However, about 70% of people aged 65 and older will need some type of long-term care during their lifetime, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.

Myth #2: My family will take care of me.

Reality: Physical, financial and geographical limitations prevent many people from caring for their aging relatives, even if they intended to.

That’s why it’s important to be prepared to pay for the long-term care you may need some day. Myth #3: Medicare will cover my long-term care.

Reality: Medicare is designed to cover acute care, or the care you need when you’re sick and will eventually recover from an illness.

It doesn’t cover ongoing Activities of Daily Living services when those are the only care you need.

Long-term care insurance is designed to help cover ongoing custodial care services, which includes assistance with dressing, bathing, eating or other Activities of Daily Living.

Myth #4: I’ll use my Social Security benefits to pay for long-term care.

Reality: Long-term care is expensive, with homemaker services costing $163 per day on average and a semi-private room in a nursing home costing $260 per day on average, according to SeniorLiving.org. (Continued On Page 03)

Looking To Feel Better? Consider Adding An Iron Supplement

Anyone looking to dramatically and easily improve their overall health and wellness would be wise to consider adding an iron supplement to their diet.

A Common Problem

Although few people ever think about their iron intake, assuming eating enough leafy greens or taking a multivitamin will suffice, iron deficiency is the most common nutritional shortfall globally, including in the United States, where it is estimated that 1 in 5 people need more iron to function properly.

This holds true across all age ranges and physical conditions, from senior citizens to infants to performance athletes, but most notably this is the case for women of childbearing age.

Why Your Iron Levels Matter

Without sufficient iron, the body cannot produce enough hemoglobin – the substance in red blood cells that enables them to carry oxygen to tissues and organs, which

can impact nearly every system in the body, even leading to death in the cases of extreme anemia.

Iron deficiency can also exacerbate many health conditions, especially cardiac, pulmonary and circulatory problems, and it plays a critical role in conditions like restless leg syndrome, ADD/ADHD, celiac disease, and Crohn’s disease.

6 Long-Term Care Myths That Could Impact Your Retirement

(Continued From Page 02)

Even the maximum monthly Social Security benefit of $3,6275 won’t cover these amounts.

Myth #5: Nursing homes are the only option.

Reality: When you hear “longterm care,” you may immediately think “nursing home,” but today there are a wide variety of services available that you may receive at a facility, in the community or in the comfort of your own home.

Owning long-term care insurance can help ensure you receive the care you need on your terms— where and how you want it.

Myth #6: I will get long-term care insurance later, when I need it.

Reality: Qualifying for long-term care insurance coverage after you’re diagnosed with an illness is difficult.

Applying for long-term care insurance at a younger age helps you qualify for coverage and lock in lower premiums.

For this reason, many people purchase long-term care insurance in their 50s when they’re still in good health.

For more information on longterm care insurance, reach out to a Bankers Life agent, or visit bankerslife.com.

By incorporating long-term care insurance into your retirement plans, you can help prepare yourself for a comfortable future, come what may. (StatePoint)

• Irregular heartbeat or shortness of breath

• Headache, dizziness, lightheadedness

• Unusual food cravings and appetite changes

• Appearance issues like thinning hair, pallor, dark circles, or brittle nails

• Behavioral issues like excitability, inability to focus, or irritability, especially in children

Choose Wisely

That said, the symptoms of less severe iron deficiency can be harder to pinpoint. They include:

• Tiredness or lethargy

• Weakness

Adding an iron supplement is an easy way to address a host of pressing issues, but buyer beware – not all iron supplements are created equal.

Even those who know they need iron may not take supplements because they are notoriously bad-

Ramadan 2024: Saudi Arabia Spells Out Iftar Rules At Grand Mosque In Mecca

Cairo: Individual and group benefactors wishing to serve the Iftar meals during the upcoming Ramadan at Islam’s holiest site in Mecca have been requested to apply in line with specific rules.

A Saudi state agency in charge of the Grand Mosque has noted that the would-be service providers will be able to select the Iftar site at the sprawling mosque electronically. The benefactors are required to contract a catering company accredited by the Mecca mayoralty, or factories and warehouses accredited by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority.

For an individual benefactor, the maximum Iftar banquet is set at two, while a charity group can apply for up to 10 banquets. The served meal must be dry, consisting of coreless dates, a cake, a pie, and juice.

The meal must be packed according to the accredited wrapping with

tasting and can cause significant gastrointestinal distress, essentially trading one problem for another.

The supplement market is also largely unregulated, resulting in many companies producing inferior products or making unsubstantiated claims about the effectiveness of their products.

So how can you find the best supplement for you and your family?

The short answer is to ignore the marketing hype and trust medicine.

Follow your doctors’ advice and look for an iron supplement that has been clinically proven to be safe, effective and well-tolerated in all age groups.

One such product is NovaFerrum, which offers a range of iron supplements for all age groups.

commitment to all conditions and terms that will be announced online later.

The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques said it hopes the Iftar arrangements will boost experiences of worshippers at the Grand Mosque and offer them a quality service during Ramadan.

Muslims abstain from eating and drinking every day from dawn to sunset during Ramadan expected this year to start on March 11.

Ramadan traditionally marks the peak season of Umrah at the Grand Mosque.

After performing Umrah in Mecca, many pilgrims would head to the city of Medina to offer prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque, Islam’s second holiest site and visit other Islamic landmarks in the city.

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

Founded by a father whose preemie daughter refused to take the supplement she needed, NovaFerrum features a distinct chemical composition formulated to nearly eliminate the gastrointestinal side effects common in other iron supplements, a patented taste-masking technology and great-tasting flavors made from natural ingredients, like raspberries and monk fruit.

Available in pharmacies and on Amazon, NovaFerrum is widely recommended by pediatricians, hematologists, gynecologists and general practitioners and has earned more than 10,000 five-star reviews.

For more information, visit novaferrum.com.

From enhancing your appearance and providing an immune system boost to giving you the stamina and focus you need to complete tasks with confidence, adding an iron supplement is one of the best ways to improve your overall health and wellbeing. (StatePoint)

Color Tips To Make Your Home Exterior Pop

Home exteriors make a first impression, setting the tone for neighbors, guests, and if a property is on the market --prospective home buyers.

So how do you boost your curb appeal and make your exterior pop? According to those in the know, a lot of it has to do with color.

“Choosing deep, bold colors for your door or siding can provide eye-catching focal points and dramatically increase curb appeal,” says Jon Lapp, vinyl siding product manager at ProVia.

To help you make selections that work best for your home and vision, ProVia is offering the following insights:

Siding

Color and texture play significant roles in the overall look and style of a home, so consider pairing your vinyl siding with other materials, such as manufactured stone, decorative shake, or board and batten.

Whether you go for soft earth tones or deep hues of primary colors, color retention technologies will maintain the look through the years.

To that end, here are a few qualities to look for in your siding:

• UV protection:

Think of it as sunscreen for your house. This layer of protection helps shield your siding from the destructive effects of the sun’s UV rays.

• Weather barrier shield:

Anti-weathering materials on the siding’s surface can help ensure long-lasting color fidelity and low-maintenance freedom for your home’s exterior.

• Heat resistance:

Looking For A New Career? Become A Financial Planner

Becoming a financial planner offers both financial rewards and the chance to help others. Whether you’re a recent graduate exploring your career path or a mid-career professional seeking change, this growing profession may be the right fit for you.

As more Americans recognize the value of partnering with a professional to chart their financial course, the demand for financial advisors is projected to grow by 13% through 2032, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Earning the right credentials, like the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification, can lead to a higher salary, increased job satisfaction and happier clients.

The Certification Process

The CFP® certification program generally takes 18 to 24 months to complete, depending on your time commitment, professional experience and educational background.

The process involves completing coursework, passing an exam, accumulating experience and meeting ethics requirements. These rigorous standards make the process challenging. However, during the certifica-

tion journey, you won’t be alone. CFP Board provides a variety of tools and resources to support your progress, including scholarships, an online forum that allows you to connect with peers and mentors, and a Career Center, where you can discover internships and jobs.

Benefits of Certification

While most financial planners can expect to pull in a high salary, CFP® certification can

boost your income by 12%, according to the College for Financial Planning. It can also fast-track your career, enhance your job prospects and help you build a client roster. As a CFP® professional, you’ll bring a wealth of education and experience to the table, along with a commitment to CFP Board to act as a fiduciary for your clients. Clients can rest easy knowing you have agreed to put their best interests first.

(Continued On Page 05)

Heat-resistant inorganic pigments ensure exacting deep colors, reflect heat from exterior walls, and deflect solar rays to reduce solar heat build-up and unsightly weathering.

• Anti-fade protection:

A strong molecular chain, found in super polymer vinyl siding, is engineered for superior color retention.

“At first, it might be difficult to tell the difference between a good vinyl siding panel and an outstanding one. But over time, the true strength and quality of each panel will be revealed,” says Lapp.

It’s for this reason that ProVia’s entire lineup of super polymer vinyl siding is formulated with Tri-Pigment Reflective Technology, Color Keeper Anti-Fade Protection, Weather Barrier Shield and SPX-2000 UV Blocker. These components work together to combat fade and increase weather resistance.

The Entry Door

The entry door is an amazing place to make a color statement. However, if you buy an exterior replacement door and try to finish it yourself, achieving the flawless finish you’re hoping for is easier said than done.

Then there’s the trim, and possibly sidelights and a transom that also need to be painted to match or coordinate with the door color.

From classic hues, such as rustic bronze or forest green, to trending colors like avocado or burnt orange, you can ensure a consistent, beautiful and lasting finish by having your manufacturer paint the door before it leaves the factory floor.

Bonus: the color will also be under warranty. Look for a manufacturer that crafts custom doors, allowing you to choose different interior and exterior colors and other specifications tailored to your taste.

To get inspired for your home exterior project, visit provia.com. In addition to photo galleries of finished projects, the site’s home designer tools allow you to visualize how various elements will look on your home.

By selecting professional-quality exterior products, you can ensure long-lasting durability and a big boost in curb appeal. (StatePoint)

Why You Should Work With A Financial Planner To Reach Your Goals

Whether you have a fixed, short-term goal, such as paying down debt, or you’re looking to draw up a comprehensive roadmap for your financial future, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional can be integral to the process.

To find a professional you can trust and to get the most out of working with them, consider the following answers to commonly asked questions.

Can I trust my financial planner?

The credentials of a “financial planner” can vary widely. It’s best to ensure that your financial planner is a CFP® professional.

Certified by CFP Board, CFP® professionals commit to high ethical standards and have made a commitment to CFP Board to act as a fiduciary, meaning they act in your best interests when giving financial planning advice.

They must also acquire several years of experience delivering financial planning services and pass a comprehensive exam.

These rigorous qualifications can offer you peace of mind that your financial planner is someone knowledgeable who has your best interests in mind.

Is financial planning for me?

A common misconception is that financial planning is only for those with a certain level of income or wealth, or for those who are

nearing retirement. The truth is that financial planning is for everyone at every life stage.

For example, if you’re newly graduated and just starting your career, you may need advice on how to pay off student loans while saving for the future.

A financial planner can help you prioritize these competing goals. Likewise, if you’re

Looking For A New Career? Become A Financial Planner

(Continued From Page 04)

More than 10,000 firms across the United States employ CFP® professionals because they know that the certification inspires trust, confidence and satisfaction with consumers.

In fact, 84% of consumers who work with a CFP® professional say they are extremely or very satisfied.

Beyond greater job security and income, becoming a CFP® professional brings other benefits, including continuing professional development, the flexibility to balance your personal and professional life, and opportunities to give back to the community by providing pro bono services.

For all the reasons above, it’s no surprise that the majority of CFP® professionals are happy with the career moves that led them to where they are today.

An astounding 93% of CFP® professionals say they are very satisfied with their decision to pursue CFP® certification, with most reporting that certification has directly contributed to their success and given them a competitive edge.

