Monthly Community Paper | www.austinsouthasian.com | 512-828-6709 | Vol. 12 No. 05
SAIVA
By Megha And Yamini
End of March, SAIVA hosted the ‘Bollywood Fallen Stars Musical Tribute Honoring Sridevi and Shashi ji’.
Ramadan Begins By Sumaiya Malik Austin Muslim community celebrates the month of Ramadan with breaking of fast in gatherings in mosques or at friends’ houses.
It was a joyous program full of tal-
2019 Sri Lanka Easter bombings On 21 April 2019, Easter Sunday, three Christian churches across Sri Lanka and three luxury hotels in
Dematagoda and a guest house in Dehiwala. 253 people were killed, including at least 42 foreign nationals and three police officers, and at least 500 were injured. The church bombings were carried out during Easter services in Negombo, Batticaloa and Colombo; the hotels that were bombed were the Shangri-La, Cinnamon Grand, Kingsbury and Tropical Inn.
There is added reward in sharing food and in charity. (Continued On Page 12)
The Picture Book World..4 Fringes Of Parenthood..05 Arun’s Scribblings.........06 HC4A BMBB.................06 4 Ways To Get Fit.........07 Hoysala Social..............08 Ways To Staycation......09 Keep Your Bills Low......10
June 2019 Travel Special Memorial Day Nadia Wadia Mother’s Day
ented entertainment and delicious Indian snacks in celebration of SAIVA’s 10th anniversary. (Continued On Page 11)
Memorial Day (or Decoration Day) is a federal holiday in the United States for remembering and honoring persons who have died while
the commercial capital Colombo were targeted in a series of coordinated terrorist suicide bombings. Later that day, there were smaller explosions at a housing complex in
By Sumaiya Malik and Amil Malik
(Continued On Page 16)
Mother’s Day in the United States is an annual holiday celebrated on the second Sunday in May.
serving in the United States Armed Forces. It’s a gregarious month where the community opens doors to host people who fast.
inside May 2019
The holiday, which is currently observed every year on the last Monday of May, was most recently held on May 28, 2018. Memorial Day was previously observed on May 30 from 1868 to 1970. (Continued On Page 23)
Mother’s Day recognizes mothers, motherhood and maternal bonds in general, as well as the positive contributions that they make to society. (Contined on page page 15)
(Continued On Page 13)
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SAIVA..........................11 Malik’s Page...12,13,14,15 I Was Told There Would Be No Math.................18 Meal Of The Day..........18 Crunch Time: Get In Shape For Summer.......19 Fun Ways To Keep Kids.19 Protect Your Skin.........20 Bites And Burns...........20 Electric Car...................21 Community Calendar....21 Children’s Page...22,23,25 Let’s Talk Money...........23 Celebrating And Protecting National Parks........24 Entertainment.........26,27
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
May Is Disability Insurance Awareness Month
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
The Picture Book World
By Shachi Kaushik
Reading a book with your children helps to create a bond. There is nothing better than cuddling up to your little one and reading a book together. As we celebrate Mother’s Day this May one of the ways to celebrate, is to read a book together.
Hindi, in addition to a few different Hindi words. The beautiful illustrations will capture your child’s heart. A book that can be introduced to children at an early age and is a sweet bedtime story.
Rock Public Library.
My second pick is MY MOTHER’S SARI- Author Sandhya Rao and Illustrator Nina Sabnani In My Mother’s Sari, the little girl takes her
The endpapers demonstrate how to wrap the sari. You can make this book more interesting by doing the activities with the sari, just like the little girl does in the book. This book is available in the Round Rock Public Library.
Here are a few books that you can enjoy reading with your little ones.
Another sweet story is
SHUB RAATRI DOST/ GOOD NIGHT FRIEND- Author & Illustrator Nidhi Chanani
10 GULAB JAMUNS by author Sandhya Acharya and Illustrated by Vanessa Alexandre A story about two brothers Idu and Adu who get excited after seeing Gulab Jamuns for the first time.
I am excited to introduce this great HindiEnglish bilingual board book which makes learning the language Hindi easy and fun. This story is about a brother-sister, who say good night, “Shubh Raatri” to all their friends at the farm. Children can learn the name of animals in
into a train, a river and even wraps herself in her mother’s sari.
This book is a new addition in the Round
mother’s sari and plays with it. She makes it
Their mother cooks Gulab Jamuns for the guests, but Idu and Adu get tempted to eat the golden sugary-syrup soaked balls. Find out if the Gulab Jamuns lasted until the guests arrive.
4 Ways To Beat The Summer Heat If you love summer and sunshine, you may be looking for ways to beat the heat that don’t necessarily involve escaping indoors to air conditioning.
variety, depending on what ingredients you include. Consider pineapple chunks, coconut shav-
kayaking and swimming or just lazing on the river for a day of tubing, be sure you have the right tools on-hand, like the WSD-F30 Pro Trek Smart Outdoor Watch, which is water-resistant up to 50 meters and includes apps for activities like swimming and surfing. 3. Stay hydrated. A hydrated body is like a well-oiled machine. Indeed, staying hydrated helps keep your core body temperature in check. Be sure to drink plenty of water, particularly on the hottest days. At mealtime, select items like gazpacho or smoothies and opt for snacks that have a high-water content, like watermelon, cucumbers and apples. 4. Dress right.
Here are four ways to make the most of the summer season while staying cool and comfortable. 1. Homemade popsicles. Get the entire family involved in making homemade popsicles -- a sweet treat that can be much healthier than the store-bought
ings, berries, lime juice, kiwi, yogurt and other fresh flavors for a delicious, nutrientpacked way to cool down on hot summer nights. 2. Get on the water. Keep cool with outdoor water activities. Whether you’re doing something active like
The fabrics and colors of your summer wardrobe can make a big difference in the way you feel. Stick to light, loose garments or tech fabrics specifically designed to wick moisture. Some clothing even now comes with SPF for extra sun protection, which could be important if you exercise outdoors or are otherwise spending lots of time in direct sunlight. (StatePoint)
It is an excellent book through which you can teach counting. A fun activity would be to eat some Gulab Jamuns while reading this well-written and fun to read book. This book is available on Amazon.com. Wishing a Happy Mother’s Day. Join me for a Hindi-English Bilingual story time every fourth Tuesday of the month from 10:30 A.m. to 11:00 A.m. at the Round Rock Public Library. For details check out my website www.storiesbyshachi.com.
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On The Fringes Of Parenthood!
By Shivika Mathur Austin Being a parent is like watching oneself grow with one’s own intervention...such is the paradox of parenting! There are innumerable articles on tips and techniques of parenting but this article delves into the aspects that are usually found on the fringes of any discussion around parenthood. You will relate! 1. A Happy Mother: A happy motherhood is as vital as a healthy upbringing. Pregnancy as a phase is a launchpad of tumultuous hormones unleashing a spectrum of emotions. The physical implications of child-birth and the emotional fluctuations around accommodating a new member take a toll on mothers. To top it all, mothers also feel an invisible pressure to correctly look after the newborn turning the whole experience of parenting into a performance. However bizarre it may sound, first few months post-partum, newbie moms need as much care-physical, moral and emotional as provided to the new born to be able to take off for a happy journey of motherhood. 2. Body Shaming: Body shaming around parenthood is beautifully camouflaged in the phrase, ‘bounce back,’ a euphemistic way of suggesting that post birth, woman’s body ought to be brought back to its pre-pregnancy state. The concept of bounce back seems utterly flawed (also misogynist at times). Post-partum bodies do not need to rebound like balls. They need to be embraced and evolve into something that gives health and happiness and not necessarily a body shape.
3. Parent-Shaming: Parenting does not come with a manual. Yet, there is no dearth of people who proclaim to have devised or mastered standards of parenting. Parent shaming involves discreet ways of belittling or even ridiculing others’ ways of parenting. While there is no standard way to parent a child, there is a way of dealing with those who parent-shame: Shun Them. 4. Screen time: We all know the guidelines and are irreversibly way over the set limits. And this problem is hydra-headed: tv screen time, computer screen time, laptop, tablet time, and of course the self-proclaimed smart phone screens. Wait, I am talking about parent screen time here. Children don’t listen, they imitate. 5. Dad is a parent too: A father’s parenting skills are one of the most under-discussed and under-estimated activity on this planet. There are a variety of ways in which fathers can contribute in healthy parenting. And it starts from point 1 (no kidding!). sIt’s interesting how children begin to associate parents with division of labor early one. While that may bring a sense of routine, occasional swapping of roles can not only improvise parenting but also introduce them to idea of gender equality. The best way a dad can help is to enable the mom in taking a break. Feeding (for there are many ways and items to feed a child), bathing, story-telling, taking the child out for a stroll, fostering a love for travel, animals, putting them to sleep are small ways by which Dads can go an extra mile. It’s worth it!
Labour Day
Labour Day is an annual holiday to celebrate the achievements of workers. Labour Day has its origins in the labour union movement, specifically the eight-hour day movement, which advocated eight hours for work, eight hours for recreation, and eight hours for rest.For most countries, Labour Day is synonymous with, or linked with, International Workers’ Day, which occurs on 1 May. For other countries, Labour Day is celebrated on a different date, often one with special significance for the labour movement in that country. Labour Day is a public holiday in many countries. In Canada and the United States, the holiday is celebrated on the first Monday of September and considered the unofficial end of summer, with summer vacations ending and students returning to school around then.
Austin South Asian | May 2019
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
HC4A’s Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt Raises $35,000 For Education
by Aashi Morales Laughter, cheers, and clapping
Meets Borscht Belt (“BMBB”), to raise funds for school supplies for local homeless students.
When HC4A began its school supplies initiative in 2010, it raised $2555 for homeless children. BMBB this year raised more than $35,000 which will be used to provide school supplies to over 1200 children and vocational scholarships to needy students.
dancers representing the state of Punjab, led by Kamal Vats, and the state of Gujarat, led by Shobhna Kotecha. Singer Jayeeta Dasmunshi from Musica Indian School of Music
HC4A’s cause as did numerous other volunteers who assisted with set up, food service, decorations, photography, videography, sound, and fundraising. HC4A is a non-religious 501(c)(3)
The popular afternoon event was filed with a diverse group of supporters, from education, community, and business leaders, to fellow non-profit organizations, individuals, and families who believe in HC4A’s mission. Over 34 general and table sponsors made up of families, community organizations, and businesses, donated for the event’s success.
filled Shalom Austin’s Dell Jewish Community Center on the afternoon of April 7, 2019, when over 400 people turned out for HC4A’s signature spring event, Bollywood
Now in its seventh year, BMBB has become a highly anticipated spring event that is more successful each year.
5 Warm Weather Weight Loss Blunders To Avoid Along with warm weather comes picnics, cookouts and other parties that can take a toll on your healthy lifestyle. To help you stay on track while you’re enjoying the sunshine and good times, Courtney McCormick, manager, Clinical Research and Nutrition at Nutrisystem, is sharing the top five weight loss blunders people tend to make this time of year and simple tips for avoiding them. • Blunder 1: Crash dieting: The thought of putting on a swimsuit may entice you to crash diet. Crash diets are not only unhealthy, they tend to slow metabolism, making it difficult for you to drop more than just a few pounds. Also, any weight you lose short-term will be regained as soon as you resume eating normally. It’s best to stick with your healthy lifestyle year-round. Have a bad day? That’s okay. Vow to get back on track the next day. • Blunder 2: Ordering smoothies and frapps: When the weather turns hot, a blended drink can seem like an ideal morning or afternoon pick-meup. However, those from coffee shops and convenience stores tend to be loaded with sugar and fat. A 16-ounce serving may have more than 200 calories and 50 grams of sugar. Quench cravings by ordering unsweetened or lightly sweetened iced coffee or tea or opt for a protein shake. (Continued On Page 09)
Also contributing were 21 local Indian restaurants which generously supplied food for delicious Indian Thali plates. The keynote speaker, Dr. Paul Cruz, superintendent of the Austin Independent School District, praised HC4A for its work, explaining that it takes “events like this, where people step up to the plate,” to make a difference for homeless students. The mother of one of the recipients of school supplies also thanked HC4A for its help to her son, saying that the help aided him to succeed in school and make it to college. This year, attendees were treated to pre-event music by the Michel and Mark Klezmer Duo and then to a tour around India through dance and music. Seven different states of India were represented with information about each state announced and projected on a large screen. People applauded in delight and cheered when different states were announced. Leading off the performances was Austin Arts Hall of Fame dancer Anuradha Naimpally, followed by
then entertained the crowd, followed by dancers representing Kerala, led by Ritu Nair and Arthi Ramesh, Rajasthan, led by Astha Daga and Mumal Joshi of Junooni Rajasthani Wings, Tamil Nadu, led by Vinitha Subramaniam of Natyalaya School, Bengal, led by Jayshree Kar and Pravi Das, and Andhra Pradesh, led by Raji Rayaprolu of Abhinaya School of Kuchipudi Dance.
charitable organization dedicated to helping economically disadvantaged students in our local communities.
