Austin South Asian. October. 2022

The Queen

What was she really like? That’s what people have been asking me lately.

Yes, I knew her, to the extent that

She hated that more. “Don’t ever call me that again,” she’d say with a look, like, I will hurt you. Mostly I called her Burt. She liked that. We met many

2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup

The 2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is scheduled to be the eighth ICC Men’s T20 World Cup tour

the rearranged tournament in 2022, with the T20 World Cup scheduled to take place in India in 2021 as

Manage Long COVID....02

Wallet Recession-Proof..03

American Farmers........04

Burdens Of American....05

Dan Marino’s Tips.........05

Prepare For Natural......06

Arun’s Scribblings.........06

What To Do If Mortgage Application Is Denied....07

anyone really knew her.

Betty. I called her Betty. Which she hated. So I stopped calling her that. Then Betsy.

Mentoring Can Help.....

The financial disparities between male and female entrepreneurs are far-reaching. Women-led busi

years ago, on the subway. This was in London (Continued On Page 15)

Vinyasa Yoga

Vinyasa is a style of yoga char acterized by stringing postures together so that you move from

nament scheduled to be played in Australia from 16 October to 13 November 2022. Originally, the tournament was to be held in 2020, however, in July 2020, the Inter national Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed that the tournament had been postponed, due to the COV ID-19 pandemic.

In August 2020, the ICC also con firmed that Australia would host

originally planned, but was later moved to UAE and Oman. On 21 January 2022, the ICC confirmed all the fixtures for the tournament. Hosts Australia are also the de fending champions. (Continued On Page 20)

Diwali

nesses receive lower valuations, less capital and fewer conventional small business loans than those led by men. (Continued On Page 13)

one to another, seamlessly, using breath. Commonly referred to as “flow” yoga, it is sometimes con fused with “power yoga“.

(Continued On Page 18)

Demonstrat ing its continued commitment to giving back to the local community, Hindu Charities for America (Continued On Page 11)

(deepa) that Indians light outside their homes to symbolize the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness.

(Continued On Page 06)

Designing Garden For Bet

Mental Health.........08

Good, The Bad......12

Kaushik’s Page...13

A Fireplace.......15

Pup In Game....16

Heading Back To

Corner....18,19,22,23

AFib......21

Twist.........23

Cricket Center In Austin...........25

Compiled By Aashi Morales

Diwali, or Dipawali, is India’s big gest and most important holiday of the year. The festival gets its name from the row (avali) of clay lamps

5 Ways Traditions Help Us Stay Healthy And Happy

Health experts say that establishing and maintaining family traditions can boost overall well-being and vitality, especially as we age.

“As children become adults and move out of the house or away, the family traditions

down from one generation to the next.

Traditions can make us feel young again: From cooking and gardening to sports and games, family traditions often evoke old memories and make us feel young again. Sensory memories can be particularly pow

Is Your Wallet Recession-Proof?

As inflation continues to put a strain on budgets, talk of an upcoming recession has Americans worried about their finances. Prices on everyday items continue to rise and consumers are trying to find ways to make their dollar stretch further while safe

are finding different ways to do so: 49% have cut non-essential expenses like entertainment and vacations, 45% have created a budget and 40% have paid down debt.

While these are effective actions, there are

that bind us can sometimes get lost in the process,” says Aparna Abburi, president of Medicare and CareAllies with Cigna, which provides insurance to hundreds of thousands of older adults through its Medicare plans.

“Forming new traditions or reigniting old ones can keep us connected to loved ones, ultimately helping us feel more fulfilled, happier and healthier.”

Here are some insights into the importance of traditions to well-being and vitality as we age, along with tips for keeping those con nections going in your own circle of family and friends:

Traditions help combat loneliness: Accord ing to a 2020 survey by Cigna, 61% of adults reported being lonely – a 7 percentage-point increase from 2018. That feeling was likely exacerbated by the pandemic that followed. Traditions can help to combat feelings of isolation.

Consider setting up weekly video calls or trading letters and notes with relatives who live far away. Regular trips to a favorite des tination, such as a lake or beach, or celebrat ing important holidays together every year, can provide meaningful time together.

Traditions pass on family values: Having shared values can help us feel connected to one another. Telling stories from the past or practicing cultural, spiritual and religious traditions are great ways to pass these values

erful. Whether it’s a cookie bakeoff, ball park peanuts and hot dogs, or a singalong around the piano, family rituals that include special sights, sounds and aromas are often the ones we think of most fondly.

Traditions strengthen communities: Tradi tions are not just for families; they can also strengthen ties among friends and commu nities.

Consider getting a group of neighbors to gether for morning walks or meeting friends for shopping excursions. Make visiting the farmers market, attending free concerts in the park, playing community center bingo and gathering for other recurring local events part of your routine.

For more information about how to stay healthy while aging, visit www.cignamedi care.com.

As you embrace the rituals that matter most to you, remember that traditions don’t need to be rigid or set in stone.

“Just as you might modify a family recipe to suit your dietary needs or switch from weekly phone calls to weekly video calls, don’t be afraid to tweak and expand on older traditions so they’re relevant and interesting today – and for years to come,” says Abburi. (StatePoint)

guarding their money against the potential challenges a recession may bring. The fu ture may be difficult to predict, but prepar ing now can help consumers protect their financial health during a recession.

A recent Experian survey found that two in three U.S. adults are concerned about a recession occurring in the United States. Consumers are most worried about the af fordability of routine expenses, with 73% concerned that the price of everyday items like gas, groceries and rent will continue to rise to a level they can’t afford. Meanwhile, 55% harbor supply chain concerns and 38% are stressed about the affordability of big, planned purchases such as a home or a car.

As recession worries grow, more Americans are sizing up their finances to see where they stand. Only 48% are confident that they can financially handle a recession, and two in five believe that they’ll need to rely on credit to cover essential and unexpected ex penses over the next three months. In fact, 27% have already increased their credit card debt within the past three months. This trend is accompanied by additional anxieties: two in three survey respondents are concerned to some degree that their credit score will negatively affect their ability to access credit in the next three months.

Being proactive is key to weathering finan cial storms, yet less than half of consumers have prepared for a recession when it comes to their finances and credit. Those who have

other steps consumers can take to understand their credit history and safeguard their credit.

Consumers should check their credit report and credit score regularly to know exactly where they stand in the event that they need to apply for credit, or simply to be better informed as they prepare to pay down their debt ahead of an economic decline. They can get a free credit report and credit score from Experian (Spanish-language credit reports are also available) as well as access to free financial tools, an auto insurance shopping service and credit card marketplace.

Those who need help increasing their credit score can sign up for Experian Boost. This free feature enables consumers to add their monthly payments for cell phone bills, util ity bills, rent and video streaming services to their credit history to potentially increase their FICO Score instantly. To learn more, visit experian.com/boost.

“Inflation and recession fears are putting pressure on consumer’s finances, but proac tively planning for the worst can help con sumers make it through potential challenges. Many consumers are already taking great steps to prepare, like creating a budget and paying down their debt, and we encourage them to utilize other available resources and tools to help,” says Rod Griffin, senior direc tor of Public Education and Advocacy at Ex perian. (StatePoint)

How American Farmers Are Helping Solve Critical Global Issues

With the Russian invasion of Ukraine, sup ply chain problems stemming from the glob al pandemic, and the world struggling under escalating inflation and a rapidly changing climate, the global hunger crisis has reached new levels.

Every night, more than 800 million people go to bed hungry, with the number of severe ly food-insecure people more than doubling from 135 million before COVID-19 to 345 million today, according to the World Food Program. At the same time, American agri cultural exports of farm and food products shattered records in 2021 to total $177 bil lion, according to the USDA, demonstrat ing the instrumental role American farmers play in the U.S. economy, and in feeding the world.

“It’s more important than ever that the Unit ed States continues to lead globally to pro tect food systems abroad and our citizens at home from supply chain disruptions and ris ing prices,” said Dan Glickman, former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and Senior Advisor at the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition.

“As we face growing threats and crises on the global stage from wars, drought, climate change and food insecurity, farmers are part of the solution and will play a key role help

ing to save lives.”

This is the driving idea behind a newlylaunched initiative: Farmers for Prosper ity. This network of agribusiness leaders is

The launch of Farmers for Prosperity recent ly took place at USGLC’s Heartland Sum mit, hosted in Minnetonka, Minnesota, West Lafayette, Indiana, and Wichita, Kansas. The Summit, an annual event, convenes leaders this year from across the heartland with the aim of unpack ing how strategic invest ments in agri culture, digital technol ogy and global devel

trition. Working with partners around the world, American farmers can help feed the world and save lives.

• U.S. leadership on the global stage is vital to advancing national economic and secu rity interests, and agriculture is a part of that equation. Farmers have unique and important views on what it takes for the United States and the world to prosper, making it impor tant for them to help shape foreign policy by educating policymakers on the challenges on the ground.

• Ensuring that American farmers have ac cess to developing and emerging markets around the world is critical for the domestic economy. U.S. agricultural exports support over 1.3 million jobs on the farm and in re lated industries such as food processing and transportation.

committed to U.S. global engagement by harnessing American resources to feed the world. Convened by the USGLC, Farmers for Prosperity will also shine a spotlight on both the role farmers play in solving criti cal global issues, and on why U.S. global leadership is essential to protect the security, health and economic interests of American families.

opment help create jobs, feed the hungry, reduce poverty and keep America safe. Ad vocates are highlighting this year’s biggest takeaways:

• When communities are food insecure, it can lead to instability, slowing economic growth, perpetuating conflict, impacting child development and worsening malnu

To watch the 2022 Heartland Summit or learn more about Farmers for Prosperity, visit heartland.usglc.org.

“Farmers around the world are not all that different. Together, they grow the food that sustains communities. At a time of global crisis, American farmers can lead the effort to tackle hunger and food insecurity,” says Glickman. (StatePoint)

Why You Should Plan Ahead This Heating Season

Between the Russian invasion of Ukraine and sky-high oil and gas prices, a significant pellet fuel supply shortage is likely this win ter season. Industry experts say you should plan ahead and secure your fuel now for the cold winter months. The good news is that, currently, there is plenty of supply to stock up.

As Tim Portz, executive director of the Pel let Fuels Institute explains, Russia is the sec ond largest producer of wood pellets glob ally, supplying more than 2 million tons to global markets in 2020. But sanctions and restrictions due to the invasion of Ukraine have required U.S. pellet producers to fill the gap.

What’s more, the sticker shock Americans may experience this winter when review ing their energy bills will likely have many switching to pellet heating in search of a better deal, and those with multiple heating options may start opting for pellets, putting extra demand on potentially short supplies.

“Wood pellet demand fluctuates year to year, however with heating oil, natural gas, elec

tric and propane prices at near historic highs, we could see record sales of pellets in 20222023,” says Portz. “Consumers will need to be savvy. To ensure their annual supply is secured, they should stock up now.”

Wood pellets are used as primary or second ary space heat in more than 1 million homes nationwide. Pellets are a renewable, clean-

burning fuel made from the waste streams generated by the manufacturers of products like dimensional lumber, hardwood flooring, wood pallets and cabinetry. Although sup plies are strong right now, pellet producers are highlighting the importance of keeping inventory moving through the system.

With the capacity to produce more than 1

million tons of wood pellets each year, Lig netics Group, the largest residential wood pellet manufacturing company in the United States, notes that taking advantage of the surplus while it lasts will allow producers to run at full throttle and build inventory before usage begins to outpace production in the depths of winter.

Because pellets are competitively priced na tionwide, consumers who opt for this meth od of heating will save hundreds of dollars over the course of a winter season compared to heating oil or propane, and thousands of dollars compared to electric heat.

“Many have already turned to wood pellet heating and many more are expected to do so amid the current energy crisis,” says Brett Jordan, CEO of Lignetics Group. “However, these consumers will need to take their wise choice a step further by being prepared. Fu eling up now on your normal pellet supply will mean being able to take advantage of this sustainable and cost-efficient option all winter.” (StatePoint)

Dan Marino’s Tips To Keep Health Goals On Track During Football Season

The kickoff to football season is here again, and with it comes pizza, beer, wings and more.

In a poll of 2,000 American men conducted by OnePoll and commissioned by Nutrisys tem, 37% said they usually gain weight dur ing football season from September to Janu ary, with 53% claiming they gain 10 pounds or more.

But football season doesn’t need to wreak havoc on your overall health, wellness and weight loss goals. Just ask pro football Hallof-Fame quarterback, Dan Marino.

“After playing pro football for 17 years, my knees took a beating and I had to have both of them replaced. Couple that with the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic, and I couldn’t exercise or do the things I wanted to stay ac tive, so I put on some weight,” says Marino. “I knew I needed to make a change, turned to Nutrisystem and lost 26 pounds.”