Next Steps

To get started on your new career today, visit getcfpcertified.org, where you can download a free guide to learn more about your next steps, whether you’re an established advisor seeking a competitive edge, a career-changer

or student still exploring your options.

If helping people create stable financial futures sounds appealing to you, explore a career as a financial planner and find out for yourself about the many benefits the right certification can bring. (StatePoint)

First Youth Cricket Tournament In Austin

(Continued From Page 01)

Austin Spring Championship (ASC) first started in 2023 by conducting weeklong competitive games with players from across Texas during the Spring break at schools.

This year the tournament is being organized at a higher scale with more fields and teams.

Professional umpires, live scoring and streaming will be the key features of this

event.

The organizers – WCI Academy and Cricket for All – have received confirmation from teams in other cities like Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio.

As many as four different cricket fields are being prepared for these competitive games.

For more information, please visit ASC/ WCICricket.com.

established, a financial planner can help you manage and safeguard your wealth for the next generation.

What value does a financial planner offer?

A CFP® professional will learn about your financial goals and needs and can develop a holistic financial plan tailored specifically to you.

Their education and experience make them uniquely suited to help you choose investments that align with your time horizon and risk tolerance, to help you save money on taxes and to assist you in planning for the future – including for the unexpected.

With a CFP® professional by your side, you can feel more confident in your financial future, whether you’re planning for college, retirement or growing your family.

How do I plan for my first meeting?

While you don’t need to have all your goals set in stone at your first meeting, being prepared is helpful.

In addition to any paperwork that the advisor sent you ahead of time, gather copies of financial statements from your banks, brokerage firms and retirement account custodians, as well as tax, insurance and estate planning documents.

Come prepared to discuss your income, expenses and debt. Finally, prepare a list of questions. This is your opportunity to find out about the feasibility of your dreams and goals.

How do I find the right planner for me?

Perhaps you are estate planning and have unique concerns due to family dynamics. Perhaps you’re launching a new business and need assistance with cash flow and budgeting.

If you have specific financial goals or challenges, it may be helpful to work with a CFP® professional who specializes in that area.

You can use the “Find a CFP® Professional” tool at letsmakeaplan.org to search by specific planning services and your location. As you set your financial goals, consider how a financial planner can help you. (StatePoint)

How To Pick Plants That Will Thrive In Your Climate

When choosing what kind of plants to put down in your yard, you likely focus on the what and the where.

After all, a beautiful plant in a prime location enhances curb appeal and even bragging rights.

You may pay less attention though to understanding your plant hardiness zone and all the ramifications that come with it.

To help ensure your plants don’t just survive, but thrive, the experts at lawn care equipment manufacturer Exmark are sharing the following insights about plant hardiness:

What is Plant Hardiness?

The secret to growing healthier plants is called plant hardiness. Plant hardiness is the ability of a plant to survive adverse growing conditions such as drought, flooding, heat and cold. Ever watched

with frustration as a late-season temperature dip leaves your beautiful buds with a serious case of frostbite? That’s why plant hardiness zones were developed.

American farming contributes billions of dollars to the gross national product every year, which is one reason why the USDA has long monitored weather data.

If determining when the average final frost may occur for every region in the country is worth billions, what could that same knowledge mean for your garden?

Well, choosing plants with hardiness levels appropriate to specific planting zones gives you the best chance of gardening and landscaping success.

What is My Growing Zone?

The United States is divided into

SCRIBBLINGS BY ARUN

MOTHER AND GRANNY

The girl always runs to her granny to share, Her joys and sorrows, whatever she may dare.

Often, I used to ponder why it is so,

Until curiosity led me to know.

Sometimes, when the kid reached out to her mother,

The first person in her life, like no other, She was occupied and cold to her distress,

That had hurt the child’s feelings with no redress.

Granny always made her time to lend an ear, And soothe the grandchild with nice stories to hear.

Figured out the reason why she adored her, Since felt valued and loved by her grandmother.

At times our friends prefer us over others, To share their feelings, good or bad, it matters.

We can decide to respond like the granny, Or ignore and shun like the busy mother.

(arunsunderraj@gmail.com)

13 zones. Zones 1-6 being the coldest, and 7-13 the warmest. Zone 1 averages -60 degrees F while zone 13 never drops below 70 degrees F.

A general guideline is to plant anything designated for your zone or lower, but never higher. Know what zone you live in, and be sure to always check the tag on the back of the plant or seed pack before planting anything.

Perennials Versus Annuals

There’s a reason you see palm trees in Miami, not Minnetonka, Minn. In the case of perennials, it’s not about when the first frost is, but how cold it gets, and whether that plant can survive and thrive through winter.

Plant hardiness zones are less important however when it comes to annuals. Because these plants are only meant to last the length of one growing season; waiting until after the average first frost date will save you from having to re-plant. Know that even if your plant survives the frost, it may never match the photo you saw advertised at the nursery.

Planting Zone Rule of Thumb

Plant hardiness zone maps are, well, all over the map. Consider the number assigned to your zip code as a starting point. You may live right at the break between one zone and the other. Remember that it’s better to guess too low, than too high. In the South, the heat can put real stress on a plant not made for it. Your particular geography can also affect your hardiness zone, like if you live on a hill or in a valley.

For more insights, check out the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, and watch “Find Your Plant Hardiness Zone,” a recent episode of “Backyard Smart,” an original series from lawn care equipment manufacturer, Exmark. To watch the video, visit Backyard Life, which is part of a unique multimedia destination with a focus on helping homeowners improve their outdoor living spaces. There

you can download additional tips and view other Exmark Original Series videos. Understanding what plants will thrive in your climate is essential to having a healthy lawn and garden. Fortunately, resources

abound to help you garden and landscape successfully.(StatePoint)

4 Trends To Take Muted Interiors From Drab To Dreamy In 2024

While neutral tones continue to be popular this year among home DIYers, bold and colorful surroundings also are trending right now. From adding dramatic style to the

of styles and textures will catch the eye and make the room feel refreshed with little effort.

Nourishing Green. A simple, but ef-

kitchen to giving an unexpected space a splash of color, these ideas—inspired by the 2024 FrogTape Design Trends, as identified by celebrity interior designer Taniya Nayak—will make areas around your home pop in 2024.

Colorful Kitchens. Make the kitchen a focal point by painting the cabinets or panels on the island a vivid color.

Nayak recommends using FrogTape Delicate Surface Painter’s Tape to prevent paint bleed and achieve crisp paint lines. The low-adhesion tape is designed to prevent damage on surfaces like cabinets, freshly painted walls, wallpaper and more.

Dynamic Décor. If painting projects aren’t in the plan for this year, revive a living room or bedroom by adding a collection of brightly colored pillows and throws, bohemian-style macramé, wall art and a rug with geometric patterns.

As long as the colors are complementary to each other, the blend

fective, way to boost the mood of a space is to fill it with large blooms. Place a modern plant stand in an empty corner or between rooms as a divider, and layer in green houseplants or ones with colorful leaves on the shelves.

Elevated Exteriors. It’s not just the interiors of the home that should speak to personal style, the outside should, too! Give the front door a facelift by painting it a daring color.

Don’t be afraid to choose one hue for the outside of the door and another for the inside. For this project, apply FrogTape Multi-Surface Painter’s Tape before painting, so that trim around the door and doorknob is protected from paint bleed.

For more fresh decor ideas and design tips, visit FrogTape.com. Whether you choose one or all of these trends, they can be tackled by DIYers with a range of skillsets to transform dull living spaces into the home of your dreams. (StatePoint)

Youth Suicide Prevention: Recognize The Signs

Children and teens can be moody, but when signs of mental health troubles last for weeks, don’t assume it’s just a passing mood.

Suicide is a leading cause of death among U.S. children, teens and young adults ages 10-24, and rates have been on the rise. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all teens be screened for suicide risk starting at age 12.

While no single cause has been identified, suicide is often preceded by depression that is undiagnosed or untreated. Most youth show some warning signs or behavior changes in advance.

Families and their doctors can work together to identify if a child or teen is struggling with depression, anxiety or substance use, all of which increase the risk of suicide.

“Suicide is complex, but often preventable,” said Janet Lee, MD, FAAP. “When a person talks about

killing themselves or feeling hopeless or trapped, it should always be taken seriously.”

Don’t be afraid to ask your child or teen to talk about their mental health or if they’re contemplating suicide.

Asking directly is the best way to know what your child is thinking. Studies show that it is safe to ask about suicide risk and that asking the question will not put the idea into their head.

Note that your child may initially turn away or be silent, but actions may speak louder than words. Watch for major changes in your child’s sleep patterns, appetite and social activities.

Self-isolation, especially for kids who usually enjoy hanging out with friends or participating in activities, can signal serious difficulties.

“Your goal should be to create a

safe space where your child can trust you to listen and express concern without judgment or blame,” Dr. Lee said.

If your child says something like “I want to die” or “I don’t care anymore,” some suggested responses are:

• “I’m sorry you are feeling this way—can you share a bit more?”

• “It sounds like you’re in tremendous pain and you can’t see a way out.”

• “Maybe you’re wondering how life got this complicated and difficult.”

• “Right now, you’re not sure of the answers to the problems you’re facing.”

• “You must really, really be hurting inside to consider ending your life.”

Common causes of stress that in-

crease the risk of suicide include major life-changing events, including the loss of a loved one to death, divorce, deployment or incarceration.

Bullying, discrimination, racism and stigma surrounding mental heath or suicide can also increase risks. Children who have witnessed or are suffering violence or domestic abuse, engage in self-harming behavior or experienced a suicide in their school or friend group are also at higher risk of suicide.

Research has shown there are protective factors that help reduce the risk of suicide, including ready access to health care. Maintaining close connections to family, friends and one’s community is also important.

Parents and guardians should limit access to lethal means, such as removing firearms and locking up medications or other potential poisons or weapons in the home. Half of youth suicides occur with

firearms—and suicide attempts with firearms are almost always fatal. Teens and adolescents who attempt suicide with a firearm almost always use a gun found in their house, studies find.

“Suicide is often impulsive and a moment of crisis can escalate quickly,” Dr. Lee said. “If your child is considering suicide, call or text 988 or chat on 988lifeline.org right away.

The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, as well as prevention and crisis resources.”

For more information, visit HealthyChildren.org.

As children grow and become more independent, it can be more challenging to know what they are thinking and feeling. However, if you see signs that your child’s mental health is under threat, it’s important to tune in and take action. (StatePoint)

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

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

Emergency & long-term housing resources

Youth & adult therapeutic counseling

Education & job training opportunities

Immigration resources Medical resources & appointment accompaniment

Legal advocacy

Smash Your Savings Goals In 2024

If you recently received your 2023 W2, you may have realized how much money you should have been putting to work to accomplish your savings goals. Ouch, right?

No need to stress though — now’s the perfect time to make your hard-earned money hustle for you. Check out these power moves:

Ditch the fees. In 2022, U.S. banks collected $7.7 billion in overdraft or non-sufficient funds fees from their customers. But, good news: many financial institutions are now offering low or no-fee account options.

The federal government’s FDIC BankFind tool can help you choose the best bank for you. Be sure to verify a bank’s network of ATMs to avoid withdrawal fees.

Find yourself tapping into credit cards frequently? Know that people who utilize revolving debts pay significant burdens.

According to the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau, Americans paid more than $130 billion in credit card interest and fees in 2022.

Keep tabs on your tabs. Knowing where your money is and where it’s going is important to understanding ways you can increase your savings in 2024.

Using your bank’s mobile app and creating alerts on key account activity are great ways to see what your money is doing.

Jump-start your money management. One of the quickest ways to boost savings is to open

a highyield checking or savings account. Research the options for industryleading interest rates and the accounts that give you access to your money when you need it.

These accounts are as accessible as the checking and savings accounts you’re used to, but offer significantly larger interest rates.