More than 60 performers donated their time and talent to support
For more information, visit HC4A at hc4a.org.
HC4A invites everyone to Serve Where You Live by bridging income disparity through education. Join us in packing school supplies for homeless children on August 11, 2019, and at our annual Gala on October 12, 2019.
Scribblings By Arun PREPOSTEROUSLY ABSURD
All know who has done it No doubt It is a murder But the court has to declare To penalise the culprit.
With the aid of lawyers shrewd Guilty try to get long ropes To pave ways for escape routes No doubt they often succeed.
To convince jury and Court Onus on those affected With established and confirmed Evidences to support.
Murder remain a murder Who done it remain clouded Quitely the case stands dismissed Busy court barely bother.
The long drawn legal battle Without the money power Nor political power Disgustingly turns dreadful.
Preposterously absurd, Bitter fact to reconcile. (arunsunderraj@gmail.com)
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
4 Ways To Get Fit As A Family
One of the keys to encouraging children to develop health habits early is to make fitness a priority in the home. The great news is there are a vari-
you turn each day into an opportunity to get fit and have fun as a family. As with any workout, it’s important to have the proper gear, and
1. Visit a playground: Choose your own adventure, taking note of your favorite parks and playgrounds and their features, such as skate parks, swings, slides and climbing walls. Shoes to try: Vans all have a variety of “updated classic” styles available in men, women and children’s sizing in on-trend colors, such as blush, yellow and white. This ensures that everyone can find a pair that reflects their personalities, while also providing necessary support. 2. Learn a new sport:
ety of ways to lead an active lifestyle that are suitable for the whole family, including kids of all ages. Let these four creative ideas help
that starts with footwear. Each exercise is paired with a suggestion of what to consider when it’s time to choose the right shoe.
From tennis to golf to touch football, there are a variety of ways to experience healthy activities as a group. Shoe to try: The Adidas Lite Racer features a Cloudfoam EVA midsole to guide your foot when enjoying high-impact sports, such as running or tennis. 3. Participate in a charity run:
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or have just signed up for your first 5K, many fundraising races are designed to accommodate the whole family. For younger children, search for events that allow baby strollers or that host a separate Fun Run for the kids. Shoe to try: Nike offers the Flex Experience, which features lightweight synthetic overlays for a great fit and feel in both adult and children’s sizing. 4. Get outdoors: Explore a new hiking trail to make memories and enjoy stunning scenery. Cater to all family members by choosing the length and level of
difficulty of the hike. Shoes to try: Built to go off-roading, ASICS hiking shoes features reversed lugs on the outsole to ensure a dependable grip both uphill and downhill. New footwear can help each member of the family get motivated to meet fitness goals and try new activities. For a one-stop-shopping experience and shoe trends for families, visit the Athletic Shop at Rack Room Shoes in stores or online at www.rackroomshoes.com/athleticshop. Exercise shouldn’t be a chore. With new gear, a great attitude and a sense of adventure, getting fit as a family will be fun.
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Hoysala Social And Sports Club And National Cricket Academy America To Excel Youth & Women Cricket
Hoysala Social and Sports Club and National Cricket Academy America jointly hosted the ACF Level 1 and Level 2 certification during April 13th and 14th 2019 weekend at The Cage, Woburn, MA.
Lexington town high school scholars formed the cricket club with founder Vijayesh and expected to recruit more players for the school club. Over all area lacks inadiquate
breed of international cricketers into these sessions. Never ever we felt like he is teaching or preaching, All the sessions were practically conducted with bat and ball in hand. Starting from basics of the game, player corrections to game situations he blended everything so well and empowered the attendees by sharing his immense knowledge of the game that he has acquired from his experience.
Austin South Asian | May 2019
Are You At Risk For Hepatitis C? What To Know Approximately 2.5 million people in the U.S. are living with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and as many as 75 percent of people with the disease don’t know they’re in-
likely to have HCV than other adults. Other higher-risk populations include current or former drug users, recipients of blood transfusions or organ transplants before July 1992, hemodialysis patients, those who have gotten
fected. Untreated, HCV can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis and liver cancer. While these numbers may sound startling, there’s good news, too.
tattoos or body piercings with nonsterile equipment, workers who have come in contact with infected blood at their jobs, and those with HIV.
Thanks to the recent development of direct-acting antiviral medications, treatment of HCV has evolved significantly to be shorter in duration, cause fewer side effects and have cure rates higher than 90 percent for those treated. To encourage testing, treatment and wellness, the American Liver Foundation (ALF), the nation’s largest patient advocacy organization for people living with liver disease, and Lincoln Financial Group are offering the following tips:
Get Treated, Get Cured If you test positive, your healthcare provider will suggest which medication treatment options are right for you based on your particular circumstances. Today’s treatments typically involve eight to 12 weeks of oral medication, and are well tolerated with few side effects. “With continued improvements in detection and treatment, understanding your risk for HCV can save your life,” says Tom Nealon, president and CEO of ALF. “We encourage those high-risk populations to get tested, so they can get treated and get cured.”
About the American Cricket Federation Cricket (ACF) Coach Certification Program The ACF Cricket Coach Certification Level 1 program was launched in May 2014, followed by the Level 2 certification program one year later in June 2015. Hoysala Social and Sports Club is working closely with the Massachusetts State Cricket League (MSCL) to grow youth cricket in North Eastern area of USA. Recent ACF coaching & practical training sessions are considered proper way to gain momentum in the New England region, Vijayesh Hassan, founder of the Hoysala Social and Sports Club and Raghunandhan Sridhar Head coach of NCAA, and former MSCL captain for the two ACF national championships are working closely with the Dilip Chavan, President of the MSCL and other key members of the MSCL league are able to create state’s first ever U18 team coached by Raghunandhan Sridhar to participate in this year’s NYCL tournament to be held in North Carolina during July 4th weekend. Similar to most of the states in USA, MA also faces the similar issue of having very less number of certified coaches to start introducing the game at the grassroots level.
coaches with experience to help the local school programs. Some PE teachers not able to take this program to next level. As there are not many certified cricket coaches in the area with the school cricket education expertise. With this recent weekend long cricket coaching clinic, conducted by renowned national level ACF’s Director of Coaching Jatin patel we were able to get some folks started towards the journey of coaching the next generation of talented individuals. The vision and experience that Jatin Patel brings to these coaching sessions are second to none. He brings in the experience of being played the game with the stalwarts, and also now being actively involved with many of the current
Since the launch, 25 States can now boast of having certified ACF cricket coaches to help grass root level youth & school programs. Atlantis Cricket Club – NY and Queens United Cricket Academy in New York, NJSBCL in New Jersey, United Cricket League in Boston, MA, Minnesota Cricket Association Youth Program in Minneapolis, American Cricket Academy and Missouri Youth Cricket Association in St. Louis. Sarasota International Cricket Club (SICC) Sarasota, FL. Colorado Cricket League in Denver, Washington Cricket Center in Washington DC, Florida Cricket Conference in Orlando, FL, Southern California Youth Cricket Academy, Los Angeles and Southern California Junior Cricket, Los Angeles are a few of the hosts for ACF coaching camps/training sessions held since the ACF Cricket Coaching program was launched.
Austin South Asian Invites Contributions From Readers And Community
Get Tested HCV is called “the silent disease” because many with the virus show no symptoms. Therefore, testing -- often a simple blood test -- is important for higher risk populations, especially baby boomers. May, which is Hepatitis Awareness Month, is a great time to schedule it. The CDC recommends that everyone born between 1945 and 1965 get tested, as this portion of the population is five times more
Pursue Liver Health and Wellness Once you’ve received treatment, stay on the path to wellness. To protect your physical health, keep all your medical and lab appointments, see your physicians regularly, eat healthfully, pursue hobbies, exercise and avoid alcohol and recreational drugs. (Continued On Page 11)
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
Great Ways To Staycation During The Warmer Months Whether you’re taking a staycation or just looking for some fun in the sun near home, check out these ideas for creating instant summer vibes: • Get Beachy:
with fresh fruits, vegetables, superfoods and better-for-you fare. Look for local dining options that bring tropical flavors to you, such as Tropical Smoothie Cafe, a lead-
and vegetables with their popular Island Green smoothie, made with spinach, kale, mango, pineapple and banana. It’s good for you and tastes great.
You don’t need to live near or travel to the shore to turn your backyard into an exclusive beach getaway.
white chocolate and coconut. Delicious wraps, flatbreads and sandwiches are great complements to a smoothie and good choices for those wanting to eat lighter fare this season. To learn more, visit calsmoothiecafe.com.
All you need are some lounge chairs, shades, SPF and your favorite magazines or page-turning novels. For a bit more active relaxation, invite some friends over for frisbee golf or set up a net and play “beach” volleyball.
tropi-
ing national fast-casual cafe.
Stay refreshed in warm weather
You can get five servings of fruits
Another favorite for embracing the tropical vibe is the Bahama Mama, featuring strawberries, pineapple,
For road trips, both long and short, backyard barbecues and more, the right playlist can create the perfect vibe. When making the playlist, think about the songs that evoke your favorite sun-and-fun memories.
On sunny days, head to the park for a picnic lunch, or host friends for al fresco dining on your deck.
Then, pump up the jams whenever the mood strikes.
In warm weather, there is no shortage of fun to be had.
When you eat better, you feel better.
• Jam Out:
And remember, nothing speaks to the season like a fresh meal accompanied by a fresh breeze.
• Have Fun:
• Eat Light:
Take advantage of the great weather by spending time active and outdoors.
Go roller skating. Hike a local trail. Attend a baseball game. Play mini golf. Bike to the next town.
Be sure you have portable speakers for the season so your summer soundtrack is handy wherever you go. Summer is a state of mind. Get into the mindset without leaving town. (StatePoint)
5 Warm Weather Weight Loss Blunders To Avoid
(Continued From Page 06) “Being from the south, I love my sweet tea. To be sure I don’t overdo it on the sugar, I will use a little bit of honey as a sweetener instead,” said Julie Chrisley, Nutrisystem ambassador. • Blunder 3: Not watching alcohol intake: Alcoholic beverages can be very refreshing in warm weather, but even a light beer or white wine is more than 100 calories, and today’s popular sweet drinks like hard cider and wine coolers have as many 180 calories each. To avoid overindulging, alternate one or two drinks with fizzy seltzer over ice and a lime wedge. • Blunder 4: Perspiring to lose: When you exercise in the heat, you may think you can feel the pounds melting off with each bead of sweat. And if you weigh yourself right before and after a workout, you may see a difference. The problem is as soon as you replace the fluids you’ve sweated out, you’ll see on the scale that you’ve lost little, if any, weight. Your best bet is to maintain a steady activity level every day so that you get at least 150 minutes of movement a week. Regular activity keeps your metabolism burning continually, even if you’re just walking inside an air-conditioned mall. • Blunder 5: Loading plates with BBQ favorites: Backyard barbecues bring out many favorite classics, like potato salad and coleslaw. While those dishes start with healthful vegetables, they get weighed down with excessive saturated fats from mayonnaise and sour cream. What’s more, the loads of sugar in popular barbecue sauces can heap calories on a lean chicken breast. To manage intake, avoid creamy salads and dip chicken in BBQ sauce instead of slathering it on before grilling. For more tips and tricks for staying on track with weight loss and healthy lifestyle goals, visit leaf.nutrisystem.com. To overcome the most common warm weather weight loss blunders, it’s best to know what they are, as well has have go-to strategies to avoid them. (Statepoint)
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
When Temperatures Get High, Keep Your Bills Low The answer is no.
certified by North American Technician Excellence (NATE), the nation’s largest certification body for HVACR technicians.