To help football fans stay on track this sea son, Marino is sharing his best tips to lose weight and get healthier.

1. Make a Commitment: It all starts with a commitment. You make a commitment to yourself to get healthier and then you find a game plan to do it. When you see results,

look for programs like Nutrisystem that are easy, take the guesswork out of dieting and deliver your favorite foods made healthier right to your door. Plus, they have great game day foods like pop corn, pizza and burg ers to ensure you’re mak ing good choic es. 3. Seek Sup

4. Focus on Protein: Protein keeps your hun ger in check and will keep you from grab bing those not-so-good for you game day foods. Aim to get your protein from foods like meat and fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts and nut butters. For an afternoon snack, I always grab a Nutrisystem shake, which is packed with protein to keep me full until din ner.

5. Get Moving: Get up and off the couch! Call up your friends and organize a game of football or shoot some hoops. I love to hit the golf course and I often walk instead of grabbing a cart. This way, I’m getting in ex tra exercise.

For more great tips to feel your best this football season and beyond, visit Nutrisys tem’s blog at leaf.nutrisystem.com.

you’re motivated to keep going to reach your goal.

2. Keep it Simple: Men, especially, need things to be simple. If your goal is to lose weight,

port: Studies show that individuals lose up to 20% more weight when dieting with a part ner. Find that teammate who will help moti vate you to stick with your wellness goals.

The most important thing to remember is keeping up with your health and wellness doesn’t need to be hard. It’s all about bal ance. If you find yourself over-indulging as you’re watching the game, that’s okay. Com mit to getting back on track the next day. (StatePoint)

Addressing The Burdens Of American Nurses

According to a new survey, American nurses are overwhelmed by job demands, a longbrewing situation only exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. While the majority of nurses continue to be dedicated to the care of patients, many are considering leaving the profession at a time when staff shortages are part of the problem. But there’s hope, according to industry experts, who say that understanding these challenges can lead to meaningful and necessary reforms.

The 2022 national survey, “The Future of Nursing: A Profession in Crisis,” of nurses and student nurses, was conducted by Cross Country, a market-leading tech-enabled workforce solutions platform and advisory firm, in partnership with Florida Atlantic University’s Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing.

Overall, the study revealed that nurses re main passionate about patient care, with 66% citing helping people through meaning ful work as a main driver for staying in the field. Nevertheless, ongoing challenges have created undue burdens for nurses, with pay rates/compensation (86%), staff shortages (53%), stress (39%) and burnout (35%) cited as top career dissatisfiers.

This frustration has put the industry in cri sis: 28% of nurses indicated their desire to leave the profession has increased dramati cally since the pandemic, while those who said their desire to stay has dropped from

not there and as a result, nurses are leaving the profession in droves,” says John A. Mar tins, president and chief executive officer, Cross Country Healthcare. “The time to fix these mounting problems is now.”

24% in 2021 to 4% in 2022. This translates to a real potential loss of talent in hospitals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities and other healthcare settings. Of those sur veyed, 23% plan to look for a new career in 1-2 years and 13% plan to retire in 1-5 years.

“We had hoped that as the pandemic eased, nurses would have better balance, mental health and working conditions, but we are

To that end, Cross Country is deploying several strategies to transform the nursing profession. These in clude an ongoing ex amination of pay rates and retention practices; identifying new path ways for education, li censing, and talent de velopment; focusing on flexibility and growth opportunities; and in vestments toward inno vation to strengthen the nursing workforce.

The company continues to invest heavily in technology and digital transformation to support these strategies. Among these initia tives is a new website dedicated to nursing candidates. Found at crosscountry.com, the site aims to help health care professionals find and engage with potential job opportu nities more effectively.

Identifying new pathways for nursing educa tion is also a critical steppingstone towards reforming the profession and addressing healthcare provider shortages. That’s why the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing offers accredited programs at all levels to prepare and train students, including various tracks for a BSN, Master of Science in Nurs ing (MSN), PhD and DNP focused on Car ing Science. Also offered are a BSN-DNP program with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration and postgraduate dermatology and telehealth certifi cate courses, as well as other concentrations that intersect innovation and technology.

“Nursing is the greatest profession in the world. The experience you will get is price less,” said one of the survey respondents. “Make sure you’re getting into nursing for the right reasons because I love coming to work and look forward to caring for patients every day. No two patients are alike, so every day in nursing is like a new experience and adventure. And you make the difference.”

To learn more about the challenges facing the nursing industry, visit crosscountry.com/ the-future-of-nursing, where the complete study results, can be found. (StatePoint)

5 Steps Everyone Should Take To Prepare For Natural Disasters

September is National Preparedness Month, which means there’s no better time to prep yourself and your family for the unexpect ed. Don’t wait until torrential rain and high winds beat on your windows or wildfire flames glow on the horizon. In those mo ments, your only thought will be getting your family to safety.

According to the Association of Internation al Certified Public Accountants, nearly 30% of people have not taken any steps to pre pare their family for a natural disaster, yet more than 60% of Americans believe they will likely be impacted by one in the next three to five years.

While no one likes to dwell on worst-case scenarios, taking time now to prepare your family for any unexpected event will save you precious time when a disaster strikes, and help you evacuate at a moment’s notice if need be. Here are a few ways to start.

Pack Your “Go Bag”: A “Go Bag” is a disas

SCRIBBLINGS BY ARUN

TO LIVE LONG

Though a tragedy, death is inevitable, Procreation is necessary, though painful.

In between birth and death, we may live for few years, But strive to live here, as if we live forever.

Grab things greedily, far more than we do require, Fight with one another, for reasons trivial.

The sun, moon and stars, the animals, plants and more, Prior to our arrival, all were created.

They function as programmed, in places specified, At last Divine made us, more clever than others.

Why are we brought in here, know not though break our head, May be to take care of this, magnificent world.

Be whatever, Honour Him and His creations, Only then we might be, favoured to live long here.

(arunsunderraj@gmail.com)

mends packing an emergency radio, wa ter container, food supply for three days,

Diwali

(Continued From Page 01)

Diwali or Divali; related to Jain Diwali, Bandi Chhor Divas, Tihar, Swanti, Sohrai and Bandna) is a festival of lights and one of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs. The festival usually lasts five days and is celebrated during the Hindu lunisolar month Kartika (between mid-Oc tober and mid-November). One of the most popular festivals of Hinduism, Diwali symbolizes the spiritual “victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance”.

The festival is widely associated with Lakshmi, goddess of prosperity and Ganesha, god of wisdom and the remover of obstacles, with many other regional traditions connecting the holiday to Sita and Rama, Vishnu, Krish na, Durga, Shiva, Kali, Hanuman, Kubera, Yama, Yami, Dhanvantari, or Vishvakarman. Furthermore, it is a celebration of the day Rama returned to his kingdom in Ayodhya with his wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana after defeating the demon Ravana in Lanka and serving 14 years of exile.

Diwali is from the Sanskrit dīpāvali meaning “row or series of lights”. The term is derived from the Sanskrit words dīpa, “lamp, light, lantern, candle, that which glows, shines, illuminates or knowledge” and āvali, “a row, range, continuous line, series”. The five-day celebration is observed every year in early autumn after the conclusion of the summer harvest. It coin cides with the new moon (amavasya) and is deemed the darkest night of the Hindu lunisolar calendar. The festivities begin two days before amāvasyā, on Dhanteras, and extend two days after, on the second day of the month of Kartik. (According to Indologist Constance Jones, this night ends the lunar month of Ashwin and starts the month of Kartik – but see this note[d] and Amanta and Purnima systems.)

any medications your family needs. If you have a pet, ensure you have enough food, medica tions, a leash, collar, ID tags and even a crate or kennel in case you need to evacuate to a public shelter. Some other items to include are a flashlight, batteries, multi-tools, duct tape, exam gloves and hand sanitizer.

Know What Natural Disasters Could Affect You: According to the Department of Home land Security (DHS), 90% of disasters within the United States involve flooding and an esti mated 1,000 tornadoes touch down every year. Knowing what natural disasters your region is prone to can help you best prepare.

Stay Informed: There are various apps and alerts you can sign up for to stay on top of any weather developments. You can get the latest storm forecasts online from NOAA’s National Weather Service and the National Hurricane Center.

You can also download the Federal Emergen cy Management Agency app to send notifica tions to loved ones, locate emergency shelters in your area and more. T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile customers can call 611 or visit TMobile.com to stay up to date on response and recovery efforts.

Use Tech to Protect Your Essentials: Using tech nology to store all your important documents on a secure jump drive or in cloud storage can help keep you protected during an emergency. There are several apps available like Google Scan Drive that allow you to use your phone’s camera as a scanning device.

The DHS recommends you capture important documents like insurance policies, identifica tion documents, medical records and pet in formation. You can also scan memorabilia like family photos in case the physical copies are destroyed.

Stay Charged: To stay connected during a storm, keep your phone fully charged. Make sure you have fully charged portable power banks to keep your smartphones charged and the correct charging cables. Doing so will help you reach loved ones and find safety when di saster strikes. To maintain an optimal battery level, set your phone to power saving mode and use airplane mode when your phone is not in use.

Don’t wait until an emergency is looming to prepare. Taking key actions now can help you stay safe, informed and connected during a nat ural disaster, and help you recover in the after math. (StatePoint)

a personal hygiene kit, a first aid kit and

ter kit that ensures that you and your family have everything you may need in an emer

gency. The American Red Cross recom

What To Do If Your Mortgage Application Is Denied

If you dream of homeownership, having your mortgage application denied can be devastating. If this does happen to you, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Thirteen percent of all purchase mortgage applications -- a total of nearly 650,000 -- were denied in 2020, according to federal govern ment data.

Before quickly reapplying for a loan, it’s important to first under stand the reasons your loan was denied. The lender is required to disclose that information to you within 30 days of its decision. You can also call your lender for further explanation. Having this knowl edge will help you work toward building your eligibility for a mort gage.

In some instances, the situation in volves a quick fix, such as provid ing missing or incomplete docu mentation. However, if the reasons cited for your application denial involve down payment cost, a low

credit score, an adverse credit his tory or a high debt-to-income ratio, here are six steps you can take to ward recovery:

1. Consult a Housing Counselor. Consider speaking to a commu nity-based credit counselor or a HUD-certified housing counselor. They can help you create a plan to increase your savings, decrease your debt, improve your credit, ac cess down payment assistance or take advantage of first-time home buyer programs.

2. Improve Your Credit. In a 2022 Freddie Mac survey of consum ers denied a mortgage application in the past four years, three in five cited debt or credit issues as rea sons given for their initial de nial. If this describes you, take time to im prove your credit profile before applying for another loan. Good credit demonstrates responsible money management and gives you more purchasing power, open ing doors to better loan terms and products. Visit creditsmart.freddi emac.com to access Freddie Mac’s CreditSmart suite of free financial

education resources that can help you understand the fundamentals of credit and prepare you for home ownership.

3. Pay Down Debt. In the applica tion process, lenders will look at your recurring monthly debts, such as car payments, student loans and credit card loans. By lowering or paying down monthly debts, you can build a positive credit history and lower your debt-to-income ra tio. Not sure where to start? Tackle your debt with the highest interest rate first.

4. Obtain Gift Funds. If you’re short on money for your down payment, you may be able to use gift funds from a family member to decrease the amount you need to borrow.

5. Find a Co-Signer. A co-signer applies for the loan with you, agreeing to take responsibility for the loan should you default. The co-signer’s credit, income and

debts will be evaluated to make sure they can assume payments if necessary.

In addition to ensuring your cosigner has good credit, you should make sure they are aware of this responsibility and have sufficient income to cover the payment.

6. Look for a Lower-Cost Home. Remember, you should only bor row an amount you feel comfort able repaying. You may need to look for a lower-cost home than you’re financially prepared to pur chase and maintain.

For more information and addition al resources, visit myhome.freddi emac.com.

If your home loan application is denied, don’t panic. There are ways to build your eligibility so that next time, your mortgage application is more likely to be approved. (State Point)

How To Protect Yourself And Your Family From Preventable Diseases

Both in the United States and glob ally, childhood and adult vaccina tion rates have seen what com munity health experts are calling a “concerning decline” since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now is the time to ensure that you and your children are up to date on all recommended vaccines to best protect you and your family from preventable diseases.

“Vaccines are among the greatest medical breakthroughs in the his tory of medicine. Millions of lives have been saved and severe out comes from various diseases have been prevented because of vac cines.

At this moment, in part because of people missing routine immu nizations during the COVID-19 pandemic and in part because of misinformation around vaccines, our vaccination numbers have de clined, which has impacted certain populations who are more suscep tible to preventable diseases.

