Monthly Community Paper | www.austinsouthasian.com | 512-828-6709 | Vol. 8 No. 09
Sundar Pichai, CEO
Google surprised the world by announcing the appointment of a new CEO on 10 August, 2015. It became a proud moment for the Indian Community to see an Indian born make it to the list of the CEO’s in the Tech. Industry. Sundar Pichai, a name now wellknown across the globe has had his share of struggle before making it to the top. Childhood: Pichai Sundararajan recognized as
Sundar Pichai was born in Chen-
nai, India on July 12, 1972. He belongs to a middle class family and never experienced the luxury of
watching television or travelling in a car in his childhood. His father Raghunath Pichai was equally down to earth and worked as an Electrical Engineer in a British multinational GCE. The stories of the work challenges faced by his father always inspired Pichai. His mother was a Stenographer until she gave birth to her kids. Early Life Pichai saw technology in his hands at the age of 12 when his father bought a mobile. An extra-ordinary skill to remember numbers was also revealed. (Continued On Page 04)
4TH ANNUAL FREE SCHOOL SUPPLIES
By Preya Sundaram Feed a child, it will last a day but feed their minds it will last a lifetime! If great minds come together for a great cause, like educating the homeless children the results and (Continued on page 4)
inside
September 2015
4th Annual School Supplies Donation 2015.....04 FUZON........................05 Moist Petals.................06 Eid Ul Adha Is Coming..07 Independence Day Parade In New York.................08
October
Home Special
Be The Change 2015 Austin 512-828-6709 Katha
By Aliya Arni, 15 years old
“Be the change you wish to see in the world” is a quote by Mahatma Gandhi, which has inspired the Be the Change national day of service.
The purpose is to inspire and foster civic engagement through volunteerism and community service. The event is coordinated by South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT), a national, non-profit organization with a mission to foster an environment in which all South Asians can fully participate in civic
and political life. I am a participant of the Be the Change Youth Leadership Council,
a team consisting of local students, primarily high schoolers working to put the event together and make it a success.
I started participating in the “Be the Change” movement last year when I volunteered at the day’s KickOff event.
I helped seniors from a local organization group SAIVA make dolls for the children at Dell’s Children Hospital and helped start a community garden at the Asian American Resource Center where the kick-off event had taken place. (Continued On Page 12)
By Fred A. Dorairaj Austin Hindu Temple & Community Center was filled with bhakti,
melodious kirtan and festival like atmosphere during the seven day Shrimad Bhagawat Katha by Acharya Mridul Krishna Goswami the sixth pedi guru from Shri Banke Bihari Mandir, Vrindavan – India. (Continued On Page 17)
Matwaala 2015............09 Hotel Tips....................10 Terrorism A Threat.......11 Fact Vs Friction............14 Kids Did It...................15 5 Ways Kids Excited To Le arn.............................16 Predictions..................18 Your Home A False Facelift...............................19 August Is National Appeal Month.........................20 Community Calendar....20 Jujube Tree - Gani........21 Childrens Page.............22 Ask Your Doctor...........23 Entertainment.........24,26 Customize Your............25
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
4th Annual School Supplies Donation 2015
(Continued from page 1) the results and the vibe are just amazing! Over the last several years, The Hindu Charities and Shalom Austin are working together to raise money and donate the school supplies for the homeless children in Austin, Manor and Del Valle areas.
Hopefully this good cause and efforts grow exponentially and more kids will be benefiting in the future. Here are some of our volunteer comments from the event. Rebecca Lott from Manor ISD said, “It goes without saying that the Hindu Charities for
On August 16th The Hindu Charities and Shalom of Austin packed school supplies with the help of a lot of individual volunteers of all ages and volunteers from AISD, MISD and the Del Valle ISD.
eration of Austin host to raise funds, so students less fortunate can receive school supplies for the start of school. The Student and Family Support Services distributed approximately 1,800 school supply packets to students on August 21, 2015 during the 15th Annual Resource Fair and School Supply Distribution event. These figures speak volumes to the increasing need among our youngest members of the community.
They took their valuable time to come on a Saturday morning to help the homeless kids to start a fresh New Year. It was a well-coordinated and a much streamlined event and you can tell from what began as a small group effort is gaining momentum and is growing into a much bigger group as the years go by. This tireless effort is also getting help from the TV news media like KEYE, TW Cable, TV Asia, print press and getting much exposure in Facebook and Twitter.
Austin South Asian
Editor: Bala Kumar Marketing:
Jayachitra Vijay -512-828-6709 info@austinsouthasian.com Production: Jyothi Mariswaran Admin: Sharada Dayanidhi Publisher: Vidya Kumar Circulation: Vasooda Kumar ©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.
512-828-6709 info@austinsouthasian.com ww.austinsouthasian.com
America and Shalom Austin care deeply about Manor ISD children and families in need. For the past three years, I have had the pleasure to attend the Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt events at the Dell Jewish Community Campus that the HC4A and the Jewish Fed-
sible without your support.
The distribution of all these supplies wouldn’t have been pos-
Every year, it brings me joy when I observe students, who were recipients of your giving, walk in the front door on the first day of school. They enter with pride and hold their heads up high with smiles on their faces because the have the tools needed for learning.
I know this must bring you all great joy. Thanks again for transforming the lives of countless MISD students. The district is extremely grateful.” Howard Hopper, Project Supervisor with Project Help, from AISD “This personally is my first year helping with the backpack packaging event thru Hindu Charities of America and Shalom Austin. They are doing a great job of helping these kids who otherwise will not have the access to the essential school supplies.” Carolyn Jenkins, a volunteer “This is my 3rd year and I started coming to this backpack event to help my friend and I keep coming, to help and coordinate this great event that The Hindu Charities and Shalom Austin are doing in bringing the people together as a community for a great cause and helping the homeless kids. The Hindu Charities of America and Shalom Austin are very excited with the super success of the program and extend their heartfelt thanks to their volunteers and sponsors. They are looking forward to help more number of kids in the coming years!
Sundar Pichai Success Story
(Continued From Page 01) He could remember all the numbers he dialed. Pichai’s been not only good with numbers but also was the captain of his high school cricket team. Personal Life Sundar Pichai married his long time girlfriend, Anjali Pichai and is blessed with two beautiful kids; a son and a daughter.
Education Pichai has graduated in Metallurgy from IIT Kharagpur. He completed his MS from Stanford University and went on to pursue MBA from University of Pennsylvania. Pre-Google Days Sundar Pichai worked for McKinsey & Company in management consulting during his pre-Google days. Sunder Pichai also contributed his talents in engineering and product management at Applied Materials. Career at Google Pichai attached himself to Google in 2004
and is known to have worked on popular products like Toolbar. He also has worked on other products Google Gears and Google Pack, before Chrome was launched. However, the success of the Toolbar helped Pichai pace his career. Google noticed that the toolbar increased the user searches. This eventually led to the start of Google Chrome; Google’s own browser. Pichai has led product management and also found Google’s client software products such as Google Chrome and Chrome OS. Pichai is the man responsible for driving Google’s Chrome OS and browser to the fore. Pichai was appointed as VP of product development in 2008. He introduced Chrome browser to the world. Soon it was followed by Chrome OS in 2009. Pichai came more into public at Google presentations from 2008 and very soon became a well-known face of Google. He was the Senior VP of Chrome and apps
by 2012.
It was in 2013 that Pichai became a wellknown personality worldwide. He stepped into the shoes of Andy Rubin almost after a decade at Google. Achievements The man responsible for the smooth ties with partners like Samsung is believed to be Sundar Pichai. Android was added by Sundar Pichai to the Google products he oversees on 13 March 2013. Andy Rubin formerly managed Android. Sundar Pichai serves as a Member of Board of Advisors at Ruba, Inc. He headed Jive Software from April 2011 until 30 July 2013. Google appointed Pichai CEO on August 10, 2015 after previously being appointed Product Chief by thenCEO Larry Page on 24 October, 2014. Awards 2015Alumnus IIT Kharagpur
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
By Sumaiya Malik
The Citizens Foundation Gala invites FUZON from Pakistan
On Saturday, September 12, The
and fundraiser at the Norris Conference Center on Anderson Lane (behind Walmart).
derprivileged children in Pakistan who don’t have the resources to attend school.
Pakistan has an alarmingly low literacy rate with government schools imparting substandard and incomplete curriculum. The Citizens Foundation has tried to fill the void and help impart free education to those who cannot afford it at a nominal fee using their own well-designed schools and trained female teachers. The organization is dependent upon funds raised by volunteers who not only give their money but also time and energy to this organization. Austin is not far behind. The TCF Austin is young, but in its short lifespan as been able to collect funds to construct a school and run it for three years. Currently, the school is under construction in the outskirts of Karachi where people struggle with their daily needs. Citizens Foundation (TCF) Austin will hold their annual Dream Gala
The aim is to raise funds for un-
The school is expected to complete by next year.
While it has funds for running and administration for three years, the volunteers in Austin are aiming to collect enough donations to fund the school as long possible and consider setting up an endowment fund. Not only people from South Asia who have ties to the land, but also people from all nationalities who have been graced with all their needs and want to give back by helping others, support the Citizens Foundation. Education comes close to heart because it shapes the life of not just one person, but also the life of a nation as a whole. At the TCF Dream Gala, FuzĂśn, a Pakistani band that combines classic rock and Pakistani classi-
cal music, will perform. The band has hit songs like Khamaj- mora saiyaan mo say bolay na and Duriyaan. They have a huge band following and are one of the top bands of Pakistan. Tickets are for $100 and $60 and include dinner and limited childcare and are available at: https://www.tcfusa.org/austinevents/ TCF is a professionally managed non-profit organization, which builds, schools, train teachers and disseminates quality education to underprivileged children in Pakistan. TCF-USA is 501(c) (3) registered organization. 100% of your contributions for this event are tax deductible.
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
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What to Know When Giving Kids
Tech Gear
Most parents expect their children to one day ask to use their cool, expensive tech devices. But adult tech for kids is now more accessible than ever, so parents don’t need to hand over their pricey tablets, smartwatches and smartphones.
cessor -- perfect for prolific young photographers and videographers. The Kidizoom Smartwatch DX, which comes in five colors, also offers creative photo effects, frames and filters, video and voice record-
Just remember that when investing in technology for kids, there are a few things to keep in mind. Fun Gadgets The number of products designed specifically for children is growing, particularly when it comes to wearable tech. And these items are not only more affordable than their grownup counterparts, but more durable as well. One cool gadget to consider is the Kidizoom Smartwatch DX, by VTech, the next generation of its popular camera watch for kids with a tough, splash-proof, kidfriendly design. It features exciting motion-activated games, more than 50 3D clock faces and tools to hone math skills, as well as double the internal memory of its prede-
er, time-telling app, timer, alarm, calculator and calendar, along with the ability to download additional apps from the Learning Lodge app store. Another fun option for tech-savvy, active kids is the VTech Kidizoom Action Cam, which features a robust, durable design and comes complete with mounts for attaching to a bike, skateboard or scooter, plus a waterproof case that allows kids to take videos and pictures up to six feet underwater. Good Tech Habits
This year, Eid ul Adha, is expected to be on Thursday, September 24 depending upon the sighting of the moon. This eid follows Haj. The Muslims will congregate in the Eid prayers and then take part in Qurbani. Some families pay the halal gro-
cery stores to take care of the Qurbani for them. Others pay their favorite charity an equal amount of money. The parties and the fancy clothes are a part of this eid as well.