According to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the average customer can earn more than 12 times the interest in a highyield account compared to many standard checking or savings accounts.

Check out flexible options from resources like T-Mobile MONEY, which offers highyield checking accounts that come with all the same benefits as a standard checking account, plus:

• No account fees

• No overdraft fees

• Instant, fee-free payments to other MONEY customers

• An early tax refund (Subject to description and timing of government tax refund payments sent via direct deposit. T-Mobile

MONEY typically makes funds available the business day received, which may be up to 3 days earlier than scheduled.)

• Access to your paycheck up to two days in advance with direct deposit, which puts your money in your hands faster (Subject to description and timing of the employer payroll-based direct deposit, T-Mobile MONEY typically makes funds available the business day received, which may be up to two days earlier than scheduled.)

And, if you’re a T-Mobile wireless customer, the perks don’t end there. Set up AutoPay connected to your T-Mobile MONEY Checking account and save $5 per eligible line per month.

Many people never look at their wireless bill as a place to save money, but switching to TMobile from other premium unlimited plans can save a family of four hundreds of dollars per year on service.

And besides great savings, T-Mobile’s Go5G Next and Go5G Plus plans are packed with benefits, including streaming services like Netflix, Hulu (on Next only), and Apple TV+ on Us, free in-flight Wi-Fi on some of the biggest U.S. airlines, and free stuff every week plus great perks every week with TMobile Tuesdays. Visit t-mobilemoney.com to get started.

Ready to hit your 2024 savings goals? Savvy banking can help you grow your savings this year.

T-Mobile MONEY is powered by BMTX, a wholly owned subsidiary of BM Technologies, Inc.

Accounts provided by Customers Bank, Member FDIC (StatePoint)

5 Tips To Make Holiday Hosting Simple

Easter signals springtime and provides an opportunity to gather with loved ones to celebrate. However, hosting the get-together - whether brunch, lunch or dinner - requires planning and preparation to ensure the event is enjoyable.

From the guest list and menu to the decor and activities for the kiddos, consider these steps to get ready for Easter hosting duties.

Make a Guest List

When planning your gathering, first think about how many people your space can accommodate. Ensure there’s a place for everyone to sit and eat, even if that means bringing in extra tables and chairs or designating a “kids table” so all the adults can sit together.

Once you know how many people you can invite - and have a plan for seating - send out festive invitations or create a group on social media with your preferred guests to gather RSVPs.

Take Inventory of Necessities

Once you have your guest list set, take inventory of serving dishes, utensils, linens and glassware. De-

pending on the number of guests, you may need to invest in extra supplies or borrow from a friend or relative to ensure you have everything you need.

If you don’t have enough of one set of plates and flatware, mixing and matching is a trendy move and can serve as an additional aspect of your decor.

Plan the Menu

When setting your menu, traditional favorites like ham or lamb are almost always a hit but remember to consider any diet accommodations that may need to be made for any vegan or vegetarian guests. Dishes featuring eggs, carrots, ginger and other ingredients that call spring to mind like quiches, soups, galette and more can be a perfect complement to the traditional main course.

Serving the meal family-style with platters and bowls for everyone to share or hosting a potluck with guests bringing assigned dishes can help reduce the stress of trying to prepare the entire meal yourself.

Decorate in Advance

From a seasonal wreath on the front door to a well-dressed table

complete with place settings and a festive centerpiece, getting your decorating done early can not only reduce stress on the day of your event but also get you into the proper mindset for the celebration.

A pastel or light-colored hue can add to the springtime vibes, and flowers, seasonal fruits in bowls and decorated eggs can all add to the tablescape.

Keep the Kids in Mind

While the meal is likely a highlight of the event for many, the younger guests often look forward to the activities, such as decorating eggs or an Easter egg hunt. You can hardboil eggs in advance and set up a decorating station, complete with dyes, markers, stickers and more. Or while you’re finishing up inside, designate another adult or older children to hide pre-filled plastic eggs around the yard (weather permitting) and manage the hunt.

Photos courtesy of Unsplash #15612/Source: Family Features

How To Navigate An Election Year When It Comes To Your Finances

During election years, uncertainty over the future can shake investor confidence.

To help you navigate finances during this election cycle, work with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and consider these tips and insights:

Study the past to calm anxiety: A quick look at historical data can help you make level-headed investment decisions during a bumpy election cycle.

As it turns out, fears that election results will have long-term market effects are largely unfounded, according to a U.S. Bank analysis of market data since 1948. The analysis detected only short-term volatility around election cycles.

Stay the course: Even during tumultuous political times, it’s important to stay the course when it comes to your big-picture financial plan.

Timing the market is often a losing strategy, so avoid selling your investments, or investing less, based on election-related market hiccups.

However, periodically making tweaks is a good idea.

Work with your CFP® professional to revise your asset allocations as needed to ensure that your portfolio remains diversified and aligned with your risk tolerance and evolving goals.

Life happens and timelines change — many factors can impact your

investing inside or outside of election cycles.

Consider other factors: The presidential election is just one piece of the political puzzle as it relates to your finances. Stay abreast of financial policy changes in 2024.

Tax laws, as well as legislation around student loans, Medicare and Social Security, are just some of the factors that can impact your wallet.

Your financial planner will possess insights into how to reach your goals based on the latest policy

changes.

And of course, you should be mindful of any personal life changes you anticipate in the year ahead, such as marriage, divorce or retirement.

No matter which political party is in power, a trusted financial advisor can offer you a roadmap to meet your goals and deliver personalized advice to help you finetune your plan.

To find a CFP® professional committed to acting in your best interest, visit LetsMakeAPlan.org.

During the highs and lows of an election year, it’s easy to become uneasy about your financial portfolio.

With historical insights, a cool head and the help of a financial advisor, you can ride out 2024 with confidence. (StatePoint)

How To Prep The Night Before The SAT Or ACT Exam

Taking the SAT or ACT exam is the culmination of months of testspecific preparation, and in truth, years of schooling. While knowing that can feel like a lot of pressure, there are steps you can take the night before the exam to calm your nerves and enter the testing site with confidence:

1. Pack your essentials: Going to bed knowing you’ve packed everything you need to succeed during the test will help you sleep soundly and make the morning less frenzied. Your packing list should include an official, currently valid photo identification, your admission ticket to the test, No. 2 pencils (be sure they have erasers), a snack and water bottle (staying fueled is essential), a sweater (testing sites are often chilly and being uncomfortable can throw you off your game), and of course, a cal-

culator. The best exam day calculator is one that’s easy to use and has an intuitive icon menu, such as the fx-9750GIII graphing calculator. While you won’t need all of its 2,900 functions during your test, or its programming capabilities, this Casio calculator is a great companion for high school juniors and seniors as it can support high-level

STEM learning in the classroom, as well as go into exam mode for use during the PSAT, SAT, ACT, and other major standardized exams, like AP and SAT subject tests. To familiarize yourself with the calculator and its interface, be sure to use the same calculator for test prep as well.

2. Eat right: Proper nutrition and cognition go hand-in-hand. The night before your exam, fuel yourself with brain foods containing a mix of antioxidants, protein and Omega-3s. Fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, nuts, beans, whole grains, tofu and lean meats are all great choices. Try to avoid food unfamiliar to you, as you don’t know how it will settle and it could cause a stomachache. You should also forgo overly sugary or processed treats, which can lead to an energy crash. Being thirsty during your test is not only distracting, dehydration can actually impair cognition and brain health. Be sure to drink plenty of water the night before your test to keep the mental juices flowing.

3. Sleep tight: It can be difficult to settle in for a night of sound sleep before an important event. Reduce

the chances of tossing and turning by putting down your devices at least an hour before bed, as blue light can suppress melatonin secretion and impact sleep. Instead, read, journal or do another quiet, enjoyable activity. On that note, avoid a last-minute study session or practice exam.

The night before the test is not the time to cram. It’s a time to relax so your mind is fresh when it counts. If you do have trouble falling asleep, don’t panic. Resting quietly with your eyes closed can be beneficial too, and may help you doze off eventually. By checking a few pre-test tasks off your to-do list the night before, you can be fueled, rested and geared up for your college entrance exams. (StatePoint)

Expert Tips To Simplify Household Shopping In 2024

It’s time to stock up on all the supplies you need to spring clean your home, as well as look and feel your best in a new season. But while the days may be growing longer, there aren’t extra hours to sift through endless product reviews.

Fortunately, trustworthy resources can help you check off the items on your household shopping list with ease and confidence. Product of the Year, the largest consumer-voted award for product innovation, has been guiding households to the best products for over 30 years. Winners are backed by the votes of 40,000 consumers, making Product of the Year’s distinctive red seal worthy of any shopper’s consideration.

“In this modern retail era where consumers have an unprecedented amount of choices on store shelves and on e-commerce sites, we are enthusiastic about being able to provide them with powerful endorsements of the best products,” says Mike Nolan, global CEO of Product of the Year Management.

Reflecting what everyday consumers value most -- innovation in function, design, packaging or in-

gredients -- this list of this year’s 28 household winners can help guide your shopping decisions this spring and beyond:

• Allergy | Astepro Allergy– Bayer

• Baby Care | Boudreaux’s Butt Paste Butt Barrier Ointment –Prestige Consumer Healthcare

• Bathroom Essentials | Charmin

Ultra Soft Smooth Tear – Procter & Gamble

• Car Care | Black Magic Graphene

Wheel & Tire Cleaner – ITW Global Brands

• Cat Litter | Purina Tidy Cats Tidy Care Comfort – Nestle Purina

• Digestive Health | Zantac 360°

Maximum Strength Cool Mint Tablets – Sanofi Consumer Healthcare US

• Dish Detergent | Finish Ultimate Automatic Dishwashing Detergent – Reckitt

• Dog Treat | Yummy Combs Flossing Dog Treat – Pet’s Best Life LLC

• Feminine Care | Playtex Sport Tampons – Edgewell Personal Care LLC

• Floor Cleaning | Swiffer Powermop – Procter & Gamble

• Functional Health | BareOrganics

Superfood Coffee – Diya Beauty & Wellness

• Hair Treatment | Schwarzkopf Keratin Blonde – Henkel

• Hand Soap | Dial Hand Soap Portfolio – Henkel

• Home Protection | TAMKO Building Products Titan XT –TAMKO Building Products LLC

• Home Solutions | ZeroWater

Ready-Read Water Filter Dispense – Zero Technologies, LLC

• Immediate Relief | Vyral Defense

Carbonated Crystals – 501 Nutrition, LLC

• Immunity | Nature’s Way Sambucus Immune Gummy – Nature’s Way

• Kitchen Essentials | Finish Jet Dry Rinse Aid – Reckitt

• Laundry Detergent | all sensitive fresh – Henkel

• Mattress | Cloverlane Hybrid Firm Mattress – Resident Home

• Pain Relief | Motrin Dual Action with Tylenol – Kenvue

• Personal Grooming | BIC EasyRinse Anti-Clogging Disposable Razors – BIC Corporation

• Personal Hygiene | Dial Cocoa Butter & Orange Extract Exfoliating Body Wash – Henkel

• Pest Control | STEM Flying Insect Light Trap – S.C. Johnson

• School Supplies | BIC Break-

Resistant Mechanical Pencil – BIC Corporation

• Small Appliance | VIVID 7 QT Full Color Display Air Fryer –Kalorik

• Wellness Supplement | Neuriva Ultra – Reckitt

• Wiper Blade | Rain-X Rugged Truck & SUV Wiper Blades – ITW Global Brands

To enter the 2024 Product of the Year Sweepstakes for a chance to win a selection of this year’s winning products, visit productoftheyearusa.com/sweepstakes. For more information and for the complete list of this year’s winners, visit productoftheyearusa.com, and follow along on social media with #POYUSA2024 on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn.

