Desi Express Magazine January 2015 by Desi Express Magazine

JANUARY 2015 WWW.DESIEXPRESSUSA.COM

Marriage on Superstar Salman Khan's mind for 2015? ... 56

Kajol reveals secrets to her young, beautiful and glowing skin ... 18

10 New year resolutions you should make this 2015... 16

Atlanta’s Pranathy Gangaraju crowned Miss India USA 2014 ... 40

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Afzal Mithwani Akbar Kassam Chugh Firm Mahadev Desai Shaunya Bhayani Indo-Asian News Service

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contents FITNESS & FOODIE: Sweet Good Byes … 12

HIGH TECH GRIP: Most Searched Online … 14

THE TRAVELER: Dubai Shopping Festival … 20

FINANCIAL NEWS: Key Age Milestones … 24

PERSONAL FINANCE: Tax Provisions … 26

IMMIGRATION NEWS: Executive Actions… 30

AROUND TOWN: Miss India USA … 40

AROUND TOWN: GAPI Regional Meeting … 42

AROUND TOWN: Ekal Vidyalaya Fund … 44

CHAI LOUNGE: Modi ‐ World Yoga Day … 48

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MOVIE BUZZ: Dolly Ki Doli releasing in Jan … 54

ASTROLOGY: KNOW YOUR FORCASTS … 58

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FITNESS & THE FOODIE

A lot of people are waking up to sugar addiction. It’s now time to sort yourself out of those cravings.

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Those who don’t already know, eating sweets (or sugar) has been termed as addictions. Some of us can understand just why. Especially if you can’t do without the 3 pm choco chip muffin from Starbucks, or the 6 pm red velvet cupcake from LPQ. And how you hate it that Subway always runs out of those cookies before it’s 1 pm! Well then, welcome to the world of sugar addiction! Expert opinion on why our body craves for more sweet is due to ‘phantom sugars’ we consume, in processed foods, bread and even in tetra pack milk. The deal is, the more your body gets sugar, the more it wants it. And that’s where some of us are now. This is bad for our skin, waistlines and overall health, as large amounts of sugar on a regular basis causes insulin resistance. So, what are the options? Apparently two. One, to ban refined sugar entirely and second, intelligent eating and reduced consumption of sugar and sweets. We’d recommend the second, because in small amounts, sweeteners cause no problems to most people, especially in natural forms like fruits. You could also get your hands on coconut sugar, also known as palm sugar, that comes from the sap of coconut flowers. A drizzle of honey is an option too. Fruits containing natural sugars, are great substitutes too. A homemade sorbet is a good way to fill sugar cravings without overdoing it on the white stuff.

Also blending fruits in yogurt, or half milk and half yogurt requires less or almost no sugar to be added to the smoothie. Another way to sweeten your treats is to use freshly made fruit pulp and sauces. Mashed and puréed dates and bananas are in fact used in some eggless cake recipes to good effect. Steamed sweet potatoes can also be added to chocolate desserts, but expect an earthy flavor.

Fruity desserts An easy to make treat is stuffed apples with oats. De-core apples and stuff them with oats, nuts, and a little honey for sweetness, and bake it. This treat is easy to make ahead and reheat. You could also dip fresh strawberries in chocolate and refrigerate it for a guilt-free treat. Baked Honey and Spice Yogurt:  Whisk together 125 ml yogurt, 1 tsp honey and 100 ml cream, to a smooth mixture.  Mix in 1/4 tsp cinnamon powder. Pour into shallow baking ramekins and bake in a water bath.  Bake at 180ºC for 20 minutes. Once cool, refrigerate overnight and serve cold.

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HIGH TECH GRIP

New Delhi (IANS) Furniture, fitness and fashion items attracted online shoppers most in the year that is ending, reveals a report. Junglee.com, search and comparison site for shoppers, has released its Online Shopping Search Trends Report 2014. The report analyses the key consumer online shopping search trends in 2014 based on customer searches on the site. “For our sellers, the report provides necessary data and analytics to be leveraged in making their businesses more successful in the online space,” Mahendra Nerurkar, general manager, Junglee.com, said in a statement. “While 2012 was about electronics, appliances and books; and 2013 was about the emergence of fashion; 2014 clearly marked the emergence of furniture, food as well as fitness, in addition to fashion, as categories that attracted immense customer interest,” he added. According to the report fashion categories moved up the ranking. Shoes, watches and jewellery became the top searched categories on Junglee in 2014. In apparel, the most popular searches were for anarkalis, saris and lehengas. The most searched celebrity designer in apparel was Manish Malhotra whose popularity grew by almost 12 times between January and November 2014.