I urge you to check with your phy sician, schedule that preventive screening, and make sure you and

your children are up to date on your vaccines,” says Jack Resneck Jr., M.D., president of the Ameri can Medical Association.

According to Dr. Resneck, here are three steps to take to get back on track:

Babies and young children are es pecially susceptible to vaccine-pre ventable diseases, and right now, tens of thousands of children in the U.S. are not up to date on their vaccination against extremely con tagious diseases, such as measles and whooping cough.

you and your children are up to date on COVID-19 vaccines, Ex perts have cautioned about a possi ble surge this fall and winter. With new Omicron-specific bivalent boosters available for people 12 and older, the time for additional protection from severe outcomes from COVID-19 is now.

Additionally, all children aged 6 months and up are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, and physicians highly recommend getting vaccinated as early as pos sible.

You can get a COVID-19 vaccine and a flu vaccine at the same time if you are eligible, and the tim ing coincides. For more information on COVID-19 vaccines, visit: getvac cineanswers.org.

once declared polio-free or mea sles-free are not risk-free, particu larly for the unvaccinated.

An adult in New York was recently partially paralyzed by polio, and the virus has been found in area wastewater samples, leading to the declaration of a disaster in the state to help support localities in responding to the outbreak.

Because some areas and popula tions are under-vaccinated, the risk of contracting vaccine-preventable diseases is increased.

1. Schedule routine visits with your and your child’s physicians for im portant preventive care, including recommended health screenings and vaccines based on age and health status.

3. Understand that even countries

“Unfortunately, if we don’t get our vaccine coverage rates back to where they were before the pan demic began, we run the risk of seeing outbreaks of vaccine-pre ventable diseases that we thought we’d long ago overcome,” says Dr. Resneck. “To protect yourself and your family from current and future outbreaks, get up to date on vaccinations now.” (StatePoint)

Designing Your Garden For Better Mental Health

Gardening is not only a means for beautifying outdoor spaces and growing delicious foods. According to those who spend significant time in the yard, getting outside can also support your wellbeing. “Gardening is good for the mind, it’s good for the soul and it’s good for the body,” said legendary football coach, Vince Dooley. “I enjoy coming out to garden, and when I finish, I feel like I’ve done something, and I feel good.” Landscape architect Doug Scott of Redeem Your Ground recently visited Dooley in Athens, Ga. to discuss gardening and mental health. Here are some of the insights they shared:

Health Benefits

• Active benefits: Gardening exercises the body and clears the mind. Studies show that in creased outdoor exposure leads to fewer long-term health problems, helping improve car diovascular fitness, flexibility, strength, and dexterity—all leading to better mental health. Simply planting, growing, harvesting and maintaining plants gives you a direct emotional boost. Why? Gardening helps foster nurturing instincts and restores a sense of hope and pur pose, ultimately improving self-esteem.

• Passive benefits: Don’t have a green thumb? Don’t worry. Scientific evidence proves that just being in nature has positive impacts on stress levels and brain chemistry. It can also lower blood pressure, increase concentration and improve mood. What’s more, being out doors offers a deeper sense of belonging and a new sense of purpose outside the daily grind.

Designing Your Garden

Scott advises designing your garden to reflect how you want to live outside. He typically builds “rooms” connected by meandering paths for resting, unwinding, and feeling restored. However, your outdoor spaces don’t always need to be quiet. They can encourage activity as well. (Continued On Page 10)

2. You should also make sure that

3 Great Reasons To Consider A Metal Roof

One of the most important considerations for any major home project is its return on investment. That’s why experts point to metal as a solid choice for roofing.

“If you’re looking for that elusive combi

Innovations in the metal roofing industry have resulted in beautiful panels and shingles that look identical to traditional materials, but with out the associated damage concerns and main tenance issues that can quickly compromise curb appeal. For example, ProVia stamped

nation of beauty, longevity and energy ef ficiency, metal roofing is a smart choice,” says James Alpeter, ProVia metal roofing marketing manager.

“It offers superior performance and en hanced curb appeal, plus excellent resale value down the road.”

As Alpeter points out, your roof plays an important role in safeguarding your home, protecting it from the elements and pro viding a barrier to temperature extremes.

With your roof covering at least 60% of your home’s exterior, consider these ad vantages that metal has over other roofing materials:

• Longevity:

Roofing takes a beating from all kinds of weather -- rainstorms, high winds, hail, harsh UV rays, and heavy snow.

Materials like asphalt and wood shingles are susceptible to mold and deterioration, and clay or slate tiles can chip and break. Metal roofing is durable, long-lasting, and withstands extreme conditions better than other roofing options.

Metal roofs typically last 40 years or more, and their warranties are stronger as well.

• Curb appeal:

panel metal roofing features an embossed sur face that mimics the look and texture of cedar shake and quarried slate, and the horizontal panels resemble shingles rather than the indus trial-looking standing seam metal roofs.

At the same time, this roofing choice features built-in fade and chalk resistance, a premium architectural coating offering dirt, mildew and stain protection, and virtually no material degradation. Bottom line? Your roof will stay beautiful with minimal care.

• Environmental stewardship:

Metal roofing can offer significant energy savings when compared to asphalt shingles, helping you reduce your carbon footprint and lower your utility bills.

You can take your environmental stewardship a step further by choosing long-lasting, recy cled and recyclable products, as well as prod ucts that are American made, which require less shipping.

To learn more or get your project started, visit provia.com.

The decision to reroof your home is a big step. As you weigh your options, be sure to select materials that are not only striking, but offer durability, strength and weather-resistance. (StatePoint)

5 Factors To Consider When Buying A Fridge

Shopping for a new refrigerator can feel overwhelming. But know ing your exact needs will simplify the process and help you feel con fident in your purchase.

“A refrigerator can do a lot more for you than hold your food and keep it cold. Some of today’s mod els have features that can truly elevate your kitchen experience,” says Peter Weedfald, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Sharp Home Electronics Company of America. “Knowing your needs and wants can help you be a savvy shopper.”

To find the right fridge for your home, consider these five factors:

1. Measurements. Measure the space where you’ll be placing the fridge. Not only does your new fridge need to fit into this spot, but you also need clearance to open the doors. Having these specifications can help you begin your search and

narrow your options.

2. Finish. Consider giving your kitchen a cohesive look by match ing the finish of your new re

frigerator to your other current appliances. Stainless steel is partic ularly sleek and easy to clean. With a quick wipe-down, your fridge can look brand new. Ultimately, opt for a finish that you love and that ties your kitchen together.

3. Capacity. Keep your shopping and cooking habits in mind to en sure your fridge size meets your needs. Are you someone who buys a lot of fresh produce and goods? Do you tend to do big grocery hauls? Then a large-ca pacity fridge is a must. If space is at a premium and you’re searching for some thing com pact, yet still able to handle your needs, the Sharp SJB1255GS, a 24-inch BottomFreezer Counter Depth Refrigera tor may be the ideal fit. With two shelves, a spacious 4.2 cubic foot freezer with three drawers, and a removable wine rack for quick and easy organization, this innovative

space-saving model features welldesigned storage solutions.

4. Freezer style. There are three main freezer style options you may come across when looking for a new refrigerator: side-by-side, bottom-freezer, and top-freezer. Determining which style is right for you largely depends on what you want as your main focus. For example, if you use your refrigera tor more often than the freezer, a bottom-freezer is a good choice, as it means that your refrigerator shelves will be at eye level.

5. Features. After the basics, such as capacity and finish, comes the fun stuff -- extra features. These extra features can really set one ap pliance apart from another. To get an idea of what’s available today, consider the Sharp SJG2254FS, a French Four Door Counter-Depth Refrigerator. A great bet for those who entertain or have growing families and changing needs, it

features a triple cooling system that allows you to independently control the refrigerator, drawers, and ice maker for greater flex ibility. A multipurpose flex drawer with four independently-controlled temperature settings means you can optimize the storage of meats (30 degrees F) or use it as a bever age cooler (34 degrees F). The flex drawer can also be optimized for deli items and snacks (37 degrees F) or converted to a wine chiller (41 degrees F).

To learn more about the latest fridge features and get more ap pliance shopping tips and insights, visit shop.sharpusa.com.

Looking for a new fridge, or any major appliance for that matter, comes with challenges, but under standing the latest options available and how they relate to your needs can make the process smooth and simple. (StatePoint)

Designing Your Garden For Better Mental Health

(Continued From Page 08)

If you enjoy company, create gath ering spaces. Or, if you have hob bies that can be done outdoors like

or those that bring you joy. The simple sight of a breathtaking ar ray of plants or an arrangement of favorite flowers is bound to give your mental health a boost.

2. Taste: Grow ing your own food will pro vide you with an in credi bly re ward ing har

produce soothing sounds. And with the new habitat you’ve created, you’ll enjoy bird song, too!

4. Touch: From the light, feathery textures of petals to the rough sur faces of bark or bush stems, touch offers a deeper sense of connection to nature.

5. Smell: You may already use aroma therapy indoors. Take this concept outside by grow ing fragrant flowers and herbs, so you can literally “stop to smell the roses.”

the video, visit Backyard Life, which is part of a unique multi media destination with a focus on helping homeowners make the most of outdoor spaces. There you can also download additional tips and view other Exmark Original

Series videos.

By gardening, your mental health will be better off for it. Just be sure to start small, simple and stressfree. (StatePoint)

exercising, painting or writing, you can set aside areas for them.

Finally, Scott recommends design ing your garden to awaken your five senses. Here’s how:

1. Sight: Choose calming colors,

vest. Not only will you be able to enhance meals with the fruits of your labor, you’ll get the personal satisfaction of a job well done.

3. Hearing: Among the plants and flowers, add fixtures, such as wind chimes and water features, that’ll

Scott and Dooley offer more in sights in “Garden Therapy,” a recent episode of “DoneIn-A-Weekend Projects,” an origi nal series from lawn care equip ment manufacturer, Exmark. To watch

Serving Where You Live: HC4A To Host 8th Annual Gala

(Continued From Page 01)

(now doing business as Education & Careers for America/EC4A) will be hosting its 8th Annual Gala at

the Embassy suites by Hilton in Round Rock, TX on October 29, 2022.

Now in its eighth year of service, EC4A’s Gala has become well

known in the Austin community for both the good that it does and the fun evening it provides.

Members of both the Indian and

broader Austin community look forward to this fall event and HC4A has received both national and local attention in the Indian and mainstream media for the scholarships provided through the Annual Gala.

This year, the music, food, and fun continue. Attendees will en joy a sumptuous multi cuisine In dian meal, cash bar, silent auction

But the highlight of the evening will be entertainment by the danc ing of the gala’s “stars” and of course Padmini!

This event provides an opportunity

the selfless cause of supporting the education of the needy of Central Texas.

Each celebrity and dance company sponsor a scholarship themselves in addition to providing entertain ment for the guests at the gala.

HC4A’s Annual Gala has contin ued to grow each year and to date have awarded over $700k to about 700 students.

This year, HC4A hopes to raise about $150k to provide 150 schol arships. For more information about tickets, or to support this cause, visit https://ec4a.org/gala.

We have Dancing with the Stars, Ramp Walk, Celebrity Walk, and other exciting programs.

items, and live auction items by lo cal sponsors.

for local celebrities to showcase their talents while contributing to

If you like to participate, please contact Pragya Sen at pragya@ hc4a.org.

EC4A Establishes Legacy Scholarships

Written By Lakshmi Kondubhatla, EC4A Foundation board Member/ Donor Relations

With the mission of creating a bridge to a better future for all through Education, EC4A has es tablished the Legacy Scholarships in partnership with Capital Idea.

This is the first time EC4A, a DBA of Hindu Charities for America is making a multi-year scholarship pledge.

It is an idea that germinated from the Scholarship Donors requests to find more ways to assist the stu dents they are helping.

The multi-year pledge will ensure that the student is assured of aid throughout the duration of their certification or associate degree program if they maintain their good standing and grades.

Since 2014, Education and Careers for America (EC4A) have pro vided scholarships through Capital

IDEA, Austin Community College and other organizations helping their adult students succeed in edu cation, enter skilled occupations, and reach their full potential.

EC4A’s scholarships help break the cycle of generational poverty, with students nearly tripling their an nual income after graduation and placement.

For the donors this is a great oppor tunity to leave a worthwhile Lega cy in the name of their Family or special occasion or in the memory of a loved one.

Some of the Do nors are establish ing this recurring scholarship to set a stellar example for their children and the genera tions to come.

Nagavalli, one of our first Legacy Scholarship Do nors has set up a scholarship in memory of her father.

In her words, “I grew up in a cul ture that taught “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, meaning “The World is One

Family”.

It is immensely important that we give back to the communities that we are living in and that have given us so much.