When it comes to consumer choices, yes, you can have too much of a good thing. Aligning your shopping cart with the products that worked best for other households is an easy strategy for simplifying shopping. (StatePoint)

Fun Easter Gifts Kids Will Love

While bunny- and egg-shaped candies are always crowd-pleasing favorites during Easter, you can make the holiday extra special for kids with some less sugary treats that can be enjoyed year-round. For a joy-filled celebration, get inspired with these fun and eggcellent ideas for Easter baskets:

Great Books

Books unlock new worlds and ideas, making them great gifts on any occasion. Easter is no exception.

Use the opportunity to stock children’s shelves with fiction by favorite and new-to-them authors, as well as non-fiction books on subjects of interest to them.

With the thoughtful gift of brandnew titles to discover, they’ll be well-prepared to stay engaged and entertained during the downtime of spring and summer vacation ahead.

A few thematic ideas include, “The Good Egg: An Easter and Springtime Book for Kids” and “The Velveteen Rabbit.”

Cool Toys

Make children’s days tweet-tastic with VTech Gabbers, fluffy bird buddies that can be brought along on adventures by sliding a fabriccovered magnetic egg under one’s shoulder sleeve and perching the bird on top.

Three different colored Gabbers: Jay Blue, Finch Pink and Owl

White, all sing, make funny sounds and will repeat and tweet the things kids say in a funny voice!

Whether you gift one bird, or all three, this will be a beloved and adorable addition to any Easter basket. Another cool idea that puts a spin on Easter eggs? Switch & Go Hatch & Roaaar Eggs. They open up to include all the pieces needed to build 2-in-1 dinosaur vehicles.

The line-up includes a t-rex racer, pterodactyl chopper and more. For more toys that make great Easter gifts, visit amazon.com/ vtechtoys.

Inspiration and Gear

Another fun addition to Easter baskets is gear and tools that support kids’ hobbies, passions and talents.

For example, if you’re shopping for a young artist, consider gifting them a watercolor set, crafting kit or kid-friendly knitting needles. For a

child interested in the performing arts, you can get them started on their journey with a gift certificate for music, acting or dance lessons.

Or, help get a budding athlete prepared for the spring and summer sports seasons ahead with a lightup baseball or softball, which will allow them to extend their game of catch into the evening, giving them a competitive edge.

With a few tweaks to your Easter basket routine, you can make the holiday fun and memorable for children. (StatePoint)

What Every Mom And Soon-To-Be-Mom Needs To Know About Their Heart

Over the last three decades, the United States has seen pregnancyrelated deaths rise nearly 140%, and heart disease continues to be the leading cause. Furthermore, women who have prenatal complications, such as high blood pressure or gestational diabetes, have a significantly higher risk of heart disease and stroke later in life, yet many are not getting the care they need.

According to the National Collaborative for Infants & Toddlers (NCIT), an advocacy collaborative working to pass policies that make it possible for all expectant parents, infants and toddlers to thrive, the United States is in the midst of a maternal health crisis.

This sentiment is echoed by “Opportunities in the Postpartum Period to Reduce Cardiovascular Disease Risk Following Adverse

Pregnancy Outcomes,” a new scientific statement from the American Heart Association (AHA), which was recently published in “Circulation,” the Association’s flagship peer-reviewed journal.

“Healthcare professionals and the

public alike often think of heart disease as a man’s disease. While heart disease is also the leading cause of death for women, fewer than 50% of women identify it as such. This is creating a dangerous situation for women, especially during higher-risk periods of their

life, as their symptoms often go undiagnosed and untreated,” says Dr. Sadiya S. Khan, one of the statement’s authors.

“As adverse pregnancy outcomes become increasingly common, it’s important for women to be aware of their risk for heart disease, the actions they can take to lower their risk if they experience pregnancy complications, and for birth justice policy interventions to take place that will improve their care during their pregnancy, and throughout their lifetimes.”

Many women face significant barriers in accessing primary care after delivery. Up to 40% of women do not access postpartum care, and only an estimated 18% to 25% of

Cozy Or Cramped? Americans Reveal How They Feel About Living In Small Spaces

When it comes to the home, bigger doesn’t always mean better.

A new survey from Duck brand, which offers products that provide simple, imaginative and helpful solutions for a variety of tasks around the home, discovers that more than half of Americans living in a small space say they feel cozy and comfortable as opposed to cramped.

“We often assume that a larger home is the most desirable, but that’s not always the case,” says Chaffy Assad, product manager at Shurtape Technologies, LLC, the company that markets the Duck brand. “In fact, nearly half of the survey respondents enjoy living in a small space, which most defined as a two-bedroom home or smaller.”

A more intimate space offers many benefits: 61% say it’s easier to clean, 54% say it costs less and helps save money and 52% say it’s easier to maintain. Additionally, 57% plan to continue living in their home for the foreseeable future.

While there are many benefits to

tinier homes, there are some challenges to living with less space.

Fifty-nine percent of Americans say the biggest downside is the lack of storage, with 48% of people feeling it’s harder to keep small spaces clean and organized compared to larger spaces.

Which areas prove to create the biggest cleaning conundrums?

The kitchen ranks number one as the hardest room to keep neat and tidy, with the living room a close

second, followed by the bedroom in third.

The belongings that are the most difficult to make space for are cookware, bags, shoes and gym equipment.

That being said, Americans are good at finding ways to make the most of their home by keeping clutter to a minimum and getting creative with organizing, the survey finds. Duck brand offers a variety of organizing ideas and solu-

postpartum patients with pregnancy complications or chronic health conditions are seen by a primary care clinician within 6 months of delivery.

Women of color, and women in rural areas are disproportionately impacted by barriers to care that could leave them vulnerable to further health complications.

According to NCIT, policy interventions such as expanded Medicaid coverage for 12 months postpartum in all states, expanded income eligibility for health insurance programs, paid family and medical leave, community-based doulas, and evidence-based home visiting programs can help promote ethnic, racial and socioeconomic birth equity, and help ensure all expectant and new parents have access to insurance, care and the supports needed to thrive.

tions that help people tidy up, from the EasyMounts

Mounting System that can transform a disorganized entryway, closet or garage, to the versatile EasyLiner Brand Shelf Liner that can make surfaces stylish and mess-free.

“No matter how limited your space is, there is always a way to maximize it,” Assad adds.

“Making minor and affordable changes, like mounting removable hooks on the wall, easily adds extra storage to hang such items as cooking utensils or a purse, while installing shelf liner on kitchen shelves or in bathroom drawers protects surfaces and makes it simple to wipe up spills or messes.” (StatePoint)

Also supporting women in all stages of life, and all stages of pregnancy is Go Red for Women, an AHA initiative empowering women to take charge of their heart health. One way they can do that, according to the initiative, is by understanding their heart disease risks, and coming to their doctors’ appointments prepared to discuss their personal and family health history and other factors that could impact their chance of a healthy pregnancy.

Women can also proactively manage their heart disease risk factors during pregnancy and after delivery using the AHA’s Life Essential 8 cardiovascular health metrics as a framework. These include: eating better, being more active, quitting tobacco, getting healthy sleep, managing weight, controlling cholesterol, managing blood sugar and managing blood pressure.

“Stemming the tide of this maternal health crisis is vital for families, and it starts with bringing light to the tremendous need for better delivery of care to moms and soonto-be moms with a focus on heart health,” says Dr. Khan. (StatePoint)

4 Tips To Get High Cholesterol Under Control

Heart disease is the nation’s leading cause of death for men and women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but many people aren’t aware they may be at elevated risk.

More than 71 million adults in the United States have high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and nearly 50 million don’t have it under control, which puts them at higher risk for cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke.

What’s more, nearly one-third (31%) of U.S. adults are not aware that having high cholesterol puts them at greater risk for heart attack and stroke, according to the findings of a recent study conducted by The Harris Poll commissioned by Esperion Therapeutics, Inc.

The poll also revealed some inconsistent understanding about treatment options available for those with uncontrolled cholesterol.

Fully 3 in 10 (30%) of those taking statins believe statins are the only LDL lowering treatment available for those with high LDL cholesterol.

“In auto racing, the red flag means danger on the track, stopping the race immediately,” said Dr. JoAnne Foody, chief medical officer at Esperion.

“We are launching a patient education program, ‘Wave the Red Flag,’ to encourage people with uncontrolled high cholesterol to have their levels checked right away and discuss appropriate treatment options with their health care provider.”

If your high cholesterol is uncontrolled, understanding how you can achieve greater control can reduce your risk for serious health conditions, including potentially life-threatening cardiovascular events.

Consider these tips to get high cholesterol under control.

Talk with your doctor. Speaking with your physician is an important first step to managing any health condition. Your doctor can help you understand the severity of your condition and whether a treatment plan should be moderate or aggressive.

Check your progress. Keeping tabs on your cholesterol can help you and your health care team gauge whether your treatment plan is working.

If you don’t have heart disease, you may not need to check as frequently, but your doctor can

recommend the appropriate intervals to help manage your cholesterol most effectively.

Take medications as prescribed. Statins are the medications most often recommended by treatment guidelines for the management of blood cholesterol, and nearly one-third (30%) of those taking statins believe they are the only cholesterol-lowering treatment available, according to the survey.

However, even with maximal statin therapy, some patients with chronic disease do not meet recommended LDL cholesterol levels.

Taking your medications regularly and as instructed helps your doctor determine whether additional therapies - including non-statin treatments - could be useful to help manage your blood cholesterol.

Make lifestyle adjustments. Your diet plays a major role in lowering LDL cholesterol. Limiting fatty foods, especially those that are high in saturated and trans fats, is key.

Monitoring your overall diet and exercising can also help reduce your risk of high cholesterol.

Even if you don’t have high cholesterol, adopting more cholesterol-friendly habits can help prevent your levels from rising to unhealthy levels in the future.

To find additional information about managing your high cholesterol, talk to your health care provider and visit WaveTheRedFlag. info.

Fast Facts About Cholesterol

What is cholesterol?

The liver creates a fat-like waxy substance

called cholesterol. It serves useful purposes for the body, including producing hormones and helping digest food. How do you get high cholesterol?

The human body makes all the cholesterol it needs naturally, so any cholesterol you eat is cholesterol you don’t need.

However, it can be difficult to avoid because you can find dietary cholesterol in many common foods, including meat, seafood,

poultry, eggs and dairy.

Other non-dietary contributing factors include health conditions like obesity and diabetes, as well as family history and advancing age.

What is a normal cholesterol level?

An average optimal level of LDL cholesterol is about 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

An average optimal level of high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, cholesterol is at least 40 mg/dL for men and 50 mg/dL for women. HDL cholesterol can actually lower your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Are there symptoms of high cholesterol?

Unlike many health conditions, there are rarely any symptoms that your cholesterol is high. That’s what makes regular screening so important.

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock #16968

Source: Esperion (Family Features)

Indie Meme Film Festival 2024

(Continued From Page 01)

The ‘live’ festival, scheduled from April 17 to April 21, will be held at the Austin Film Society theater, providing the perfect backdrop for independent cinema, dialogue, debate and discussion.

With more than 35 films covering over 15 different languages from 12 different countries, the 9th Indie Meme Film Festival is set to be one of the most exciting events of the year!

This annual festival based in Austin is known globally for fostering conversations through socially relevant, independent cinema from South Asia & Iran, as well as forums designed for exchange of perspectives. Award-winning actors and filmmakers from the global cinema fraternity attend IMFF every year.

From short films, feature films and documentaries, this film festival aims to showcase a spectrum of diverse stories from the most talented filmmakers from South Asia. Film Awards Nominations, Debut films, International & US Premiers, Celebrities and Controversies are all a part of this year’s programming!

Also, a unique aspect of this festival is that audience members get to candidly engage with the filmmakers after each screening, to exchange different perspectives, and explore the premise further!

Sneak Peek at 3 Film highlights:

Footprints on Water - Mega Opening Night This film is a poignant illegal immigrant story that’s sure to pull one’s heartstrings as it will open up meaningful discussion around the immigrants and immigration.