There are numerous ways to keep your home cool and bills low in summer.
NATE-certified technicians are qualified to properly install and service equipment, which means
Do higher temperatures have to mean higher energy bills?
maximum home comfort and energy savings. Once a technician has inspected your system for efficiency, there are a number of things you can do to keep energy bills low:
Each degree you raise the thermostat will save you a percentage off your cooling energy bill.
If you have a central air conditioning system, for peace of mind, you might want to have your system checked by an HVACR professional.
• Compare energy bills from last year. If your costs have significantly increased, simply contact a qualified HVACR technician -- he or she can help determine the source of the problem.
In order to save, be sure to shop around for special deals, which are not difficult to find for seasonal preventive maintenance.
When searching for the right HVACR technician for your home, one way to make certain that the job will be done properly and effectively is by hiring a professional
512-491-5055 (Take-Away is possible on all items on the menu)
Remember, having an energy-approved, eco-friendly, high-efficiency product does not mean automatic money and energy savings. Proper installation, service and maintenance are important, too. So, do yourself a favor and request the service of an HVAC contractor who employs NATE-certified technicians. To locate one, visit the Homeowners section of the NATE website at www.natex.org, then enter your zip code on the locator map. By taking proactive measures, you can rest assured that this season you will be cool while saving money and energy. (StatePoint)
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Understand however, that the proficiency of HVACR technicians varies greatly.
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• Don’t obstruct airflow around air conditioner units -- keep them clear of plants and debris. • Raise the thermostat about 5 degrees.
After a few months of disuse, it is vital to check that your air conditioning system is still working in an efficient and optimal manner.
Bombay Express
weeks and change them at least twice in the season, or as directed by the manufacturer.
• Clean your air filters. Check them every couple of
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
‘Bollywood Fallen Stars Musical Tribute Honoring Sridevi And Shashi ji’ South Asians’ International Volunteer Association (SAIVA)
(Continued From Page 01) This event was a fundraiser to raise money to put into new programs and expand around the Austin area. It was also the first big program the nonprofit organization had put together.
those who had witnessed the actors’ films in their prime.
event with her team and SAIVA’s core volunteers.
Every performance was so special and age was no boundary. This intergenerational program was
The event was designed to bring the community together to enjoy the cultural entertainment and to work
It was touching to see the support the community brought to SAIVA in there time, talent, and treasure. The theme of the great event was a tribute to two great Indian talents of the past, Shashi Kapoor and Sridevi. With the host Nupur Sharma, many great performances were put on from talented singers and dancers alike and each one of them brought great smiles to all that attended. A lovely viewing of old photos and videos of the two great actors tied up in displaying the memories to
delighted created by Palak Sadarangani who tireless mastered the
towards a common goal of raising funds to improve the organization to expand and create awareness of SAIVA’s mission of promoting a well-belonging and fulfilment in older adults. SAIVA was founded in order to bring many generations together to help each other and build community. It involves the young helping the older and vice versa. Those who keep it together strive to help South Asian senior citizens who are socially isolated from the greater community to feel more of a belonging. The intergenerational volunteering has include
gardening, cooking, making dolls for patients at hospital, and so much more. Thank you for helping us spread the mission.
Last but not least an all around thank you and shout out to Indu G and Jeevabhai for the support and vocals.
One of the highlights of the show included the SAIVA members dancing to Paurl Mehta choreography from Navrus Dance School who volunteered her time to make it happen.
We thank Triaz Printing, ShutterUp, long time supporter Jignesh bhai, Bar-B-Q-Inn, and Taj Palace who graciously supplied printing, photography, food, and chai, respectively, to the event.
They will be performing the song at AARC’s Celebrasia mid-May as well. Second, the Bhatt Family flawlessly performed their musical talent in a true intergenerational way.
Without the City of Austin Cultural Arts Grant and Council Member Alter’s office, this event would not have been possible.
With spunk and love from glamourous Vaishali T, energetic Neeraj S, caring Ravi S, dynamic duo Jayeeta and Deepan, awe-inspiring Manasi, beautifully talented Divya S, our very own Yamini P, and all the dance moves by the Wings School of Arts, FADIO, and Monsoon Dance made the show what it was.
If you have further inquiries about later programs, or want to support us by donating your time or money to our cause, please contact us at saivacommunications@gmail. com. We are always looking for more volunteers to help us and accepting new members.
Are You At Risk For Hepatitis C? What To Know (Continued From Page 08) It can be common to face some emotional and mental stress as a result of the disease itself, as well as the stigma associated with it. Getting the support you need to overcome these challenges helps the healing process. For resources, visit liverfoundation.org. Pursue Financial Well-Being After treatment, it’s important to recognize and overcome the financial challenges created by the disease. If you were denied life insurance in the past, consider speaking with a financial advisor to determine how to get affordable coverage. Some insurance providers have incorporated the most up to date HCV information into their underwriting approach, allowing for expanded eligibility and lower costs of coverage. “Those with Hepatitis C are now more empowered to secure their financial futures,” says Dr. John Greene, vice president and chief medical director at Lincoln Financial Group. HCV goes undetected and untreated all too often. But knowing the facts can protect your physical, mental and financial well-being. (StatePoint)
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
Rediscover Laguna Gloria: Free Day To Walk New Grounds And See Huma Bhabha Sculpture – Must Go!
By Sumaiya Malik Courtesy: The Contemporary Austin Picture contributed by Brian Fitzsimmons.
event and will require reserving a spot in the activities although they too are free.
Gloria from November to January this year. The sculpture stands higher than ground level on a three-
At the entryway to Laguna Gloria, Stockholder has created a new outdoor sculpture commission, Save on select landscape & outdoor lighting: Song to mind uncouples, 2018. That is art of use and of beauty reaching out to the viewers in relation to other art around it.
Contemporary Austin is inviting Austin community to Laguna Gloria, 2809 W 35th Street, on Saturday May 11 (11 to 3 p.m.) for a free day to celebrate the grand opening of “the many new additions to its fourteen-acre sculpture park.” The new visitor center, museum shop, and café, Épicerie at The Contemporary is a must see for friends and family. It is an opportunity to enjoy a free day of art in the great outdoors with family friendly art making activities (ages 2 to 11) and performances at what is being called the new Moody Pavilions at Laguna Gloria. This event coincides with the museum’s monthly Second Saturdays are For Families (sponsored by HEB Tournament of Champions)
tectural art designed by American-Canadian, born in Seattle and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia.
History of Laguna Gloria According Texas State Historical Association The Laguna Gloria Art Museum in Austin is on land Stephen F. Austin once selected for his home site. A must see feature at the sculpture park at Laguna Gloria is a bronze with patina life-size sculpture called “God of Some Things” by Huma Bhabha, a Pakistani American contemporary artist from New York whose work was showcased at the Jones Center and at Laguna
steps base. One can walk all the way around it in the backdrop of the beautiful scenery of the gardens and Lake Austin behind it. Also of note is some of the archi-
The Mediterranean-style villa overlooking Lake Austin was built in 1916 on twenty-eight acres and served as the residence of Clara Driscoll. In 1943, Clara Driscoll donated Laguna Gloria to the Texas Fine Arts Association.
Today it belongs to The Contemporary Austin (formerly known as AMOA-Arthouse), which has a second art museum on Congress Avenue. Since fall 2013, The Contemporary Austin has been actively engaged in the revitalization of this beloved site through its Master Plan for Laguna Gloria. Through the museum’s growing Museum Without Walls program, which brings contemporary art out into the city in unexpected ways and places, The Contemporary Austin aims to integrate art into the rich cultural fabric of the community. For more information about the sculpture garden, please visit: https://www.thecontemporaryaustin.org/event/community-grandopening-the-new-moody-pavilions-at-laguna-gloria/ReDiscover Laguna Gloria: Free day to walk new grounds and see Huma Bhabha sculpture – Must Go!
Ramadan Begins May 5 – Eid Is Expected On June 4 (Continued From Page 01) It is that month of the year where Muslims go back to basics. They will diligently revise and practice basic values that make good human beings. Values such as truth, compassion, care, respect, charity and sharing are constantly on the mind of the community. Not just that, the Muslims will pay attention to simple acts such as offering help to others, smiling, and showing concern. One does think that these values are a given and they are, but the month is like a refresher course for the people who fast. It is not easy to immediately start fasting suddenly one day for a
month once the moon is sighted to mark the beginning of Ramadan.
The human body is not used to waking up at 4 a.m. to prepare breakfast and have it before 5 a.m. when fajr time begins. Muslims will not eat or drink until sunset at around 8:11 p.m. And they will go to work and to school or university because life goes on in Ramadan. So the ‘Roza’ or of fasting challenge,
first day is a but
somehow or the other, the day goes by without complaining and Muslims take things in their stride. To sit without water when you are thirsty is a wakeup call that cannot be described. That feeling of deprivation during fasting becomes a reminder that there are people in the world who have no food and are deprived of clean water. It surely is a good reminder because we forget in our affluent lives about how many things we can be thankful for and should be. We just assume everything is a given and a right. If you ask a Muslim at the time of sunset when they are eating a sumptuous meal, how their fast went, they will usually say, “Thank God, easier than I thought it would
be.” Their sense of accomplishment brings such joy to them that they forget their difficulty and move on. The second day becomes easier and by the third day it’s a routine. People say that it takes about a month to break a habit. Many Muslims use this month of Ramadan to break a habit they are done with. Smokers often share stories of how they were able to abstain easily in Ramadan. It sounds funny, but even habitual liars find themselves telling the truth and liking it. (Continued On Page 13)
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
Eight Gift Ideas For Your Mother On Mother’s Day Eight Gift Ideas for Your Mother on Mother’s DayEight Gift Ideas
There is a thought process that exists in our culture, which says ev-
Certainly this is valid, as one does need to respect mothers every single day. But it’s not like we are every day giving them a gift in kind. That’s where Mother’s Day comes in. But to give a gift year after year becomes challenging as mothers usually have what they need. So what do you do? Here are ten interesting ideas. 1. Clean your closet. Literally that will make her happy because the last time she opened it, things fell on top of her. There could practically be food in there. You can do it. If you have an hour that’s more than enough. Chances are you’ll be able to make some sense of it.
for Your Mother on Mother’s DayEight Gift Ideas for Your Mother on M By Sumaiya Malik @sumaiyasaidthis
ery day is Mother’s Day. So why honor her only one particular day of the year, when that should be done every single day?
2. Do groceries for her if you can drive. Most mothers dislike grocery stores because they go there too frequently. If they can get a break, they’d love that. This requires a bit of planning – ideally a text asking for a list.
Ramadan Begins May 5 Eid Is Expected On June 4 (Continued From Page 12) The digestive system gets a break too. The fasting and eating at regular times is a time of healing. The prayers and calming thoughts give a break to the tension of work and needs in the mind. Not everyone is able to fast. Only adults who are able bodied, and healthy are supposed to fast the whole month. Women are exempt when they menstruate. Pregnant women, elderly and children are exempt. Children may want to practice by fasting part of the day. Twenty-nine or thirty days in Ramadan come to an end with the new moon sighting.