Great technology can unfortunately lead to some not so great habits. Parents can create a few simple rules for kids (and themselves!) to combat this issue. For example, it’s tempting to respond to one’s phone during meal time; however, dinnertime will benefit by being gadget-free. Not only will it better protect your technology from spills and greasy fingers, it will also foster better family conversation and engagement. Likewise, parents can set a good example for kids by putting down their phone while driving. Kids will learn by example that there are certain tasks that need two hands and one’s full attention. There’s no need to deny kids the benefits of tech gear until they reach a certain age. Innovations in the market are making gadgets a viable option for kids, so they don’t need to be jealous of their parents’ technology anymore – and in fact, parents may envy the rich features and content available in their children’s gadgets! (StatePoint)
The partying, however, is a bit toned down compared to Eid ul Fitr. You might remember the hungama on Eid ul Fitr in Austin.
The mosques have not yet made announcements about where the eid congregation will be, but the information will be available at the website of the mosque you visit.
Looking Back At Summer By Sumaiya Malik
EID UL ADHA Is Coming!
By Sumaiya Malik
Austin South Asian | September 2015
This summer, the Desi kids had a ton of fun! A wide variety of summer activities were available for all ages according to interest. The most popular sports were basketball, swimming and soccer. Other activities included art, theater or even math. Many smart moms designed their own camps on the same lines as Brandy Perry Basketball camp, which lets friends sign up as a team so they can be with each other. Older kids were taking Mathnasium, Kumon and Pre-Sat prep classes. In general, all were happy and much more relaxed than they are when school is on. Two smart moms designed a math camp. They knew their boys would start Algebra 2 in tenth grade. So they convinced a high school math teacher to tutor the kids for about a month to get them ready for the next year. They also talked to other parents and shared their plan. Two more parents decided to join in. The class started with four kids. Soon word got out and more kids came and went. The boys not only enjoyed spending time together, they also learned much more quickly because they had no pressure of homework or tests. Another group started the playdate club. If there were seven kids in the club, each kid would have
the rest of the gang over to their house for ½ a day. The parent whose house it was provided the snacks and meals and also got the kids busy in thing they would enjoy. At Tashmeem Khan’s house the kids swam and dived into the pool. It was hot and the water was most welcome. In my turn, the kids played basketball at home, enjoyed dad’s barbecue and also went to a movie. The result was happy kids and happy parents. I asked a thirteen year old, what he enjoyed the most about summer. He said it was definitely hanging out with friends from outside school. That is something he is not able to do when school is on because of distance and homework. Most parents enjoyed having their kids around. I felt a better connection with my son. We would end up chatting about things he had read. He told me that the man-made flags on the moon were now all white. I closed my eyes and he thought I was imagining the moon with an astronaut holding a flag. I smiled as I was just trying to freeze that moment in my mind with my son. Summer was many such moments. It did zip by and now it’s time for school. It’s a new start of an exciting academic year. It’s also time to look back and feel happy that life has been good for Desi kids.
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
‘India Resonates Loudly At Independence Day Parade In New York’
One of the most significant attrac-
tions at the Parade was the presence
of Shri Shashi Tharoor Congress
MP. from India who had joined the Indian National Overseas Congress, USA float. As expected, he was warmly received by the crowd at the starting point of the parade along with other leaders and celebrities. INOC, USA leaders including George Abraham, Chairman, Juned Qazi, President, Harbachan Singh, General Secretary, Mohinder Singh Gilzian, Sr. Vice-President, Jose George, Treasurer together with Executive members and various chapter heads and loyal supporters of the Congress marched the entire route drawing big applause from the viewing crowd.
tion into one of the economic powers in the world.
The large banner INOC leaders carried read ‘Independence won and Freedom preserved: thanks to the Indian National Congress’ an expression of gratitude to the party that has mostly transformed the na-
‘It was indeed a time to celebrate freedom, liberty and justice, a Nehruvian legacy for India that INOC will persevere to preserve and protect’ he added.
“Celebrating India’s 69th Anniversary of Independence at the India Day Parade in New York tops the world in its size and enthusiasm when it comes to spontaneous exuberance of grandeur and pageantry of India in all its colors, cultures, costumes, dances and music”, said Harbachan Singh Secretary General of Indian National Overseas Congress, USA. ‘It has always been an exhilarating experience to be part of the India Day Parade’ said George Abraham.
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
MATWAALA 2015
By Mamata Misra
On August 2nd, I attended Matwaala in Austin, Texas. This was the first festival of its kind, designed by Usha Akella to bring awareness to South Asian art and poetry. The festival immersed me in beauty and love unlike other festivals I have attended. Usha Akella’s prose and poetry collection, The Rosary of Latitudes, published by my own Transcendent Zero Press, was unveiled at this event in traditional Indian fashion.
vigorated by learning of obscured events. The group that hosted this part of the festival was delightful company.
We enjoyed fresh food and each others’ companionship. Keki Daruwalla read a love poem that sparked the imaginations of everyone present. The following day, we packed Café de Luz for the final event. The entire day we celebrated culture and each other. I felt the highlight of the festival was the dance performed by Natyalaya School of Dance.
The day before the central event we all went to Raindrop, a Turkish cultural center, where I first saw Phinder Dulai’s historical presentation about the Komagata Maru, a Japanese ship that carried citizens from Punjab, India to Canada.
It was a rendition of the original creation of the cosmos. I was moved and delighted by the performers’ expressions and motions, their togetherness and spirit. The performance of Faure’s sonata by a young prodigy was also moving.
The presentation was informative and inspiring. I am always in-
The keynote speech by Keki Daruwalla highlighted a few questions
concerning poetry and the ephemeral. This seemed to be a main theme throughout the festival.
Daruwalla specified a few great poets such as Dennis Brutus and asked the eternal question about the immortality of poetry. I myself referred to something I called ‘a poetry of engagement and ecstasy’ and tied this thought to the Sufi poets who are popular in America. Sasha Parmasad gave an intriguing lecture connecting poetry to desire, and asked another important question: “What is it that the poet seeks in the poem? What are artists striving to create in their solitude?” I have to admit she expressed this question very well, and left me speechless by compare. She certainly nailed it when she described the artist’s condition as one of solitude, and asked why artists spend so much time alone to create beau-
tiful works of art.
I also thought highly of Anis Shivani’s questioning dialectic about his identity as an immigrant poet. Shivani’s brilliant mind and warm personality reveal a heart and intellect together that is obscured by a humility many intellectuals do not have. Shivani is an excellent critic and a poet of well-crafted verse. He is also a very thoughtful person. Ravi Shankar, chief director at the popular online journal Drunken Boat, made us giggle with a banana poem. He told us that he never understood the banana. Shankar is a giant in stature and verse, and it was a pleasure to meet him. Saleem Peeradina spoke in depth about his involvement with a group of poets that pushed Indian literature into the modern world.
Cooking Ideas For Parents And Kids Food brings family together. And time spent in the kitchen is how cooking traditions and those secrets behind the best dishes get handed down from generation to generation. Here are two delicious recipes for parents and kids to make together, shared by food and family experts, as part of the celebration for Pyrex, a World Kitchen brand’s 100th anniversary. Mom’s Three Bean Salad “Like my own kids, I loved helping my mom in the kitchen,” writes food and parenting expert Monica Marino in a recent posting on her “Marino Bambinos” blog. “Along with the kiddos (a.k.a. expert bean rinsers) we made one of her delicious three bean salads.” Ingredients • 1 can garbanzo beans • 1 can kidney beans • 1 can cannellini beans
• 1/2 red onion • 1 celery stalk • 1 cup fresh parsley • 1 tbsp rosemary • 1/4 cup olive oil • 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar • 1 tsp salt • 1 1/2 tsp black pepper • Optional ingredients: green beans, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cayenne pepper, honey or sugar.
memorating its 100th anniversary, I couldn’t resist raising my measuring cup with my daughter, and toasting a kitchen icon with this same treat.”
Directions
• 5 cups bread cubes • 4 eggs • 1 1/2 cups milk • 1/4 cup white sugar, divided • Pinch of salt • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1/2 tsp almond extract • 1 tbsp butter, cut up • 1 cup chopped pecans • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • Optional ingredients: maple syrup, raspberries, powdered sugar
Rinse and drain beans. Chop the vegetables. Mix together in a large serving dish. Separately, mix olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Add dressing to the large bowl, toss and chill for several hours to soak up. Maple Pecan French Toast “Whenever my mom offered to make something special, the answer was always French toast casserole,” writes Katie Meyers, on “Meyers Styles,” her lifestyle blog. “When I heard Pyrex was com-
Meyers is sharing her French Toast Casserole recipe, which brings back special memories of baking with her mom. Ingredients
Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly spray an 8×8 inch pan with
cooking spray. Line bottom of pan with bread cubes. In a large bowl, beat together eggs, milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, salt, almond extract and vanilla. Stir in pecans. Pour egg mixture over bread. Dot bread mixture with butter and let sit for 10 minutes. Combine remaining 2 tablespoons sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon and sprinkle over the top. Bake about 35 to 45 minutes, until top is golden. Dust with powdered sugar and a few raspberries, then drizzle with maple syrup. Serve immediately. To follow the #Pyrex100 campaign and learn more about this American-made kitchen staple, visit Pyrexware.com. Creating delicious foods with your family is time well spent. Look for those recipes that are easily shared -- from creation to consumption. Courtesy: Statepoint
The presentation was especially intriguing because of the speaker’s intimacy with the subject. He discussed an anthology he compiled, not knowing where it would go, that is now part of all modern Indian literature classes throughout the world. He humbly admitted he did not understand its popularity because there are many anthologies that surpass his. I bought many books from the poets and have read through a few of them. I am humbled greatly by the scope and power these collections convey. I am currently devouring Pramila Venkateswaran’s Thirtha. This collection is a fine work that I would suggest and share with others. The book, published by Yuganta Press, is articulate and bold. My favorite poem is “Tongue Tales” because it engages the power of language and directs a comparison to exile and lost identity. Venkateswaran’s anger is apparent in the poem, but she restrains herself from hate and vitriol, and instead mourns for a culture she dearly loves. I will attend this festival again next year. I felt a togetherness, a spirit, and a shared mission in the community. The importance of those who attended, their historical involvement and mission, brought a deep sense of commitment to the art and festival. Akella has put a lot of her time and effort in creating something enduring, something that will enrich and encourage poets and those who enjoy the arts and culture. As I returned home to Houston, I felt a peace I had not felt before and for days ruminated on who I truly am and realized how much of my life I spend trying to maintain a person that is not truly me. This festival was a returning, both to Self and Other, and I will gladly attend again. --Dustin Pickering, founder of Transcendent Zero Press, 8/6/2015
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
Hotel Tips And Tricks To Stay Healthy On The Road Frequent travelers can be all too familiar with the challenges of staying both healthy and productive -- countless distractions, fast food joints on every corner and difficulty sleeping in unfamiliar places and beds can make staying on track a challenge. However, it doesn’t necessarily have to be such a daunting task, say experts. “For frequent travelers and business travelers, being on the road is a lifestyle, so finding ways to be healthy and productive is essential,” says Marcey Rader, lifestyle trainer and Extended Stay Savve Traveler. “The key is to recognize your poor habits, find out what works for you, and then develop a routine around them.” From her years on the road with a corporate position, Rader developed a series of hotel hacks that can assist frequent travelers and mobile professionals wishing to travel productively while also maintaining high health standards. Along with
Extended Stay America, Rader is offering some hotel tips and tricks: • Prioritize sleep: When you’re dealing with different beds, sounds
and schedules, it’s almost guaranteed that your sleep routine will be disrupted. Sleep soundly with a fan, a recording or even an app that creates white noise to eliminate distractions and calm your mind and body.
• Give blue rays the boot: Ninetyfive percent of people who don’t get a good night’s sleep say they use a phone or laptop within one hour of bed. Studies have shown that the
blue rays emitted by phones and computer screens disrupt and suppress the body’s production of melatonin, a hormone crucial to sleep. Give your brain time to wind down before bed, you’ll sleep better and feel rejuvenated in the morning.