While the story itself is set in Birmingham, UK about an illegal immigrant father’s quest to find his missing daughter it looks to highlight the overall plight of this very touchy and personal subject affecting many globally! Award-winning actorAdil Hussain (Life of Pi, The Reluctant Fundamentalist) who

playsRaghu is brilliant as an anguished father.

Both Adil Hussain and Director will be in attendance during the film screening. Supporting actor Nimisha Sajayan who plays the role of Meera, his daughter in the film, is known for her roles in Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum, Great Indian Kitchen, Nayattu A tale of a convenient Visa-marriage with promises of riches in a foreign land gone wrong, a small business owner, his wife and daughter are caught up in a financial scam that threatens their very existence.

Raghu sets on a mission to find his missing daughter all by himself without coming under the police radar.

His search for Meera unveils a different side of her life that he never knew existed, eventually realizing that in his race behind the materialistic riches, he has lost everything and everyone that mattered to him the most. Now, the only priority in his life is to see his daughter safe. But is he too late?

Direction: Nathalia Syam

Cast: Adil Hussain (Raghu), Nimisha Sajayan (Meera), Antonio Aakeel (Rehan) **Opening Night Party Star Adil Hussain and Director Nathalia Syam in attendance.

IMFF’s Opening Night Parties are

space regardless of age.

Story and Direction: Dornaz Hajiha

Cast: Sepidar Tara (Haleh), Shahdiyar Shakiba (Amir), Ali Ahmadi (Ilya)

Against the Tide

The role of technology, the inevitable change that it brings the good, the bad and the ugly all examined through unique storytelling here. Bombay fishermen Rakesh and Ganesh are inheritors of the great Koli knowledge system—a way to harvest the sea by following the moon and the tides.

Director & Producer: Sarvnik Kaur

Indie Meme’s Focus From its inception in 2013, Indie Meme has addressed global issues through shorts, feature films and documentaries, showcasing a spectrum of diverse stories from the most talented filmmakers from South Asia and Iran, addressing topics that need to be dissected but often aren’t.

legendary. This year will be no different with Adil Hussain himself in attendance.

An actor who is known for his work in several Indian independent and mainstream film productions, as well as international cinema, in films such as The Reluctant Fundamentalist and Life of Pi, he is the recipient of many film awards including the 2017 National Film Awards (Special Jury) for Hotel Salvation and Mai Rati Keteki.

He is a multi linguist starrer in English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Tamil. Marathi, Malayalam, Norwegian and French Film.

Like a Fish on the Moon

This award winning Iranian film explores the emotional bomb faced by two parents Haleh and Amir, when their little son suddenly stops talking altogether!

Initially a conundrum faced by the parents who had spoiled their son with everything he wanted including protecting him from everything they can, the solutions and experts they consult to cure this selective mutism only seem to make matters worse.

Exploring complex human themes through this film, we peel layer after layer about the human spirit, the need for freedom of thought and

Rakesh has kept faith in the traditional fishing methods while Ganesh has strayed away from them, embracing technology.

Against the Tide is a tale of deep friendship and rising resentment between the two men, as close as brothers, against the backdrop of an adoring sea, which is increasingly turning hostile because of climate change.

This documentary is a winner at the Sundance Film Festival for Special Jury write Filmmaking.

Films covering climate change, access to clean water and basic nutrition, the impact of poverty, and access to education, reproductive rights, democracy, internal displacement, extremism, migrant laborers, child marriages, castebased discrimination, poverty, indigenous rights, LGBTQ rights and many more.

Indie Meme is particularly honored to continue to bring these meaningful productions making Austin THE destination for debate, discussions, dialogue, and change!

Badges for the Indie Meme Film Festival, IMFF2024, are available at https://www.indiememe.org/ attend-the-festival.

IMFF 2024 is also supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin, Economic Development Department, and its Sponsors.

30 Space Missions Planned From India In Next

(Continued From Page 01) for the private sector in the space industry, in its integrated launch manifesto using the Indian Space Research Organization’s (ISRO) infrastructure.“About 30 launches are planned for 2023-24 (Q4) and 2024-25 from SDSC (Satish Dhawan Space Centre) half of which are catering to the commercial space sector of India with the rest being user-funded, scientific missions or technology test launches,” IN-SPACe said.

According to IN-SPACe, out of the 14 commercial missions identified, seven launches are being undertaken by New Space India Ltd — the commercial arm of the Department of Space — including the realization of two Polar Satellite Launch

14 Months

Vehicles (PSLV) from the L&THAL consortium.

This marks a substantial increase in launch activity compared to previous years and is a positive indicator of the expanding space ecosystem in the country.

This initiative aligns with the directives of the recently ratified Indian Space Policy, entrusting IN-SPACe with authorization of launch manifesto for launch infrastructure created through public expenditure. The launch manifesto comprehensively covers user-funded, scientific missions and other technology demonstration launches by ISRO along with the commercial launches and associated primary and cosharing passengers. (Courtesy: https://indiawest.com/)

Celebrating Women Veterans

Veterans play an important role in U.S. history. Over time, the demographics of veterans have changed, but few realize the growing role of women in the armed forces.

Today, women comprise 11% of the veteran population. According to the Pew Research Center, that number is expected to increase to 18% by 2048.

Fannie Griffin McClendon is one of those women. She enlisted during a tumultuous period of history that spanned World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Her more than two decades in the military included service in both the Army and Air Force.

In an oral history interview for the Li-

brary of Congress Veterans History Project, she recalled her proudest memory was her time with the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion during World War II.

As the only allAfrican American, all-female unit deployed to Europe, it processed mountains of mail for U.S. servicemembers in Europe in 1945 and is credited with boosting the troops’ morale. McClendon also provided a unique perspective of life as a career military officer in an era when African American women faced bigotry and barriers.

Through the Veterans History Project, the Library of Congress collects and preserves the firsthand remembrances of U.S. military veterans like McClendon and makes them accessible for future generations to better understand veterans’ service and sacrifice.

Stories are available to the public on the Library’s website and at the Washington, D.C. campus. (Family Features)

Calls Grow In Nepal For Restoration of Hindu State

(Continued From Page 01) calling for the restoration of the Hindu state in Nepal by establishing the ‘Vaidik Sanatan Hindu State’ of Nepali politics which is also the largest party in all three tiers of the government — local, federal, and provinces.

The calls for the restoration of the Hindu state are also gaining strength inside the Nepali Congress, the grand old party As many as 950 general committee members of the party during the ongoing 14th ‘Mahasamiti’ meeting in Kathmandu have signed a petition calling for the restoration of the Hindu state in Nepal. Over 2,200 Nepali Congress delegates are attending the Mahasamiti meeting which is considered as the highest-level policy-making body of the party.

Lawmaker and central working committee member of the party, Shankar Bhandari, is leading the campaign in the Nepali Congress for the restoration of the Hindu state.

Over 950 general committee members have signed the petition calling for the restoration of the Hindu state, said Lokesh

Dhakal who is another leader of the campaign.

The majority of the general committee members are in favor of the Hindu state so the Nepali Congress should take the lead of this moment, the pro-Hindu campaigners have said.

On February 21 morning, members of the Bhandari-led campaign went to meet Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba and urged him to incorporate the agenda of the Hindu state and endorse it from the Mahasamiti meeting, but Deuba rejected, said Dhakal.

The present situation of the country does not allow the party to adopt the agenda of restoration of the Hindu state, Deuba told the visiting delegation. However, Bhadari warned that there is popular sentiment inside and outside the party for the restoration of the Hindu identity of Nepal and if the Nepali Congress ignores such an important call, it will have a devastating effect on the party.

Senior Nepali Congress leader and former Secretary General Shashanka Koirala among

others have signed the petition and more members will be joining the call on February 21 and 22, said the leaders who are campaigning for restoration of the Hindu state.

Besides the Nepali Congress, the two other largest parties, CPN-UML and CPN (Maoist Center) are silent over the agenda of restoration of the Hindu state. However, the Rastriya Prajatantra Party, the fourth-largest party in the parliament, has joined the chorus with the Nepali Congress.

The Rashtriya Prajatantra Party advocated the agenda of pro-monarchy, and pro-Hindu parties.

On February 21, the party held a rally in Kathmandu demanding the restoration of the Hindu state and monarchy and submitted a 40-point agenda to Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal. “The country has reached a critical stage, so we need a new understanding and agreement among the political parties,” said Rajendra Lingden, Chairman of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party. But Prime Minister Dahal did not comment much on the issue of restoration of the Hindu state and monarchy as an institution, said Lingden.

He also informed the Prime Minister about their plan for a peaceful movement. The Rastriya Prajatantra Party also called for pursuing an independent foreign policy and redeclare Nepal as a “zone of peace” which was once announced by late king Birendra Shah in 1975 during the occasion of his coronation.

“We have demanded the restoration of the Hindu state, and monarchy and call for the government to end the inflation, ease the public’s lives, undo the federal structures, corruption control, good governance, and other demands that are directly linked to the public’s lives,” said Mohan Shrestha, the spokesperson of the party.

The party is planning to organize a series of protests in Kathmandu from next month whose one of the major agendas is restoration of the Hindu state and monarchy in Nepal. (Courtesy: https://indiawest.com/)

Get vaccinated. Get your yearly dose of confidence.

Protect yourself by adding annual vaccines to your checklist and we’ll make it your easiest to-do.

Austin Vaccine Event

Hosted by: Disability Rights Texas

Free Vaccines Provided: Flu and COVID-19

Date: Saturday, March 30, 2024 Time: 10:00am - 3:00pm

Location: 2222 W Braker Ln., Austin TX 78758

• People 18 and older who get a vaccine will be entered to win one of five $100 H-E-B gift cards.

• Snacks provided.

Questions? Email us at vaccine@DRTx.org or call 1-800-880-8401.

Pre-registration not required. Wait times can vary. Vaccines available while supplies last.

3 Tips To Take Control Of Car Maintenance

Economic factors made 2023 a record year for motorists, but not in ways that helped most families’ household budgets.

The average price of a new car peaked at nearly $50,000 while the average age of cars on the road surpassed 12 years, a record, according to S&P.

Rising costs for new cars and an aging fleet of vehicles on the road go hand-in-hand and, for most drivers, this means staying on top of vehicle maintenance is crucial.

Yet even maintenance has become more difficult as the cost of parts and labor increase, leaving drivers with a sometimes daunting list of automotive DIY projects or parts to source when their mechanic is out of stock.

DIY

For people new to car maintenance and repair, getting started can feel overwhelming. Because many families count on their cars to get where they need to go, it seems like a lot could go wrong with an aver-

age of 30,000 parts under the hood of a gasoline-powered vehicle.

Consider these common situations that could make someone hesitant to take on a DIY project:

* Finding the best place to get parts to fit your needs

* Being unsure if a part is high enough quality to last and keep your car on the road

* Not knowing if the part you ordered will fit your car

For most, these fears boil down to being unsure if a part is right for the job, or if they’re skilled enough to install it.

Tips to Get the Repair Done Right

Now, more automotive parts and accessories retailers offer tools to help guide DIYers toward the right inventory for their needs.

From brick-and-mortar shops to online marketplaces like eBay Mo-

tors, they can enjoy access to more resources to help find the exact part and good value:

* Consider shopping online: While physical retailers may have parts that work in a pinch, they may not be the best part for a project or offer the best value.

Searching online retailers can provide access to millions of parts and accessories - including hard-tofind and discontinued items - from trusted car manufacturers and reliable aftermarket part brands.

* Look for fitment guarantees: There are few things more frustrating than being halfway through a repair only to learn a part doesn’t fit. To help ensure you’re buying with confidence, the eBay Guaranteed Fit program allows users to add a vehicle to “My Garage” then quickly and easily search for parts. If there’s a green “Fits” check, you can rest assured it’s guaranteed to fit or your money back.