The legacy fund also offers me a profound way of honoring the memory of my late father who spent his lifetime as a passionate educator.

For more information, visit https:// ec4a.org/legacy-scholarships or write to info@hc4a.org.

Scholarship presentation in Mem ory of Late Dr. Ishwar Thakkar. This scholarship inspired EC4A to establish Legacy Scholarship Pro gram.

From Left to right: Steve Jackobs, Amy Silvey.

y (both Capital Idea), Jaya Thak kar (Foundation Board Member), Dinesh Vakharia, EC4A VP & Bar bara James (EC4A VP)

Pandemic Make You More Concerned About Finances? You’re Not Alone

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupt ed nearly every aspect of people’s lives and, as it turns out, it also im pacted their feelings about finan cial security and life insurance. In a national survey commissioned by Erie Insurance:

• Two-thirds of respondents (66%) said the pandemic made them more concerned about their financial se curity than they were before.

• Sixty-one percent said the pan demic made them more concerned about how their family would be taken care of financially if they became seriously ill or worse and could no longer provide for them.

• Half (49%) said the pandemic made them question whether they had the right type and amount of life insurance as part of their over all plan for financial security, and a quarter (25%) contacted their in surance agent about it.

If you’re among those who want to make sure your family is taken care of in the event something un expected happens to you, but you aren’t sure where to start, here are three questions to ask your insur ance agent:

1. How do I know whether I need life insurance? If you have family

members or loved ones who de pend on your income, it is a good idea to have life insurance to en sure they will be taken care of.

The mortgage on your house, your child’s college tuition, car loans, and funds for your final expenses are just a few things that can be paid for with money from your life

are still paying off a mortgage or paying off your child’s college tu ition.

Whole life insurance accumulates cash value and allows for your loved ones to be covered through out your lifetime.

Something else to take into ac

The Good, The Bad And The Ugly Ways

People Are Banishing Bugs At Home

If you hate the idea of bugs in your home, you’re in fine company -- 1 in 3 Americans have seriously con sidered burning down their own home after experiencing a bug in festation, according to a new sur vey.

The study, commissioned by Zevo and conducted by OnePoll, found that 66% of respondents are will ing to do “nearly anything” to get rid of bugs at home -- including fu migating their entire home (51%), throwing the nearest thing at it, no matter what that nearest thing is (43%) and even DIYing a flame thrower (35%).

Others have changed their diet and lifestyle to avoid sightings at home, with 59% saying they will even re frain from keeping fresh fruit in their homes or buying houseplants out of fear that it will attract flying insects.

person even recalled pouring gaso line on bugs to drown them.

Of course, many of these home made solutions produce iffy results at best or are downright dangerous. The bug biology and behavior ex perts at Zevo say that if you want to rid your home of pests, there are much easier and more effec tive ways to go about it that don’t involve putting your home on the market and relocating. Here’s an effective two-pronged approach you can try for killing bugs and preventing future infestations:

1. Go worry-free. Most traditional insect sprays on the market today use synthetic pyrethroids as their active ingredients, which can have a noxious smell and make a room uninhabitable after spraying.

insurance policy. Even if no one depends on your income, it still may make sense to get a life in surance policy to cover your final expenses and debts — including student loans.

2. How do I figure out how much life insurance to get? There are several factors to consider, includ ing the needs of the people you want to protect and how long they will need financial support.

Consider your income, or if you aren’t employed outside the home, what it would cost if those left behind would have to pay for ser vices you currently provide, such as childcare or home maintenance.

3. Which is better, term life insur ance or whole life? It depends on where you are. Term life insurance protects you for a specific amount of time.

An example would be while you

count as you’re considering pur chasing life insurance is the value it provides, even if you never actu ally need to use it.

“One of the best reasons to get life insurance is that it sets your mind at ease to know that your loved ones will be taken care of,” said Louis Colaizzo, senior vice president of Erie Family Life, Erie Insurance.

“In fact, 44% of those who re sponded to our survey said the pan demic made them appreciate the peace of mind they get from having life insurance even more now than they did before.”

To learn more about life insurance, contact your agent or visit eriein surance.com/life-insurance.

Amid the uncertainty created by the pandemic, consider channeling your concerns into action by creat ing a financial safety net for your loved ones. (StatePoint)

In fact, some people would rather just leave it all behind and start over somewhere new. More than half of respondents (52%) have considered moving because of bug infestations, and of those who con sidered that option, 69% actually followed through and packed up their things.

When it comes to putting up with bugs, there are a number of home woes people would prefer to live with, including broken appliances (29%), creaky floors (26%), bro ken windows (26%), not having television connections (25%) and even rodents (24%).

Giving how bugged by insects people are, it’s no wonder that they have come up with some pretty creative and expensive ways to try to deal with the problem, with 48% of survey respondents hav ing turned to DIY “hacks” and the average person spending $177 on creating homemade methods to deal with bugs.

Some of the methods mentioned by respondents include using cin namon, coffee grounds and even maple syrup to get rid of bugs. One

For a solution that’s safe for people and pets when used as directed, check out Zevo Instant Action Sprays, which rely on essential oil to target and shut down biologi cal pathways found in insects. The brand carries four different sprays to target everything from cock roaches and ants to yellowjackets and crickets.

2. Safeguard entry points. Pests enter the home most typically through windows, doors and the garage. Check screen doors and windows for tears, and patch or replace them. You can also plug Zevo Flying Insect Traps into out lets in areas where bugs typically gather in your home, like kitchens, bathrooms, garages and entryways. The traps use a combination of UVC and blue light to attract and trap flying insects, offering con tinuous defense for up to 45 days or until the trap is full.

To learn more about defending your home against insects, visit ze voinsect.com.

The next time you spot bugs, put down the gasoline can and the flamethrower. Simple, worry-free solutions exist that can help you maintain a bug-free home and your sanity. (StatePoint)

Weaving Stories Drawn From Immigrant Experience

By Shachi Kaushik

Shachi Kaushik migrated to North America about a decade ago, but her journey of selfdiscovery and writing stories has just started. Shachi is the author of the book, Diwali In My New Home, illustrated by Aishwarya Tandon. This is a lovely picture book about finding hope and happiness in new places.

Follow the story of Priya, a young girl cel ebrating Diwali away from India for the first time. As she shares her culture and tradi tions with her neigh borhood, she finds new ways to celebrate old traditions with her

family and friends. Even in a dif ferent country, Priya learns how to stay true to her roots. Learn more about the amazing festival of lights

and beautiful Indian culture in this touching story for both children and adults alike.

Joyful and heart-warming, Diwali In My New Home is sure to be a favor ite for all ages. It is full of vibrant col ors and skillful il lustrations that will have you captivated by every page. It is the perfect choice for beginner read ers and especially for immigrant chil dren who are miss ing home.

This story will give hope that culture and traditions live on no matter where you are and that the people around you are what make every day so special.

Change can be a good thing, and this picture book will teach chil dren to be proud of their culture and to celebrate who they are.

For over a few years she has been an active community member and volunteered at the Round Rock Public Library, where she hosted bi-lingual story time.

The Diwali event for children at the library, over the years, became popular within the community, receiving a significant response from parents. The joy brought to children’s faces during the Diwali event gave Shachi her book idea of sharing the joy celebrating the fes tival of lights with those unfamiliar with the holiday.

As Shachi continues to devote her time to celebrate Diwali with com munity, join Shachi at the Austin Public library on October 23rd at 12:00 PM, Round Rock Public Library on October 24th at 10:30 AM, Book People at 10:30 AM and Spicewood Springs Branch on October 27th at 6:00 PM.

How Mentoring Can Help Women-Led Businesses Thrive

(Continued From Page 01)

Women entrepreneurs also pay themselves less than men and often take the brunt of balancing their family’s needs while growing their business.

In spite of these challenges, wom en-led businesses of all types are thriving across the United States, thanks in part to initiatives offering tactical support and networking opportunities.

Take it from Racquel Garcia, whose substance abuse recovery and life coaching business Hard Beauty had substantial outside funding but needed guidance in be coming an efficient and sustainable operation.

She applied to join the Milestone Circles program offered by the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center and funded by Wells Fargo Foundation.

As part of Wells Fargo’s Connect to More program, the Nasdaq En trepreneurial Center places wom en entrepreneurs from across the country into “circles” that receive

virtual and in-person peer and pro fessional coaching over 12 weeks, plus the support of a growing net work of fellow business leaders.

support each other’s growth.

With the assistance of her program “sisters,” Garcia built two rev

with other women she would not have crossed paths with otherwise.

“Many women entrepreneurs suffer from imposter syndrome. This con fidence gap and the systemic finan cial barriers and pressures faced by women entrepreneurs are just some of the reasons I saw a need for this program,” says Jenny Flores, head of Small Business Growth Philan thropy at Wells Fargo.

For Terriekka Cardenas, a sixth grade teacher, engineer and owner of Perceptive Engineering, hav ing this support is what helped her embrace the title of CEO. “That was the first moment for me that I didn’t box myself in,” she says.

and have fun doing it.

Being able to craft a mission state ment while enrolled inspired her to amplify her vision and found Fi nancial Joy School, which coaches Black families on building genera tional wealth.

“My circle is a tight-knit group that continuously supports each other when we get stuck. We’re just a telephone call away when we feel discouraged,” she said.

While founding and growing a business comes with risks, support from peers and mentors can make all the difference, say program or ganizers.

As of June 2022, the program has graduated more than 540 entrepre neurs in 47 states, with an aim of graduating another 1,000 women over the next 12 months.

Built by entrepreneurs for entre preneurs, the goal is to create space for women to step away from busi ness pressures, identify goals and

enue streams that were less grantdependent, growing her income by $200,000 in 12 weeks. But the impact of this support went beyond the business.

For Garcia, who is one of the only women of color in her small Colo rado town, the program was a rare opportunity to share her dreams

Others, such as Ruby Taylor, who graduated from the first Milestone Circle in 2021, haven’t stopped meeting with their peers after the initial 12 weeks.

In 2020, Taylor created a card game, LEGACY!, to teach people how to close the racial wealth gap

“When you’re able to show up au thentically and say what you need help with -- the real things, the hard things -- and people can come around and provide support in an environment free of competition or judgment, that’s really gamechanging,” says Flores. (State Point)

Shachi, while writing this book, reflected on moments from her personal immigrant experience.

Simplify Security This Back-To-School Season

The beginning of a new school year offers plenty of excitement each fall, but it can also be a stress ful time for parents and students alike.

As expensive electronics like lap tops and tablets become increas ingly common for student use in classrooms and at home and com plex schedules require students to

bike to school or enter the house after school with minimal parental supervision, it can often be chal lenging for families to juggle the changes that back-to-school season brings.

To help alleviate back-to-school stress and safeguard high-value purchases, Master Lock, the lead ing name in security for more than 100 years, offers a variety of so lutions to provide peace of mind for both parents and students –whether enrolling in elementary school or heading off to college.

For everything from padlocks for school lockers to bike locks for students on the go and personal safes for dorm room storage, par ents and students can visit Mas terLock.com to explore back-toschool security products designed

to safeguard everything worth pro tecting.

Secure Lockers with Ease

As one of the most known and widely used padlocks for back-toschool season, the Master Lock 1500D Combination Dial Padlock offers a reliable, keyless solution to help protect students’ personal belongings while in the hallway or locker room.

With a shackle made of hardened steel and a locking mechanism with anti-shim technology, this padlock provides maximum security with extra resistance against cutting and sawing.

Plus, the easy-to-use dial and threedigit combination allow for quick and convenient access between

classes when time is tight.

Safeguard Your Bike or Scooter

Whether heading to school or com muting to campus, the Master Lock 8143D Combination Cable Bike Lock offers on-the-go security for students of all ages, especially those who may not be able to drive yet or simply prefer to ride a bike or scooter.

Made with braided steel for flexi bility, a protective vinyl coating for added weatherability and a preset four-digit combination for keyless convenience, this bike lock also features a self-coiling design for easy use and compact storage in a locker or backpack.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Family Features)

A Homemade Crunchy Mushroom Wrap to Save Your Grocery Budget

If the prices of your favorite ingre dients have you dreading the next trip to the grocery store, finding ways to stretch your budget can help you feel better at the checkout counter.

One such way: turning to versatile ingredients that help make every dollar count by using them in a variety of your family’s favorite meals.

Flavorful options like mushrooms enhance recipes by extending por tions when you use a process called “The Blend.” Blending finely chopped mushrooms with ground meat allows you to extend the vol ume of dishes like burgers, tacos, pasta, wraps and more.

Simply chop your desired mush room variety to match the consis tency of ground meat, blend the chopped mushrooms and meat together then cook your blend to complete the recipe.

This Blended Crunchy Mushroom Wrap is a perfect example of an easy yet delicious way to take your grocery budget further.