• Stand up and work: You may have heard that “sitting is the new smoking.” Constant sitting is linked to an overwhelming number of negative health effects and drastically decreased productivity. Luckily, there’s a simple solution -- standing. You can easily convert any space into a standing desk. Opt for a hotel with a kitchen and use the counters to get work done, or stack books and binders on a table for an elevated workspace.
breakfast item.
• Don’t eat like you’re on vacation: The biggest mistake business traveler’s make is eating like they’re on vacation. Extended Stay recently conducted a survey of their travelers and found that the average weight gain while on the road is close to 3 pounds. With frequent travel for business, that starts to add up drastically. Staying at a hotel with a fully equipped kitchen can help maintain nutritious habits. Stock the fridge with vegetable trays to snack on throughout the day, and hard boiled eggs as a
• Seek Smart Accommodations: An extended stay-style hotel offers amenities that can help travelers optimize productivity and prioritize health. To learn more travel tips, visit, www.ExtendedStayAmerica.com.
• OHIO (Only Handle It Once): Do you go out to your mailbox, open the letters, put them back in the mailbox, go back in your house and repeat the process several times a day? Of course you don’t. Then stop doing that with your email inbox. Instantly increase productivity by deleting, archiving and sorting emails the first time you read them.
Stop making excuses. For happier, healthier, more successful traveling, recognize your unproductive habits and fix them. (Statepoint)
Fall Home And Garden Clean-Up Project Tips Fall is the ideal season to tick items off your home exterior to-do list. The weather is finally cooler, making the work more enjoyable; and a thorough fall clean-up will give you peace of mind all winter. Your MVP during home maintenance season can be the pressure washer. Up to 75 times more powerful than a garden hose, a pressure washer is a versatile tool that offers an efficient way to get a variety of cleaning tasks done. Deck Once you’re ready to stash away outdoor furniture for the season, remember to wash it down first for a deeper clean than a garden hose can provide. Before moving these items into storage, first let them dry completely. Ensure your deck is free of mold and debris. A thorough clean will also serve to prep your deck for weatherproofing with a stain or sealant (another useful task to in-
clude on your fall checklist.) Outdoor Surfaces Rejuvenate driveways, patios, side-
walks and other large flat surfaces quickly and with no streaking using accessories like the Briggs & Stratton Surface Cleaner that works on a 14-inch diameter in one stroke. It features a dome shape to control overspray to protect walls and flower beds. Grill Cleaning your grill is a breeze with a pressure washer. First disconnect the propane tank and move it away from the area. Disconnect any elec-
trical lines. Prop up the hood and remove the grates. Treat the entire grill with a degreasing solution, working from the bottom of the cart up to the grill bed. Let the degreaser work for a few minutes. Be careful around gas hoses, connections, electrical components or heating elements. Using a general medium-pressure spray pattern, flush detergent and rinse any residue, working from the top down. Let the grill dry thoroughly, then coat with nonstick oil to help reduce future build-up. Safety Operate a pressure washer only outside, far away from windows, doors and vents to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide gas from accumulating and potentially being drawn towards occupied spaces. Always wear goggles and closedtoe footwear when operating a pressure washer. Don’t spray near
children, pets, electrical wires, or power lines. After use, allow the unit to cool down before storing. Efficiency To switch between jobs more efficiently, consider a unit that offers versatility in its function. For example, The POWERflow+ model from Briggs & Stratton has a high pressure mode -- ideal for cleaning tough grime -- and a high flow mode which delivers up to five gallons of water per minute to rinse away soap and debris on delicate surfaces like patio furniture, vehicles and second story windows. For more outdoor fall cleaning tips, and for resources on choosing a pressure washer right for your home’s needs, visit www. briggsandstratton.com. This fall, get ready for winter with quick and simple outdoor clean-up tasks. (Statepoint)
11
Austin South Asian | September 2015
Is Terrorism A Threat To Suburban Communities?
For many living in suburban and rural communities, the threat of terror may seem very remote and limited to major metropolises. But is this complacency warranted?
“Unfortunately, no community is truly safe from terror threats,” he points out.
are creating the possibility for new forms of terror attack that can have global effects.
From eco terrorism to pathological
For example, cyberterrorism -- at-
“It is common for people to hear the word terrorism and immediately think of Islamic extremists operating abroad. But terrorism comes in many forms, each with its own characteristics,” says Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, a fellow at the American Society of Criminology and author of the new book, “Global Terrorism and its Effects on Humanity,” which addresses the causes, agendas and methods used by terrorists and offers a prescription for eradicating this worldwide threat.
terrorism, the definitions, causes and manifestations of terror are varied. And modern technologies
tacks on information technology -- and biological terrorism -- the release of toxic biological agents
tures and provides them with the tools necessary to make a positive difference in their communities and beyond.
Progressive Entrepreneurship
-- could have implications that know no borders. While all this may sound scary, Mumuni offers a prescription for hope.
“Terrorist groups find it easiest to recruit among people with a narrow or distorted view of the world.
Response Network has done an impressive job in monitoring and responding to outbreaks of deadly infectious disease, in the case of an overwhelming man-made outbreak, it is the local health systems that will be in the front line,” he says.
We must therefore help states give all their citizens a modern education that encourages scientific inquiry and free thought,” he says.
More information about Mumuni’s book can be found at http:// w w w. m e d i a - c o n n e c t . c o m / blog/?s=mumuni.
He also calls for strengthening public health initiatives to protect against bio-terror threats which could potentially spread infectious disease across the world in a matter of days.
While terrorism is a complex issue that will primarily be handled at the state level, experts are encouraging residents of local communities to learn more about terror threats, stay informed of current events, and be active participants in civic matters.
“While the World Health Organization’s Global Outbreak and
New Leaders Council
About New Leaders Council
New Leaders Council is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization with more than 40 chapters across the U.S. NLC was founded in 2006 to recruit, train and promote the next generation of leaders. NLC engages young people from outside the traditional power struc-
Through our Institute, programs and alumni engagement, NLC is building a network that will greatly impact the progressive landscape in the United States for decades to come.
NLC unites a coalition of leaders from business, finance, media, education, science and technology, politics and government and the non-profit sector into a progressive network that helps create and shape policy, builds new business and civic structures, furthers the progressive mindset and works to
50th Anniversary Of Immigration Bill - Come Celebrate Dear reader, as you read this short article please be reminded, that you or your parents or grandparents were able to make this country the home because of the immigration bill that was signed into law by the great son of Texas, President Lyndon B. Johnson, 50 years ago on October 3 1965.
and Emanuel Cellar saw the vision, it happened because the bill passed by bi-partisan votes and because of the sacrifices African-Americans made fighting discrimination changing the nation’s conscience, making it realize that even the immigration policy of the past was discriminatory.
Today we are a thriving community of more than 4.5 million south Asians able to partake in myriad opportunities that this land has provided to us This happened because President Johnson championed the bill, it happened because the bill’s proponents Senators Philip Hart
A short event is planned for Oct 1 2015 at LBJ library to commemorate and celebrate this event that transformed our lives as well as the nation itself. Please join us at LBJ library off of Red River, on 1st Oct at 6:00pm.
The event should end by 7:30pm There will be plenty of free parking by making available the UT parking lot in addition to LBJ. There will be short panel discussion and also a showing video of the President signing the bill. So come and attend this event thus expressing our gratitude to the nation and all who helped or make this happen. Because of the constraint of available seats, I need numbers count so please RSVP ashwin_ghatalia@ yahoo.com if you are planning to attend the event
affect change in local communities.
• Fellows attend one weekend per month over five months • Focuses include: leadership development, entrepreneurship, fundraising, communications and more • National and local experts present curriculum, creating a unique experience for each class • Mentorship and alumni programming
New Leaders Council was the recent topic of a Washington Monthly op-ed, titled Seizing the Levers of Power, which called NLC “strikingly different from the typical DC think tank or policy shop focused on electioneering or fighting in the cable news trenches…” And MSNBC’s Melissa Harris-Perry Perry agreed with the analysis of John Rowley of Fletcher Rowley Media, who said New Leaders Council is “going to build a bench of talent that is going to…be out of the campaign sector, running for office, helping people…”
People
Results
Diversity with the New Leaders Council community of fellows, alumni and supporters is key to our success and sets New Leaders Council apart from other leadership training organizations. Our 2015 class of fellows adds to that legacy by including over 53 percent women and 60 percent from non-white racial and ethnic backgrounds – including 27 percent African-American, 13 percent Hispanic/Latino and 8 percent AsianAmerican.
NLC offers a variety of programs, networking events and professional development opportunities that engage our Institute graduates, resulting in a strongly connected alumni family that continues to support NLC and its mission. Our alumni have gone on to start businesses, work for Fortune 500 companies, manage campaigns, create their own non-profits and serve in elected office. As a group, our alumni are outstanding representatives in a variety of fields, including education, the arts, social and economic issue advocacy and youth mentoring.
New Leaders Council Institute
Progress
12
Austin South Asian | September 2015
Be The Change 2015
(Continued From Page 01) The event really brought the community together and helped our city improve, one step at a time. It was amazing how much everyone accomplished afterwards when we saw the amount of dolls we had made, which had completely exceeded our goal.
that if you want something done, you should go do it. I, and I think all the members in this committee, just want to improve the lives in our community and make it a better place to be, and that’s simply what we are doing.
This year, Austin will hold its annual Be the Change event on Saturday, October 3rd, 2015, the date which Austin City Mayor Steve Adler has recently declared the official Be The Change day for Austin.
Austin first participated in this
The theme for this year is to “Stand
The garden also came together, and many different foods and plants now grow in it.
Along with volunteering opportunities to engage the community, the Indian American Coalition of Texas (IACT) is collaborating with the event to sponsor a creative expression contest. Participants can
The two prompts for this year’s contest can be found on the Be The Change Austin website (www. bethechangeaustin.org). For more information on the event, contest, volunteer registration/opportunities and updates, follow our Facebook page, Instagram, and Twitter, and visit our website www.bethechangeaustin.org.
Please help us in updating the contact information. Please email correct information if you think the published information needs update.
I became a part of the Be the Change Youth Council, because I would love to help put an event together like last years.
To me, “Be the Change” means
This year’s keynote speaker is Anant Pai, a Harvard freshman and the President of California Cultures for Youth.
submit a painting, essay, photo, etc. and cash prizes will be rewarded.
APPEAL TO NON PROFITS
This event really captures how individuals working together can accomplish so much and have such a lasting impact on our city.
I think it’s amazing to see the end product of what so many people really work so hard for and its impact on the community long after the project is done.
The kick-off event for this year will take place at Austin City Hall from 8:30 AM-10 AM.
event in 2010 with only one service project and now, thanks to the generosity of our community, Austin has grown to host the biggest Be the Change event in the US for the past five years.
Together, Build Together.” There will be many different types of volunteer projects all over Austin, and we strongly encourage Austinites of all different ethnicities and cultural backgrounds to join together and take part in this event.
We appreciate if you can also provide a contact number so that your members / community can reach you. We will also carry this on our website and keep it updated for the benefit of community. email: info@austinsouthasian.com 512-828-6709
Make Over Your Front Door: Tips To Make A Grand Entrance
There are many reasons why a home could need a door makeover. Entry doors, like other major components of the home, can wear out over time and need to be replaced. Additionally, homeowners may “inherit” a door on a home they’ve recently purchased and wish to change the style to a better one in order to complement their home’s personality. “Homeowners don’t need to live with a front entry door that they don’t like or that has become inefficient over time,” says Donna Contat at Therma-Tru Corp., a leading entry door brand. “From a curb appeal and investment standpoint, it can make good economic sense to replace a front entry door.” In fact, entry door replacement
consistently ranks among the most valuable remodeling projects in the annual “Cost vs. Value Report,” published by Remodeling magazine.