* Take advantage of services and educational tools: Some online parts destinations offer features on-site or via app that connect you with licensed mechanics live if you’re unsure of how to approach a repair or maintenance, from something simple like a filter change to help with more advanced jobs, like replacing spark plugs.

When it comes to sourcing and installing parts like tires, look for marketplaces that offer a wide selection of top brands and services that ship your order straight to your local shop for convenient installation.

With the right resources, car projects can feel more manageable. To get started, visit eBayMotors.com to find how-to resources, parts and accessories to tackle some DIY projects, including filters, wiper blades, spark plugs, batteries, light bulbs and more.

#16943

Source: eBay Motors (Family Features)

Bonding With Your Four-Legged Friend

Your dog may be one of your best friends, but that bond doesn’t happen overnight. Investing in quality one-on-one time can have a big impact on the bond you build with your four-legged companion.

One of the best ways to show dogs

love is by keeping them healthy and spending quality time with them. Dedicating time every day to your dog’s well-being can help establish a connection, give you opportunities to express affection and foster shared bonding moments. Training

Teaching your dog obedience isn’t just about eliminating undesirable behaviors. Training allows you to clearly communicate your expectations to your dog. It also builds your dog’s confidence through positive feedback received after mastering a command or new trick.

5 Tips To Plan Your Dream Travel Adventure

If you find yourself dreaming of sunshine, sand and sparkling pools, it may be time to start looking forward to your next vacation getaway. Get a jumpstart on building excitement for the journey ahead by beginning preparations early, which offers many benefits, including better rates and more time to research your options.

Start exploring ideas for a funfilled trip with these tips from the travel experts at Funjet, which specializes in providing travelers with vacation packages to hundreds of destinations around the world:

Plan Ahead

Booking your vacation well in advance allows you to take advantage of the best deals at the most popular hotels and hottest travel dates. In addition, by being flexible with travel dates, families can save hundreds of dollars. Moving travel dates by a day or two can result in major savings, often even more than the discounts you can get on last-minute trips.

Research Dream Destinations

Deciding where you want to go is the first step, but with a literal world of possibilities, it can be difficult to narrow down your choices. One place you can find inspiration

is by exploring the top travel destinations others are choosing. For example, the top 10 travel destinations booked with Funjet in 2023 include numerous international destinations. Las Vegas is the only U.S. city to make the top 10 list. Mexico is especially popular, with Cancun, Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta and San Jose Del Cabo. Others include Belize City, Belize; Liberia, Costa Rica; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Panama City, Panama; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Consider All-Inclusive Options

Whether you prefer adults-only or family-friendly, luxury or budgetfriendly, there’s a diverse range of all-inclusive resorts to choose from. All-inclusives are known for their convenience and value. They offer hassle-free experiences with meals, drinks and often activities included. While many resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean islands are all-inclusive, be aware that smaller islands like Antigua may feature European plan-style hotels, where meals and drinks are not included.

An all-inclusive package usually encompasses a variety of activities and amenities curated to offer an enjoyable and cost-effective vaca-

tion. Within these packages, guests often have the opportunity to access amenities such as swimming pools, engage in sports activities, participate in fitness classes and other entertaining experiences.

Anticipate Extra Expenses

While all-inclusive resorts make tropical getaways stress-free and economical, it’s customary to express appreciation for exceptional service with tips. Resorts typically don’t require tipping, but guests commonly tip as a gesture of gratitude. When deciding to tip, families should consider modest amounts, like $1-5 per meal per person, and be mindful of different service levels as well as the convenience of using local currency. Having cash on hand makes it easier to tip as needed and ensure you have extra for souvenirs and other purchases.

Unplug and Unwind

Although most travelers believe it’s essential to stay connected, it’s a good idea to limit screen time so you can make the most of your vacation. Schedule a specific time, preferably in the morning, to address emails and online tasks then enjoy a worry-free rest of the day. While phones are often used to capture photos and videos or look up information about nearby attractions, putting away the screens means you’ll be able to enjoy the scenery, connect with loved ones and have a truly rejuvenating experience. Find more tips and plan your next adventure at Funjet.com or call your local travel advisor. #16955

Source: Funjet (Family Features)

Most dogs thrive on meeting their owners’ expectations, so consistent commands they can recognize and follow help deepen your connection.

Another way to build trust through behavior training is establishing regular routines. Giving your dog a clear set of expectations helps build mutual trust. You can create routines around the key milestones of each day, such as mealtimes, walks and bedtime.

Grooming

Some pets love bathtime; others avoid it at all costs. Either way, you can make the experience more rewarding for you and your pet if you use it as an opportunity to spend some quality time together and shower your pet with extra affection. Many pets are especially sensitive to grooming near their eyes, but keeping the eyes clean and free of dirt and buildup may help reduce the risk of infection, reduce tear stains and support your dog’s eye health.

Consider options like Project Watson eye wash for dogs, which comes in an easy-to-use bottle with a tip that allows for a steady stream of solution to use alone or by soaking a clean washcloth. Made with naturally inspired, high-quality ingredients, the eye wash is designed to match the pH of a dog’s eye and help remove dried mucous, foreign materials, pollen and other irritants.

Between grooming sessions, you can also clean your dog’s eyes with eyelid wipes. The wipes, which are part of the Project Watson line of dog care products developed by

the experts at Bausch + Lomb and evaluated by veterinarians, are formulated with micellar technology that cleanses and hydrates around the eyes while helping remove excess buildup associated with irritated, dry eyes. The gentle formula is paraben free, pH-balanced and fragrance free, made to mimic the ingredients found in natural tears and provide a soothing, gentle cleaning.

Exercise

Your dog needs daily exercise, just like you. Make your workouts do double duty by taking your dog along for a walk or jog. Just be sure to match your workout level to your pet’s abilities; just like humans, dogs need to build up endurance before tackling an extended route. Also be mindful of the terrain and ensure your pet’s paws are safe from potential risks like sharp or abrasive surfaces and extreme heat or cold.

Down Time

While dogs need plenty of practical attention and structure, some of the best bonding comes from letting loose and simply enjoying interacting with your pooch. That might mean wrestling with a favorite toy, throwing a ball or just snuggling on the couch with plenty of petting and scratches.

For more suggestions to keep your four-legged friend happy and healthy, speak with your veterinarian or visit tryprojectwatson.com.

Source: Project Watson (Family Features)

Home Is Where Ram Is – NRIs Want To Buy Property In Ayodhya

AYODHYA, (IANS) – Home is where Ram is — that is what people now believe.

According to official sources, both Indians and NRIs are now queuing up to buy property in the holy city that has come to be known as ‘Hin-

du Vatican’ after the opening of the Ram temple last month.

Superstar Amitabh Bachchan made headlines last month when he bought a plot of land in Ayodhya.

“Private companies and real estate

Success Of Imran Khan-Backed Candidates Marks Stinging Rebuke To Pak Military

It is a stunning victory for an incarcerated Khan who, two years ago faced a dramatic ouster as Prime Minister and most recently faced a military-led crackdown.

Islamabad: Independent candidates affiliated with former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehereek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has secured the most parliamentary seats in last week’s nationwide election as per the Pakistan Election Commission, media reports said.

It is a stunning victory for an incarcerated Khan who, two years ago faced a dramatic ouster as Prime Minister and most recently faced a military-led crackdown analysts say was designed to thwart the cricket icon’s return to power, CNN reported.

“You kept my trust, and your massive turnout has stunned everyone,” an AI-generated video of Khan shared by the PTI that mimicked his voice, said to his millions of followers shortly after his victo-

ry. “Now show the strength of protecting your vote.” Khan’s team has previously used AI to deliver his speeches from behind bars.

The continued success of Khan aligned candidates marks a seismic moment in the country’s recent history: It has delivered a stinging rebuke to the powerful military, a usually untouchable force that has long sat at the apex of power in Pakistan and – according to Khan’s aides and many supporters – cracked down on his party, CNN reported.

Despite the PTI backed independents winning the most seats in parliament, questions loom over what the next government of Pakistan will look like.

None of the three major parties have won the necessary seats to declare a majority in parliament and, therefore, will be unable to form government on their own, leaving it unclear who will be picked as the country’s next prime minister, CNN reported.

The results were also announced more than three days after polls closed, prompting accusations of electoral fraud from the PTI, CNN reported. (Courtesy: https://www. siasat.com/)

agents are also active. However, a maximum number of NRIs are showing interest in the government schemes,” an official said.

Formal requests by any country are routed through the Union government and hence those posing as representatives of the countries have been asked to provide formal

authorization letters through the embassies.

Delegations from Mexico, South Korea, Thailand, and Sri Lanka have visited the city to explore the options of buying land in Ayodhya, which has undergone a massive makeover because of infrastructure upgrade because of the Ram temple and the state government’s commitment to make it a global destination,” said the official. (Courtesy: https://indiawest. com/)

More Indians Can Travel To US Than At Any Other time in our history: US Diplomat Rena Bitter

NEW DELHI

(ANI) – US Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs, Rena Bitter on February 22 during her ongoing visit to India highlighted the ‘explosion’ in travel between India and the US. She is in India on consular matters.

“More Indians can travel to the United States than at any other time in our history.

Last year, this mission adjudicated 1.4 million visas, the most in many, many years.

We’ve made tremendous progress. There is no wait time in virtually every category of visas that we issue.

There is a wait time for some travelers, but there are mechanisms for

being able to expedite humanitarian cases, and for being able to expedite business visas. But beyond that, in the last year, we have reduced wait times by 75%.

And the way that we have done that is by ensuring that we have. It is important to us in Washington, again, because this bilateral relationship is so important,” she pointed out.

The US Consular Team in India

processed a record 1.4 million US visas in 2023, which is higher than ever, and has brought down the visitor visa appointment wait times by 75 percent.

The US Embassy and Consulates in India said that Indians now represent one out of every ten US visa applicants around the world.

Visitor visas (B1/B2) have rebounded to represent the secondhighest number of applications in the US Mission’s history — over 7,00,000.

Among the specific states, Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, and Chennai are the top four student visa processing posts in the world.

This has made Indian students the largest group of international graduate students in the US.

They make up more than a quarter of the over one million foreign students studying in the United States. (Courtesy: https://www.aninews. in/)

Dog Grooming Advice To Keep Pets Clean And Healthy

Regular grooming can keep your dog looking and smelling his or her best, but it’s also important for maintaining health.

If you choose to groom at home rather than opting for (often expensive) professional care, it’s also an opportunity to examine your pet for potential concerns.

A proper grooming routine starts with the right tools. Consider these suggestions from The Humane So-

ciety of the United States:

* Dog-friendly nail clippers

* Rubber-bristled brush

* Dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste

* Dog-friendly shampoo and conditioner

* Cotton balls

* Blunt-ended shears or small clippers with guides

* Microfiber towel

Trimming Nails

When your dog’s nails nearly touch the ground, it’s time for a trim, typically every 3-4 weeks.

Trimming the part of the nail that turns down helps prevent pain and damage to paws.

If your dog has white nails, avoid cutting the “quick,” the pink part that’s visible on white nails, which bleeds when cut. For dark nails, simply trim a bit at a time until evidence of the quick is visible.

Bathing and Brushing

Frequency for baths and brushing depends on your dog’s coat typebe sure to research optimal grooming schedules based on his or her breed. In general, The Humane Society of the United States recommends these guidelines:

* Short, smooth or wiry coat: Brush once a week with a rubberbristled brush.

* Long, silky or curly coat: Brush once a day with a rubber-bristled

brush or wire slicker brush. Use a steel comb to prevent tangles or mats, if necessary.

* Double coat: Use an undercoat rake or de-shedding tool to gently de-shed once a week in addition to regular brushing routines.

When it’s bath time, use a shampoo formulated for dogs and a damp cloth or cotton ball to clean around the eyes and ears without pushing anything into the eyes or ears.

Dry with a microfiber towel or hair dryer on a low setting.