Visit MushroomCouncil.com for

more blended recipe ideas.

Blended Crunchy Mushroom Wraps

Recipe courtesy of the Mushroom Council

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Servings: 6

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup finely chopped yellow on ion

8 ounces mushrooms, such as white button, crimini or portabella, finely chopped

1/3 cup nacho cheese sauce

6 tostada shells

sour cream

6 mini soft taco-size flour tortillas (about 4 1/2 inches each) shredded lettuce

diced to matoes shredded Mexican cheese blend nonstick cooking spray

In large skil let over mediumhigh heat, heat olive oil.

seasoning. Cook 2-3 minutes. Set aside.

Lay one large flour tortilla on flat surface. Spread 2 tablespoons mushroom-meat mixture on center of tortilla.

Drizzle dollop of nacho cheese over mushroom-meat mixture. Top meat with one tostada shell then spread thin layer of sour cream over tostada shell.

Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes and shredded Mexican cheese then one small tortilla. Make sure not to overstuff so wrap doesn’t break apart while cooking.

Fold edges of large tortilla toward center until completely covered.

1/2 pound lean ground beef

1 tablespoon taco seasoning

6 burrito-size flour tortillas (about 10 inches each)

Cook onions 1-2 min utes until translu cent. Add mush rooms and ground beef.

Cook about 5 minutes, or until beef is no longer pink. Stir in taco

In hot skillet, generously spray with nonstick cooking spray. Care fully place wrap seam side down on skillet. Cook 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Flip and cook other side until gold en brown. Repeat with remaining mushroom-meat mixture, tortillas and toppings. Cut wraps half and serve.

(Family Features)

4 Benefits Of Adding A Fireplace To Your Home

Whether you’re constructing a new home or simply redesigning your current living space, there are many considerations that can truly make a house a home.

Amid budget considerations, de sign vision boards, specs and blueprints, amenities like a new fireplace can allow homeowners to celebrate the warmth, comfort and ambiance a fireplace or other hearth product can provide.

In fact, 7 out of 10 of homeown ers have a fireplace and usage has increased during all four seasons since 2020, according to research from the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), showcasing

that including a fireplace in your construction or renovation plans is a gift to yourself and your family.

“When we’re designing our ideal homes, too often we may only think about what we want others to see and enjoy when they visit,” said Jack Goldman, president and CEO for HPBA.

“The reality is visitors account for less than 1% of your in-home time. A fireplace is for you and your family, a personal addition that serves you and your household in more ways than you may realize.”

Consider these four benefits of in cluding a fireplace as part of your

The Queen

(Continued From Page 01)

The train was delayed and I hap pened to look over at her and she happened to look over at me and she made a face as if to say, “Can you believe this?”

“Elizabeth. Queen of England.”

“Yeah, right,” I said, laughing. “And I’m Gig Young.” (This was a while ago.)

“No, seriously. I’m the Queen.

mood or angry or talking about the Irish.

I told her that my last name was Joyce and that I was one-hundredper-cent Irish and she said, “Well, they’re not all bad. But most!”

We laughed. And that’s how it started.

Things we’d do:

We’d play catch. She loved baseball. She loved the Cardinals and hated the Mets. She had this old Rawlings glove and she’d hold it up to her face and smell it.

“What’s better than that?” she’d ask. “Smells like a summer day.” We’d throw for a while and talk. Or not. She liked the silence. That’s just how she was. She had a pretty good arm, too.

next home update:

1. It can be a sanctuary from the ever-changing world outside. As people continue to spend more time at home, a fireplace can serve as a source of calm and relaxation, helping you and your family es cape from the challenges daily life may throw your way.

2. It’s an artful piece of decor to display year-round. Whether it’s a centerpiece for your living room or family room, or an accent to your bedroom, bathroom or study, a cre atively designed fireplace can pro vide an artful design element for your home, no matter the season.

3. It’s a safe, reliable heating source. A fireplace is an extra layer of security when weather wreaks havoc and can provide safe, reli able heat and lighting in the event of a power outage.

Fireplace Safety Tips

Whether it’s the warm glow of the fire, the crackle of the wood or the deep penetrating warmth, woodburning fireplaces have a way of making people feel relaxed and at home.

However, there are some precautions that should be taken to ensure safe opera tion:

• Never leave a fire unat tended.

• Keep a fire extinguisher on hand.

• Keep small children and pets away from the fireplace.

• Clear an area of at least 3 feet around the fireplace of furniture, books, newspaper and other poten tially flammable materials.

• Inspect gaskets, door seals and the chimney annually.

• Have the chimney professionally cleaned as necessary to ensure it’s clear of obstructions and creosote.

• Install smoke and carbon monox ide detectors.

• Utilize fireplace tools to tend the fire.

• Never burn garbage, rolled news paper, charcoal, plastic or chemi cally treated or painted wood.

I shrugged, and she shook her head and rolled her eyes. She reached into her handbag, which I noticed was huge, and took something out.

“Lozenge?” she asked.

“Thanks,” I said, taking one and popping it into my mouth. “I’m Ed,” I added, extending my hand.

Look at this bag. Look at these initials—E.R.”

“What does that stand for?” I asked.

“Extremely righteous.” She laughed. She was always laugh ing. Except when she was in a bad

“Fucking Mets,” she’d say out of the blue. And then she’d laugh. She never swore. Unless it was about the Mets. God, she hated the Mets.

(Continued On Page 21)

4. It can be the heartbeat of your home. Between screen time, re mote work schedules and commit ments to extracurricular activities, many families experience frag mented home lives. A fireplace, though, can serve as a central gath ering spot for you and your loved ones when together.

To learn more about the benefits of fireplaces and find a nationwide directory of specialty retailers and certified installers, visit HPBA.org/ House-warming.

• Avoid using gasoline or any liq uid accelerant to help start a fire.

• Do not overload the fireplace to avoid burning wood or embers tumbling out.

• Never close the damper until embers have completely stopped burning.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images (Family Features)

3 Ways To Include Your Pup In Game Day

Game days are all about bonding with friends over football and food, alongside your furry best friend. Pet parents aren’t the only ones excited for game days. Dogs can get in on the action, too.

Bringing pups into the game day experi ence can foster more joy of togetherness for pets and pet parents alike – whether that’s a game of catch in the yard, piling

during the game.

Practice Plays with Your Pup

Stay active during your at-home watch party by running around with your pup during com mercial breaks or at halftime. Play fetch in the yard, calling out plays like a quarterback, and have your top furry wide receiver catch his or her favorite toy for the touchdown. A break for fresh air can help keep your dog en tertained and make sure he or she can get energy out throughout the game.

Football Feasting

The game day spread is not complete until your dog has something to dine on, too. To help pet parents and their dogs enjoy the most delicious part of game day togeth er, CESAR Canine Cui sine created a “Match Up” Menu of dog-friend ly “recipes,” inspired by fan-favorite foods, using its wide range of bold flavors in a variety of textures.

Visit CESAR.com for the full menu, which features the first-of-itskind CESAR 7-Layer and more unique wet and dry dog food combos for your pup to enjoy while you watch your favorite team play together.*

4 Trends Showing People Are Heading Back To The Dentist

In the wake of the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, people are becoming more com fortable getting back in the dental exam chair. More patients are addressing oral aches and pains caused by pandemic-induced stress and prioritizing their pearly whites as masks are shed and visible smiles emerge.

As people head back to the dentist, some for the first time in years, Zocdoc, a free platform where people can find and book in-person or virtual health care appointments across more than 200 specialties and over 12,000

resulted in serious dental issues for some pa tients.

Root canals are necessary when cavities go untreated for too long, among other reasons, and these appointments are on the rise, along with other dental surgery appointments.

Root canal appointments increased by 20% and wisdom tooth appointments increased by 17% year-over-year.

Stress is Impacting Minds and Mouths

up side-by-side on the couch to root for your team or snacking on your favorite football foods while your pup enjoys his or her own special dog-friendly game day meal.

This football season, CESAR® Canine Cuisine invites you to celebrate every touchdown with your top dog, from your living room to your kitchen and backyard, using these tips.

Tail-Wagging Team Spirit

On game day, you wear your favorite team’s colors. As loyal fans root on their teams, let your dog show his or her squad spirit, too. Bring out your team pride with matching jerseys or bandanas, or a special football-themed toy for your pup to sport

*From the CESAR brand: This is our fun way to get our furry friends involved in game day. The CESAR® brand believes the best life is shared between pets and their pet parents, but we don’t recommend sharing hu man food with pets.

While we’re excited to share these pupfriendly game day recipes with our furry fans, we remind all pet owners to follow ap propriate feeding guidelines.

Please be conscious of serving sizes on the packaging when making the CESAR 7-Lay er or “Match Up” recipes. Do not over feed your dog and consult with your veterinary provider to discuss your pet’s dietary needs.

SOURCE: Cesar (Family Features)

insurance plans, completed a comprehensive analysis of dental-related appointment book ing trends over the last year to examine how people are engaging with dentists and other oral specialists.

The analysis, “Zocdoc Reports: Dental Download,” found appointments are on the rise across the board, suggesting people are addressing oral aches and pains, many caused by pandemic-induced stress, and identified these trends:

Routine Dental Visits are Back

At the onset of the pandemic, nearly half of adults in the United States put off dental care, and professional dental services fell by more than 75%, according to research published in “JDR Clinical & Translational Research.”

However, data shows people are catching up on those missed appointments with some us ing the lapse in appointments or geographic moves to find new providers. Between Au gust 2021-August 2022, dentist appoint ments increased by 10% while new patient dental exam appointments increased by 18%.

Dental Damage Control is Underway

Putting off routine care during the pandemic

Studies indicate stress levels have intensified over the last two years, and this stress has taken a toll not just on mental health but also people’s mouths.

Stress is a leading cause and risk factor for bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching), ac cording to the Mayo Clinic, and cracked tooth repair appointments increased by 43% between August 2021-August 2022.

During the same timeframe, TMJ pain ap pointments increased by 33%, dental pain appointments increased by 32% and gum dis ease, gingivitis and bleeding gums appoint ments increased by 22%.

People are Prioritizing Their Pearly Whites With everyone’s pearly whites again front and center, there’s a renewed interest in mak ing sure they’re looking their best.

Cosmetic dental appointments surged during the research period with orthodontic appoint ments up 32%, dental implant appointments up 17% and broken tooth appointments up 16%.

For more information and to view the full data analysis, visit zocdoc.com.

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock (Family Features)

Valluvar Kottam

Valluvar Kottam is a monument in Chennai, dedicated to the classical Tamil poet philosopher Valluvar. It is the city’s biggest Tamil cultural centre.

Valluvar Kottam is located at the intersection of the Kodambakkam High road and the Village road in Nungambakkam neighbourhood of Chennai. The monument now stands at what was once the deep est point of a local lake called the Nungambakkam lake.

The construction of the Valluvar Kottam was conceived and exe cuted by the then Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu M. Karunanidhi dur ing the 1970s.

It was designed by South Indian traditional architect V. Ganapati Sthapati, who is also the architect of the Thiruvalluvar Statue at Kan yakumari.

It was inaugurated in April 1976 by the then President of India Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed.

The monument consists of a deco rative arch, an auditorium that can

accommodate around 3,500 peo ple, and the Kural Manimandapam, where all the 1,330 couplets from all 133 chapters of the Kural lit erature are inscribed on bas-relief. The hallmark of the monument is

the 39-meter-high (128 feet) stone car, a replica of the famed temple chariot of Thiruvarur.

The largest of these stones weigh as much as 40 tonnes. The four giant-sized wheels of the chariot

The chariot is made of around 3000 blocks of granite stone from Tiruvannamalai and weighs 2,700 tonnes.

measure 11 feet in diameter and 2 feet in thickness.

A life-size statue of Valluvar has been installed in the chariot. The chariot is adorned with the famed Kalamkari drawings. The bottom portion of the chariot features bas relief sculptures depicting all the 133 chapters of the Kural text.

The central auditorium measures 220 feet by 100 feet and is said to be Asia’s largest at the time of its construction. The roof of the mon ument has a terraced garden with two large pools.

The monument is visited by an av erage of about 700 people during weekdays and 1000 people during weekends.

The monument is maintained by the memorial section of the infor mation and public relations depart ment of the state government.

It was renovated in 2007 at a cost of 6 million. In 2018, the depart ment started renovating the memo rial at a cost of 8.5 million.

Raman The Horse Trainer

An Arab brought a shipload of horses from Persia. Many in the court of king Krishnadevaraya bought the horses from the Arab.

Raman maintained that Vijayanag ara’s horses were superior to the horses from Arabia. The ministers who bought the Arabian horses

challenged Raman to prove this point in a horse race. The courtiers put in much effort to train their horses. They fed the

horses well to make sure they were strong and sturdy.