This August, which is National Curb Appeal Month, the experts at Therma-Tru are offering tips for evaluating your current door, and insights on door aesthetics and components. • Evaluate Your Door: Touch your door. If you can feel the exterior temperature from the inside, you may not have adequate insulation. Also check its appearance. For wood doors, check for warping or rotting. For steel, check for dings and rust. Final item: does the style of your door match the design of your home? • What’s Inside Your Door: A door is actually a system of various components. Locks should operate smoothly and be strong enough to help protect your home. A multi-point locking system that engages a series of locks at several places on the frame can offer
peace-of-mind. • Slam Your Door: Doors experience wear and tear over time. Be sure any replacement door you purchase is constructed and tested to withstand harsh treatment. Consider materials such as fiberglass, which can offer the beauty of such classic materials as wood, while being low-maintenance and longlasting. • Door Appeal: Curb appeal isn’t just a buzzword. It’s the wow factor people get when they drive by your home and the cozy feel that welcomes guests to come in and stay a while. Try a paintable fiberglass door to add a pop of color or stick to the classic look of wood grain, which, when stained, adds warmth. Either way, you can make your home’s entryway stand out with a door trim surround kit, such as those from Fypon, as well as decorative or privacy glass for
doorlites and sidelites. • Replace your door: For the chance to transform the look of your house with a “door do-over” from Therma-Tru, including a new fiberglass entry door system valued at up to $5,000 (and for full rules), visit todayshomeowner.com/DoorDoOver to enter their Door DoOver Sweepstakes throughout August 2015. For detailed tips on evaluating your current door for form and function, and insights on making future door purchases, you can visit ThermaTru’s Facebook page and Twitter feeds throughout National Curb Appeal Month and beyond. Home begins at the front door. Take steps to give your home a grand entrance by upgrading this important feature. (Statepoint)
13
Americans Willing To Drive Farthest For Love And Family
Summer travel season is upon us and a new survey reveals just where all those vehicles on the highway may be headed. Americans indicated they are willing to drive the farthest for love and family, with fewer willing to drive long distances for sporting and entertainment events.
In particular, 42 percent surveyed indicated they would drive the farthest to see a love interest over any other activity and 25 percent indicated they would do so to attend a wedding, according to the new “How Far Would You Drive?” survey from Enterprise Rent-ACar. Additionally, 20 percent said they are willing to drive five or more hours to see their child’s sporting event, while only nine percent are willing to drive
that same distance to see their favorite professional football team play. More than one-third also indicated they would drive five or more hours to attend a family reunion and a quarter said they would even do so to meet their inlaws. “We hear anecdotal stories from our customers all the time about what inspires them to embark on road trips, and it’s a thrill to see how we play a role in our customers’ lives,” said Lee Broughton, vice president, Enterprise Rent-A-Car Brand Marketing. “While love and family may spark individuals to drive the farthest, interests such as sports, music and food still earn significant car time.” (Statepoint)
Austin South Asian | September 2015
14
Not Your Mother’s Baby Doll: Technology Puts A Twist On Classic Toys
As more technologies enter the market that are durable, affordable and designed specifically for kids, playtime has been revolutionized. New twists to classic playroom staples are helping foster independent play, motor skills, imagination and language development. Luckily, kids are totally on board, with 72 million reporting they want smart toys, according to recent research conducted by Interpret.
Austin South Asian | September 2015
Fact vs. Fiction: 7 Truths About College Course Materials
You’ve seen the headlines: “The cost of a college education is soaring!” “Course materials have never been more expensive!” three included books featuring more than 70 “Textbook producers take advantage of our students!” words to help expand basic vocabulary.
white editions and print-it-yourself editions.
This baby doll encourages nurturing role Yes, these headlines may be sensational, but play by asking for her pacifier, bottle and they’re not entirely accurate. While college more.
Fact: Course materials in many fields -- especially medicine, law and accounting -- are updated periodically to reflect changes in regulations, technology and methods. Instructors want course materials to be as current as possible to ensure students can apply their knowledge to realworld situations.
When kids press the buttons and put the bottle or pacifier in her mouth, they will be able to explore fun interactive activities such as talking, reading, caring and music. For reactions and interactive play, hide and uncover the eyes of the Peek & Learn Doll, which helps children learn body parts, counting and nurturing concepts. The doll also plays a variety of familiar melodies and includes a baby bottle.
Fiction: Since Open Educational Resources (OER) are free, they will eventually replace purchased textbooks.
High-Tech Pretend
Robots may be the wave of the future, but toys hitting shelves now are already taking their inspiration from technological advances and trends. Here are a few toys to consider: Interactive Dolls These are not the baby dolls you may remember from your own childhood. The old standard has evolved into new hightech, interactive dolls that engage children and can help them reach their developmental milestones. For example, the more little ones talk to the Baby Amaze Learn to Talk & Read Baby Doll by VTech, the more words and phrases the doll will learn and repeat. Parents and children can also read from the
Technology advancements have al- can be expensive, students aren’t helpless ready brought parents baby gear like victims crushed by debt from buying textonesies with built-in sensors and books. baby monitors with smartphone caInstead, they’re savvy consumers to whom pabilities. education companies cater. Below are seven Now kids caring for their baby dolls fictions -- and the corresponding facts -can mimic this trend with new tech about college course materials. features in accompanying gear. Fiction: The cost of college textbooks and Check out VTech’s Baby Amaze course materials is a major contributor to 3-in-1 Care & Learn Stroller, which student debt. has a smart sensor that recognizes when it’s being moved and plays Fact: Books and supplies account for just sing-along songs about letters, col- four percent of college costs. Students’ primary expenses are tuition (43 percent) and ors, places and animals. boarding (40 percent). Transform the stroller into a high chair to hear baby care reminders that introduce Fiction: The cost of course materials is nurturing concepts and healthy habits while climbing. children pretend to feed the doll. Fact: Student spending on course materiTurn the book’s pages on the tray to learn als has declined nearly 20 percent since the about different foods and nutrition. Convert 2007-2008 school year and nearly 12 perthe high chair into a bassinet and the doll cent since 2013-2014, according to Student will fall asleep while listening to classic Watch data. New digital learning platforms, which use interactive techniques to help nursery rhymes and lullabies. students master course concepts, have also It includes piano keys that introduce num- helped reduce costs. bers and counting, and plays piano sounds in music mode. More information can be Fiction: College course materials are unaffordable for the average student. found at vtechkids.com/babyamaze. For parents who want more from their child’s playtime, consider taking tech features into account at the toy store. You can maximize learning and fun at the same time. (Statepoint)
Fiction: The reason that new editions of course materials are released so often is to increase publisher profits.
Fact: Students can save money on textbooks in a variety of ways. Online resources such as CourseSmart offer digital titles at up to 60 percent below the hardcover price. Other money-saving options include purchasing eChapters, loose-leaf editions, black-and-
Fact: While free to students, OER are not free to create, since they must be developed, formatted and regularly revised. Commercial producers and opensource publishers often work together to provide effective, affordable course materials. However, producing materials for a single course can cost anywhere from $500,000 to $3 million. Increasingly, OER publishers are trying to transfer these costs to students and taxpayers. Fiction: Students with print-related disabilities -- including blindness and dyslexia -- don’t have access to the course materials they need. Fact: Access is improving, thanks to programs like the AccessText Network. Founded and supported by the Association of American Publishers (AAP) and leading education companies, they are working to ensure that students are not limited by disability when accessing and using course materials. Students should visit their colleges’ Disabled Student Services office for information about participating. Fiction: Students don’t really need the course materials to pass the class. Fact: Course materials are a key component of academic success. Academic improvement from using digital course materials and traditional textbooks is as high as 79 percent. (Statepoint)
15
Austin South Asian | September 2015
Kids Did It, Now Our Turn!
By Mamata Misra On August 23rd, Pratham Austin chapter had a Prizes and Pizza Party to recognize the 21 Austin children who had participated in the Pratham Readathon 2015 (see http://pratham.seeyourimpact.org/ readathon2015/) where kids in the US read books to raise money to help educate kids in India through Pratham’s learning camps.
Mr. Patel asked the children 3 simple questions. “What is your name? What grade/school do you go to? How old are you?” The children answered readily. Mr. Patel then contrasted their answers with the answers he gets from kids who come to a Pratham learning camp in India.
education while improving the reading and communication skills of the participants here. Vineeta Salvi talked about Pratham Readathon’s national goal of helping 5000 children. Mr. Naveen Kumar, who supports a Second Chance program of Pratham in Bihar, distributed
Pratham Austin Readathon 2015 wanted 50 readers to join, and raise enough to help 500 kids. While only 21 readers participated, they raised $22,549 that would help 900 kids attend learning camps in India!
Mr. Yogi Patel, a co-founder of Pratham USA and Vineeta Salvi Walia, national co-chair of Prathan Readathon, had come from Dallas.
Tickets and sponsorships are now available for its largest event, Pratham Austin Gala 2015 at http:// www.prathamusa.org/events/ austin-gala-2015 that would help Pratham Austin continue supporting the following: • Learning Camps in Agra, Warangal, Dhamtari, and Dhantewada districts that benefit more than 6000 children, 300 volunteers, and 150 villages;
• 12 Urban Learning Centers in Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh offering reading, writing and math tutoring to over 1600 primary school children and supporting over 4000 kids through the centers’ libraries and Balwadi and computer programs. • Pratham Open School of Education (POSE) programs in Odisha and Bihar enabling 300 women who had previously dropped out to complete high school and move on to higher education or vocational training.
To Advertise In ASA call
512-828-6709
The Readathon participants had gathered with their families, friends, and supporters of Pratham. The event started with entertainment by the awesome Bat City band kids (see https://www. facebook.com/batcityatx), vocalist Julia Blackmon and guitarist Logan Kerman, followed by poetry readings by young poets of Matwaala poetry fest, Anannya Akela and Rehana Shaik.
forts for this year has only started.
MEN CAN COOK! The first question brings an equally ready answer. The second question often brings the answer “I don’t go to school”. But the third question is answered with a “I don’t know,” said Mr. Patel with a heavy heart. He explained how the Readathon is a win-win for everyone, helping the kids there with a basic primary
certificates, medals, and trophies to the Readathon participants. He was happy to share that 24 out of 26 girls who had discontinued their education for years, were able to pass the high school exam after attending the Second Chance program. While Readathon was a great success, the chapter’s fundraising ef-
Email your recipe with your photos and see yourself in print
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16
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
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5 Ways To Get Kids Excited To Learn Many kids love the prospect of learning, while others may need a bit of motivation. But parents can get kids on board with a little encouragement and creativity to make learning fun. Here are some ideas to get kids excited to learn.