For fitness items, though the category was launched in July 2014, the searches that it garnered showed some very interesting trends. Searches for specific equipment such as punching bags, crossfit equipment grew a huge 450 percent by the year end. The home, interiors and kitchen category was dominated by sofas, beds and wardrobes. Patio and outdoor furniture searches showed a growth in searches by five times.

For indoor plants category, the top searched category was bonsai, whose search volumes grew by five times in 2014, closely followed by bamboo plants. The top food categories searched were green tea and olive oil followed by dry fruits, honey and sweets.

In the western wear category, jumpsuits saw the biggest growth. In the shoes category, searches and interest in sport shoes have shown the biggest growth. Woodland, Puma, Lee Cooper and Nike were the most searched brands. Women’s pump shoes and stilettos saw the biggest spike over 2013 - a jump of nearly 2000 percent. 14

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PERSPECTIVE

HERE ARE 10 NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS YOU SHOULD MAKE THIS 2015:

1. Don’t judge people simply on their appearance it’s shallow, closed-minded, and plain mean. As cheesy as it sounds, everyone has unique attributes. Eliminate the word “ugly” from your vocabulary. Don’t judge. Be open-minded. It might take a while, but adopting this mindset will really bring positive light into your life this 2015. 2. Get outta your comfort zone. Do something different with your look. Not appearance, but demeanor. Change your style, fill up your closet with some new pieces, buy some crazy shoes, wear em, and don’t care what others think. 3. Slowly eliminate any bad habits, you might have such as smoking, drinking, eating out too much, staying up too late. These habits that are not only detrimental to your body, but also to your mindset. 4. Make a freaking bucket-list. Of anything and everything you want to do before you die. Whether they’re attainable or not, if you have them set in stone in front of you, chances are you will go and do them. 5. Show the ones you truly love, that you love ‘em. Do something sweet every once in a while, whether it’s going out to dinner with them, making something sentimental, or simply telling them you appreciate them. 16

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6. Rid yourself of social media anxiety. Who cares how many people like your instagram post, Facebook status, or picture? I know we are all guilty of this including me, and it truly messes with our heads. LIVE FOR YOU. 7. Put yourself first. Above everything. Make you happy. Don’t invest your entire being into someone, for you do not know if they will remain there forever. 8. Save your money. One of the worst feelings in the world is wanting to do something, but then looking at your bank account and cringing. Be frugal for a bit so you can be carefree later, yeah? 9. Find your niche if you haven’t already, I believe every individual on this earth has one talent or attribute that sets them apart. Whether it’s a talent, hobby, or passion. Find yours. Then manifest it. Embrace it. Bring it to life. 10. Pray. I know this is a controversial one, because there are so many different beliefs. But when I say pray, I don’t necessarily mean praying towards a certain religion or to God, but just sit down, rid yourself of any negativity, any remorse, anything destructive. And pray. For the good, for the best, and for the future.

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BEAUTY SECRETS

Kajol voices, "I truly believe beauty is a person's point of view. A lot of people are amazingly beautiful on the inside; when that confidence shines through on their faces; it's like 'Oh My God! I don't know what is it about this woman'. She's so attractive and it can't be her straight nose and fabulous lips. It has to be something beyond that. It's the expression in the person's eyes; the way a smile lights up her face; the way she looks at you; the way you react to her that makes you say... she's just fab!" USE PRODUCTS THAT SUIT YOUR SKIN Kajol, who has combination skin, like most Indian women, was using Olay products, long before she became the brand's ambassador, simply because it " suited her". Have you found something that suits your skin yet? KEEP IT SIMPLE Thrice a day that's how many times she washes her face. "I wake up in the morning and it's cleanser, serum, cream; cleanser, serum, cream; cleanser, serum, cream... my skincare routine is pretty much normal," says the light eyed star. 18