Muslims will stand outside perhaps on their driveways or backyards to try to look for the new moon on the day of the 29th roza. If they see that crescent in the sky, they will rejoice and do “dua” for mankind, their families and friends for blessings. If they have seen the moon, the next day will be the day of celebration or Eid. If they don’t see the moon, they will wait for announcements from the mosques, which confirm if the next day will be another Roza or Eid. Eid is a day of feasting and not fasting. Muslims are not supposed to fast on Eid. They are supposed to rejoice and celebrate with friends, eat
and do charity and visit each other. Many families give Eidi or monetary gifts to children. The amount is a small token. My kids’ Eidi ranges from $5 to $50 and if it’s their grandmother, she will shower them with a three figure Eidi. Most kids collect their eidi to get something they have been waiting to buy. So if you have a Muslim friend, ask them about Ramadan. They will be so happy to tell you all about it and chances are they will invite you to their home for dinner. Don’t be shy. Go for it! You will be in for a treat.
The list should be with you a few days before the big day, so that all things can be in the pantry and refrigerator by Mother’s Day. 3. Wash her car and vacuum it inside. If there are water restrictions in place (as they usually are) try spray wiping the car. Otherwise have fun with a pipe outside.
does that she’ll love it. Make sure she’s not in the room when you organize or the fun will be lost. 6. Watch a movie together. You can do this in the theater or even in the comfort of your home. If you haven’t seen the movies that won Oscars this year, that would be a good place to start.
4. Go for a manicure and pedicure with your mom.
7. Cook a meal with the rest of the family.
This is a bonus gift as it focuses on an experience that you and your mom can have together.
Keep it simple. A salad, appetizer and main dish are enough. Skip the desert. It’s a sweet society, and deserts are readily available. 8. Go for a walk or a hike with your mom if it’s a nice day. Spend an hour. If she doesn’t like walking, ask her what she would like to do. Chances are she’ll have some ideas up her sleeve.
5. If you have a sibling, get together with him or her and clean the fridge. It would be the funniest and coolest thing you do because this will bring up memories of when that food was purchased. The organization in the fridge would be so different than what she
Mother’s Day is on May 15th 2019. Happy Mother’s Day!
Mother’s Day (Continued From Page 01) It was established by Anna Jarvis, with the first official Mother’s Day celebrated at St. Andrew’s Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia, on May 10, 1908. In the United States, Mother’s Day complements similar celebrations honoring family members, such as Father’s Day, Siblings Day and Grandparents Day. Internationally, there are a large variety of Mother’s Day celebrations with different origins and traditions, some now also having been influenced by this more recent American tradition. During the 19th century, women’s peace groups in the United States tried to establish holidays and regular activities in favor of peace and against war. A common early activity was the meeting of groups of mothers whose sons had fought or died on opposite sides of the American Civil War. In 1868, Ann Jarvis, Anna Jarvis’s mother, organised a committee to establish a “Mother’s Friendship Day”, the purpose of which was “to reunite families that had been divided during the Civil War.” Ann Jarvis, who had previously organized Mother’s Day Work Clubs to improve sanitation and health for both Union and Confederate encampments undergoing a typhoid outbreak, wanted to expand these into an annual memorial for mothers, but she died in 1905 before the annual celebration was established. Her daughter, who became almost obsessed with her, would continue her mother’s efforts. (Continued On Page 16)
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
Short Films The Hours and #UsToo Win at Indie Meme Youth Film Festival By Sumaiya Malik @sumaiyasaidthis Photo credit - Animon Bose Young filmmaker Kirra Putnam’s short film, The Hours, became the top choice of the jury at the 2nd Indie Meme Youth Festival at the AFS Cinema on April 14.
Gil Garcia, an independent filmmaker and KLRU Community Advisory Board member, and Tanya Romero, also an award winning independent filmmaker and a teacher at Anderson High school, conducted free filmmaking workshops to guide the students in making the short films.
Avni Singh’s #UsToo received special recognition amid great fanfare and an audience of about one hundred and twenty attendees. After the recognition and filmmaker q/a by Gil Garcia, the audience saw short film Gubbare and feature film, Chuskit. Raka Sandell, who led the youth initiative at the Indie Meme Film Festival (IMFF) explained that Indie Meme accepted short 5-minutes films from high school and college students throughout Austin. The films had some South Asian ties — either in cast, crew or theme.
The three-panel jury included Ann Kelly, Executive director of Austin School of Film, Nishtha Jain, independent filmmaker from India and Sachin Dheeraj, also an independent filmmaker and graduate student at UT Austin. The jury selected six films in the
Jury’s award category and 3 films in the showcase category. The winning film, The Hours, and the special mention film, #UsToo, were shown to the audience along with some others. The Hours is a symbolic film. The film is less than four minutes long, but reverberates for much longer in on e’s mind. A lot is left u n said, leavi n g t h e viewer to interpret the thoughts of the protagonist. According to its director Kirra Putnam, the film is a reflection of unchartered territory that a young person might feel or experience for the first time. #UsToo is a film that brings atten-
tion to what is going on in high schools even after Dr. Christine Blasey Ford spoke of sexual harassment during Brett Kavanaugh hearings, Harvey Weinstein case, and after #MeToo movement has started. Female students are still faced by harassment, vulgarity, and verbal comments. Girls are scared to come forward. “It is important to have these conversations and bring them to light,” said Avni Singh, the director of #UsToo. Through the film, the filmmaker has provoked mature thought amongst the audience. The festival also gave an honorable mention to short film Aurat Ki Izzat. Filmmaker Zara Tappal talked about the Women’s March going global and it’s effect in Pakistan where it was called Aurat March. She talked about how many Pakistanis were against it and many for it.
She also touched upon the role of women in Pakistani society and how Pakistan has had a female prime minister Benazir Bhutto as head of the country something that US is yet to see. Another film mentioned was Dhol in which the director Ana Dragomir worked with a two-year-old non-actor and was able to get all the required responses relevant to the film from the young actor. “You have to communicate with non-actors in ways familiar to them,” she said. By recognizing the young filmmakers, Indie Meme has validated their efforts and hopefully given them a push they need in the direction of further creation. The winners received badges for the Indie Meme Film Festival from April 26 to 28. For more information about Indie Meme or its Youth Festival please visit: www.indiememe.org
Get To Know Jawad Sharif – Director Of Indus Blues And K-2 And The Invisible Footmen
By Sumaiya Malik
Award-winning independent documentary feature Indus Blues (2018) is a part of the Indie Meme Film Festival while K-2 and the Invisible Footmen (2015) is available on Amazon Prime for free for members. Independently produced in Pakistan, both films highlight neglected subjects that are in dire need of spotlight, something Jawad Sharif, the young director holds great expertise in doing. Jawad Sharif, is a living legend. No, seriously! Chatting with him for a few minutes one realizes that there is a wealth of wisdom this young filmmaker is holding. One could debate whether this wisdom is the result of what he loves to do… something he calls his catharsis, or his desire to ‘unsilence critical thinking,’ for he does both
with such focus that one is left with the thirst to keep hearing him speak. He speaks through his films, his interviews, his photography and his ability to zone in to a subject that has been ignored for centuries and is near extinction.
and the message was actually being received.
Before that whoever he talked to would discourage him (except for the few) to find other subjects as he would never be able to get back the
Indus Blues is one such documentary. It highlights the struggles of folk musicians to keep their art alive. It examines ‘the last generation of craftsmen and artists who create and play boreendo, alghoza and others.’ [Rahul Aijaz for The Express Tribune] The film’s first trailer went viral with more than a million hits in the first few hours, says Sharif. It gave him the needed support that there was a dialog being created between the film and the public
commercial projects are his bread and butter “but, these (independent documentaries) are my passion projects. That is why it takes a lot of time.” He is especially thankful to Zeejah Fazli of FACE Pakistan (someone who Austinites know well through his work for Pakistani musicians during SXSW), Areeb Azhar, Pakistani sufi and folk singer who took sufi music to another level with his song ‘Ai husn-e-haqeeqi noor-eazal,’ and his own team especially naming cinematographer Asmat Bashir, and writer, Haroon Riaz. I spoke to him on Whatsapp: SM: Is there a market for independent documentary features on serious subjects in Pakistan?
true worth of his teams efforts. The film took four years in making. Sharif talks about how his
JS: There are very few projects in Pakistan… I am always looking for collaborators. The biggest challenge is apply to
international funds. 99% [of the time] you get rejection email after lots of paperwork. Why would anyone be interested in a dying art of Pakistan when more pressing issues are there? SM: What is the ideal scenario for independent feature documentaries such as Indus Blues to continue to be made in future? JS: [There should be] a film fund for independent filmmakers in Pakistan eg. Norwegian film institute has public funds to support their people and show their stories. A film institute should be on government level. There are individual foundations in Pakistan eg. Daud Foundation, which sometimes funds [project]. We need Government level support that should be merit based. (Continued On Page 15)
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
Making Space - Local Artist Nadia Waheed Develops An International Following
By Sumaiya Malik and Amil Malik This story is reprinted courtesy of TRIBEZA (tribeza.com) as it was first published by the magazine on the occasion of Waheed’s recent exhibition at Raw Paw.
ents in Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia, but has lived in multiple countries — France, Egypt, Saudi Ara-
Young artist Nadia Waheed is a force to be reckoned with in the art world. Despite being only 26 years old, her large scale acrylic paintings of contemporary figures have already caught the eye of gallerists in Toronto, Canada, and London, England, though she hasn’t been to either city in years. A graduate of Westlake High School (Class of 2010), Nadia received a BFA in Painting and Drawing from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 2015. Soon after, she moved to Sydney, Australia where she fully supported herself with her art — something that isn’t easy as a young maker. In summer 2018, Nadia returned to Austin to develop a new body of work, with the goal of pursuing a Masters degree. She rented a small affordable studio in the Museum of Human Achievement behind the Canopy studios in East Austin where she worked feverishly to create over 17 large scale paintings in less than 6 months.
My painting combines east and west because I am a combination of east and west, a combination of “Shut the hell up!” and “Chai, Ammi?” [Would you like some tea, mother?].
Interestingly though I didn’t realize that being a woman was a relevant factor for me until mid - 2018, shortly after I turned 26 when I was reentering the dating pool after a very long term relationship ended.
98% of my paintings begin with a feeling or a gesture, once I know what that gesture is the rest is simply about talking to the painting and seeing what it needs to get it to where it wants to go.
I was like, “Oh, s***! This is a thing.” I had to re-contextualize myself for the first time in five years, and I just exploded into my painting. bia, Pakistan — before she and her family settled down in the US (Austin) in 2005. Perhaps the intricacies in her paintings are the result of her global exposure, the women in her paintings wearing elaborate braids reminiscent of a rhythmic flow of life and maturity of thought.
With other artists working in their studios nearby, Nadia was able to get into the pulse of the city quickly. She took part in East Austin Studio Tours. Her larger than life depictions of women in vivid pinks and blues caught the eye of the crowd.
Nadia has developed a huge following in young, artistic crowd in Austin — so much so that fans demanded that her originally onenight exhibition at the MOHA open for a second night. Despite such success, Nadia isn’t ready to take it easy just yet.
Scattered with symbols from both her original hometown of Karachi, Pakistan — such as henna filled hands, Urdu language script and window grates — as well as hints of her more global upbringing — such as references to Voltaire and Goya — her work was hard to miss.
We caught up with her in her studio at MOHA, where she was busy creating a wall-size mural style painting for her next exhibition at Raw Paw, an art collective on St. Elmo’s Street off of South Congress.
Nadia was born to Pakistani par-
Nadia Waheed (NW): I’ve always drawn and painted women, I started off drawing women as a kid and I’m probably going to die painting women.
SM: Almost all your work features figures of women. Why? Who are these women?