To give kids an extra edge in learning, consider a fun yet educational tablet, such as the InnoTab MAX. Durable enough for kids, this device has a 7-inch multi-touch
Library Visits By making a run-of-the-mill trip to the library seem like a true adventure, kids will associate books with intrigue at an impressionable age. The librarian can point out the best titles for inspiring learning and fun. Time visits to occur during your local branch’s storytelling hour or other early childhood programming. Also, be sure to sign your child up for a personal library card, which will be a source of pride at the circulation desk and put them on the path of reading enrichment. Learning Tablets
screen, and features progressive learning content that adapts to a
child’s age. Web access and communication apps, which kids can use to exchange messages with friends and family, are limited to protect children, and parents are free to manage these controls. The tablet comes with Movie Maker and Art Studio, amongst other apps, and additional content can be found at the Learning Lodge app store. “The tablet has proven to be a welcome way for kids to interact with digital media,” says Dr. Eric Klopfer, Platform Learning Expert and member of the Expert Panel at VTech, a world leader in age-appropriate and developmental stagebased electronic learning products for children. “Touch interfaces and well-crafted content have meant an easy-on
ramp for many children who learn through this technology.” Board Game Night After dinner, gather round the table a second time. From classic word games that challenge one to stretch the limits of his or her vocabulary, to trivia games testing science and world history knowledge, board games have the potential to bring the family together and also to educate. Be sure to check the box for age-appropriate guidance. Wearable Tech Wearable technology can inspire kids to learn and be creative while staying active. For example, the VTech Kidizoom Smartwatch DX offers motion-activated games, a stopwatch, calendar, 3D clock face and calculator so kids can work out simple math problems. It also includes a time-telling app featuring a friendly owl that helps kids
learn to tell time, and additional apps are available for download on the Learning Lodge. The internal memory offers ample storage for budding photographers and videographers documenting the world around them. Sweeten the Deal Consider creating a rewards chart where children can track their progress as they meet learning goals. It can be an effective way to motivate kids to try new ways of learning and work hard to reach a goal. You can find many free downloadable charts online. More ideas can be found at www. vtechkids.com/parenting. To make learning a priority in your home, get kids on board. They’ll be inspired when they see that learning can be fun. Courtesy: StatePoint
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
Shrimad Bhagawat Katha Celebration In Austin (Continued From Page 01) Over 300 people each day attended the Shrimad Bahgawat Katha from July 20 to July 26, starting with Kailash Shobha Yatra on first day and followed by Krishna Janam, Chappan Bhog, Rukmani Mangal and Holi. Guruji narrated anecdotes from the Shrimad Bhagawat Katha and illustrated to all devotees how we can apply these thing daily to our lives with respect and kindness to one and another. Guruji recited the sacred slokas in Sanskrit and then interprets them in hindi. The devotees cries of Jai, Jai Sri Radhe and Banke Bihari Lal ki Jai charged the hall with a spiritual atmosphere. The seven day katha culminated with a memorable celebration of Dandia Raas and Phool Holi followed by Jeelebi and Mathura peda holi. Guruji thanked the organizer of this event Shri Banke Bihari Pariwar - Asmita & Fred Dorairaj, Sunita & Kaku Sharma, Geeta Goel, Shalu and Amit Mittal, Kiran Behl & Pramila Singh.
Bombay Express Authenitic Indian Cafe 100% Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly Tuesday - Sunday 11:00 am - 9:00 pm 1300 N IH35 Building #12, Unit # 216 Austin, Texas - 78753
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18
Austin South Asian | September 2015
September - 2015 Predictions ARIES (March 21 to April 20): Time till 15th is very favourable to make your move or go aggressive against your opponents. Results will be quick. You will become little health conscious and see desired improvement. You will hear few good news after 15th and some of you may find better job also. TAURUS (April 21 to May 20): Journeys undertaken before 15th will bring desired results. You may get hurt while handling tools. Improvement in business will be slow but gradual. You may dispose off some assets after 15th and pocket the money for the time being. A child may be moving away soon. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): There will be big improvement in all relationship matters this month. You may start or be offered some interesting business in partnership. Reply from a
government agency will come in positive only. Money wise you will stay tight. Financial problems will come to an end after 15th. CANCER (June 21 to July 22): Money wise its very favorable time before 15th. No harm in trying your luck with lottery, other speculations or even stocks. You may approach a government agency for some special favors after 15th. There will be some interesting and fortunate changes in career this month. LEO (July 23 to August 22): You will enforce your ideas and wait for results which could come as early as 3rd week of September. Luck is definitely on your side. You have some money coming through legal channels after 15th. It will be better not to have any partners in your new and creative venture. VIRGO (August 23 to September 22): A government agency will give run around and may ask for more paper work. You will be working extra hours to meet the pressure of
deadline. Time after 15th is very favorable for all financial matters and to ask the boss for a raise. You may have couple of important business meetings after the 15th. LIBRA (September 23 to October 22): Time till 15th is good as far as the money is concerned. Sun in eleventh can get you lots of money through stocks or even lottery. You will receive help from the influential people. You may invite or take few friends out for dinner towards the end of September. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 22): Sun in tenth till 15th will help you achieve professional goals. It will make you more popular at work and you may be in line for a big promotion. Money wise things will be on the edge but you will be able to fulfill all financial commitments on time. SAGITTARIUS (November 23 to December 22): Most of your
dreams or plans will become a reality before 15th. All legal decisions will be in your favor this month. You will spare some time and money for a noble deed. There will be few celebrations in close circle. You will be working on a long distance trip. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19): You may recover some valuable item or money before 15th. Time is favorable to make any changes in career after 15th. Spouse will give you the good news you were awaiting. Keep working on your business plan and continue to look for ideal partners for your venture. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18): Some one going almost bald and with excellent connections will help you. Money wise you will hit some kind of jackpot after 15th. Negotiations will continue and the contract will be offered on your terms. You may
visit an old friend with family this month. PISCES (February 19 to March 20): Strong Sun in sixth will help you recover from any health problem quickly and come out a winner in a competitive exam also. People bothering you in the past will offer friendship. You will have chance to make some money unorthodox way but may turn it down. One of your child may be getting ready to move away for a very good cause after 15th.
Pandit Parashar parashar@parashar.com www.parashar.com 925-833-7170
Switching To LED Bulbs Is Becoming More Affordable And Appealing The use of LED bulbs in homes is on the rise nationwide, and with good reason. Not only are they more energy efficient than their traditional counterparts, LEDs are becoming more affordable upfront.
is driving this sudden consumer shift?
ing these cost-efficient bulbs more convenient, attractive and afford-
Indeed, of the United States’ four billion residential light bulb sockets, less than 10 percent are filled with LED lighting; but by 2020, more than 50 percent will be LED, according to industry estimates. This year alone, the consumer lighting market is anticipated to more than double with LED, while traditional CFL bulb usage is expected to decrease. LED is not a new technology and has been on the market for years. So what
New light bulb designs are mak-
able. In fact, certain designs retail
as low as under $10 for a threepack of bulbs. For example, GE Lighting’s new Bright Stik bulb’s slender, sleek design is offered both in soft white and daylight, and fits in more sockets and fixtures compared to its general purpose CFL bulb counterpart. It has a rated life of 15,000 hours and should last nearly 14 years, at a cost of 10 cents per month based on three hours of operation daily and 11 cents per kilowatt hour. Designed to be a good alternative to general purpose replacement CFL bulbs, the Bright Stik can be used anywhere, from sockets found in basements, sheds, and garages to table and floor lamps, adding up to substantial energy savings over
time. These bulbs are available instore at The Home Depot or by visiting www.HomeDepot.com. To learn more about innovations in LED lighting, get lighting tips for any room of the house, or to find out how much you stand to save making the simple swap, visit gelighting.com/LightingWeb/na/consumer/. You don’t need to be a skilled handyman to make an important, planet-friendly home upgrade that will save your family time and money for years to come. This weekend, consider trading in your traditional bulbs for a more modern variety. Courtesy: Statepoint
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Quick, Inexpensive Ways To Give Your Home A Fall Facelift
A seasonal home makeover doesn’t need to cost a fortune or be difficult to execute. Quick, easy and innovative ideas can give your home the fall flair needed to celebrate the season.
A free web-based application, Splash by Amerock, offers a new interactive design and shopping experience by allowing you to truly customize hardware for cabinets and furniture.
Curtains Another easy way to make a quick look-and-feel change to a room is by swapping out curtains.
“Seasonal décor updates should jive with your home’s style, while also adding something extra to the mix,” says Eric Cohler, who has been listed as a top international designer by House Beautiful and Elle Décor magazines.
Rotating Gallery A digital photo display is the easiest way to showcase seasonally suitable photos of friends and family. In fall, that means Halloween portraits, autumn picnics, trips to the pumpkin patch, and back-to-school photos. Consider rotating the artwork displayed in your home to highlight seasonal colors. Whether you want to get spooky for Halloween or focus on fall’s natural hues, this task won’t take long to do and will greatly impact the look and feel of each room. Pops of Color “With relatively little effort, you can add bright, bold colors to your home by swapping out the knobs and handles on your cabinets, credenzas and other furniture,” says Cohler. Seasonal sets of cabinet hardware can keep the look fresh in your home. All you need is a screwdriver and a few hours.
Tips For Improving Your Kitchen For Entertaining
If your home is the one your family and friends gravitate to for parties and seasonal celebrations, you need to make sure it can handle all that attention. Upgrading your kitchen can be one of the most rewarding home improvement projects for those who entertain frequently. Here are a few upgrades that can improve your kitchen’s visual appeal and utility for better entertaining.
“Keep it easy though, so that when the season is over, you won’t end up with a lack of motivation to refresh and a space that feels passé.” To add autumn elements to your home without completely revamping your interior, consider these ideas:
Austin South Asian | September 2015
Open and Shut Is your kitchen storage bursting at the seams? Do those cabinets that once looked so great now seem tired? The interactive site and first of its kind product line allows you to test various colors and shapes of cabinetry hardware and view the different looks on different style and color cabinets. From kitchens to bathrooms to bedrooms and living areas, you can make your rooms pop with bold colors. Think orange, purple and black for Halloween flair, or greens, reds and browns for a natural effect. Hardware is easy to swap out and you can give your home a fun, fresh fall makeover inexpensively and without much hassle. To check out 20 unique color options, visit www.Amerock.com.
It’s a great way to customize a space to better fit the mood of the season.
Today’s top kitchens employ a combination of open shelving and closed cabinetry to deliver stunning looks and top functionality.
What’s more -- a quarterly rotation of window treatments presents a much-needed opportunity for a good cleaning.
Install open shelving for things you use the most and for visually appealing dishes and glasses.
Be sure to store your freshly laundered linens in a sealed bag so they don’t collect dust.
It’s easy for you to grab what you need and for guests to know where to turn for an extra plate or tumbler.
When they make their appearance the following year, they will be vibrant and fresh.
And open shelves are terrific for showcasing that favorite set of after-dinner glassware or that sleek new cappuccino maker.
Fall can be a particularly busy time of year; however, a few easily implemented ideas can go a long way to add a festive vibe to your home. (StatePoint)
But a well-designed kitchen also needs large cabinets to hide clutter and clunky appliances that consume precious counter space.
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Upgrade Your Range Upgrading your range is a simple way to take entertaining to the next level. Your range should be the centerpiece of your kitchen, in terms of design and function. And these days, designs that combine sleek industrial lines with classic retro touches are all the rage. But form needs to be matched by flexible function. Look for a range that comes in dual fuel, gas or
electric, with choice of a single or double oven, such as the 36-inch professional style ranges from Verona, a luxury Italian brand from EuroChef USA. Their new Classic Collection line comes in three colors, including stainless steel, matte black and gloss red, with a color-matched control panel, featuring teardrop control knobs, beveled doors, rounded handles and elegant plinth legs. More information is available at veronaappliances.com/veronaclassic. No matter what range you choose, opt for one with high BTU sealed burners and easy glide oven racks for easy access to your meals. And be sure to look for such advanced features as an infrared broiler and/or convection setting so you can cook quickly and precisely. Proper Prep and Cleanup Double-basin sinks and dual drawer dishwashers don’t just look luxurious, they help speed prep work and cleanup. If you have the space, nothing beats a tandem sink where you can use one basin for preparing the next course and the other for dirty dishes. That second sink is also great for a helpful friend to start cleanup. Dual drawer dishwashers can help you complete post-meal chores faster. You can have one load of dirty dishes in progress while you enjoy dessert, and be able to fill up a second drawer with cutlery, coffee cups and dessert plates after the meal. The key to upgrading your kitchen is to streamline it to make your life easier as host. (StatePoint)
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
September 2015 Community Calendar
We have compiled this event listing based on the information available on the web site (where ever possible) of the community/organization as of third Friday. Please check with the organizers to confirm its accuracy. We request all South Asian organizations to email us (info@austinsouthasian.com) their community calendar on or before 20th of every month, for the events happening next month. We will carry listing of all South Asian non-profit organizations in Austin. If the Name, Contact info is not correct or has changed email us (info@ austinsouthasian.com) the changes you want to see. E&OE.