On the day of the race, all the courtiers brought their well-fed horses to a field. They had em ployed well-trained jockeys to ride the horses.

Raman brought his horse which looked lean and thin. He had a hungry look, as though he had not eaten for days. Raman announced that he himself would ride his horse.

All the horses were lined up with the jockeys in position. Raman sat on the hungry looking horse. He had a long pole in his hand. He had tied a bundle of grass to one

end of the stick.

Holding the stick from the other end, Raman dangled the grass in front of the horse. The horse want ed to grab the food. So, he ran fast. But no matter how fast he ran, the grass remained outside his reach.

The horse kept running with great er speed until it crossed the finish line, coming first in the race. Ra man hugged his horse and fed it lush green grass.

When Raman went to collect the prize, the king asked him the se cret of his success. “One must have hunger for success, Maharaj,” Ra man said, “only then will one suc ceed.”

Kids Corner

Vinyasa Yoga

(Continued From Page 01)

Vasundhara Varadarajan

Vinyasa classes offer a variety of postures and no two classes are ever alike. The opposite would be “fixed forms” such as Bikram Yoga, which features the same 26 postures in every class, or Ashtan ga which has the same sequence every time.

The variable nature of Vinyasa Yoga helps to develop a more bal anced body as well as prevent re petitive motion injuries that can happen if you are always doing the same thing every day.

As a philosophy, Vinyasa recogniz es the temporary nature of things. We enter into a posture, are there for a while and then leave.

dents engage with a posture, ex plore it for a period of time and then “break the posture” by com ing out.

“Transitions” are what connect one posture to another in Vinya sa. They are the in-between part. What is not always appreciated is that transitions are considered pos tures themselves.

To move in a more graceful, con nected way, allot just as much time developing skill in the transitions as you do in the asana.

Vinyasa is synonymous with movement. Moving in and out of postures is the obvious movement but even in stillness Vinyasa is rep resented by the beat of your heart and inhale/exhale of your breath.

Abhiveer Annoji

While Vinyasa, or Vinyasa-Krama, dates back to the Vedic age—the earliest period of yoga thousands of years ago—it referred to a se ries, or sequence of steps, to make something sacred.

The movement practice of Vinyasa is said to begin with T Krishnam acharya who has had the largest in fluence on how yoga, in general, is practiced today.

Put all this together and Vinyasa, is a breath initiated practice, that con nects every action of our life with the intention of moving towards what is sacred, or most important to us.

While Vinyasa Yoga is one of the most popular forms of the practice in the world today, it is not well un derstood.

Characteristics of Vinyasa Flow Yoga

Vinyasa Yoga connects one pos ture to the next using the breath. This can be thought of as linking or flowing into postures which is sometimes why it’s called “Flow Yoga”.

The opposite of this would be an alignment based class where stu

Move with breath. Breath initiates the movement of Vinyasa which is why you’ll hear it referred to as a “breath-synchronized” practice.

Ujjayi Breath is the breathing tech nique used. It is done by inhaling and exhaling in a rhythmic manner through the nose. The overall sen sation is one of relaxation.

Vinyasa practice generates heat and can add a cardiovascular com ponent not always present in other forms of postural practice. The picture below is from a student’s heart rate monitor worn during a regular Vinyasa class I taught.

Often equated with high-energy, there are many ways to approach Vinyasa from rapid to slow. Build strength, coupled with flexibil ity, by emphasizing and exploring slower options. Doing so will help you create a sustainable, life-long practice.

(Continued On Page 19)

Vinyasa Yoga

(Continued From Page 18)

Vinyasa Yoga is a more complete type of class as it typically moves through all of the various asana families in a single session. The families, also called categories or classes, are the groupings the postures belong to such as stand ing postures, backbends, forward bends, etc.

Contrast this to alignment based classes that cycle through the asana categories over a series of weeks, instead of every class. The benefit is a greater depth of postural un derstanding, in a particular class, at the expense of single session bal ance.

A hallmark of Vinyasa Flow class es is the variation in sequence from class to class. (A sequence is any time two or more postures are strung together.) No two classes are alike.

In a fixed form system, such as Bikram, or Ashtanga Yoga, the se quence remains the same to reveal what changes day-to-day—mainly us.

A variable form system, like Vin yasa, exists to help us see what is changeless and permanent throughout all of the change. This might be an intention or purpose, a way of thinking or connection to something greater than ourselves.

One other key aspect of the varia tion is it keeps your interest. Many practitioners move from the fixed forms to Vinyasa because they be come bored.

Vinyasa meets you where you are—which in today’s world is usually high energy, going in a million directions at once. It meets you there and leads you by the hand back to an inner peace that exists within you.

“A powerful Vinyasa practice can shake things up to the point of calming things down.” - Rusty Wells

Vinyasa Flow can induce a Flow State, a type of consciousness defined by psychologist Mihaly

Csikszentmihalyi as, “That place of being fully absorbed and highly focused,” on what we are doing.

During “Flow” everything feels easy and connected, what yogins call “effortless effort.” - prayatna saithilya ananta samapattibhyam

and balance, grace and fluidity. We move and notice how we are mov ing and what moves us.

In Vinyasa we move together to support one another. This reflec tion reminds us we are all in this together and that the practice, and life, is bigger than ourselves.

want, but do have work, a place to live and people in our life we care about.

If everything is connected, then the thing we spend so much time look ing for must also be present here, in this moment.

We journey and strive, as if we are going somewhere, but ultimately the practice brings us back to where we started. Hopefully, though, our attention and vulnerability allows our experience to inform us.

On a bigger scale we are moving en ergy, described as prana or life force. The process of moving invites us to feel alive.

Flowing from pose-to-pose also underscores the temporary nature of everything.

This is the only time ever you will have this moment.

It is the only time you will get to live this life–it’s not a dress rehearsal.

“Perfection in an Asana is achieved when the effort to perform it be comes effortless and the infinite being within is reached.” B.K.S. Iyengar

Csikszentmihalyi recognized the Yoga/Flow connection and com ments:

“The similarities between Yoga and flow are extremely strong; in fact, it makes sense to think of Yoga as a very thoroughly planned flow activity. Both try to achieve a joyous-self-forgetful involvement through concentration, which in turn is made possible by a disci pline of the body.”

Vinyasa ends where it begins. We start in a posture, such as tadasana, travel through a myriad of options and come back to tadasana. If we listen, though, and pay close atten tion, the experience changes us.

Considered a “moving medita tion,” Vinyasa is about harmony

In Vinyasa we move from child’s pose to death pose (savasana) and experience an entire lifetime. Vin yasa serves as the metaphor for our own life, as we move from one situation to the next.

How we enter each posture, or stay, or leave is sacred for it reflects how we do the same everywhere else in life.

Skillfully navigating, and even ap preciating these places on the mat helps us in tangible, practical ways.

For instance, we can befriend the in-between places, as represented by the transitions. These pertain to the ambiguous and unknown parts of life.

We can learn to be content with what we’ve been offered, despite when we aren’t where we want to be but are thankful we are not somewhere else? We don’t have the job, house, relationship we

This wisdom is revealed through watching ourselves move through postures and the world in general. “How” we move takes on a greater importance than “what” we are do ing.

To miss this is to be unaware and unconscious of our movements. This leads to us to a state of “going through the motions” but not learn ing anything. We just keep going round and round.

“The core idea of Vinyasa Yoga is to shift emphasis from posture to breath…the only thing permanent in the practice is the constant focus on the breath.” And the breath is a metaphor for what is permanent in our everchanging life—the universe, infi nite consciousness or, most of all, love. Gregor Maehle

Instead of trying to hold on or get “attached” to it, enjoy it fully–like a sunset–and then let it go. Life is short. That makes it so much sweeter and precious and is a re minder to focus on what’s most important.

We Welcome Articles From Readers And The Community.

II:47 Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

The Importance Of Regular Immunizations For Heart Health

While most parents are good at keeping track of vaccines their kids need to stay healthy, many adults don’t realize there are immuniza tions important for keeping them selves heart-healthy, as well.

Adults, especially those with a history of heart disease or stroke,

M.D., M.P.H., FAHA, American Heart Association chief medical officer for prevention.

“The potentially serious complica tions of the flu are far greater for those with chronic diseases.

This is true not just for older people

cular disease and even those with CVD risk factors are more likely to get COVID and to have more se vere complications from the virus.”

Other Immunizations – While flu and COVID-19 vaccines are of the utmost importance, there are a number of other immunizations that can help keep people hearthealthy.

• The pneumococcal vaccination protects against a common cause of severe pneumonia and is espe cially important for people 65 and older, and others with certain un derlying medical conditions.

This type of pneumonia can be deadly, especially for people al ready at high risk for health com plications, including CVD.

2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup

(Continued From Page 01) The twelve teams that reached the Super 12 phase of the 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup automatically qualified for the 2022 tournament. Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, Pakistan, New Zealand and South Africa all qualified directly for the Super 12 phase of this tournament, based on their performances in the 2021 tournament and their rankings as of 15 November 2021. Namibia, Scotland, Sri Lanka and the West Indies were all placed in the group stage of the competition.

The remaining four places came from the top two teams from each of the two Global Qualifiers. The Global Qualifiers had a total of sixteen teams; the bottom four teams from the 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup (Ireland, Netherlands, Oman and Papua New Guinea), the next four high est ranked T20I sides (Zimbabwe, Nepal, the United Arab Emirates and Singapore), and the eight teams that progressed from the Regional Finals. From the Global Qualifier A tournament, Ireland and the United Arab Emirates progressed to the T20 World Cup.

The UAE won the Global Qualifier A to be placed in Group A of the T20 World Cup, with Ireland placed in Group B. From the Global Qualifier B tournament, the Netherlands and Zimbabwe became the final two teams to qualify for the T20 World Cup. Zimbabwe won the Global Qualifier B tournament to be placed in Group B of the T20 World Cup, with the Netherlands being placed in Group A.

should take steps to stay up-to-date on preventive vaccines, particular ly for the flu and COVID-19.

Influenza – While many experience just a few days of aches and chills, the flu can be deadly for some, in cluding young children, the elderly and those with chronic conditions like heart disease, stroke and dia betes.

There has also been research link ing flu infection to cardiovascular disease (CVD). Getting a flu shot can not only prevent the flu, it may also reduce the risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

In fact, a study published in “Stroke” found that, among a group of people hospitalized for various reasons, those who expe rienced a flu-like illness within a month of their hospitalization were 38% more likely to have a stroke. Receiving the flu vaccine within a year prior to hospitalization low ered a person’s stroke risk to 11%.

“Getting an annual flu shot should be part of routine health care for all individuals, especially for people who are already living with chron ic health conditions that put them at higher risk for heart attacks or strokes,” said Eduardo Sanchez,

but even those age 50 and younger who have a history of high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes.

” COVID-19 – At the onset of the pandemic, the American Heart Association established the CO VID-19 Cardiovascular Disease Registry, which found people with or at risk for CVD were more like ly to become infected with and die from COVID-19.

Additionally, the research found many people experience heart and vascular disease after getting CO VID-19.

A study from the registry pub lished in “Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology” found new-onset atrial fibrillation in 1 in 20 patients hospitalized with CO VID-19.

Additionally, research also found people hospitalized with COV ID-19 had a higher risk of stroke compared with people who had similar infectious conditions such as influenza or sepsis.

“We can’t stress enough the con nections between COVID-19 and cardiovascular disease,” Sanchez said. “There is clear evidence that people who have heart and vas

One shot is usually good for sev eral years, although you may need a second one later depending on your age at your first shot.

• Shingles, a viral infection caused by the chicken pox virus, has been linked to an increased risk of stroke.

More than 99% of people age 40 or older in the United States may carry the dormant chickenpox virus, also known as the varicella-zoster vi rus, and not even realize it.

Learn more about important immu nizations and find other preventive health tips at heart. org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Family Features)

The host cities are Adelaide, Brisbane, Geelong, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. The semi-finals would take place at the Sydney Crick et Ground and the Adelaide Oval, with the final taking place at the Mel bourne Cricket Ground.

Understanding AFib

A diagnosis of atrial fibrillation (AFib) may be scary, but it doesn’t have to hold you back from enjoy ing life. Learning more about the condition and treatment options can significantly affect your prog nosis and quality of living.

AFib is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia or abnormal heart rhythm. It occurs when the upper chambers of the heart, called the atria, beat rapidly or in an un controlled manner. AFib can cause a wide variety of symptoms, in cluding heart palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, difficulty exer cising, anxiety, chest pain and diz ziness.

AFib impacts nearly 40 million people worldwide, according to research published in the “Interna tional Journal of Stroke,” includ ing 6 million people in the United States alone.