The women are [versions of] me, but also others. They’re two women, but also one woman. They’re everyone and no one all at once. Symbols — but also something real. My feelings manifested, my younger self, my older self...I wish I could answer this clearly but again, I only have mirages of who and what they are; women contain multitudes. Who are they to you? SM: Your work seems to combine the east and west. Is that deliberate? How do you typically conceptualize a work? NW: It is and isn’t deliberate; I’m attempting to make a space for myself - a space for a person who is from everywhere but who feels like they belong nowhere. I’m attempting to voice my own perspective on myself - my Pakistani heritage, my westernization, my womanhood, my body, my feelings of rejection from my own culture...everything.
AM: With an upcoming exhibition in Toronto, Canada and representation from a gallery in London, England, I think it’s safe to say you’ve gotten the hang of business. So how do you combine the two — art and business? NW: Hahaha, well, to say that I’ve gotten the hang of business is a bit of a stretch - I’m still very young and learning how to work everything.
I’m very lucky to have an incredibly supportive team at Beers who are willing to have a dialogue with me and to teach me how this industry works. But in the spirit of honesty, I have very little experience in that side of things, and I’d like to try to keep it that way. From a young age knowing that I wanted to make my living in this field, I decided to repeatedly tell myself, “The only thing that matters is making a good painting.” The rest I’m leaving to the universe (and to Kurt, my gallerist, hahaha). When asked what her long term plan is, Nadia jokes that she had made a New Year’s Resolution last month to try and learn to relax, but she thinks she will postpone that to 2020. Follow Nadia Waheed on Instagram @nadiakwd
Get To Know Jawad Sharif – Director Of Indus Blues And K-2 And The Invisible Footmen (Continued From Page 14) [Also] Right now hundreds of students graduate [in media science and mass communication], but have no exposure. The universities are not encouraging critical thinking. They are silencing thoughts and putting a stamp on them. Counter narratives are not possible. None of the graduates want to be in documentary filmmaking. Everyone wants to be commercial cinema maker. SM: What has happened as a result of Indus Blues? JS: I feel that awareness has been created. Many didn’t even know about these instruments [talked about in Indus Blues]. Collaborations have started. A group of students are doing research on these musicians how to create their livelihood. Withn weeks [Pakistani TV channels] HUM, ARY, and GEO covered Indus Blues. Even Fawad Hussain Choudhry, Pakistan’s information minister [now federal minister of science and technology in Pakistan) has tweeted about the film. Pakistani Embassy in Copenhagen [hosted] an opening reception for the film. Jawad Sharif’s film K-2 and the Invisible Footmen (also a recipient of international awards) is available for free on Amazon Prime. The director can be followed on Instagram @jawadsharif, and @indusbluesfilm. For more information about the films and their international awards go to: www.jawadsharif.net
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Mother’s Day
(Continued From Page 13) There were several limited observances in the 1870s and the 1880s but none achieved resonance beyond the local level. At the time, Protestant schools in the United States already held many celebrations and observations such as Children’s Day, Temperance Sunday, Roll Call Day, Decision Day, Missionary Day and others. In New York City, Julia Ward Howe led a “Mother’s Day for Peace” anti-war observance on June 2, 1872, which was accompanied by a “Appeal to womanhood throughout the world” (nowadays known as Mother’s Day Proclamation). The observance continued in Boston for about 10 years under Howe’s personal sponsorship, then died out. In these celebrations, mothers all around the world would work towards world peace. Several years later a Mother’s Day observance on May 13, 1877 was held in Albion, Michigan over a dispute related to the temperance movement. According to local legend, Albion pioneer Juliet Calhoun Blakeley stepped up to complete the sermon of the Rev. Myron Daughterty who was distraught because an anti-temperance group had forced his son and two other temperance advocates at gunpoint to spend the night in a saloon and
become publicly drunk. From the pulpit Blakeley called on other mothers to join her. Blakeley’s two sons, both traveling salesmen, were so moved that they vowed to return each year to pay tribute to her and embarked on a campaign to urge their business contacts to do likewise. At their urging, in the early 1880s, the Methodist Episcopal Church in Albion set aside the second Sunday in May to recognize the special contributions of mothers. Frank E. Hering, alumnus and administrator at the University of Notre Dame and President of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, made a plea for “setting aside one day in the year as a nationwide memorial to the memories of Mothers and motherhood” in 1904. After observing a class of Notre Dame students sending home penny postcards to their mothers, Hering went on to be a vocal advocate for a national Mother’s Day for the next decade. As Hering stated in a 1941 issue of Scholastic: “Throughout history the great men of the world have given their credit for their achievements to their mothers. [The] Holy Church recognizes this, as does Notre Dame especially, and Our Lady who watches over our great institution.”
Austin South Asian | May 2019
Srilanka Easter Bombings (Continued From Page 01) In further events, a minor explosion of a motorbike was recorded in Savoy Cinema, Colombo during raids conducted by police officers on 24 April 2019. On 25 April 2019, another minor controlled explosion of a motorbike was reported at a bus stand in Moratuwa during police raids. On 26 April 2019, three explosions and a shootout occurred during a raid in Sainthamaruthu. Three suicide bombers blew themselves up, killing nine of their family members, including six children, while three terrorists were shot dead during the gun battle. A civilian was also killed and two others injured during the shooting. A curfew was later imposed in the area indefinitely. According to Sri Lankan government officials, all seven of the suicide bombers in the attacks were Sri Lankan citizens associated with National Thowheeth Jama’ath, a local militant Islamist group with suspected foreign ties, previously known for attacks against Buddhists. State Minister of Defence Ruwan Wijewardene said in parliament on 23 April that the government believed the attack was in retaliation for the attack against Muslims in Christchurch on 15 March 2019.The direct linkage between the two attacks was questioned by New Zealand’s government and by some experts.
On 23 April 2019, Amaq News Agency, a propaganda outlet for the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), stated that ″the perpetrators of the attack targeting the citizens of coalition countries
and Christians in Sri Lanka were Islamic State fighters″. Sri Lanka was not part of the anti-ISIL coalition, and the overwhelming majority of those killed were Sri Lankan citizens. There has been a long history of state and non-state terrorism in Sri Lanka. Including during the Eelam Wars between the LTTE and the Government to establish a separate state in the traditional Tamil homelands in the northern and eastern coasts of the island (the LTTE was defeated in 2009). Also during the Marxist-Leninist party Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) uprisings in 1971 and 198789. Since the defeat of the LTTE in 2009 there have been no large scale killings on the island. The main religions in Sri Lanka are Buddhism (70.2%), Hinduism (12.6%), Islam
The Adventures Of Randy & Square Kid
(9.7%) and Christianity (6.1%), with 82% of the Christians being Roman Catholics. The remaining Christians are evenly split between the Anglican Church of Ceylon and other Protestant denominations. During the 2010s, a low but persisting number of attacks and threats were made against Christian congregations and individuals, as well as other religious minorities. Anglican Bishop of Colombo Dhiloraj Canagasabey called for constitutional rights on religion to be protected. In 2018, the National Christian Evangelical Alliance of Sri Lanka (NCEASL) reported a large increase in the number of attacks against Christians in the country that year. This coincided with a Supreme Court ruling against a Catholic organisation in August, which deemed that proselytism was not protected by the constitution (though individual freedom of religion remained protected). Easter Sunday is one of Christianity’s holiest days and church attendance in Sri Lanka is very high on this day. This was the first time since 2009, the end of the Sri Lankan Civil War, that the country had experienced a major terrorist attack.
Abhiveer Annoji
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
Build Schools, Transform Lives
We’ve built over 80,000 in India. Help us build some more. Join us for a night of food, stories, and bollywood music. Ekal Austin Annual Gala with Vishwanath Batunge Band
Sunday, June 16th
4PM Social Hour, 5PM Show Starts Tickets include a banquet dinner
Info & tickets at ekal.org/events Asian American 850.264.5924 Saransh Chauhan Resource Center Kishore Gagrani 512.200.5391 8401 Cameron Rd. Satyajeet Dodia 512.299.2676 Austin,512.320.0028 TX 78754 Dhananjay Joshi
850.264.5924 512.200.5391 512.299.2676 512.320.0028
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
I Was Told There Would Be No Math: 3 Ways You Use Math Daily You may have thought that after graduating from school, you’d never have to think about math again. However, the truth is that math is a central part of everyday life – from baking cakes to drawing up a budget.
needing to convert measurements in a pinch. Weighted measurements are much better than volume measurements when it comes to accuracy. For a foolproof, quick method for
measuring ingredients, use a digital scale that features both English and metric measurements. In Your Home or Office Maintaining your household budget or work accounts requires some
Here are three ways you are already using math, as well as quick solutions for making these tasks a bit easier.
mathematical attention to detail. A printing calculator can help you track your work and better manage your financial records. The compact options from Casio are good for quick budgeting use at home. For example, the HR-170RC features two-color printing at two lines per second, quick correction of mis-entries, currency exchange calculations and a reprint function.
In the Kitchen Working in the kitchen often requires precision, and getting measurements and times just-so really does matter. If you love experimenting with new recipes from around the world, you may often find yourself
ger needs to require the quick calculations it once did in the days of taking one’s pulse during a break or cooldown. Use a fitness monitor to get a quicker read on your heart rate, so you will know in real-time whether to ramp up or scale back your effort. Likewise, this can be an easy way to learn the approximate number of calories burned during any given sweat session.
At the Gym
Math is all around us.
You’ve likely heard that there’s a target heart rate you should be aiming for, depending on your fitness goals.
Thankfully, there are new digital tools and strategies available to help you manage your daily tasks with ease.
While this does require some mathematical comprehension, it no lon-
(StatePoint)
Why Breakfast Really Is The Most Important Meal Of The Day You’ve probably heard the saying, “breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” While there is some conflicting research that questions the importance of eating breakfast for weight loss, many other researchers conclude there are, in fact, many benefits for starting your day with a morning meal.
Why Breakfast Matters Although skipping meals or eating very little in the morning may seem like a sure-fire way to lose weight, Rodriquez explains it’s not so simple.
“Since digestion slows during sleep, late-night calories are less easily metabolized and will likely be stored instead of used as energy,” Rodriquez explains. “A balanced, substantial breakfast
The quality of food you eat also matters. Here’s an example of what Rodriquez suggests a typical day look like:
Think: an egg and veggie scramble with a piece of fruit for breakfast or chicken with veggies and pasta alongside a green salad for lunch.
Breakfast Basics
But what if there’s no time to spare in the morning? Rest assured, there are quick, easy breakfasts you can grab on-the-go.
How Should Your Day Look?
• Breakfast and lunch should be satisfying, protein-rich and include a small amount of healthy fats and carbohydrates.
Briana Rodriquez, a Registered Dietitian with Jenny Craig, offers the inside scoop on breakfast and why there’s still truth in that old saying, especially for those trying to improve their health.
“Breakfast literally means ‘breaking the fast,’” Rodriquez explains. “Blood sugar, also known as glucose, powers your muscles and brain. After 7-9 hours of sleep, blood sugar is naturally low and you need to replenish your energy stores.”
disease and Type 2 diabetes.
“When you skip breakfast, you’ll likely overcompensate later, eating your largest meal at night because you’re extremely hungry. And that’s not good if your intention is weight loss.” Making breakfast your largest meal of the day, also known as “front-loading,” can lead to a healthier weight.
works with your metabolism at its peak, helping support weight loss efforts naturally.” An added bonus? Weight loss isn’t the only potential benefit of having a good breakfast; a 2013 study published in “Obesity” suggests other health gains in addition to weight loss, such as decreased risk of heart
• Dinner should be light and include a lean protein and lots of non-starchy vegetables. Rodriquez suggests decreasing carbs in the evening. Think: meatloaf with veggies or something like Jenny Craig’s Three Cheese Macaroni with Broccoli and Carrots. • Snacks are an important part of the equation too. Rodriquez recommends snacks under 200 calories, spaced between meals.