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EAT HEALTHY You have to figure diet into your beauty regimen", insists the part-Bengali, part-Maharashtrian, living in a Punjabi household, who is unlikely to turn vegetarian despite all its proclaimed benefits. GET SOME SLEEP While most of us wind down from a hectic day by whiling away our time watching TV into the wee hours of the morning, we have to admire the discipline of someone who sleeps, "at least 8-10 hours a day, mostly 10". WATER WORKS We know the water rule, but do we follow it? Kajol does. "I ensure that I drink at least 8 glasses of water a day," she states for the record. WORK OUT In Kajol's words, "The gym is my sacred space. I weight train for between an hour to an-hour-and-a-half everyday. I take a day off when I don't feel like working out, not because it's a Sunday or a holiday". REMOVE MAKE-UP We know that she's definitely not following the 'sleep-in make-up' trend, when she insists, "Do not go to sleep with your make up on; this is a very big no-no". LOVE THE SKIN YOU'RE IN Kajol shares her thoughts on education, superwoman, Bollywood heroines and more, while her glowing skin belies her age, except for when she smiles and the laugh lines crinkle into focus, her candor hints at the maturity of a woman comfortable in her skin. Unprovoked bursts of laughter and tongue-in-cheek comments sneak edgewise into her business-like responses to the series of interviews slotted out for her. FOR ADVERTISING CALL 404-246-3256

THE TRAVELLER

The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) 2014 is being touted as the biggest ever Dubai experience to await fans of retail therapy and entertainment The Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), and organizers of the 20th edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), have announced the Calendar of Events for the much-awaited milestone edition of the festival, which will take place from 1 January to 1 February, 2015, under the special theme “A Journey of Celebrations”. DSF, which was launched in 1996 based on the vision of His Highness, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai to position Dubai as a family tourism destination, has grown to become one of the biggest shopping extravaganzas and the longest running festival of its kind in the world – attracting millions of visitors from around the world each year. DSF annually attracts on an average 4 to 4.5 million visitors with a total spending of AED 15 billion (Approx USD 4 bn). From 1996 to 2014, DSF has attracted approximately 56 million visitors with a total spending of AED 145 billion (Approx. USD 40 bn) whether it was for shopping, hospitality or on entertainment. On the special occasion of DSF’s 20th anniversary, DFRE has taken the festival’s three pillars of Shopping, Entertainment and Winning to a completely new level. Unveiling the DSF 2015 Calendar of Events, Her Excellency, Laila Mohammed Suhail, 20

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CEO, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, an agency of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), said: “In announcing this Calendar of Events for the 20th edition of Dubai Shopping Festival, we at DFRE take immense pride in the fact that DSF has reached a pinnacle in its extraordinary journey through the years. Dubai Shopping Festival has truly set a benchmark in the global festivals industry and made a huge contribution to the emirate’s economy by energizing the retail sector and helping to boost various other sectors. The success of the festival can be measured by the huge increase in visitor numbers since it was launched in 1996 till 2014. “The festival’s 20th edition is indeed a huge achievement for Dubai and is befitting of the honour bestowed on the emirate this year by the International Festivals and Events Association, the world’s leading trade association for events, that saw Dubai being crowned as the World Festival and Event City for the third time. The DSF 2015 Calendar of Events is a line-up of over 150 events and activities that will be spread far and wide across the city at key DSF destinations. Leading the 20th anniversary line-up of excitement will be a number of family-friendly events, amazing musical concerts and dazzling fashion events. The DSF Orchestra led by 75 members of the world-class Welsh National Opera (WNO) Orchestra will kick off the 20th anniversary celebrations, in addition, a series of rewarding raffles, promotions and shopping discounts will ensure countless life-changing moments for both visitors and residents. FOR ADVERTISING CALL 404-246-3256

FINANCIAL NEWS

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PERSONAL FINANCE

From tax credits and educational expenses to the AMT, many of the tax changes affecting individuals for 2014 were related to the signing of the American Taxpayer Relief Act (ATRA) in 2013--tax provisions that were modified, made permanent, or extended. With that in mind, here's what individuals and families need to know about tax provisions for 2014. Personal Exemptions The personal and dependent exemption for tax year 2014 is $3,950. Standard Deductions The standard deduction for married couples filing a joint return in 2014 is $12,400. For singles and married individuals filing separately, it is $6,200, and for heads of household the deduction is $9,100. The additional standard deduction for blind people and senior citizens in 2014 is $1,200 for married individuals and $1,550 for singles and heads of household. Marriage Penalty Relief The basic standard deduction for a married couple filing jointly is $12,400. Income Tax Rates In 2014 the top tax rate of 39.6 percent affects individuals whose income exceeds $406,750 ($457,600 for married AFZAL MITHWANI CPA, EA, PFS (P) 770-817-7000 (Q) 770-817-7001 afzal@univisioncpa.com