Despite its prevalence, many peo ple are unfamiliar with the symp toms, available treatment options and importance of early treatment to avoid disease progression or

other life-threatening complica tions such as a stroke.

More than a quarter of adults liv ing with AFib have fears and anxi

ended up in the emergency room due to their condition.

Speak to Your Doctor

Despite half of adults 55 and older

sible can help prevent the progres sion of AFib.

Make Lifestyle Changes

About 1 in 4 adults over the age of 40 are at risk of developing AFib. The causes are wide-ranging and include non-modifiable and life style factors. Some non-modifiable risk factors include age, family his tory and a heart disease diagnosis.

Making lifestyle changes to con trol factors such as obesity, smok ing and sleep apnea may help lower your risk. Limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption and con trolling your stress can also reduce your risk and may help manage AFib episodes.

Consider Treatment Options

Catheter ablation is a procedure to restore the heart’s incorrect electri cal signals that cause an abnormal heart rhythm.

It is recommended by the Ameri can College of Cardiology, the Heart Rhythm Society and the American Heart Association for patients when medication proves to be unsuccessful.

To learn more about AFib and treatment options, including cath eter ablation, visit getsmartabouta fib.com.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

If you’re concerned about your risk of AFib, consider these ques tions to ask your doctor at your next visit:

ety about the progressive nature of the disease, according to a survey conducted by Biosense Webster, Inc., part of Johnson & Johnson MedTech.

However, a quarter of patients did not get treatment immediately after diagnosis and 44% of patients have

believing they may be at risk for AFib, only one-fifth (18%) said their doctors have ever discussed AFib with them and even less (10%) have proactively spoken to their doctors about it.

Recognizing symptoms and talk ing to your doctor as soon as pos

For most AFib patients, treatment begins with medication. Medica tions can be used for controlling your heart rate, rhythm and blood thickness, but about half of pa tients don’t respond to or can’t tol erate medications.

The Queen I Knew

(Continued From Page 15)

We’d hit a bucket of balls. I’d get a call in the morning. Crazy early. “Fancy hitting a bucket of balls?” she’d inquire.

It took a while for me to get used to how she spoke. Her accent was mostly fake. She just thought it was funny to talk like that. Not a lot of people know this but she was born in Finland and retained a re ally strange Finnish accent which came out when she drank.

She couldn’t pronounce the word “fish.” It came out “fiss.” I used to kid her about it and boy did that piss her off. “I could have you killed with a single nod,” she’d say. And sometimes I thought she was serious. That was the thing about Burt. She was all over the map, emotionally.

Other things. Motorcycle riding. She loved that. Darts in a pub on a rainy day. Except she was super competitive and, after a few pints, this weird aggressive side would come out and she’d pick fights.

We did a thing sometimes where we went to Heathrow or Gatwick and would sit in a sports bar and play a game where you had to make up stories about the other people at the bar and where they were going and then walk over and ask them.

Closest to the truth won a drink and a Scotch egg. She loved Scotch eggs, but who doesn’t?

She was quirky. She’d do a thing where you’d be at a pub or on the bus and she’d reach behind you and slap you on the back of the head. Hard. It hurt. And she’d say, “Who done that?!” And I’d be, like, “What the hell?” And she’d

be all, like, “It’s just a joke.” And then we’d sit for a while, kind of annoyed with each other. And then we’d laugh. It did hurt, though.

One of my best memories is of the time we rented flying suits and jumped off a cliff in the hills south of Inverness.

I thought she was kidding when she suggested it. But that was an other thing about Burt. She was a madwoman sometimes.

I remember we stood on this cliff, both wearing those winged suits. She looked ridiculous because she also insisted on wearing one of her large hats. She was always wear ing those damned hats. And I was, like, “Burt. You look ridiculous. Take off the hat.” And she started laughing and then I was, too, and I thought, How great is it to have a friend like this? And then she

pushed me off the cliff and I heard her shout, “Don’t ever make fun of the hat!”

Later, we ate lunch at a little place in the local village. We watched the small crowd—mostly working people—eating pork pies, nursing pints. And she said a really cool thing. She said, “We’re all royal, you know?”

And I said, “Do you think so?”

She was silent for a moment and then turned to me and said, “Abso lutely not.”

We laughed and laughed although I’m not really sure why. But that’s just who she was.

(Courtesy: https://www.newyork er.com/)

Questions for your primary care physician:

1. I have some concerning symp toms. Could they be the result of AFib?

2. Do I need to take any diagnostic tests?

3. Am I at risk of stroke?

4. When should I go to the emer gency room?

5. Do I need to make any lifestyle modifications?

6. What are my treatment options?

7. Should I see a specialist?

If your physician recommends medications:

1. Why are you recommending this medication?

2. What should I do if I have side effects or it doesn’t work?

3. Can I take this medication with the other medicines I’m already taking?

If medications aren’t working:

1.Am I a good candidate for a cath eter ablation procedure?

2. What are the benefits and risks of a catheter ablation procedure?

3. Can you refer me to an electro physiologist?

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Family Features)

THEME: FINISH THE LYRICS

ACROSS

1. Fake deal

Dashboard acronym

Oxen connector

Guesstimate phrase (2 words)

Give a darn

Exhibitionist

It’s OTAN in French

Carbon monoxide lacks this

Geometry class prop

*Lou Reed: “She says, “Hey babe, take a walk on the ____ ____”

20. European “curtain”

Mustangs, e.g.

Campaign pro

Cause of wheezing

Men’s Colonial headgear 30. Fib 31. *Bon Jovi: “Take my hand, we’ll make it I swear. Woah, livin’ on a ____” 34. The only thing to fear? 35. Small and round, eyes description 37. Future fish 38. Alabama civil rights site

Tangelo 40. Shape clay, e.g. 42. James Corden’s network

Awaited deliverer

Same as lathees 47. 0 meridian acronym 48. World-weary 50. Prefix with legal 52. *Aerosmith: “Sing with me, sing for the year. Sing for the ____”

Siberian prison 56. Pakistani language

*Dionne Warwick: “I think I’m going out of my ____”

Rapidly

Cheese app

“Cogito, ____ sum”

Diamond’s corner

European Economic Community

64. Whiskey grain, pl. DOWN

1. *Kansas: “Carry on, my wayward ____”

2. “Stick in one’s ____”

3. Italian wine region

Dough

*The Buggles: “Video killed the ____”

Cattle controls

Bébé’s mother

*Elton John: “And it seems to

N’ Roses: “Take me down to the paradise city

____”

capital tourist attraction

“Waterloo - knowing my fate is to be with

“You got mud on your face,

test acronym

Put A Plant-Based Twist On Holiday Baking

Flavorful desserts are a staple of the holidays and the exciting, ap petizing allure of new recipes can help elevate seasonal gatherings and create sweet memories. With near-endless options for celebrat ing the season, putting a plantbased twist on traditional recipes offers everyone the opportunity to indulge with decadent treats.

In seasonal sweets like Brulee Pumpkin Pie and No-Bake Choco late Peanut Butter Cheesecake, an option like Country Crock Plant Cream can be used as a dairyfree substitute for heavy whipping cream. With 29% less saturated fat than dairy heavy whipping cream, it’s an easy 1:1 swap and is also soy-free, certified plant-based and 100% vegan, making it ideal to have on hand during holiday bak ing season. It’s all of the delicious ness of heavy cream, with none of the heaviness of dairy.

Visit CountryCrock.com for more delectable holiday dessert ideas.

Brulee Pumpkin Pie

Prep time: 45 minutes

Cook time: 1 hour Servings: 8

Pie Crust:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

8 tablespoons Country Crock Plant

Butter, cold and cut into cubes

2 tablespoons chilled vegetable

1 teaspoon ginger

1 teaspoon nutmeg

1/8 teaspoon ground clove

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons cornstarch

3 tablespoons white granulated

In bowl of food processor, add flour, sugar and salt; pulse to com bine. Add cold plant butter and shortening. Process about 10 sec onds until it looks like coarse meal.

With food processor running, add ice water. Process until mixture clumps together.

On lightly floured surface, roll dough into 14-inch circle. Transfer to 9-inch pie dish. Lift edges and al low dough to drape into dish. Trim, leaving 1-inch overhang. Fold ex cess dough under and crimp edges.

To make pumpkin filling: In me dium saucepan over medium heat, add syrup and vanilla; warm about 2 minutes then remove from heat and set aside.

Cheesecake

Prep time: 5-10 minutes

Cook time: 5 minutes

Total time: 6-7 hours

Servings: 8

Country Crock Plant Butter, for greasing

Crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup Country Crock Plant But ter, melted

Filling:

2 packages (8 ounces each) dairyfree cream cheese, at room tem perature

1 cup peanut butter

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup Country Crock Plant Cream

1 cup powdered sugar

shortening, cut into pieces

4 tablespoons ice water

Pumpkin Filling:

1/2 cup maple syrup

1 tablespoon vanilla

1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree

1/4 cup coconut cream

1 cup Country Crock Plant Cream

1 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

sugar

Whipped Topping:

2 cups Country Crock Plant Cream, chilled

1/4 cup powdered sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

To make pie crust: Preheat oven to 350 F.

In large bowl, combine syrup mix ture, pumpkin, coconut cream, plant cream, brown sugar, cinna mon, ginger, nutmeg, clove, salt and cornstarch; blend with hand mixer until smooth. Pour mixture into pie crust.

Bake 1 hour. If crust starts to burn, cover edges with aluminum foil. The middle will still be jiggly.

September 2022 Sudoku Answer

Cool at room temperature 30 min utes then cover and transfer to refrigera tor to chill at least 5 hours or overnight.

Mr. Yudhveer Bagga

Before serving, sprinkle pie with white sugar and, us ing kitchen torch, brelee until sugar is melted and dark brown.

To make whipped topping: Using elec tric hand mixer or stand mixer, whisk plant cream, pow dered sugar and va nilla on high until mixture thickens and stiff peaks form.

Slice and serve with whipped topping.

No-Bake Choco late Peanut Butter

Chocolate Ganache: 1 stick Country Crock Plant Butter, cubed

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Grease 9-inch pie dish with plant butter; set aside.

To make crust: In medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted plant butter; mix thor oughly.

Add crust to greased pie dish and press firmly to bottom and sides; refrigerate.

To make filling: In bowl of elec tric mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

Add powdered sugar; beat until fully incorporated.

Add peanut butter, vanilla extract and plant cream; beat until smooth and creamy.

Pour filling into prepared crust and refrigerate 5-6 hours or overnight.

To make chocolate ganache: In pan over medium heat, add plant butter cubes and chocolate; stir continu ously.

Spread chocolate ganache evenly on top of chilled cheesecake. Re frigerate at least 1 hour before slic ing and serving. (Family Features)

Queen Elizabeth Dies At 96, Ending An Era For Britain

BALMORAL, Scotland, Sept 8 (Reuters) - Queen Elizabeth, Brit ain’s longest-reigning monarch, the nation’s figurehead and a towering presence on the world stage for seven decades, died peacefully at her home in Scotland on Thursday aged 96.

“The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a mo ment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family,” the new king, her eldest son Charles, said.

“I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world,” the 73-year-old said in a statement.

News that the queen’s health was deteriorating emerged shortly when her doctors said she was un der medical supervision, prompt ing her family to rush to Balmoral Castle in Scotland to be by her side.

Thousands gathered outside Buck ingham Palace, in central London, and there was a stunned silence when the flag was lowered to halfmast. The crowd surged to the gates as the notice announcing the death of the only monarch most Britons have ever known was attached to the black iron gates.

Royal officials said King Charles III and his wife Camilla, the Queen Consort, would remain at Balmoral before returning to London on Fri day, when Charles is expected to address the nation and meet Prime Minister Liz Truss. Details of the funeral have not been confirmed.

On Elizabeth’s death, Charles au tomatically became monarch of the United Kingdom and the head of state of 14 other realms including Australia, Canada and New Zea land.

‘HUGE SHOCK TO THE NA TION’

The queen, whose husband died last year, had been suffering from what Buckingham Palace had called “episodic mobility problems” since the end of last year, forcing her to

withdraw from nearly all her pub lic engagements.

Her last official duty came only on Tuesday, when she appointed Truss prime minister - the 15th of her reign.

“The death of Her Majesty the

General Assembly and the Security Council both stood for a moment of silence.

Even Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose country’s relations with Britain have plummeted over the war in Ukraine, extended his condolences, calling it an “irrepa

emerging from the ravages of World War Two, with food ration ing still in force and class and priv ilege still dominant in society.

Winston Churchill was Britain’s prime minister at the time, Josef Stalin led the Soviet Union and the Korean War was raging.