Choose something with protein and fiber to help keep you feeling full. Think: a small apple with a teaspoon of nut butter, or nonfat Greek yogurt with a handful of berries. Consider weight loss programs that embrace the science around the body’s natural circadian rhythm, such as Jenny Craig’s newest program, Rapid Results, to help optimize metabolism and accelerate weight loss. Also, look for programs that offer satisfying breakfasts with just the right amount of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. The Jenny Craig program offers over 20 chef-crafted, nutritionist-designed breakfast items. For more information, or to book a free appointment with a personal weight loss consultant, visit jennycraig.com. Eating breakfast may improve your health in more ways than one. The next time you’re rushing out the door in the morning, don’t forget to grab something good to eat -- your body will thank you! (StatePoint)
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
Crunch Time: Get In Shape For Summer
There’s nothing more humbling than putting on a bathing suit.
a high-protein, low-carb, low-sugar approach.
If you’ve been living life to the fullest, there’s no hiding the evidence.
“It’s all laid out for you. There’s not a lot you have to think about,”
“Eating five or six times a day is a great way to keep energy levels up, prevent hunger and discourage overeating during the main meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner,” says
On the other hand, if you’ve been exercising and watching your diet, there’s nothing more gratifying than seeing a slimmer, toner you in the mirror.
From taking a fitness class such as spin or boxing to going on a run, there are countless ways to get moving and burn calories, and they don’t have to take all day.
When it comes to getting the proper nutrition, counting calories and reading food labels can be daunting tasks.
For example, The South Beach Diet is a convenient, simple, easyto-follow program that focuses on
For those looking for an on-trend way to see quick results, The South Beach Diet also offers a keto-friendly program, which is designed to be a low-carb, highfat dietary pattern consistent with a keto diet. In addition to focusing on nutrition, exercise plays a fundamental role when it comes to getting in shape for the summer.
So how do you get to that happy place, and in time for summer? You start today.
However, certain diet plans eliminate the guesswork for you, making it easier to stick to the program and see results.
trients into your diet.”
says Jessie James Decker, brand ambassador for the South Beach Diet.
Courtney McCormick, manager of Clinical Research & Nutrition for South Beach Diet.
“High intensity workouts are my go-to,” says Decker. “You knock it out, you do it fast. Get in and get out is my motto.
Remember, feeling deprived isn’t going to be sustainable. So be sure you stay satiated throughout the day.
“By taking a stash of healthy snacks with you to work like nuts or veggies, you’re fighting off hunger and also getting beneficial nu-
I don’t have time to be in the gym for two hours. But I do have to feel really good, and get my heart rate up. That’s the key for me.”
In addition to dedicated exercise time, focus on other ways to be active throughout the day, such as taking a walk on your lunch break. Not only can a 15-minute walk during your lunch hour give you energy to power through the afternoon, but walking can also increase your focus and overall mood, according to a 2017 study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology. There’s also evidence that the effects of an afternoon walk may last into evening, giving you focus to make dinner, help children with homework and perform other tasks that require energy and concentration. Summer is just ahead. Use this crunch time now as motivation for establishing healthy eating and exercise habits. (StatePoint)
Fun Ways To Keep Kids’ Minds Active In Summer A vacation from school is no excuse for a vacation from thinking. Not only can learning be made fun, but you can avoid a rusty return to school in the fall by keeping kids’ minds active all summer long.
kids to stay intellectually occupied. Then, once you are there, look for educational opportunities like museums, historic sites and guided
The summer vacation is the perfect time to delve into the world of music. And new technologies can make
Young musicians can learn not only how to play an instrument, but also get acquainted with the history of music.
Here are a few fun ways to make thinking and learning a priority, while not detracting from the fun of summer days:
The Step-Up Lesson system, which displays proper fingering and notation, is a great way to easily learn songs, while its six-track recorder can quickly capture sudden inspiration.
• Make the Most of a Trip: From the lifecycle of local wildlife to the accomplishments of a great figure hailing from your destination, there is always an opportunity to learn about science, art, history and more on a trip out of town. Whether you are going on a beach getaway or visiting a major city, ask your kids to research the destination before departure. Not only will this help add meaning to the trip, it’s a fun way for
For example, the CT-X700, a portable keyboard with features that are tailored to casual or beginning players, comes with hundreds of built-in rhythms that span both time and the globe.
• Play:
nature walks. • Learn an Instrument:
the process of learning enjoyable and exciting, as well as help beginners learn to play at their own pace.
Whether kids are playing a formal team sport or just going outside and running around, staying active is good for the brain. Indeed, evidence supports that exercise can make people more creative, improve concentration and boost memory.
Take advantage of the season and hit up the pool, baseball diamond, playground and more. • Puzzle it Out: Use new tech like ClassPad.net, to give kids the functionality necessary to tackle any math puzzle -- from geometry to graphing to statistics and beyond. A free, all-in-one web-based mathematics creation and discovery resource, kids can use it to catch up this summer or work ahead. With so many ways to make learning fun, you can avoid brain drain in your household this summer for a smoother transition back to school in the fall. (StatePoint)
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
Are You Doing Enough To Protect Your Skin From The Sun? Think you’re doing enough to protect your skin from the sun? Don’t be so sure. Experts say that many people assume their sun protection routine is sufficient when it’s not.
spectrum protection under your makeup, such as Ocean Potion Face Zinc SPF 50, will add needed protection while nourishing skin.
mulates and prematurely ages skin. Whether you’re driving and catching rays through the window, or
Take a cue from the summer you, and apply sun protection all year.
“While summer is an excellent reminder that sun protection is a vital component of health and wellness, it’s actually necessary all year round and under circumstances you may not realize,” says Floridabased dermatologist, Dr. Richard C. Kirkpatrick.
• Make it easy: One of the toughest aspects of applying sun protection is remembering to do it. But if it’s with you, you’ll use it.
walking the dog in the morning, be mindful that you’re getting sun exposure and take necessary precautions.
Toss some in your purse or bag. A good portable option is Ocean Potion Dab-On Spot Stick SPF 50, which provides on-the-spot broadspectrum protection in an oil-free formula, and like all Ocean Potion products it is enriched with deepsea minerals, seaweed, algae extracts, aloe vera, and antioxidant vitamins B, C and E to replenish and nourish your skin.
• Think in all-year terms:
• Like your choice:
Again, summertime does provide a visceral reminder of the impor-
Doing the right thing for your skin shouldn’t be a chore or create dif-
Here are a few things to keep in mind: • Make-up may not be enough: If your makeup contains SPF 15, don’t assume you’re covered. Luckily, there are sun protection options today that leave a matte finish and won’t mess with your cosmetics routine. For example, an easy-to-apply, clear matte finish layer of broad-
tance of sun protection and is an excellent time of year to develop a sun protection habit, but don’t let this be the only time of year you think about protecting skin.
• Think in all-day terms: Many people mistakenly believe they receive most of their sun exposure from going to the beach. It’s all too easy to underestimate the damage to skin from daily incidental sun exposure, which accu-
ferent skin care issues. So be sure you like your choice of sun protection. Look for options that won’t clog pores, are lightweight and offer easy application. • Take care of yourself and the planet: Oxybenzone and Octinoxate are chemical ingredients used in certain sun protection that are considered to be harmful to coral reefs. But you can select a sunscreen like Ocean Potion Sport SPF 50 that’s Oxybenzone- and Octinoxate-free and not tested on animals, a winwin for you and the planet. With no parabens, PABA, or retinyl palmitate, it offers a lightweight, non-greasy menthol formula with a cooling sensation. From poolside and beachside bathing to a walk around the block, this summer, create a daily sun protection routine that you take with you everywhere you go. (StatePoint)
Tips To Guard Against Bites And Burns This Summer For families -- and everybody else for that matter -- protecting skin should be a top summer priority. After all, there is no shortage of summer skin woes you’ll want to avoid. From protecting skin from sun to repelling disease-carrying insects, here are some top insights that will help you and your family enjoy a safer, more comfortable summer.
percent) believe the proper time to apply sunscreen is as soon as they
Sunscreen: Get it Right When it comes to sunscreen, it’s important to understand and follow sun safety guidelines. Fewer than half of moms (48 percent) knew the correct amount of sunscreen to apply to the face and body while at the pool, lake or beach, according to a NO-AD Sun Care-commissioned survey on sunscreen. The correct amount of sunscreen to be applied -- or reapplied – is at least 2 tablespoons. More alarming still, the majority of those surveyed (54
start feeling their skin burning. Experts say that parents should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to themselves and children 15 to 20 minutes before going out in the sun in order to give it time to bond to skin, and then reapply at least every two hours or after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating and immediately after towel drying. Un-
fortunately, 17 percent of moms were unaware that after an initial slathering of sunscreen, they needed to reapply it following extended exposure. Beyond application, the type of sunscreen you use matters, too. Luckily, there are quality products at great value, which means you don’t need to skimp on the amount you apply or reapplication. For example, NOAD has been protecting families for generations at an affordable price per ounce. And for those who want to avoid added fragrance, parabens, alcohol, retinyl palmitate, BPA and dyes, consider trying NOAD Naturals Clear Mineral Formu-
la SPF 50, which is developed with naturally sourced active ingredients such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Oxybenzone- and Octinoxate-free – both of which are chemicals considered harmful to coral reefs – this is also a good choice for the ecoconscious. Parents take note: the line, which offers great value, also carries pediatrician-tested versions for kids and babies. Other safe sun habits include limiting time in the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m, and wearing long-sleeve shirts, pants, hats and sunglasses. Bite-Free Summer Summer days are full of outdoor fun in backyards, parks, baseball diamonds and more. And any time you and your kids are outdoors,
you are at risk for insect bites. Unfortunately, a bite can carry risks beyond discomfort. Mosquitoes can carry Zika, West Nile, Dengue Fever and Chikungunya viruses. Consider streamlining skin protection with a two-in-one combination such as BullFrog Mosquito Coast SPF 50 Continuous Spray Sunscreen + Insect Repellent, which is DEET-free, Oxybenzone- and Octinoxate-free, and a good choice when you want to pack light or send kids to camp or sports with a simple sunscreen and insect repellant solution. You can also dodge mosquito bites by wearing loose long sleeves and pants, particularly on hikes, and by keeping your yard free of any standing water. By knowing the facts, you can better ward off bites, burns and other summer skin pitfalls. (StatePoint)
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
May 2019 Community Calendar We have compiled this event listing based on the information available on the web site (where ever possible) of the community/organization as of third Friday. Please check with the organizers to confirm its accuracy. We request all South Asian organizations to email us (info@austinsouthasian.com) their community calendar on or before 20th of every month, for the events happening next month. We will carry listing of all South Asian non-profit organizations in Austin. If the Name, Contact info is not correct or has changed email us (info@ austinsouthasian.com) the changes you want to see. E&OE.
SCHEDULE:
200 College St, Hutto, TX 78634.
May 04, Saturday, 02:00 PM,
May 19, Sunday, 03:00 PM,
Hindustani Semi-Classical Vocal By Smt. Rachna Bodas is at Guadalupe Theatre, 301 Guadalupe Street, SanAntonio, TX 78207.
Bollywood Premier League Season 1 Showcase is at St. Andrew’s Dell Fine Arts Cente, 5901 Southwest Pkwy, Austin, TX 78735 .
May 11, Sunday, 05:30 PM, 100 Year’s Of Bollywood is at Hutto Independent School District,
May 19, Sunday, 03:30 PM - 06:30 PM, “Shakti” - A Dance Concert Celebrating Strength, Elegance & Elan is at Hutto High School Performing Arts Center, 101 Chris Kelly Blvd., Hutto, TX 78634.
To Advertise In ASA 512-828-6709
Is An Electric Car Right For You? As the popularity and availability of electric vehicles (EV) continues to grow in the U.S., a new survey
“What we learned from the survey is that the typical consumer might not be aware of the many benefits
owners charge their vehicle right at home. Plus, public charging stations are easy to find online through companies like ChargePoint and EVgo, and most available charging stations are visible in the navigation system of the car. On the other end of the spectrum, 63 percent of those surveyed said they plan to use their EV as a commuting or city car, which is good news for motorists, as experts point out that EVs, which are both fuel efficient and fun to drive, are ideal for everyday commuting and urban driving.
suggests that many consumers still have a lot to learn about the technology.
of electric mobility,” says Andrew Cutler, head of corporate communications, MINI USA.