SCHEDULE: September 05, Saturday, 06:30 PM till Midnight, Shree Krishna Janmashtmi Celebration is at Radha Madhav Dham Temple, 400 Barsana Road, Austin, TX 78737. For more information, contact 512.288.7180. September 06, Sunday, 02:30 PM, Indian Family Film Festival is at Southwest Theaters - Lake Creek, 13729 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78729. For more information, contact 512-426-5269. September 1, Tuesday - September 3, Thursday, 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM | Asian American Quality of Life Survey, UT Austin researchers, commissioned by the City of Austin’s Asian American Quality of Life Initiative, will be on site with surveys to better understand the community needs of Asian Americans in Austin. FREE. AARC Foyer September 3,Thursday, 06:00 PM to 08:30 PM | Drawing Lines: Origami Lanterns Workshop, Be a part of public art with artist Teruko Nimura! Drop in and create origami “wish lanterns” part of an illuminated outdoor sanctuary to be installed this fall. FREE. AARC Community Room 8 September 5 and 19, Saturday, 01:00 PM to 05:00 PM | Austin Go Club, Play Go, the classic board game that originated in ancient China, with the Austin Go Club. It is recommended to bring your own game set, but not required. FREE. AARC Community Room 8 September 7, Monday, | Labor Day The AARC will be closed in observance of Labor Day. September 9, Wednesday, 05:30 PM to 07:30 PM | Conversation Corps: Community En-
gagement, Conversation Corps, a partnership between the City of Austin, AISD and Capital Metro, administered by Leadership Austin, hosts ongoing conversations about issues affecting our community. This month, the topic is community engagement. FREE. AARC Community Room 1 September 9, Wednesday, 06:45 PM to 08:30 PM | Austin Project Management Toastmasters Fall Open House, Austin Project Management Toastmasters invites all professions to this open house to learn more about the club. Refreshments provided. FREE. Please RSVP to vpm@apmtoastmasters.org. AARC Community Room 8 September 12, Saturday, 09:00 AM to 12:30 PM | Young Women and Men of Destiny, The Young Women and Men of Destiny (YWMOD) Leadership and Mentorship Program is open to youth 7th - 12th grade. Learn more about the program at the start of the new school year. FREE. AARC Community Room 1 September 12,Saturday, 01:00 PM to 02:30 PM | Meet the Author: “The Good Immigrants”, Dr. Madeline Hsu explores a century of Chinese migrations and looks at how model minority characteristics of many Asian Americans resulted from US immigration policies. FREE. AARC Community Room 8 September 20, Sunday, 01:00 PM to 05:00 PM | Museum Day Adventure, Take a journey through India with this special encore presentation of photographs by Rama Tiru including new works as well. Kids invited to an exhibits-based Scavenger Hunt. Exhibit “Claiming America: Selected Stories of Asian Americans in U.S. History,” sculptures and international arts collections also on view. Visitors who
visit all six City of Austin Museum and Cultural Program sites will be eligible to receive a framed, autographed print of artist Fidencio Duran’s “Ladies’ Night Out.” FREE. AARC Foyer and Computer Lab September 20, Sunday, 02:00 PM to 04:30 PM | “India’s Daughter” film screening and panel discussion, “India’s Daughter” (2015) tells the story of the brutal gang rape and murder of an exceptional young woman. Her death sparked unprecedented protests and led to the first glimmers of a change of mindset. Presented in collaboration with Asian Family Support Services of Austin (AFSSA). Refreshments provided. FREE. AARC Ballroom September 23, Wednesday, 05:30 PM to 07:00 PM | Transit Vision: 2016 and Beyond, Come learn about Project Connect, transportation solutions and transit network. Presented by Capitol Metro in partnership with the Network of Asian American Organizations (NAAO). Refreshments provided. FREE. RSVP to officeofdiversity@capmetro.org by Sept. 21. AARC Community Room 8 September 23,Wednesday, 06:00 PM to 07:30 PM | Austin Project Management Toastmasters, Improve public speaking and leadership skills. No previous experience necessary. Meeting begins at 6:30pm, guests invited to come at 6pm. Please RSVP to vpm@apmtoastmasters.org. AARC Community Room 1 September 26, Saturday, 06:00 PM to 10:00 PM | Chinese Society of Austin Mid-Autumn Celebration, Enjoy Texas BBQ, Chinese roast pork, vegetarian food, door prizes, line dance and karaoke. Tickets $20 members, $10 children under 8, $22 non-members. RSVP: Millie, 512-431-8296, millie@ franklaminc.com. AARC Ballroom
August Is National Curb Appeal Month: Tips To Give Your Home A Facelift Want to get your home noticed? There are many ways to add value and design appeal to your house’s exterior, and doing so is important, say experts.“If you’re selling your home, updates add value and curb appeal. And if you’re staying long-term, these improvements will boost the functionality and form of your home for your own enjoyment,” says JJ Rogers, sales operations manager with Fypon, a manufacturer of decorative millwork elements. Rogers and the experts at Fypon are offering some tips on projects to consider in time for August, which is National Curb Appeal Month. Think 24-Hours If you think your home’s curb appeal matters only during daylight, think again. After-hours curb appeal can be just as important. “A well-lit home has a warm, welcoming glow and adds to the security of the home,” says Rogers, Here are some ways to light up the night with evening curb appeal: • Place solar-powered lights on walkways and key landscape areas to create safe pathways and highlight the home. Flank the entry door with lights for guests’ convenience, and to better see who is visiting after dark. • Replace burnt-out bulbs and do a good cleaning of light fixtures. • Install motion sensor lighting to make it easy for visitors to safely enter your driveway, while helping to deter burglary attempts and to know when roaming animals are in the yard. Daylight Curb Appeal • Replace rotting wooden trim, shutter, louvers and balustrade systems with easy-care polyurethane
products that require minimal upkeep while resisting insects, decay and moisture. • Accent the tops of windows by adding a crosshead and keystone. • Never underestimate the power of flowers. Adding window boxes, as well as planters on the porch, steps or throughout the yard, instantly increases curb appeal. • Add a low-maintenance timber or smooth polyurethane trellis system over a garage entry to add dimension and appeal to the door you drive through daily. • Install a Door Surround Kit around a home’s entryway. Each kit comes with a set of pilasters to flank a standard single door and a decorative crosshead to “sit” on top of it. Fypon offers these kits in Colonial, Craftsman and Empire styles, plus a different variation in Stone. • Add pops of complementary color using a top- down approach. Start with the roof, then work your way down to siding, trim, doors and landscaping. For a free “FRESH Color Schemes for Your Home Exterior” ebook, visit fypon.com/ design/. Makeover Your Door Your home’s entryway should be welcoming, beautiful and energyefficient. For a chance to make this important home upgrade for free, homeowners can enter a 2015 Door Do-Over Sweepstakes sponsored by Therma-Tru, for a chance to win a Classic-Craft or Pulse fiberglass entry door system valued at $5,000. Enter online throughout August at www.todayshomeowner. com/DoorDoOver. Keeping home exteriors clean, clutter-free and colorful can go a long way toward boosting curb appeal. Take time to focus on the beauty of your home’s exterior with a thorough clean-up and strategic upgrades. Courtesy: Statepoint
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
VANITY KARMA
By Gaura Rader (LOS ANGELES—September 20, 2015) As observant Jews celebrate the week-long holiday of Sukkot, “the festival of booths,” which begins this year on September 27, the biblical book they’ll read and reflect on is the book of Ecclesiastes.
commentary,’ “ he says. “because it brings writings together from two traditions, both speaking about life’s most important questions.” The book is called Vanity Karma: Ecclesiastes, the Bhagavad-gita, and the meaning of life (Bhak-
life, is accepted as canonical by all denominations of Christians and Jews and has given even secular authors much food for thought. It begins with the refrain “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” As Jayadvaita Swami tells in an
A lyrical passage from that book provides the words for a song that has gained a place in popular culture, “Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything There Is a Season).” In an unusual turn this year, as the festival begins, a Hindu swami is launching a commentary on Ecclesiastes in which he brings it into dialogue with India’s bestknown wisdom text, the Bhagavad-gita. To top things off, the swami is a Jewish American from New Jersey who as a young man, forty-seven years ago, took to an Indian spiritual tradition. Born Jay Israel, he now goes by the name Jayadvaita Swami. “I call my book a ‘cross-cultural
ing.
notice from academics.
In the course of that search, he came across the teachings of the Bhagavad-gita. And now, in Vanity Karma, he comes back to Ecclesiastes again. Turn, turn, turn.
Rabbi Shaya Isenberg, Emeritus Professor and Chair of the Department of Religion at the University of Florida, calls it an “interestingly ecumenical translation and commentary” and says, “Scholars, seekers and others who find little satisfaction in current cultural reality maps should find good reading in this study of Qohelet!”
Ecclesiastes itself is known for turning this way and that, sometimes crying out that all is vain and sometimes endorsing a full-hearted enjoyment of life. So Jayadvaita Swami’s commentary turns accordingly. His commentary draws upon traditional Jewish sources as well as the work of contemporary scholars. And from there the dialogue begins, as he brings to the discussion the thoughts of the Bhagavad-gita, which he studied under his Indian teacher, A. C.
tivedanta Book Trust, 2015, ISBN 0-89213-449-6, trade paperback $15.95, www.vanitykarma.com). Ecclesiastes, in which a sage calls into question the very meaning of
And Dr. Ithamar Theodor, Director of the Program for Hindu-Jewish Studies at the University of Haifa, writes, “Vanity Karma is an excellent contribution to the emerging field of comparative Hindu-Jewish studies and Hindu-Jewish dialogue.”
autobiographical introduction, his first encounter with Ecclesiastes, at about the age of twelve, when he heard the book from a rabbi, struck him so profoundly that it started him on a search for spiritual mean-
Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, known for bringing “Hare Krishna” to America. Though Vanity Karma is written in an informal style, suitable for general readers, it has received positive advance
Though Sukkot begins on September 27, the book is being launched the next day, on September 28. “My mom’s birthday,” Jayadvaita Swami explains. “She’s ninetytwo, still sharp as a pin, and happy with the way my life has gone. So I’m launching the book on her day.”
Tree is very hardy and drought
China date, Indian date etc.
and Shanxi Li.
The hard yellow jujubes are edible and they taste like apple. The “Li” variety is very good for eating, crunchy taste makes mouth watering, you get get addictive to eat these jujubes. Pic 2 shows edible fruits fresh picked.
Jujube tree once established is care free no pruning, no fertilizing, keeps producing year after year for many years.