In the decades that followed, Elizabeth witnessed massive political change and social upheaval at home and abroad. Her own family’s tribulations, most notably the divorce of Charles and his late first wife Diana, were played out in full public glare.

Charles, Anne, Andrew and Ed ward.

She never gave a media interview and critics said she came across as distant and aloof.

But for the vast majority of her subjects she was a figure who com manded respect and admiration. Her death marks the end of an era.

“When people around the world spoke of ‘the queen’, they actually meant our queen,” former Prime Minister John Major said. “That was the status she had in every part of the world. It was truly remark able.”

Queen is a huge shock to the na tion and to the world,” Truss said outside her Downing Street office where the flag, like those at royal palaces and government buildings across Britain, were lowered.

“Through thick and thin, Queen Elizabeth II provided us with the stability and the strength that we needed. She was the very spirit of Great Britain – and that spirit will endure,” said Truss, who was in formed of the death at 4:30 p.m. London time.

The news stunned not only people in Britain, with condolences pour ing in from leaders around the world.

“Her legacy will loom large in the pages of British history, and in the story of our world,” U.S. President Joe Biden said in a statement. He ordered flags at the White House to be flown at half-mast

In Paris, the mayor announced the lights of the Eiffel Tower would be turned off in honour of her passing; in Brazil, the Christ the Redeemer statue was illuminated with the colours of the Union Jack and the government declared three days of mourning; and the United Nations

rable loss”.

Queen Elizabeth II, who was also the world’s oldest and longestserving head of state, came to the throne following the death of her father King George VI on Feb. 6, 1952, when she was just 25.

PLEDGED TO SERVE

She was crowned in June the fol lowing year. The first televised coronation was a foretaste of a new world in which the lives of the roy als were to become increasingly scrutinised by the media.

“I have in sincerity pledged myself to your service, as so many of you are pledged to mine. Throughout all my life and with all my heart I shall strive to be worthy of your trust,” she said in a speech to her subjects on her coronation day.

Despite reputedly only being about 5ft 3ins tall, she commanded any room she entered. Famed for her bright outfits, she is said to have quipped: “I have to be seen to be believed”.

Elizabeth became monarch at a time when Britain still retained much of its old empire. It was

While remaining an enduring symbol of stability and con tinuity for Britons at a time of relative national eco nomic decline, Elizabeth also tried to adapt the ancient institution of monarchy to the demands of the modern era.

“She has managed to modernise and evolve the monarchy like no other,” her grandson Prince Wil liam, who is now heir to the throne, said in a 2012 documentary.

RECORDS

Elizabeth was the 40th monarch in a royal line that followed Norman King William the Conqueror, who claimed the English throne in 1066 after defeating Anglo-Saxon ruler Harold II at the Battle of Hastings.

Her long reign meant she repeated ly broke records for British rulers.

When she surpassed the more than 63 years her great-great-grand mother Queen Victoria spent on the throne, she said it was not a landmark to which she had ever aspired. “Inevitably a long life can pass by many milestones - my own is no exception,” she said.

Her marriage to Prince Philip last ed 73 years, until his death in April 2021, and they had four children,

At her death the queen was head of state of not only the United King dom but also of Australia, the Ba hamas, Belize, Canada, Grenada, Jamaica, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Saint Lucia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Tuvalu, the Solo mon Islands, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Antigua and Bar buda.

Opinion polls have suggested that Charles does not enjoy anywhere near the same level of support and there is speculation the loss of Elizabeth may see a rise in repub lican sentiment, particularly in the other realms.

In some former colonies in the Ca ribbean, pressure has been rising to remove the monarch as their head of state and for Britain to pay repa rations for its involvement in the historical slave trade.

“As the role of the monarchy changes, we expect this can be an opportunity to advance discussions of reparations for our region,” said Niambi Hall-Campbell, a 44-yearold academic who chairs the Ba hamas National Reparations Com mittee.

Asked in a radio interview if the Queen’s death took Australia clos er to being a republic, Prime Min ister Anthony Albanese said it was not the time to talk about it.

“Today’s a day for one issue and one issue only, which is to pay trib ute to Queen Elizabeth II.” (Cour tesy: https://www.reuters.com/)

High-Performance Cricket Center In Austin

By Alok R. Singh

World Cricket Initiative (WCI) has taken its

guiding and coaching budding cricketers. He has conducted multiple sessions both in per son and via Zoom.

Saurabh Netravalkar, captain of USA senior men’s team and Mumbai Ranji trophy play er, has visited and provided individual inputs to the young pace bowlers in Austin.

Burt Cockley, former Australian fast bowler and USA Cricket’s S&C Coach, took the role of head coach at this center. He has evalu ated players on their cricket skills and physi cal fitness.

Children

He is now developing individual plans for them to do regular drills, net practice and play games.

WCI has also onboarded four young coaches who have been top performing players in senior leagues across Texas. They are going through Gary Kirsten’s program to be an ef fective coach.

With such a momentum, WCI founder Alok Singh is optimistic about the development of young talents in Austin in the upcoming fall season. More details of this center are on www.WCICricket.com.

Articles

cricket center activities to the next level. It has developed a high-performance center for youth in Austin. While developing this cen ter, it has involved a group of international coaches and players.

Unmukt Chand, captain of India A and World-Cup winning India u19, has been

First, IPL and World-Cup winning coach, Gary Kirsten has mentored in establishing and developing this center. His digital plat

form CoachEd has been valuable for coach es, players and parents.

Vikram Creates History With Unthinkable Record

Kamal Haasan‘s Vikram, which released on June 3, has now be come the biggest film in Tamil Nadu. Finishing its 113-day run at the Tamil Nadu Box Office, the action-thriller collected Rs 435 crore worldwide. The unthinkable thing that Vikram has achieved at the ticket window is registering the highest-ever footfalls in the state.

Vikram has become the highestgrossing Tamil film of all time in TN. As confirmed by the sources of india.com, Vikram has collected Rs 182.5 crore in Tamil Nadu alone which is the highest gross collec tion for a Tamil film in the state. George Vijay, who’s a film trade tracker from Tamil Nadu, says, “Not just the highest grosser in the state, Vikram has also earned the highest-ever distributor share in

Tamil Nadu – Rs 92 crore.” It has dethroned SS Rajamouli’s Baahu bali: The Conclusion to become the highest grosser in Tamil Nadu.

One of the biggest achievements that Vikram has made in Tamil Nadu is earning the highest-ever footfalls in the 100-year history of Tamil cinema. The film has sold over 1.5 crore tickets in the state alone, which is a record that doesn’t seem to be broken in the near future. However, many trade pundits believe that Thalapathy Vi jay‘s upcoming film with Lokesh Kanagaraj can break Vikram’s re cord in the state. It is a difficult shot but the only film that can challenge or follow Vikram’s Box Office suc cess is Thalapathy 67.

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

The Royal Godfather’s Regal Style

Godfather is an upcoming Indian Telugu-language political action film directed by Mohan Raja and produced by Ram Charan, R. B.

The film score and soundtrack al

Choudary and N. V. Prasad under Konidela Production Company and Super Good Films.

A remake of the 2019 Malayalam film Lucifer, the film stars Chi ranjeevi in the title role alongside Salman Khan, Nayanthara, Puri Jagannadh, and Satyadev Kancha

taking place in Hyderabad, Ooty and Mumbai.

The music is composed by S. Tha man with cinematography handled by Nirav Shah.

Godfather is scheduled to be re leased in cinemas on 5 October

bum of the film is composed by Thaman S. The music rights were acquired by Saregama.

The first single titled “Thaar Maar Thakkar Maar” was released on 15 September 2022.

Godfather is scheduled to be re

The film’s digital streaming rights were acquired by Netflix.

Austin South Asian

Editor: Bala Kumar

Marketing: Jayachitra Vijay -512-828-6709

Production: Jyothi Mariswaran Admin: Sharada Dayanidhi

Publisher: Vidya Kumar Circulation: Vasooda Kumar info@austinsouthasian.com I ©All rights reserved.

No material herein or portions thereof be published without the wirtten consent of the publisher. The deadline for advertisement and article is 20th of every month.

rana.

Principal photography of the film began in August 2021 with filming

2022, coinciding with the festival of Vijayadashami.

leased in cinemas on 5 October 2022 in Telugu along with its Hindi dubbed version.

The film is distributed in India by Konidela Production Company along with PVR Pictures while the overseas distribution is by Sariga ma Cinemas through Phars Film.

Brahmastra – Part One: Shiva

BRAHMASTRA PART ONE:

SHIVA is the story of a man discov ering his own superpowers. Shiva (Ranbir Kapoor) is a DJ, based in Mumbai, and lives a carefree life. He’s an orphan; he lives with or phan kids and dotes on them.

He comes across Isha (Alia Bhatt) and falls for her instantly. She, too, gets attracted to him, especially while learning about his way of life. All is going well when sud denly Shiva starts getting flashes.

He sees the evil Junoon (Mouni Roy) killing a scientist, Mohan Bhargav (Shah Rukh Khan) and snatching a rare artefact from him. Before dying, Mohan blurts out un der pressure that the other part of the artefact is with an artist named Anish Shetty (Nagarjuna Akkine ni), who stays in Varanasi.

Shiva sees all of this and realizes that Junoon is all set to target An ish next. Shiva decides to head to Varanasi to warn Anish of the im pending danger. Isha, too, joins him. In Varanasi, Shiva and Isha

rescue Anish at the nick of time. Thanks to Anish, they find out that the artefact stolen from Mohan is a

ingly, destroys him using his fire power. What happens next forms the rest of the film.

be answered in the sequel. Instead of leaving audiences excited for the second part, it ends up disap pointing viewers a bit. Hussain Da lal’s dialogues are below the mark. A film like this ought to have some powerful one-liners. The dialogues in the Shah Rukh Khan scene espe cially are poor.

Ayan Mukerji’s direction is fine. To give credit where it’s due, he has handled the scale and grandeur very nicely. The romantic portions are lovely and several scenes in the first half and the beginning of the second half stand out. His previous two films hardly had any action and here, he excels in the fight se quences.

Thirdly, the writing leaves sev eral loose ends. For instance, the kids living with Shiva are forgot ten completely after a point. One would have hoped that they would have had something to do, espe cially when Isha goes back to their place in the second half.

While Isha and Shiva’s chemistry is cute, Isha’s background is never touched upon. Her grandfather is shown just for a second (that too for comic relief) but one would wish that a little more time was spent on establishing who her fam ily members were. Even the proté gés of Guru aren’t given give suf ficient screen time.

part of ‘Brahmastra’.

There are two more parts of it and Anish has one part. He hands it over to Shiva and Isha and asks them to go to the ashram of Guru (Amitabh Bachchan) while he tries to stop Junoon. Anish sacrifices his life and when Shiva is confronted by Junoon’s goon, he, unknow

Ayan Mukerji’s story is fresh, promising, and has the trappings of a big-scale action entertainer. Ayan Mukerji’s screenplay is effective in several parts, especially in the first half. However, his writing goes for a toss later on.

He also kept a lot of questions un answered, with the hope that they’ll

Sadly, the script doesn’t compli ment the proceedings. Firstly, the whole concept of Brahmastra and associated characteristics is not ex plained in a simple manner. Many aspects might go over the top. Sec ondly, the climax fight is stretched and could have been trimmed for a better impact.

Lastly and most importantly, the film ends with a promise of a se quel and a few characters are also introduced. However, their faces are never shown. Had the viewers known which actor is playing those characters, the film would have in stantly gotten better.

(Courtesy: https://www.bolly woodhungama.com/)

Vikram Vedha

Vikram Vedha is an upcoming Indian Hindi-language neo-noir action thriller film written and di rected by Pushkar–Gayathri.

It is a remake of their own 2017 Tamil film of the same name. Jointly produced by YNOT Stu dios, Friday Filmworks, T-Series Films, Reliance Entertainment and Jio Studios, the film stars Hrithik Roshan, Saif Ali Khan, Radhika Apte and Rohit Saraf.

Production began in October 2021 and wrapped in June 2022. The film is scheduled to be theatrically released worldwide on 30 Septem ber 2022.

Vikram is an honest police inspec tor, who seeks to apprehend Vedha, a dreaded gangster.

When Vedha surrenders, Vikram’s perception of good and evil begins to change when Vedha narrates three stories to him.

The songs featured in the film are composed by Vishal–Shekhar, with lyrics written by Manoj Muntashir. The score is composed by Sam C. S, who composed music for the original.

The first single “Alcoholia” was released on 17 September 2022. Ganesh Hegde is the director of choreography.

CHILDREN

The film’s teaser was released on 24 August 2022. On YouTube, it received over a million likes in less than 48 hours, surpassing War (2019) as the most-liked teaser for a Hindi film.

Vikram Vedha is scheduled for theatrical release on 30 September 2022.