For example, when asked to choose an acceptable amount of time it should take to charge an EV, the most common answer (28 percent) was ‘‘I don’t know” followed by “30 minutes” (25 percent).
“Helping consumers get a better understanding of EV can help them make smarter, more informed decisions around their next vehicle purchase.”
The survey was commissioned by MINI USA from market research and business intelligence firm Engine International, Inc. in advance of the early 2020 U.S. launch of the MINI Cooper S E electric vehicle.
For example, 74 percent of consumers surveyed didn’t know where their nearest EV charging station was located, but charging your EV is easier and more accessible than you might think. A whopping 80 percent of EV
Because batteries provide a low center of gravity, electric motors provide fast, powerful acceleration. Thanks to Federal Tax Credits lowering the upfront cost of qualified EVs, going electric is not just stylish and good for the planet, it may make financial sense, too. “A majority of consumers we surveyed believe that EVs are for early adopters, but, given the many benefits of the technology, it could make a good choice for just about any household today,” says Cutler. (StatePoint)
We Welcome Articles From Readers And The Community. Email To: Info@Austinsouthasian.Com How Pulmonary Rehabilitation Helps COPD Patients Breathe Better If you’ve been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) you know that it can i m p a c t many different areas of your life. What you may not know is that early and consistent management of the disease can greatly improve outcomes and overall quality of life. One disease management option is pulmonary rehabilitation, which has the potential to offer life-improving benefits to patients at all stages of the lung disease, according to the experts at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. A dedicated team of health care providers, including doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, exercise specialists, physical therapists, dietitians and psychologists, will work together to create a customized plan for your individual needs. The majority of patients who participate in pulmonary rehabilitation report positive outcomes, including reduced COPD symptoms, increased physical activity and an improved quality of life. To learn more about the disease, visit COPD.nhlbi.nih.gov. While there is no cure for COPD, it is highly manageable. If you are one of the 16 million Americans currently diagnosed with this disease, talk to your health care provider about pulmonary rehabilitation. (StatePoint)
22
Austin South Asian | May 2019
THEME: MOTHER’S DAY
64. One quarter of a Presidential term
ACROSS
DOWN
1. May occasion 5. ____ Tzu 8. Auto unit 11. Lyft alternative 12. “On Golden ____” 13. Zetkin of International Women’s Day fame 15. Forever and a day 16. “The Simpsons” palindrome 17. Angler’s decoys 18. *Mother, e.g. 20. Friend in war 21. Divided, it cannot stand? 22. Black gold 23. *Mother, e.g. 26. Like anti-cruelty proponents 29. “This land is your land...” 30. Loan shark 33. *Like Old Mother Hubbard’s cupboard 35. “Captain Marvel” genre 37. It also rises, in Spanish 38. Faulkner’s “As I Lay ____” 39. Ant construction 40. “Not my brother’s ____” 42. First Tudor monarch’s number 43. Meteorologist’s line 45. Battles royal 47. Modus operandi 48. Chocolate source 50. Barrymore or Carey 52. *Like grandmother on mother’s side 55. Like Al Yankovic 56. Gaelic 57. Joie de vivre 59. On pins and needles 60. *She played Zuzu’s mom in Christmas movie classic 61. Left to a Russian 62. Pastrami partner 63. Greek H
1. *School org. with moms (and dads) as members 2. Indian music 3. Farm team 4. Pool hall mishap 5. Powerball, e.g. 6. Playwright Chekhov 7. Perfume property 8. Lime-rich soil 9. Mouse to a snake 10. Fossil fuel 12. Accepted truths 13. Request to Geico 14. *Mother’s song 19. Tedium 22. “Days of ____ Lives” 23. *Delivery room word 24. Binary digits code 25. Train runners 26. *What many mothers want 27. Lacking guile 28. “Sesame Street” regular 31. Olympic cast-out 32. Future fish 34. Shining armor 36. *Form of thank you to mom 38. Gloomy and drab 40. Jared’s competitor 41. Hosted 44. Off-color 46. With nobody to call your own 48. Editor’s insert 49. Between harbors 50. Controvert 51. *Mother’s Day, e.g. 52. *Emmanuel Macron’s mom, e.g. 53. Toward shelter, nautically 54. Volcanic flow 55. “The Art of ____” 58. And not
SUDOKU Sudoku
Please email your sudoku answers to info@austinsouthasian.com. Name and photo of the inviduvidual with first correct answer will be published in June 2019 issue.
To Advertise In ASA Call 512-828-6709
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
Let’s Talk Money, Getting The Conversation Started With Kids
Speaking with your kids about money is not the easiest thing to do, but it can help prevent many problems for them down the line. Now more than ever it’s clear that kids need a good foundation of financial knowledge -- with student loan debt passing the $1.5 trillion mark in 2019, according to Forbes, and an average debt of $22,000 for the 18-24-year-old age group in the U.S., according to CNBC.
• Start Slow: It is okay not to disclose the amount of debt you have or how much is in your savings account, but simply discussing the value of a dollar can go a long way. While grocery shopping or running errands, talk to your kids about how
to somewhere fun. Tell them that once they have saved up a certain amount of money to contribute to the trip, you will go. When they want to buy a toy or treat with their money, ask them if they would rather have that toy or treat or if they want the money to go towards the trip.
To save or to shop? That is the question! In line with Family Credit Management’s commitment to
Ensuring your kids have fundamental knowledge about credit cards, saving, budgeting, and interest, can help set them up for a secure financial future, benefitting them throughout their life.
Here are some tips to get started:
providing financial education and thanks to a generous grant from Capital One, 1,000 free copies are available by using promo code “SAVING” at kathrynandelizabethgoshopping.com until Aug. 1, 2019. There is a limit of three free copies per household. A strong financial future starts with financial literacy. Give your children the gift of knowledge and help set them up for success. (StatePoint)
Memorial Day
(Continued From Page 01)
Memorial Day is considered the unofficial start of the summer vacation season in the United States, while Labor Day marks its end on the first Monday of September. In Canada, Victoria Day is a public holiday observed on a Monday one week before Memorial Day and similarly indicates the start of summer.
And with a record 15 percent of 25-35-year-olds living in their parent(s) home, according to PEW research, when better to start than in childhood? “The key to talking to your kids about money is just that -- to start talking,” says Sarabeth O’NeilMcAuliffe, author and chief marketing officer at Family Credit Management, a non-profit creditcounseling agency.
in making sense of budgeting.To help set children up for a strong financial future, O’Neil-McAuliffe authored “Kathryn & Elizabeth Go Shopping,” a children’s book exploring basic money management and the value of money, which tells the tale of two sisters with different opinions of how to handle their weekly allowance.
much the items they use every day cost, or tell them how many hours you need to work to afford a particular purchase. • Talk About Savings: Have your kids help plan a day trip
• Use Technology: Once it is age-appropriate, help them use a free budgeting app that will allow them to visualize income and expenses. Being able to see where money is going and how much is left can be a big help
Many people visit cemeteries and memorials on Memorial Day, particularly to honor those who died in military service. Many volunteers place an American flag on each grave in national cemeteries. Two other days celebrate those who serve or have served in the U.S. military: Veterans Day, which celebrates the service of all U.S. military veterans; and Armed Forces Day, a minor U.S. remembrance celebrated earlier in May, specifically honoring those currently serving in the U.S. military.
April 2019 Sudoku Answer Mr.Yudhveer Bagga
Mrs. Prema Raghavan
MEN CAN COOK! Email your recipe with your photos and see yourself in print
Info@ AustinSouth Asian.com
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
Competitive Sports Can Improve Quality Of Life At Any Age Are you an older adult looking for some inspiration to stay physically active? In June, the 2019 National Senior Games presented by Humana will gather a record number of more than 13,700 athletes aged 50 and over to compete in 20 medal sports.
says Marc T. Riker, CEO of NSGA. “It’s a lifelong journey that can begin for anyone, at any skill level, at any age.” The health benefits of athletic competition
Many assume competitors are elite or career athletes. While that’s true for some, others find the opportunity in midlife to learn a new sport or return to an athletic passion of youth that lapsed with the demands and distractions of adulthood. Others discover that organized senior sports provide a motivation to exercise regularly with goals reaching beyond the tedium of the treadmill. The National Senior Games Association (NSGA) is comprised of 54 member games held annually throughout the U.S. and Canada. Athletes qualify for the national games in even-numbered years within five-year age divisions. “While people are competing for medals, they are also pursuing their optimum health, which we say is your real personal best,”
are striking. On average, athletes measured a fitness age 25 years younger than their chronological age in an NSGA study of highly-active seniors, developed by researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. Another potential benefit of sports partici-
pation? Accident prevention. Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
well.
H o w e v e r, results from Senior Athlete Fitness Exam (SAFE) screenings reveal that only 10 percent of senior athletes have a fall in a given year, which is one-third the rate of the general population.
“The Senior Games is about more than competition. It provides fitness, fun and fellowship through sport for older adults nationwide,” says Riker.
Of course, older adults don’t need to play sports to achieve and maintain a better quality of life. Regular exercise and other recreational activity provide tangible health benefits as
However, competitive sports, such as the Senior Games, engages participants mentally and socially, and provides the goals and motivation often needed to stay active.
Founded in 1987, the National Senior Games is the largest Olympic style multisport event in the world for older adults. Held in different host cities every two years, this year, it’s all happening in Albuquerque, N.M. June 14 through 25. To find out more about the Senior Games Movement, including state games information, sports offered, news and athlete profiles, visit NSGA.com. Whether you take a walk around the block, go bowling with a buddy or enter the National Senior Games, it is never too late to start enjoying the benefits of a more active lifestyle. (StatePoint)
Celebrating And Protecting National Parks When visiting one of the stunningly diverse 419 national park sites nationwide, experts say it is important to recognize the individuals who have spoken up over the decades to protect and enhance these incredible places, as well as the work that is still needed.
National Parks, where Buffalo Soldiers were the first park rangers. National parks don’t exist as they do today by accident. Today, Florida Panthers still
“It’s difficult to imagine what the U.S. would be like without the Grand Canyon or the Great Smoky Mountains or the Statue of Liberty. National parks offer more than hiking paths, beachfronts and mountaintops,” says Theresa Pierno, president and CEO of the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA). “We find a sense of identity and inspiration in these treasured places. They speak to who we are as Americans.” Additionally, national parks offer veterans, active-duty members and their families places of solace, healing and reflection, while honoring their service. More than a quarter of our national park sites commemorate military history, from Gettysburg in Pennsylvania, to places such as Yosemite and Sequoia
roam in Florida’s Everglades; hikers in Joshua Tree don’t gaze at what would have been the country’s largest landfill; and the country’s diverse and shared history is celebrated in national parks, from Cesar Chavez to Birmingham to Stonewall, thanks to the work of
conservationists, including NPCA. For 100 years, NPCA has served as a fearless defender of national parks. The idea for NPCA came at the urging of the first National Park Service director, Stephen Mather and his colleague, Robert Sterling Yard, who believed that national parks needed a voice, separate from the federal government, whose sole responsibility was to protect and enhance them for present and future generations. “The earliest park advocates shared a goal that lives on today, of ensuring the wonder of these places is preserved,” says Pierno. Each of us serves as beneficiaries of their vision and action. Now it’s our turn to ensure that 100 years from now, people will still be able to watch Old Faithful erupt at Yellowstone, learn about the history of our
democracy at Independence Hall and stand in amazement as brown bears wade into Brooks Falls searching for fish at Katmai in Alaska.” Unfortunately, national parks continue to face threats, including pollution that is harming their air and water, climate change, energy development, inadequate federal funding and a list of repair needs that is nearly $12 billion across the entire National Park System. Experts say that parks are also threatened by attempts to derail policies and laws meant to protect these treasured places -- from carving up national monuments for development to fast-tracking oil and gas leasing in and near some of America’s last truly wild places. To learn more, visit npca. org/100. “We need our national parks, and they need us to stand up and be a voice,” says Pierno. (StatePoint)
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal (English translation: “Palace of Winds” or “Palace of the Breeze”) is a palace in Jaipur, India. It is constructed of red and pink sandstone. The palace sits on the edge of the City Palace, Jaipur, and extends to the zenana, or women’s chambers. The structure was built in 1799 by Maharaja
The corporate sector lent a hand to preserve the historical monuments of Jaipur and the Unit Trust of India has adopted Hawa Mahal to maintain it. The palace is an extended part of a huge complex. The stone-carved screens, small casements and arched roofs are some of the features of this popular tourist spot. The monument also has delicately modeled hanging cornices.