Jujube Tree
After I moved to Austin my interest in growing tropical fruit trees increased. I was shopping at Mar-
it is going adapt to Austin weather in 2003. It has grown almost 25-30 feet with plenty of fruits as shown in Pic 1. Jujube tree can be grown in any kind of soil sandy, rocky, clay or alkaline. It starts producing fruit after two- three years. You can buy bare root or potted plant from nurseries. It does not need any pruning like apple or peach. It is self pollinating so do not need another plant for pollination. It is free from any insects and diseases.
bridge farm near my house for landscape plants came across Jujube plant. My boyhood experience back in India triggered me to try this plant in my backyard. I learnt that Jujube is a Texas native tree grown in wild with small fruits. It is not well known to gardening community. Bought this plant to see how well
Pic 3 shows ripe fruits sun dried used for making tea. tolerant requires full sunny spot, no shade. It requires 200-400 chill hours, tolerates hot weather and low average rainfall. It blossoms in April after last frost in March with shiny green leaves and small white flowers. Start with small green fruits turn into yellow/ brownish to mahogany when fully ripe with grape- tostrawberry size containing single large hard seed in the center resembling date fruit. Jujube is called
Jujubes contain magnesium, potassium, copper, niacin, calcium, manganese, phosphorus, and iron. They contain 20 times more vitamin C than any citrus fruit, strengthening the immune system and fighting infections, which may be why they have been used medicinally for millennia in many cultures as described in some articles. There are many varieties jujubes like, Sugar Cane, Li, Sherwood, Chico which are good for eating. The good drying varieties are Lang
One thing you have to watch critters like squirrels can destroy fruits. Fruits once they are ripe have to be harvested without delay. They will stay fresh for week outside, can be refrigerated to prolong for few more weeks. The tree I planted is 12 years old, pleased to see grown 25- 30 feet tall 10-12 ft wide, specially with spring rains and hot sunny climate produced bumper crop as depicted in Pic 1. Austin TX weather is ideal for growing Jujube tree. Happy Gardening GANI GARDEN
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
THEME: ASTROLOGY ACROSS 1. Fisherman’s ____ in San Francisco 6. Rejuvenating spot 9. Tom, as opposed to tabby 13. Drawing support 14. Center of activity 15. John Hancock, e.g. 16. Novelist Jong 17. Pilot’s announcement 18. Bar order, with “the” 19. *Bull 21. *Part of Watery Trigon 23. Once around 24. Bank deposit 25. Skedaddle 28. Russian parliament 30. Psychologist of classical conditioning fame 35. Author Murdoch 37. It “was made for you and me” 39. Judd of country music 40. “Well” to Sofia Loren 41. Formed a curve 43. Ski lift 44. Haile Selassie’s disciple 46. *One point of constellation 47. Spilled the beans 48. Base that dissolves in water, chem. 50. U in I.C.U. 52. Spanish river 53. Type of rich soil 55. Romanian money 57. *Castor and Pollux 60. *”Wandering Star” 63. Conical dwelling 64. Make a knot 66. Socialite Hilton 68. Change the Constitution 69. Cathode-ray tube 70. Speak like Cicero 71. Hand-me-down 72. “For ____ a jolly...” 73. Famous for biting an ear
DOWN 1. Bitty 2. Robert Wagner or Stefanie Powers, 1979-1984 3. “Heat of the Moment” band 4. Happen again 5. Like bell-bottoms 6. “____ So Fine,” song 7. “He ____ in his thumb, and pulled out a plum” 8. Old-time calculators 9. Catchall abbr. 10. Flu symptom 11. Baron Munchhausen, e.g. 12. Architectural add-on 15. Result of beach bathing 20. Palate lobe 22. One of The Alps 24. Holy place 25. *Balance in the sky 26. “He’s ____ ____ nowhere man,” Beatles 27. Capital of Belarus 29. *Named after God of War 31. Giant kettles 32. Relating to a lobe 33. Yemeni neighbor 34. *Celestial maiden 36. Bristle 38. Jerry Lewis’ sidekick 42. DeWALT product 45. Like U.S. and U.S.S.R. in WWII 49. It can be positive or negative 51. Mrs. Potts of “Beauty and the Beast” 54. Pronunciation of letter H 56. Opposite of binary 57. Emeralds and rubies 58. “All for one, one for all” sword 59. “Cobbler, cobbler, ____ my shoe” 60. Four-legged friends, e.g. 61. *Each astrological age contains 12 of these 62. Mambo king Puente 63. *Taurus abbreviation 65. Anger management issue 67. D.C. bigwig
SOLUTION
Sudoku
Please email your sudoku answers to info@austinsouthasian.com. Name and photo of the inviduvidual with first correct answer will be published in September 2015 issue.
To Advertise in ASA call 512828-6709
23
Austin South Asian | September 2015
What To Ask Your Doctor Before Scheduling Surgery
If you are planning to have surgery, you may be anxious. Asking the right questions before scheduling surgery can help ensure good care and give you a better idea of what to expect.
Reviewing Your Options The implications of your surgery will extend beyond the day you go to the hospital. Your doctor may offer you options when it comes to the type of surgery performed. Find out the length and type of recovery period for each option, as well as the expected outcomes. For example, one option may be typically associated with shorter expected recovery time, but could carry greater risk.
Here are a few areas you may want to cover with your surgeon in advance of the big day.
Another option may be associated with better long-term outcomes, but increase recovery time or leave larger scars.
A third option may not involve surgery at all. The many factors at play will help you make the decision that is best for your long-term health. Improved Therapies While great strides have been made to operate using smaller incisions in procedures known as minimally invasive or laparoscopic surgery, controlling bleeding is still a major issue for surgeons. In fact, the task can account for 30 to 50 percent of procedure time, and for those on blood thinners, the bleeding risk is even higher. However, new innovations are revolutionizing this process, making surgery faster and safer for patients. For example, the AC5 Surgical Hemostatic Device is being studied to see if it can one day provide a faster, more effective means of controlling bleeding during operations versus other common methods, such as cautery or the use of biomaterials.
This new device, created by Arch Therapeutics, uses AC5, which is made of a synthetic peptide, to safely and rapidly create a physical barrier in the nooks and crannies of tissue and promptly stop bleeding. Reduced fluid and blood loss during surgery can improve patient safety, free the surgical team to focus on other tasks, and lessen recovery time. Before your surgery, ask your doctor about medical innovations that may improve your outcome. Surgeon’s Credentials There may be few times in your life where reviewing a professional’s credentials is more important than when you are picking a surgeon. Luckily, there are many impartial, online rating sites for doctors and surgeons that can help you determine whether your doctor is the best fit for you -- from the years of experience they’ve had to their success rates. You may even consider getting a
second opinion on the necessity of surgery. Your health is in your hands more than you may realize. Be sure to seek out the best therapies available. You can help steer the direction of your healthcare with the right questions for your surgeon. (Statepoint)
FREE CLASSIFIED info@Austin SouthAsian.com
August 2015 Sudoku Answer Correct Answer: Jagdish Gajjar
Ketika Tyagi
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
This Star Kid Is In A Secret IT’S A FULL CIRCLE FOR AKSHAY KUMAR COMPLETING 25 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY Relationship With A Young Actress 25 years ago this month, a martial arts expert and chef from Bangkok with absolutely no film back-
called Saugandh. Today, he is one of the world’s biggest film stars, one of India’s highest paid actors and the biggest inspiration for strugglers. Self-made, Akshay Kumar is a man of class for the masses. For Akshay Kumar “Brothers” is extra special as he completes 25 years in the film industry this August with a film on mixed-martial arts, which is how he started his career.
ground, made his debut in a movie
He says “Brothers is very close to my heart, it means a lot to me, especially because it is a movie about Martial Arts, which makes it even more important for me.
The movie is releasing in August this year, which also coincides with me completing 25 years in the film industry and it means so much to me that this happens to be a movie about martial arts commemorating the accomplishment of my 25 years, when it’s because of my martial arts background that got me into the film industry in the first place. We’re literally going a full circle”
Meow in Mumbai: Meow finds this young hunk hot and dishy so she was thoroughly tickled to hear some exciting trivia about him.
Some idle rags had back then, linked cutie with her co-star, but that link-up was as true as the existence of fish on land.
One of the biggest contributors to the Indian film box office, Akshay Kumar’s thirst for cinema and pleasing his fans worldwide hasn’t died. The actor works as hard today as he did when he first made his debut, making around four projects every year.
ing to get launched next year, is in a happy relationship with a cutie who made her B-Town debut not so long ago.
Friends of the family, after downing some pink champagnes, revealed to Meow that the star kid who is wait-
Meow bets that you’re inspecting this like a confused wide-eyed jeweller who’s been given a half-eaten cheese doodle for appraisal!
Documentary On India’s Rajnikanth Fandom To Premiere At Venice Film Festival ANN ARBOR—When University of Michigan professor Joyojeet Pal studied the use of computers in a rural school in southern India, he noticed something odd—most of
the children he met wanted to be computer engineers, though they had little access to technology. Pal later discovered that the kids were fans of popular Indian actor Rajnikanth, who played the role of a computer engineer in one of his blockbuster action films. A year later, Pal read about a villager in the southern state of Tamil Nadu
who planned to climb more than a thousand stairs on his knees to pray for the success of a new movie starring Rajnikanth, who only uses one name.
Pal shared the news with Rinku Kalsy, a childhood friend and filmmaker in Amsterdam. Together, they went to see the villager and the idea of a film on fandom was born. “I wanted to find out more about these men whose devotion, obsession and fandom for the actor stopped at nothing,” said Pal, an assistant professor at U-M’s School of Information.
The documentary, “For The Love of a Man,” produced by Pal and directed by Kalsy, will premiere at the Venice Film Festival in September. Pal’s belief in the film goes beyond time and research—he has invested his life’s savings in the film that follows the fans of Rajnikanth, who has been in more than 600 movies. The actor is a 64-year-old balding man known to thousands of his fans as a beloved leader. His life is a true rags-to-riches story—he rose from bus conductor to India’s topearning film star. During some of his most successful years, he was the highest paid actor in Asia after Jackie Chan. Rajanikanth has made a career of playing the everyman in Tamil cinema. His characters are virtuous, and at times, they fight the system. His acting style has a dose of comedy, romance and action thrown together. There are more than 60,000 fan clubs dedicated to Rajanikanth,
and they span the globe from rural Tamil Nadu villages to cities in Japan. For the past four-and-ahalf years, Pal and his team have tracked the lives of some of these fans. Along the way, they found ordinary men who sold their homes to fund fan clubs, held prayer meetings for the success of the actor’s films, and even looked for wives based on whether they were Rajnikanth fans or not. Among the fans featured in the documentary is a peanut seller— Mani, a former gangster and a small-time local politician. But he is also a Rajnikanth fan and organizes events around the release of his films. Then there are people who make a living mimicking Rajnikanth songs, dialogues and dances. “The documentary shows us that there is no one way to be a fan. It is a look at the lives of real people to explore why they do what they do,” said Pal, the primary research-
er for the film. The fandom has grown on Pal as well. In fact, on his first date with his wife, the couple attended the opening of a Rajnikanth film. “It has worked out all right,” Pal said, laughing. The documentary won some early awards in India when Pal and Kalsy screened some portions for funding. In addition, Pal raised about $7,000 on the Indian crowdsourcing website Wishberry last year—funds that helped him finish the film editing. “I’ve enjoyed making this film,” Pal said. “I love telling stories about aspirations of people in contemporary India. It is the thread that ties all my work together, whether it is a research paper or a documentary.” After all the hard work, Pal said a world premiere at the Venice Film Festival feels great. “I would like to get a theatrical release for the film,” he said. “I want it to be accessible to everyone.”
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
5 Tips To Upgrade And Customize Your Next Vacation
There are numerous ways to see the world, so why not travel exactly the way you want?
Whether your ideal vacation is a luxury cruise, a sophisticated stay in a five star hotel, or a safari adventure, a bit more planning will help make your next escape perfectly suited to you, say experts.
Travel Designers.
To make your next vacation the most memorable one yet, the experts at Tully Luxury Travel are offering five travel tips:
have first-hand knowledge of your destination and provide you with full concierge-style service and advice. A travel agent also books hundreds
This style of travel offers a convenient way to explore the various wonders of a particular region, without the hassle of constantly packing and unpacking. 3. If you’re going on a cruise, try to arrive in your departure city a few days early.
“From lunch on the Great Wall of China to a breathtaking voyage through the Kenyan landscape, travel offers us many of the most exhilarating, enriching experiences of our lives,” says Mary Jean Tully, Founder and CEO of Tully Luxury Travel.
This will alleviate stress and jet lag, ease you into your holiday, and give you a chance to acquire a taste of the city from which your ship will depart. This will also guarantee you don’t miss your ship due to inclement weather, mechanical difficulty or an airline strike.
“And if you do your research, you can have remarkable travel experiences that are both convenient and comfortable.” Tully Luxury Travel is a global leader in luxury travel, offering high-end cruises through Cruise Professionals, safaris customized through African Dreams and tailored itineraries through Private
see a great many sights, consider ocean and river cruises.