taxpayers filing a joint return). Marginal tax rates for 2014--10, 15, 25, 28, 33 and 35 percent--remain the same as in prior years. Due to inflation, tax-bracket thresholds increased for every filing status. For example, the taxable-income threshold separating the 15 percent bracket from the 25 percent bracket is $73,800 for a married couple filing a joint return. Estate and Gift Taxes In 2014 there is an exemption of $5.34 million per individual for estate, gift and generation-skipping taxes, with a top tax rate of 40 percent. The annual exclusion for gifts is $14,000. Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) AMT exemption amounts were made permanent and indexed for inflation retroactive to 2012. In addition, non-refundable personal credits can now be used against the AMT. For 2014, exemption amounts are $52,800 for single and head of household filers, $82,100 for married people filing jointly and for qualifying widows or widowers, and $41,700 for married people filing separately. Pease and PEP (Personal Exemption Phaseout) Pease (limitations on item deductions)

and PEP (personal exemption phase-out) limitations were made permanent by ATRA (indexed for inflation) and affect taxpayers with income at or above $254,200 (single filers) and $305,050 for married filing jointly in tax year 2014. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) Flexible Spending Accounts are limited to $2,500 per year in 2014 and apply only to salary reduction contributions under a health FSA. The term "taxable year" as it applies to FSAs refers to the plan year of the cafeteria plan, which is typically the period during which salary reduction elections are made. Specifically, in the case of a plan providing a grace period (which may be up to two months and 15 days), unused salary reduction contributions to the health FSA for plan years beginning in 2012 or later that are carried over into the grace period for that plan year will not count against the $2,500 limit for the subsequent plan year. Further, employers may allow people to carry over into the next calendar year up to $500 in their accounts, but aren't required to do so. Long Term Capital Gains In 2014 taxpayers in the lower tax brackets pay zero percent on long-term capital gains. For taxpayers in the middle four tax brackets the rate is 15 percent and for taxpayers whose income is at or above $406,750 ($457,600 married filing jointly), the rate for both capital gains and dividends is capped at 20 percent.

No Rendering of Advice : The information contained within this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for obtaining accounting, tax, or financial advice from a professional accountant. Information presented does not intended to create, and does not constitute, an accountant-client relationship. Readers are advised not to act upon this information without seeking the service of a professional accountant. Any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this article is not intended to be used for the purpose of avoiding penalties under U.S. federal tax law. Accuracy of Information : While we use reasonable efforts to furnish accurate and up-to-date information, we do not warrant that any information contained in or made available through this article is accurate, complete, reliable, current or error-free. We assume no liability or responsibility for any errors or omissions in the content of this article.

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IMMIGRATION NEWS

1. Immigration Court Reforms. There will be a package of immigration court reforms that will include qualification of accredited representatives and ineffective assistance of counsel issues. Humanitarian Visa Announcements

Based on a briefing on 11/20/14 by the White House, the following is a summary of the elements expected to be part of the Administrationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s announcement of executive actions on immigration. Our understanding is that details (and memos) are still being worked on at this time. Many items are still unclear, and the merits of many may not be known until the details are disclosed. Some will require regulations, but others can be done by memo. HERE ARE THE PRINCIPAL COMPONENTS AS WE CURRENTLY UNDERSTAND THEM: Family Based Immigration Announcements Two deferred action initiatives that combined are estimated to benefit 4.4 million: 1. Deferred Action for Parents (DAP). Parents of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (of any age) who have been continuously present since 1/1/10, and who pass background checks and pay taxes, will be eligible to apply for deferred action, which will be granted for a 3-year period. The plan is to stand this up within 180 days (for applications to be accepted). Note that parents of DACA recipients are not eligible. 2. Expansion of DACA. DACA will be revised to get rid of the age cap, and to change the date that continuous presence must have started to 1/1/10. It also will be granted for 3 years (including those with pending renewal applications). Ready in 90 days. Removal/Deportation Announcements 1. Pending Proceedings. There will be a review of cases currently under proceedings to see who is prima facie eligible for the relief stated in this program, and those cases will be closed.