Its façade depicting 953 niches with intricately carved jharokhas (some are made of wood) is a stark contrast to the plain looking rear side of the structure.
Its cultural and architectural heritage is a true reflection of a fusion of Hindu Rajput architecture and Islamic Mughal architecture; the Rajput style is seen in the form of domed canopies, fluted pillars, lotus and floral patterns, and the Islamic style as evident in its stone inlay filigree work and arches (as distinguished from its similarity with the Panch Mahal at Fatehpur Sikri).
The cooling effect in the chambers, provided by the breeze passing through the small windows of the façade, was enhanced by the fountains provided at the centre of each of the chambers. The top two floors of the Hawa Mahal are accessed only through ramps. The Mahal is maintained by the archaeological Department of the Government of Rajasthan. The palace is located to the south of Jaipur city, at the main road intersection called the Badi Chaupad (big four square).
The entry to the Hawa Mahal from the city palace side is through an imperial door. It opens into a large courtyard, which has double storeyed buildings on three sides, with the Hawa Mahal enclosing it on the east side. An archaeological museum is also housed in this courtyard.
Jaipur city is well connected by road, rail and air with the rest of the country. The Sanganer International Airport is at a distance of 13 kilometres (8.1 mi) from the city.
Hawa Mahal was also known as the chefd’œuvre of Maharaja Jai Singh as it was his favourite resort because of the elegance and built-in interior of the Mahal.
It is particularly striking when viewed early in the morning, lit with the golden light of sunrise.
Entry to the Hawa Mahal is not from the front but from a side road to the rear end.
Akbar And Birbal Sawai Pratap Singh. He was so inspired by the unique structure of Khetri Mahal that he built this grand and historical palace. It was designed by Lal Chand Ustad. Its unique five-story exterior is akin to the honeycomb of a beehive with its 953 small windows called jharokhas decorated with intricate latticework. The original intent of the lattice design was to allow royal ladies to observe everyday life and festivals celebrated in the street below without being seen, since they had to obey the strict rules of “purdah”, which forbade them from appearing in public without face coverings. This architectural feature also allowed cool air from the Venturi effect to pass through, thus making the whole area more pleasant during the high temperatures in summer. Many people see the Hawa Mahal from the street view and think it is the front of the palace, but in reality it is the back of that structure. In 2006, renovation works on the Mahal were undertaken, after a gap of 50 years, to give a face lift to the monument at an estimated cost of Rs 4568 million.
The palace is a five-storey pyramidal shaped monument that rises 50 feet (15 m). The top three floors of the structure have the width of a single room, while the first and second floors have patios in front of them. The front elevation, as seen from the street, is like a honeycomb with small portholes. Each porthole has miniature windows and carved sandstone grills, finials and domes. It gives the appearance of a mass of semioctagonal bays, giving the monument its unique façade.
List Of Blinds Once King Akbar questioned Birbal if he knows the number of blind citizens of their kingdom. Raja Birbal had requested Akbar to give him a week’s time. The next day Raja Birbal was found to be mending shoes in the town market. People were astonished to see Birbal doing such work. Many of them started to question “Birbal!! What are you doing?”
The inner face on the back side of the building consists of chambers built with pillars and corridors with minimal ornamentation, and reach up to the top floor.
Once when he was asked this question by someone he started writing something. It continued for a week when on the 7th day King Akbar himself asked Birbal the same question.
The interior of the mahal has been described as “having rooms of different coloured marbles, relieved by inlaid panels or gilding; while fountains adorn the centre of the courtyard”.
Giving him no answer, Birbal reported at the court the next day and handed over a note to King Akbar. Akbar read the note when he found that it was the big list of people who were blind.
Lal Chand Ustad was the architect of this unique structure. Built in red and pink coloured sand stone, in keeping with the décor of the other monuments in the city, its colour is a full testimony to the epithet of “Pink City” given to Jaipur.
Emperor Akbar was stunned when he found his own name in the list. Angered by this, Akbar asked Birbal the reason for writing his name in the list. Birbal said “O! My majesty! Like all other people you also saw me mending the slippers but you still asked me what I was doing. Therefore I had to include your name too.” Akbar started laughing at this and everyone enjoyed Birbal’s sense of humor.
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Anil Kapoor’s Aged Look Has Left Fans Utterly Puzzled!
Anil Kapoor is 62-years-old, but the evergreen actor is as fit as ever.
years as an actor, his age appears to have no impact on his appearance.
Austin South Asian | May 2019
Deepika Padukone Clears The Air On Rumours Regarding Her Citizenship Deepika Padukone has finally
ternet.
The actress, who is currently shooting for her upcoming movie ‘Chhapaak’, has rubbished all the rumours of being a Danish citizen.
The picture, which mysteriously made its way on the cyberspace, shows an aged looking Anil Kapoor with full grey hair and tired face. In the picture, the actor is wearing a black cap and a jacket and looking much older than how he looks in his usual pictures.
Till date, after a shinning career in Bollywood spanning almost 40
But recently, a picture of the actor has created quite a stir on the in-
With more than Rs 1000 crore collection worldwide, Baahubali series stood as one of the larger than life epic series. On this day, in 2017, ‘Baahubali:
Deepika said that she holds an Indian passport and is a proud Indian citizen who will definitely be voting in this election.
This latest pic has definitely started a debate on social media, with many fans left puzzled if this is a real picture or a fake one!
Prabhas’ Second Instagram Post Is Emotional tions, all of them posted recalling the second anniversary of the release.
thanked director SS Rajamouli and his crew members for the opportunity.
Prabhas, who joined Instagram early this month, made a sensa-
He also expressed his gratefulness towards his fans for supporting the
Sabha elections.
cleared the air on rumours and speculation regarding her citizenship that surfaced recently. Since her birthplace is Denmark, rumours went around claiming that she holds a Danish passport and will not be able to vote in the Lok
At one of the press conference she attended, she was quizzed about her citizenship and she said that she has an Indian passport. There are a lot of complications but Deepika said that she’s proud to be Indian citizen.
Rajnikanth’s Darbar Gets Kaala Actor! Superstar Rajnikanth is on a blockbuster streak with his Shankar directo-
rial scifi thriller 2.0 released last year and the Karthik Subbaraj directorial revenge drama Petta released this Pongal both becoming commercially successful ventures at the box office, offering a perfect treat for fans. The Conclusion’ completed two years of its release and the film’s cast and crew posted their heartfelt notes on Twitter and Instagram platforms. Actors Prabhas and Rana Daggubati, Bahubali official page and Karan Johar’s Dharma Produc-
tional entry. He posted Bahubali still as his debut post and now, his second Instagram post is once again all about Bahubali. He captioned that April 28 will always be emotional for him and
movie and making it so big. Rana also wrote the day changed his life and Indian cinema forever. Producer Shobu Yarlagadda, along with Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions also tweeted on a special day.
Now the actor is working on his next, the AR Murugadoss directorial Darbar, which is his 167th movie and the shooting of this movie produced by Lyca Productions is progressing in Mumbai, featuring Rajni, Lady Superstar Nayanthara, Nivetha Thomas and comedian Yogi Babu. After the inclusion of Sacred Games star Jatin Sarna as part of the cast, Darbar team has roped in actor Pradeep Kabra, who has also acted in Kaala as Nana Patekar’s assistant as part of the cast. Pradeep has been known for his funny villain acts in movies like Settai and Anjaan.
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Austin South Asian | May 2019
Student Of The Year Tiger Shroff Accepts He Has Never Been To College, Says Films Have Been His Only College
Actor Tiger Shroff will soon be seen as a college student in Karan Johar’s next film, Student of the Year 2.
he has never been to one. He went on to say that immediately after school he joined the sets of his first film Heropanti.
plays a kabbadi player, a role for which he trained hard. According to the report, he trained
However, the actor has revealed that he has never been to a real college in his life.
The film’s many songs and trailer have created a buzz around the film. Alia has done a cameo in the film and will appear in a song with Tiger.
Student of the Year 2 is the sequel to the 2012 hit Student of the Year.
Personally, I have never done a dance number like that…working with Alia was an amazing experience. In Student of the Year 2, Tiger
with professionals for two months
Is Nani Turning Villain In 25th Film? In a short span, hardworking and one of the dedicated actors in Telugu industry, Natural Star Nani has truly achieved a feat that many contemporary Telugu heroes struggle to reach.
while shooting the song.”
Speaking about shooting for it, he said, “We had so much fun shooting the song.
According to a report in Mumbai Mirror, while appearing on The Kapil Sharma Show, Tiger was asked by the show’s host Kapil Sharma what was the difference between a real college and the larger-than-life version one sees in Student of Year series. Tiger said he would not know as
to get his act right.
more than a celebration for his fans if we have to believe reports.
Nivetha Thomas and Aditi Rao Hydari.
Today when the logo look poster of “V”, directed by Mohan Krishna Indraganti, is released, many
However, it was later revealed that the film is the 25th movie of Nani. And then, Nani has given enough indications about his role, as he said, “Indraganti introduced me as a Hero in my 1st film. Today he is all set to introduce me again in my 25th film. But this time, It’s different”.
Though she is such a big star, she was open and cooperative on set
Is everything in Bollywood a fluke or do formulas actually work? It is a riddle that every filmmaker, actor, and producer has been try-
got stunned to see that the poster has only names of Sudheer Babu,
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Invites Contributions From Readers And Community
Student of the Year 2 has been directed by Punit Malhotra. It is slated to release on May 10.
However, at the end of the day, Bollywood marries art with commerce, a combination whose result can always swing in any direction. While going the tried and tested route is often safe, here are a few films that defied the notion. Despite heavily following the winning formulas, here are some movies that proved a hit formula does not always guarantee a hit film. With Padmaavat making headlines, period films have become a hit formula.
Well, isn’t that a sort of indication that Nani is playing a villain in the movie?
He’s touching that 25th film mark now, and it is going to be a shocker
Actors Tara Sutaria and Ananya Panday will be making their Bollywood debut in in this film.
Recent Bollywood Movies That Prove Hit Formulas Do Not Always Guarantee A Hit Film
Sharing the poster, he further wrote on Twitter, “Your friendly neighbourhood badass joins the party”.
Though earlier he played such role in Jenda Pai Kapiraju (double action as hero and villain), somehow it didn’t work. Let’s see what happens now.
The latter marks the Bollywood debut of actors Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan, and Sidharth Malhotra.
ing to solve for ages While things are indeed dynamic in Bollywood and it is difficult to tell what will work and what won’t, there actually seems to be certain tried and tested formulas that yield results. Whether it is riding the bandwagon of biopics or the herd mentality with which sequels are made, there really seems to be a place for formula-driven films in Bollywood.
However, Kalank proved that it takes more than a big star cast, gorgeous costumes and elaborate sets to make a period film work. A semi re-hash of Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, Batti Gul Meter Chalu proved that social dramas are not always the safe bet. After Baahubali, VFX has been the buzzword of success. But even great VFX and SRK could not help Zero.
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Austin South Asian | May 2019