1. Avoid booking luxury hotels and resorts online or with call centers. For better deals and better service, contact an experienced and specialized travel designer. They will
or thousands of rooms with various hotel properties all over the world. This enables them to get better deals for their clients. 2. If you want a stress-free way to
4. Don’t assume personal challenges, such as a disability or mobility issue, mean you can’t have the travel experience of a lifetime. Seek out specialized tour operators that can make even the most exotic and remote trips possible for you
and your family.
For example, agencies like Tully Luxury Travel work with unique tour operators to create accessible safari experiences available to travelers who may, for example, be visually challenged or undergoing dialysis treatment. 5. Plan wisely. If you know you must travel during a particular month, do your research to find out about local festivals and other seasonal attractions. The beginnings and ends of “high” travel seasons can also be less crowded and expensive. Find more tips, ideas and information about luxury travel at www. TullyLuxuryTravel.com. “With some keen planning, you can see the globe exactly the way you want at a price that’s within reach,” says Tully. (Statepoint)
How To Inspire Young Girls To Dream Big For parents, encouraging children to dream big is part of the job description. And while more doors are now open for women in historically male-dominated fields like science, technology and sports, for parents with daughters it’s more important than ever to drive home the “you can do anything” message.
from television to books to magazines, becomes part of her consciousness.
ing their dreams. Read the newspaper and talk about articles illustrating women doing great things.
Monitor what your daughter watches and reads, and encourage her to choose media with positive messaging, cultural value or a lesson.
Innovate Play Time The way children play can be very influential to their development and self-esteem, and toy makers
While you can’t be there all the time, when you’re together, you can do your best to steer the conversation in ways that inspire. The experts at VTech, an awardwinning electronic toy manufacturer that is introducing a revolutionary range of dolls for girls called Flipsies, are offering a few tips to help parents find ways that they can empower their girls to follow their dreams and aspire for more: Talk about It Everything your child consumes,
toys.
Be a Role Model
Parents can take advantage of new trends in toy design that infuse interactive technology with classic role play to encourage engaging, imaginative play.
Surround your daughter with positive role models. From her basketball coach to her teacher to you, children look to grownups for guidance and often model their behavior.
A new line of dolls and playsets, Flipsies, encourages young girls ages four and up to let their dreams shine and be anything they want to be, whether it’s a doctor, marine biologist, baker, rock star or veterinarian. Each of the eight dolls in the range has talents and big ambitions -from Eva, a pet lover who dreams of being a veterinarian to Styla, a confident DIY-er and aspiring fashion designer.
Together, look for shows and books that feature women follow-
are catching on that parents are looking for more in their children’s
The dolls wear a charm with special powers to “flip” their dreams into reality, encouraging girls with the message that they can do the same.
If possible, consider taking your daughter to your workplace or along on volunteer projects so she can see what you do during the day. Talk to her teacher about participating in a career day at school. For empowering activities, games, quizzes and webisodes for girls, and more parenting tips and resources, visit www.Flipsies.com. From the toys your child plays with to the media she consumes, you can inspire your daughter’s happiness and success by directing positive messaging her way. (Statepoint)
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
AADI Brings Pakistani Film Bin Roye To Austin
By Sumaiya Malik On Sunday, August 23, Pakistani film Bin Roye, starring Mahira Khan and Humayun Saeed, was screened in Austin in front of a full house. The movie viewing was the result of untiring effort of Austin Arts and Drama Initiative, a group of like-minded Austinites who love to enjoy the arts, have some fun and want Austin to have fun too. Bin Roye was released in twelve cities in the US, but Austin was not one of them. The Austinites were greatly disappointed and some even went to Houston to see the movie. That is when AADI decided that they needed to bring it to Austin. B4U, the distributor of the movie, were extremely helpful. I also reached out to Bala Kumar,
of Austin South Asian, to understand the process and AADI is thankful to him for giving them the information they needed.
AADI reserved the cinema, bought one screening of the movie from B4U, put up tickets online and printed some posters. They made an event on Facebook and asked their friends to add friends and word got out. Initially, they went for a smaller theater, but they were surprised by the over whelming response. About two weeks before the show, they upped the size of the theater, because they knew that they could
Aishwarya in Jazbaa
Aishwarya looks as good as she always did, but those eyes look so brimming with hysteria that it seems like melodrama’s just been building inside her, says Raja Sen. It’s been five years since we’ve seen Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in a film, and watching her back is unreal on many levels. She looks as good as she always did, but those eyes look so brimming with hysteria that it seems like melodrama’s just been building inside her, and Sanjay Gupta -- who better to poke an eye -- has brought it all out.The trailer for Gupta’s Jazbaa -a remake of the Korean film Seven Days -- sees Rai as a lawyer forced to defend a hardened criminal (Chandan Roy Sanyal playing it sleazy) but every shot of the actress forces those haunted-hamming eyes on us, as if to scare us from noticing the rest of the weak performance. Of course, there’s a chance Gupta has only focused on the most high-strung bits and that Rai has more subdued moments in the film, but from this first look it all seems overdone.
only do one screening. This was their first time. The movie began with whistles and claps from a mixed audience. AADI saw people of Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan origin. While AADI expected people from Austin, Round Rock, Pflugerville and Lakeway, they were delighted to see people drive from Waco, Leander, New Braunfels and Manor too. Three women from Waco called and asked us to reserve their seats. When I mentioned that we could not reserve their seats, they revealed that they had just found out and were going to drive to the theater from Waco! AADI worked with them to make sure they were able to watch the movie. Bin Roye has received mixed reviews, but the movie has generated so much interest that regardless of reviews, people who understand the language have gone out of their
way to see it at least once. The beauty of Mahira Khan and the story has mesmerized the audience. The editing is choppy, but the audience was willing to forgive that as it is after a very long time such a
graceful and classy movie has come out of Pakistan. Dr. Vina Mehta enjoyed the movie. She said, “Bin Roye was so colorful”. She added that the scenes and the sets were all worth looking at. Another viewer, Sonia Yusuf, thought Mahira Khan acted well. Others came out happy too and asking for more. I interviewed at least three people who after thanking us gave ideas of which movie to bring next. Pakistani cinema has undergone a
Meghana Gulzar Movie The first look of Irrfan in the film Nyodda was released recently. The film, which is based on the Aarushi Talwar murder case, will see Irrfan in a serious role of the lead investigative officer in the case. The film will showcase the real life incidents that occured in 2008 as the plot will revolve around the investigation. Directed by Meghna Gulzar, Vishal Bhardwaj has composed the tunes for the film. Tabu and Sohum Shah also play pivotal roles in the film. Meghna Gulzar’s film that was earlier titled Talwar will now be called Nyodda. The film is a fictional dramatisation of the Aarushi Talwar murder case which is still being investigated. Starring Konkona Sen Sharma, Irrfan, Tabu, Neeraj Kabi and Sohum Shah, the film has been produced by Vishal Bhardwaj and Junglee Pictures.
transformation ever since the heavy taxation on the movie industry in Pakistan has been reduced. Films like Waar and Bol were so good that the people started waiting for Pakistani films to come on DVD so they could watch them in USA.
This is the first time a Pakistani movie has had a public screening in Austin. It is a big feat for Austin and a feather in AADI’s cap.
‘Kabali’ Superstar Rajinikanth will sport a ‘salt and pepper’ look along thick white beard for his role as a gangster in upcoming Tamil drama ‘Kabali’. “Rajinikanth sir last week participated in the film’s photo-shoot. He was sporting salt and pepper look
along with thick beard,” a source from the film’s unit told IANS. Based on the story of a Chennaibased don, ‘Kabali’ will be directed by Pa. Ranjith, and have Radhika Apte playing a main role. The makers plan to release the first look on September 17, the day the project goes on floors in Malaysia.
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
GOURI HARI DASTAAN
The film is a heart-rending narration of a real-life account of Gandhian ‘Gour Hari Das’, a silent warrior, who relentlessly waded through endless obstacles, raised by India’s corrupt and inefficient system for 30 years, to prove his identity as a freedom fighter. Filmmaker Ananth Mahadevan brings to life an extraordinary tale (yet again after making Mee Sindhutai Sapkal) of a man’s determination and uncompromising pursuit of truth that provokes our conscience and releases us from the shackles of rising apathy, that’s spread like a pandemic. Gour Hari Dastaan not only salutes its unsung hero, but the resilience and indomitable spirit of people like him, who continue to hope, despite the adversities. As the film shuttles between past and present, you get a glimpse of Gour Hari’s early life, his tryst with the country’s freedom struggle and its repercussion. Without resorting to dramatic dialogues, it manages to mock the system in the most understated manner. Gour Hari, as a teenager willingly ran alongside steam engine trains to deliver secret messages to fellow revolutionaries for the freedom of his country. Sadly, he was forced to run from pillar to post as an old man, chasing government officials for a document (tamrapatra) that acknowledged his work. This incredible story of hope and despair inspires an otherwise dejected tabloid journalist (Ranvir Shorey, effective), who joins his battle.
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Austin South Asian | September 2015
Astothara Satha Sahasra (108,000 Shiva Lingas) Information Solutions Lingarchana, Maha Technology Rudrabhishekam & Maha Rudra Homa Mahotsavam 10/31/2015 and 11/01/2015 By Prof. Nanjunda Dikshit, India Om Sri Sai Ram! Shambhave Namah! Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba Devotees Welcome All to join Celebration of 90th year of Avatar’s Advent Maharudra Homa Sahita Astothara Satha Sahasra (108,000)Lingarchana. Sahasra Lingaarchana (worship of 1,116 Lingas) is a unique spiritual practice to adore Shiva Shakti. The Lingas are organized as Mahakailasa, the abode of Shiva-Shakti, as shown in the figure. Worshipping Gods and Demigods at 16 AvaraNas (entrances) one reaches the center or the source. Kailasa is the place where the mind is united with source (Shiva-Shakti) and in peace. The mind evolves and dissolves in 15 phases and at the 16th is one with the source within. The spiritual significance of this offering is to merge the mind into the source by transcending the 15 phases and emerge from the source.
Prof. Nanjunda Dixit:
Atirudra Maha Yajnam will be offered under the able guidance of Archak, Agama Praveena, Agama Chatura, Brahmasri, Professor B. S. Nanjunda Dixit, Bangalore, India. Professor Dixt is a well know Vedic scholar and a teacher. He officiated and conducted two (2) Ati Rudram Maha Yajnams in the divine presence of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba; at Prashanti Nilayam in 2006 and in Chennai in 2007. Professor Dixit has also conducted these Yajnas all over the world including Malaysia, Australia and other parts of the world.
This offering entails workship of 108 Mahakailasa Yantas totaling worship of 108,000 Lingas followed by Mahardura Homa (chanting of Sri trudram atlease 1,452 time along with Maha Rudrabishekam and a tenth as offering in sacred fire in 11 Homa kundas). We request all devotees to join this unique offering which is spirtitually befitting to commemorate the 90th year of Avatar’s advent to merge our minds in the source and emerge to Love all Serve All. The offering will be officiated by Prof. Nanjunda Dixit, India who conducted several Ati Rudra Mahayajna in the divine physical and omnipresence of Bhagawan Baba. He will be assisted by Chandra Sekhar Bodapati, Texas and Sekhar Boddupalli, California along with priests.
10/31/2015
Rudra Japam Laksha Lingarchana Maha Rudrabhishekam
11/01/2015
Maha Rudra Homam Organized by
Venue: Austin Hindu Temple and Community Center
9801 Decker Lake Rd. Austin TX 78724
Satya Prema Seva Foundation, Austin, Texas. (A Non-Profit Charity Organization) info@satyapremasevafoundation 404-518-4023/512-275-6628.
Visit: www.satyapremasevafoundation.org