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1. U/T Visas. Three more types of offenses will be added to the list of offenses for which DOL can certify for U status. No specifics were available regarding which offenses will be added. T visa eligibility may also come into play with respect to DOL. Waivers and Advance Parole I-601a Waivers. The provisional waiver will be expanded to include spouses and children of LPRs. The definition of extreme hardship will be expanded and clarified. Advance Parole. There will be a new advance parole memo that will address the issues raised in Matter of Arrabally-Yerrabelly and make clear that CBP should honor the advance paroles issued by USCIS. Parole in Place. PIP will be expanded to include families of individuals trying to enlist in the armed forces. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Frankly, what we're most concerned about right now is that people will be taken advantage of by notarios and unlicensed consultants who will use this announcement to try and scam people. The reality is that no new application forms are available yet and the guidelines that will determine eligibility aren't yet finalized. Don't let someone ruin your chances for possible benefit; seek qualified counsel for these important decisions." The Chugh Firm.

Announcements Relating to Business Immigration will be Followed on next issue. The Chugh Firm 2310 Parklake Dr, Suite 525 | Atlanta, GA 30345

Direct 770.881.9216 | Main 770.270.1860 | Facsimile: 678.412.4667

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DESI AWARDS 2014

APARNA BHATTACHARYYA Community Service

RICKY WALIA Entrepreneur of the Year

SADAF FAROOQUI Poetess of Atlanta

The Desi Express Entertainment Awards are presented to honor personalities who have contributed significantly to the South Asian Community in Georgia in their respective fields with a combination of Fashion Awards. Congratulations to all the Desi Award Winners. The information presented here is for entertainment purposes only and no copyright infringement is intended. Desi Express Magazine does not endorse anyone or charge fees of any kind for the awards presented. All images are copyright to their original owners and no infringement is intended.

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BHISHM OZA Singer of the Year

MUSTAFA AJMERI Community Service

AMEET LILANI Favorite DJ of the Year

“

SHIV AGGARWAL Philanthropist of Atlanta

“ I developed the idea of the Global Mall for two main reasons. Firstly, to promote the Indian culture in a professional, clean and exciting manner Secondly, to bring the South Asian community together under one roof

“

ROHIL VIRANI

and offer a unique space to meet and greet. ” ~ Shiv Aggarwal

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DESI AWARDS 2014

ZAKERA CHARANIA Beautiful Smile

SHAVETA JAIN Beautiful Personality

SANAM AZEEM

SHEETAL CORREIA

USHMA DESAI

Beautiful Host

Beautiful Eyes

Beautiful Face Credits:- Photography: Atin Majumdar, Belsi Jewellery by Riddhi Fazal, Hair & Makeup: Yasmin Hetherington, Outfit: Ladlee, Dunwoody Place Apartments

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IMARAN ALI

SAHIL BAJAJ

Model of the Year

Outstanding Achievement

REHAN HAMRANI

NAZIR & SAIMA NOORALI

NIZAR CHHATRIWALA

Favorite Radio Host

Beautiful Family

Social Media Impact

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DESI EXPRESS MAGAZINE 37

AROUND TOWN

ATLANTA’S PRANATHY GANGARAJU CROWNED MISS INDIA USA 2014

Riya Kaur from New Jersey was crowned Miss Teen India USA and Namita Dodwadkar of Massachuseets was also crowned the First Ever Mrs. India USA in the same pageant. In a glittering function organized on December 14 at the Royal Albert’s Palace, Fords, New Jersey, Pranathy Gangaraju of Georgia was crowned Miss India USA 2014. Miss India USA is the oldest running Indian pageant outside of India. The thirty third annual pageant was organized by the New York-based IFC, headed by Dharmatma Saran, Founder and the Chief Organizer of the Pageant. Pranathy, 19, is a student majoring in Film Acting and Production. Her hobbies include dancing, singing, writing and swimming. She was crowned by outgoing queen Monica Gill. Pranathy will represent USA in the Twenty Fourth Annual Miss India Worldwide Pageant, also organized by IFC, to be held in Goa, India in the summer of 2015. Monica Shah, 24, of Florida and Angela Nand, 27, of Hawaii, were respectively declared first and second runners up among 21 contestants from various parts of the country, in the gala event attended by over five hundred people. The other two five finalists were Nisha Kamaldani from New Jersey and Shivali Marwaha from Virginia. Riya, 15, is from New Jersey and she would like to become an actress or a doctor. She was crowned Miss Teen India USA among eighteen other contestants. The first runner up in Teen was Karishma Malhotra, 15, from New York and the second runner up is Harika Talluri, 16, from New Hampshire. The other two finalists were Shavi Sikaria from Washington State and Nicky Kandola from Virginia. The sub contest winners in Teen section were – Karishma Malhotra from New York – Miss Talented, Harika Talluri from New Hampshire – Miss Photogenic, Nidhi Patel of Georgia – Miss Congeniality and Akila Narayanan of Massachusetts – Miss Facebook. The pageant started with a stunning performance by all the contestants led by the outgoing queen Monica Gill choreographed by Shilpa Jhurani. The top ten contestants from Miss section then amazed the