Cutting Fur

Be careful and work slowly to avoid mistakes and keep your dog calm and comfortable.

Brush, bathe and completely dry prior to cutting fur with bluntended shears or small clippers with guide combs. Specifically trim hair covering the eyes and private areas and between

your pup’s paw pads.

It may be helpful to watch a tutorial online to ensure success.

Brushing Teeth

You can prevent gum disease and plaque buildup by brushing your dog’s teeth with a soft toothbrush and dog-friendly toothpaste.

Make sure your pet is comfortable and start slow, staying on the outside surfaces of teeth and gently rubbing back and forth.

Focus on the area where the tooth surface meets the gum.

Visit eLivingtoday.com to find more pet health advice.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash #16969

Source: eLivingtoday.com (Family Features)

THEME: ICONIC FASHION MOMENTS

ACROSS

1. Aggressive remark

5. Pampering spot

8. Wharton degree

11. Light bulb, in comic book

12. Burn to a crisp

13. Size option

15. Cameron of “There’s Something About Mary”

16. Fabled racer

17. Take care of debt (2 words)

18. *He wore a white leisure suit on the dance floor

20. It can be pleasant or unpleasant

21. Buenos ____

22. Dove’s sound

23. *She wore a white dress above a subway grate

26. Get house ready for living

30. Rap sheet acr.

31. Famous fictional canine

34. Brussels org.

35. Not Astroturf

37. Take the gold

38. Certain cigarette

39. Speed of object divided by speed of sound

40. Lord’s subordinate

42. Ann Patchett’s novel “____ Canto”

43. Made by Bayer

45. Friskily

47. Long period of time

48. Repeat, in music

50. Cough syrup balsam

52. *She wore a meat dress

55. What cobbler does

56. Good’s foe?

57. Muddy road grooves

59. Waltz, in France

60. White House “sub”

61. Red light action

62. Layer

63. Marching insect

64. Sports award

DOWN

1. Ebay click

2. Miners’ passage

3. *Kim Kardashian exposed it on the cover of Paper in 2014

4. *Harper’s ____, famous fashion magazine, launched in 1867

5. Fossil fuel rock deposit

6. Fractions

7. Atlas stat

8. Egg salad ingredient

9. View from high-speed train?

10. High mountain

12. Uncontrollable movement disorder

13. Animal trail

14. *Singer who sported a cone bra

19. Viola da Gamba, pl.

22. Pool tool

23. Molten rock

24. Southern cuisine pods

25. Civil rights org.

26. Jimmy Buffet: “You got ____ to the left...”

27. Many iambs

28. Iron/carbon alloy

29. *Golightly of little black dress and sunglasses fame

32. Tchaikovsky’s fowl

33. Bro’s sib

36. *Nothing came between her and her Calvins

38. Loud noise

40. Car’s unique identifier, acr.

41. Diamond on a sweater

44. Awaken

46. Rough

48. Type of juniper

49. Proclamation

50. Bluish green

51. Billy Joel’s “____ the Good Die Young”

52. Bulgarian money

53. Glory prerequisite

54. Above

55. NFL’s Lamar Jackson in 1923, e.g.

58. Done with “my little eye”?

4 Things Millennials And Gen Zers Should Know About Life Insurance

For a Millennial or Gen Zer who is young and healthy, life insurance may be the last thing on their mind.

However, life is unpredictable and having coverage is important in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

According to Bankers Life, a national life and health insurance brand, these are four reasons why Millennials and Gen Zers should consider life insurance coverage.

1. People rely on you.

Life insurance promises to pay your loved ones a sum of money in the event you pass away. If you’re in a committed relationship, engaged, married or have children, having life insurance is key to protecting those people who matter most to you. If you’re gone, your life insurance benefits can help your loved ones replace your income and maintain their home and lifestyle.

And even if you’re single and don’t have children, chances are there are still people who would be financially impacted if you were to pass away. For example, life insurance can help protect parents, siblings and loved ones from your burial expenses. And if someone has ever

co-signed a loan or credit card for you, life insurance can help protect them from your debts.

2. Life insurance tends to cost less when you’re younger.

Life insurance premiums, what you pay in exchange for coverage, are calculated based on many factors, beginning with how much coverage you’re purchasing and the type of policy. Then, your personal information and risk level are considered. Your age, health and life expectancy are all factored in when determining the premium amount.

That said, the younger and healthier you are, the less your life insurance will likely cost. When you lock in low, long-term rates in your 20s or 30s, you can enjoy them for decades to come. Further, if you develop an illness later in life, your coverage cannot be revoked if you keep paying your premiums.

3. Your employer policy may not be enough.

Does your employer provide free or low-cost life insurance? Employer-sponsored life insurance is a great benefit, but it may not be enough, especially if you own a

home, are married or have children. This is because workplace policies often only provide a basic minimum amount of coverage, and you probably can’t keep the coverage if you change jobs. That’s why many people decide to purchase their own individual policies outside of work.

4. Choosing the right policy can help you meet other financial goals.

Life insurance coverage falls into two main categories: term and permanent. Term life insurance covers you for a certain number of years before coverage ends.

Permanent life insurance covers you for your lifetime, plus can also feature a money savings component that enables you to build cash value. There are several distinct types of permanent policies, including whole life and universal life. Depending on the type of policy, cash value grows from your deposits; interest earned; and/or growth based on the stock market, an index or investments. Typically, you can withdraw or borrow from your policy’s cash value as needed.

February 2024 Sudoku Answer

3 Companies That Put Their Customers First With VIP Treatment

Part of being a savvy consumer is finding valuable perks in unexpected places.

These extras won’t just make you feel like a VIP, they’ll help you save big on the things you want and need.

Skeptical? You’re not alone -- a third of consumers are frustrated by the lack of value that loyalty programs offer, and for good reason.

Many such programs are designed simply to make you spend more. With that in mind, check out these three companies, all of which are putting their customers first:

1. A phone plan with a difference: Simply by being a T-Mobile customer, you not only have wireless on the nation’s largest and fastest 5G network, you also have “Magenta “Status,” which comes with a suite of one-of-a-kind benefits across premium brands and services that can get you anywhere you want to go with style.

Too many cool perks to track? Use T Life, a new app available on Android and iOS to easily manage them. To learn more about Magenta Status, check out www.t-mobile. com/status.

2. Savings on everyday items: Nobody likes paying more for needed items like prescription drugs, toiletries, personal care items and household supplies.

Being an ExtraCare member of CVS offers you access to sale prices, special deals, birthday rewards, cash-back at the pharmacy and more.

Membership is free, and easy to apply for at checkout or on the mobile app. (Speaking of the app, making use of it is a good way to track rewards and access additional offers.)

For more information on life insurance, reach out to a Bankers Life agent or visit bankerslife.com.

Mr. Venkata Rao Tirupathi

Ms. Vishnu Priya Sanaboyina

Mr. Yudhveer Bagga

Ms. Pragati Date

Mr. Shashikant Date

Obtaining life insurance when you’re young and healthy may not be top of mind, but it’s an important part of a holistic financial plan, and can protect the people you love.

(StatePoint)

T-Mobile has long given customers free streaming services and free in-flight Wi-Fi, along with free stuff every week from T-Mobile Tuesdays, such as fuel rewards and restaurant giveaways. And now, they’ve just turned the dial up to 11 with additional perks that come with major VIP vibes.

This includes 15% off and automatic upgrades to Silver status at Hilton’s hotel brands worldwide, free gas top-off at Dollar or EV top-off at Hertz when returning your rental, monthly $5 movie tickets for everyone on your account, and 25% off tickets to some of the hottest shows at Live Nation amphitheaters and select clubs and venues.

Add Club Magenta to your virtual wallet to enjoy premium views, private bars, giveaways and more. With no hoops to jump through, all the Magenta Status perks can add up to more than $1,500 each year in added value, putting money back in your pocket.

There is also an ExtraCare+ option for $5 a month offering additional benefits, like prescription delivery and discounts on CVS-branded products. With the free tier already offering plenty of opportunities to save, you may not see a need to upgrade.

3. A faster and more affordable cup of joe: A morning cup of coffee is non-negotiable for many Americans, making racking up rewards through Starbucks Rewards painless.

By earning stars, you can redeem them for the food and drinks you’re already enjoying, along with gifts like coffee tumblers.

This loyalty program is not just about money, but about time as well. Because you can order ahead or scan and pay at the register in one step, you’ll move through the in-store or drive-thru line sooner, so you have more “me time” during those busy mornings.

At a time when the cost of most goods and services is on the rise, finding companies that give back to their customers can not only help you stretch your budget, it can feel like a breath of fresh air. (StatePoint)

Support Asha Austin At Amplify Austin Day On March 6-7, 2024

(Continued From Page 01)

We currently support 8 projects in India that focus on children with special needs and/or alternate education models. We also support one fellowship in India with a focus on empowerment of over 25,000 tribals.

This year, we are participating in Amplify Austin Day, which is our city’s annual day of giving! It is a 24 hour online fundraising event held from March 6th, 6 pm CT to March 7th, 6pm CT, and provides a wonderful opportunity for our entire community to come together and give generously towards non-profit causes that are close to our hearts.

The Amplify Austin initiative, created by “I Live Here, I Give Here”, is one of the largest single-day fundraising campaigns in Central Texas for local nonprofits.

Many corporates will be matching employee donations made on Amplify Austin Day, allowing the impact of your support to go even further. In 2023, a total of $7.5k donated by supporters like you were doubled to $15k with corporate matching.

This year, we are hoping to exceed these numbers with your generous contributions! If you’re interested in contributing, please visit https://www.amplifyatx.org/organizations/asha-austin

Your contributions from 2023 were instrumental in supporting the education of underprivileged children in India through Asha Austin’s projects.

This year, we are hoping that you will contribute even more than last year to help them tide over these difficult times.

Volunteers at Asha Austin take extensive efforts to help local folks get fit and build community spirit by offering training for longdistance races, including 10k, half marathon and full marathon.

Strides of Hope, our long-distance endurance training program, was started in 2005, and has successfully trained over 400 local community runners of all ages and experience levels.

Each mile run and each dollar raised by these runners helps provide a better future to un-

derprivileged children in India.

Asha for Education is a 100% volunteer-driven, 501(C)(3) non-profit organization, and donations made to Asha are 100% tax deductible in the US.

Moreover, did you know that Asha for Education has been rated 4-star by Charity Navigator for being a lowoverhead, transparent and accountable organization for eight consecutive years?

Most importantly, it means that your donation has a huge impact on children, teachers, and schools that need our help, support, and motivation.

Let us all come together and give openheartedly to those who need it the most!

To learn more about us or if you are interested in volunteering, visit us at https://austin. ashanet.org/.

Title: BMBB: Diverse Cultures, One Cause

(Continued From Page 01)

‘

This unique, family-friendly event brings together the vibrant Indian-American and lively Jewish communities for a night of captivating performances.

Empowering Education with HC4A

Since 2010, Hindu Charities for America (HC4A) has been dedicated to providing essential school supplies to homeless children in Austin and providing vocational scholarships.

Their motto is ‘Serve Where You Live’ – in essence of immigrant communities coming together to pay it forward with educational philanthropy.

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

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

To date, the school supplies initiative has

supported over 14,000 homeless children. This year again, they are aiming to extend help to over 1000 children.

Your Contribution Counts

Each ticket purchase or donation at the BMBB event goes directly towards buying binders, backpacks, pencils, and other critical school supplies for students who need

them the most.

You can purchase tickets from the ec4a.org website. This is also a great opportunity for local businesses to become familiar with the audiences and grow their brand awareness through cause-based outreach.

Once HC4A meets its fundraising goal, a gathering will be organized in August, where

volunteers will pack these supplies for delivery. Some major school districts supported through these funds include Austin, Manor, and Del Valle ISDs and several other smaller peer nonprofits serving the underserved.