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audience with their talent which included Bollywood dances, Indian classical dances, singing and karate. In the Miss section Amritha Mangalat from New Hampshire was awarded Miss Talented. Winners of the other various sub-contests were Aamy Kuldip of Illinois – Miss Photogenic, Nandini Aiyer of New York – Miss Beautiful Eyes, Rupinder Raj of New York – Miss Beautiful Skin, Nisha Kamaldani of New Jersey – Miss Beautiful Hair, Angela Nand of Hawaii – Miss Congeniality, Pranathy Gangaraju from Georgia – Miss Beautiful Smile, Monica Shah of Florida – Miss Bollywood Diva, Angela Nand of Hawaii – Miss Catwalk, Nandini Aiyer – Miss Facebook and Angela Suresh of Washington State – Miss Popularity. Dharmatma Saran, Chairman & Founder, presented an appreciation plaque to Mr. H. R. Shah, Mr. Albert Jasani, Mr. Satya Shaw, Ms Nishi Bahl and Shilpa Jhurani for their support in organizing this year pageant. “I am very thankful to the Indian community for its support through the years,” said Dharmatma Saran, “and especially thankful to H.R. Shah and Albert Jasani for supporting the pageant.” Ruchika Arora, state director of the New England area won the State Director of the Year award and was also presented a plaque. Stacy Issac – Miss India USA 2001 and Roshi George – Miss FOKANA were emcees for the function and Nishi Bahl dwas the choreographer. The panel of judges included Dr. Ravi Jhagirdar – President of AAPI, Satya Shaw a cultural activist from Florida, Dr. Binod Sinha – a medical doctor from Edison, Susmita Patel – celebrity make up artist and Ines Hernandez a fashion designer from Dominican Republic. The crowning was followed by a lavish dinner and dance.

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AROUND TOWN GAPI ATLANTA REGIONAL MEETING SHOWCASES EDUCATION, PHILANTHROPY, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, POLITICAL ACTIVISM & HUMANITARIANISM

Georgia Association of Physicians of Indian Heritage (GAPI) held its Atlanta regional meeting on December 13th at the Impact Hall in Global Mall, which was well received by more than 100 attendees. The occasion was graced by the chief guest Mr. Srinivasan, India’s Commercial and Political Affairs Consul for the Southeast USA, Dr. Manoj Shah, President of Medical Association Georgia (MAG), and many other notable community healthcare leaders. The meeting agenda was unique with a wide range of topical topics from education, philanthropy, entrepreneurship to financial management. Dr Manoj Shah, the current MAG President & a past GAPI president, began his keynote address by thanking GAPI president Dr. Indrakrishnan for his strategic leadership in transforming GAPI to a more active & vibrant organization with community leaders participation. He informed the audience that, 7200 members strong, MAG is a leading advocacy organization that will prioritize its work on physician autonomy, transparency in the healthcare insurance, and medical malpractice tort reform and increase the healthcare access in underserved areas. GAPI board meeting was presided by GAPI President Dr Indrakrishnan and attended by past presidents, Board of trustees & Board of directors which included Drs Manoj Shah, Yogesh Joshi, Arvind Gupta, Sudha Tata, PB Rao, Dilip Patel , Sudhakar Jonnagalada,& Tarun Gosh. Dr Joshi presented a proposal on the management of Endowment Trust Fund for trustees' consideration. Membership drive & planning of the annual convention for 2015 were also discussed in detail. Dr. Indran Indrakrishnan, President of GAPI, in his welcome speech congratulated Dr. Manoj Shah for becoming the first president of Indian Origin of Medical Association of Georgia. He further apprised the audience of GAPI’s educational, philanthropic, humanitarian, political, entertaining and social activities in the last eight months in Atlanta and other regions of Georgia. Chief guest Mr. R. Srinivasan spoke about the current status of the Indian healthcare industry, which has registered a double-digit growth in the last few years,