Volunteer with HC4A

If you’re interested in volunteering for this event or other meaningful programs throughout the year, send a message to info@hc4a. org or join the Facebook group l’Hindu Charities for America’.

Join the Movement

Tickets are selling fast, and seating at the Shalom Austin Jewish Community Centre are limited.

Secure your participation now and join HC4A in making this the most successful BMBB yet. By attending or volunteering, you’re participating in a movement that uplifts underprivileged children and ensures no child in our community is left behind in their pursuit of education.

For more information, contact info@hc4a. org.

Faysal Quraishi Calls For Release Of Indian Films In Pakistan: ‘If You Have To Run Pakistani Cinemas, It’s Important That You Exhibit Indian Films’

Faysal Quraishi said that if there was no ban on Indian films in Pakistan, the Pakistan film drama industry would have been earning around Rs 6,000 to 7,000 million annually.

There has been a complete ban on the screening of Indian films in cinema houses in Pakistan since late 2019.

Faysal Quraishi, one of Pakistan’s top actors and producers, has advocated for the release of Indian films in the country to revive the local cinema exhibition sector.

Quraishi, who has starred in several hit serials and also produced many blockbuster series, said Pakistan needed to lift the ban on screening of Indian films to survive and grow.

“Being a Pakistani, I’m very patriotic. But if you have to run Paki-

stani cinemas, it’s important that you exhibit Indian films. I’m being very selfish. But I know the audience in Pakistan wants to watch Indian films. You can’t enforce your will on them. Let us work to improve relations,” he said in

an interview with a local channel. There has been a complete ban on screening of Indian films in cinema houses in Pakistan since late 2019 but movie buffs can easily watch these movies on different streaming platforms like Netflix and Am-

Odia Movie Phalguna Chaitra’s Submission To Oscar 2024 Accepted

Bhubaneswar: Odia movie ‘Phalguna Chaitra’ has been successfully submitted for official entry for the most prestigious Oscars 2024. The 96th Academy Awards is set to take place on March 10, 2024, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.

The submission of the film has been accepted for Academy Awards

consideration, informed filmmaker Sakti Jagdev.

The movie produced by Sakti Jagdev and directed by Sisir Kumar Sahu and Peenakee Singh is a musical heartwarming story portraying family values and the magnificence of the culture of Odisha.

The Partha Sarathi Ray starrer ‘Phalguna Chaitra’ has been written by Sulagna Mohanty and Pranab Prasanna Rath.

The stars including BM Baisali, Ananya Mishra, Sukant Rath and Bhaswati Basu have also performed in the film. Popular Odia actor Babushaan Mohanty has co-produced the movie. The film was released on May 12, 2023.

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

azon Prime Video, which are legal and even others which are accessible through VPN services.

If there was no ban on Indian films in Pakistan, Faysal Quraishi said the Pakistan film industry would have been earning around Rs 6,000 to 7,000 million annually from the entertainment business, including screening of Pakistani content on Indian streaming portals and some channels.

“Our movies and serials were being shown on their online portals and people went to the cinemas as well to watch Indian films and it brought in valuable revenue for our industry. It is funny we tend to shut down our avenues of revenue,” he said.

Faysal Quraishi said he had come to the conclusion that until Indian films were allowed to be screened in Pakistani cinemas its industry could not grow.

“People need new and exciting content to attract them to the cinemas and for that, not only do we need to improve our content and business models but also have no ban on screening of Indian movies. This would also reopen our content on streaming portals,” he added.

Quraishi said the Pakistan entertainment industry can be revived and it was necessary for Pakistani content to be shown on streaming portals. “It is time we started producing content of such a level that we can even hit the international streaming platforms,” he said.

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

Watched These Brilliant Malayalam Films?

Divya Nair lists 2023’s Malayalam movies that can be enjoyed by all ages.

2023 was a year of rare hits for the Malayalam film industry.

In a country where masala entertainers like Jawan and violent subjects like Animal are celebrating tRs 500 crore plus milestones, filmmakers in Malayalam are thankfully back to making films that not only entertain but are also worth a re-watch, and maybe someday, a remake.I missed watching two of the most talked-about films, Kaathal: The Core and Neru, but here are 10 of my favourite Malayalam films of 2023.

Romancham

Where to watch: Disney+Hotstar

If you have played Planchit as a child, think of Romancham as your worst nightmare come true with just the right dose of humour. When a bunch of roommates try their luck at an Ouija board simply for fun, a spirit named Anamika responds to their invitation and turns their home into a spooky den of sorts. Romancham, like its name, offers ample goosebump moments

that keep you on the edge. An entertaining and well-made film with peppy music, Romancham can be enjoyed by all ages.

Kannur Squad

Where to watch: Disney+Hotstar

Mammooty may have played a cop in several movies, but Kannur Squad is different. Mammooka plays ASI George Martin, the smart, experienced and equally helpless head of the special task force, Kannur Squad. Ignoring their personal tragedies, the team’s search to trace the culprits behind a homicide in Kerala takes them on an unexpected journey to the villages of North India.

Parts of the film may remind you of H Vinoth’s Theeran Adhigaaaram Ondru, but the similarities end right there. The heart and soul of Kannur Squad is the rickety jeep that is used as a perfect metaphor to describe the way the Kerala police functions. Roby Varghese Raju shines in his directorial debut, bringing to life so many heartrending vignettes and behind-thescenes stories of the unglamorous lives of cops. Falimy

Where to watch: Disney+Hotstar

A dysfunctional family from Kerala travel to Varanasi by train to fulfill the dreams of their 82-year-old patriarch, each one secretly hoping to escape from their problems back home. But the journey is interrupted by unusual incidents and people they meet along the way that bring out their best and worst.

Some moments make you ROFL.

Some leave you with a lump in the throat. A perfect recipe of love, bonding, comedy and Indian family values, Nitish Sahadev’s Falimy is a light-hearted meal that will comfort you like home.

2018

Where to watch: SonyLIV

How a tragedy unites people with differences and makes heroes out of ordinary people would be 2018 in a nutshell. A talented star cast, led by Tovino Thomas, Kunchako Boban, Asif Ali and Vineeth Sreenivasan, successfully recreated the traumatic experiences of the Kerala floods and made it one of the top-grossing Malayalam films of 2023. (Continued On Page 27)

Amazon’s New Indian series Is intense, Well-Made And Important

By Gregory Wakeman

Inspired by heart-breaking true events, Amazon’s crime drama miniseries Poacher depicts a group of Indian forest officials as they try to uncover a secret ivory poaching ring that has been killing elephants.

The opening scene of the show in particular is based on a reallife event, when a former forest watcher from a remote village in the southern state of Kerala handed himself in to the local authorities and confessed to helping to kill more than 20 elephants across the region.

Sixteen months later, it was reported that 74 people, who worked as hunters, carriers, primary collectors and sponsors of poaching, had been arrested in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Delhi and West Bengal during this period.

Poacher isn’t a direct re-telling of

this story. The large ensemble of characters are all original and the investigation they embark on is mostly fictional. But that doesn’t stop it from being an integral cautionary tale that the whole world could benefit from knowing.

Rather than prioritising the weight and importance of Poacher’s mes-

sage, its creator, co-writer and director Richie Mehta brings a grittiness and authenticity to the mini-series’ visuals and an intensity to the story, which immediately makes it gripping to watch unfold. At the same time, he incorporates tried and trusted character tropes from the crime drama genre to pull viewers in.

After the forest watcher’s confession, we’re introduced to the main characters that are going to head the investigation into ivory poaching. Mala (Nimisha Sajayan) is a highly regarded Indian Forest Service agent currently tracking birds in Kerala, when she learns of the forest watcher’s confession. After local authorities tactlessly tip-off their main target Raaz that he’s about to be arrested, by asking everyone in the small village where he is, Mala bribes a local bartender to get a tip-off that gets the case back on track.

She is joined in her investigation by Alan (Roshan Mathew). While he is not an officer, he has an indepth knowledge of snake bites and other animals and is a vital expert for doctors treating patients, as well as forest workers. At the same time, he’s proficient with computers and data, which the officers then use to track criminals’ phones and computers as the investigation

Watched These Brilliant Malayalam Films?

(Continued From Page 26)

Iratta

Where to watch: Netflix

As if one brilliant Joju George wasn’t enough, Director Rohit Krishnan cast two of them as twin brothers who despise each other. When one is murdered, the estranged twin has to investigate if the crime is an act of suicide or a carefully orchestrated murder. As isolated incidents are pieced together, you unravel a character, who is more misunderstood than prejudiced. Masterful storytelling and intense performances ensure to keep you glued to the end. Not to mention the unsettling climax that is bound to haunt you long after you’ve finished watching the film.

Thankam

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

When you are in the business of gold, the lure of making quick money at the risk of losing everything may keep you going.

Thankam looks at the lives of two friends, who are gold agents from Kerala, who risk their lives to complete a consignment in Mumbai. When one of whom is found

dead in mysterious circumstances, the other is suspected of conspiring against his business partner. The stress and panic that enfold while trying to solve the crime of a low-key man with secrets keep you gripped throughout this film. Gleaming performances led by Biju Menon (Mathews), Vineet Sreenivasan (Kannan) and Aparna Balamurali promise to keep your brains racking into the psychology of Kannan and Mathews. If one were to describe this film in gold terminology, ‘916’ (pure gold) would be just apt.

Purusha Pretham

Where to watch: SonyLIV

In Purusha Pretham, a woman challenges an upright police officer and alleges that the dead man whose unclaimed body was buried by the police was that of her husband. What ensues is a battle of chaos as both parties try to present evidence to prove the other is guilty. SI Sebastian is a colourful character, well-written and brought to life by Prashant Alexander. Darshana Rajendran as Susan, the gritty lady with secrets, offers the right amount of seriousness to this

gets going.

Neel (Dibyendu Bhattacharya), the police chief who has brought Mala and Alan together and is also on the cusp of retirement, has to ask for favour after favour to help close the case before he calls it a day. This task is made all the more complicated by the sheer number of government departments involved in the investigation, as local police officers, Indian Forest Services, legislature officials and non-government workers all keep getting in each other’s ways. Especially after the forest watcher’s confession gets global press attention.

The investigation gets bogged down by so much red tape, that Neel tells Mala and Alan that the chain of command is no longer functional. This actually helps the pair, though, and they soon start to get their hands dirty and use unconventional methods to find the culprits responsible.

humourous drama inspired by redtapism.

Pookkaalam

Where to watch: Disney+Hotstar

When 100-year-old Ittoop aka Ichoy (Vijayaraghavan) accidentally discovers a love letter written to his same-aged wife Kochu Thresiamma (KPAC Leela), he is furious and insists on getting an immediate divorce. He fights against his family and hires a lawyer, Advocate Jikkumom (the fabulous Basil Joseph). Jikkumon is tasked with proving the authenticity of the letter to enable the separation for his client, but Kochu Thresiamma has her own army of grandchildren, who would stop at nothing to bring their grandparents together. Pookkaalam has many heart-melting moments that offer you a different perspective on long-lasting relationships. The camaraderie between Vijayaraghan and KPAC Leela is so natural that anyone would root for them. Extra marks to the make-up team for transforming a 72-year-old actor into a centenarian.

Despite the show’s occasional divergences into cliche and its debilitatingly on the nose script, Mehta’s decision to show Poacher from the perspective of the investigators helps to keep it fascinating, informative and heartfelt, as he ensures that audiences care deeply for each character. He also does a great job of immediately establishing how serious the problem could become, explaining that if they don’t catch the criminals then the animals will become fair game for other poachers across the country and will soon be extinct.

The more Poacher goes on, the more it explores India’s tragic history with poaching. Sajayan and Matthew’s performances are so strong that they’re able to portray the burden of guilt and responsibility that the country feels towards the ivory trade without it coming across as forced or overly didactic.

Poacher begins streaming on Amazon Prime Video from Friday (Courtesy: https://www.msn.com/)