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the trends, and the available areas of opportunity for investments in India. He highlighted on medical tourism, cost comparisons, success rate of surgeries and the professional competence of the healthcare industry in India. He assured the availability of his good offices and the Consulate for facilitation of investments in India. As part of the continuing philanthropic activities related to health care, GAPI Board of trustees recently voted unanimously to donate money Lydia House, a nonprofit organization in Augusta caring for women with cancer and BAPS Health fair of Swami Narayan Temple in Lilburn, GA. As the concluding event of this regional meeting, Dr Bipin Chudgar, the founder of Lydia House received the check for $4000.00 and Mr. Sanjay Pandiya & Mr. Jayanthibhai Patel received the check for $4000.00 behalf of BAPS Health fair. Drs Sreeni Gangasani & Yogesh Joshi presented the checks on behalf of GAPI board of trustees. Dr Naresh Parikh , past GAPI president & present AAPI Treasurer in his speech complimented Dr Indrakrishnan for his hard work & dedication since he became a president early this year. He thanked Dr Indrakrishnan for elevating GAPI’s esteem and status to a much higher status than it was before. Dr Parikh briefed the attendees about the concerted efforts to confirm the nomination of Dr Vivek Moorthy as the first US surgeon general of Indian origin. Dr Indrakrishnan thanked the Chief Guest, speakers, volunteers, sponsors & all the attendees for making the 2014 Atlanta Regional meeting a successful & memorable one. The meeting ended with sumptuous dinner catered by Ashiana Restaurant.

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“SHAAM-E-SANGEET” RAISES FUNDS FOR 100 EKAL VIDYALAYAS (SCHOOLS) IN INDIA Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of USA’s “Shaam-E-Sangeet” program was held at the Impact Center of the Global Mall, Norcross, Georgia, on Sunday December 7, 2014. The program which showcased Atlanta’s well known, altruistic and popular Geet-Rung School of Dance and Music’s talented artists’ delightful presentation of old classics, ghazals, new upbeat numbers and a vibrant grand finale was well attended by the music-lovers of Atlanta who vied with each other to donate a record number of schools in one night! Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation (EVF) is a non-profit organization which opens, supports and runs non-formal, oneteacher schools (vidyalayas) for the disadvantaged and neglected tribal and rural children of India. By providing free basic education, healthcare, vocational training and social empowerment Ekal is bringing about far-reaching changes in rural India. Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of India is the largest grassroots non-government education movement and has grown into a People’s movement with chapters in Australia, Canada, Dubai, New Zealand, United Kingdom and United States (42 chapters). Geet-Rung had woven together myriad colors into the show: karaoke, singing with live instruments, riveting dances and vintage song medleys. On the stage, beautifully decorated by 5th Season, Atlanta’s proficient vocal artists, Pankaj Bhargava, Vandana Upadhyaya, Mahesh Patel, Indrani Danave and Muhi, were accompanied by skilled Tabla player, Dr. Nitin Mayur. At this event, Geet Bhargava (son of Pankaj and Divya) marked his delightfully impressive debut on the keyboard to his father’s seasoned harmonium playing. Divya and her well-trained dance students, Ananya Munjal, Akshita Sharma, Rachna Sahasrabuddhe and Anushka Pal presented captivating dances with gulaal and diyas. The final medley which brought the audience to the dance floor had ever-green favorites like Ude Jab Jab Zulfein Teri,

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Mach Gaya Shor, Jai Jai Shiv Shankar and ended with a garba to the fast beats of Nagade Sung Dhol Baaje! The evening ended with the audience dancing with abandon, very appropriately, to Kehte Hain Humko Pyaar Se Indiawaale! Ekal’s slide show, presented by Rachna Gupta, highlighted the one-teacher school model which exists in all the Indian states, from Kashmir to Kerala, on an annual donation of only $365 providing basic education to nearly 20-30 students during the week and empowering the village adults through its saptahik paathshaala, or Sunday classes. Ekal currently runs 54,366 schools benefitting 1.52 million students, with an almost equal boy-girl ratio. With the 100 schools sponsored at this hugely entertaining night, Ekal, with its focused and dedicated officers and volunteers is slowing but surely inching towards its goal of 100,000 vidyalayas. Shiv Aggarwal, Atlanta Chapter President and Chander Aggarwal, Regional President gratefully thanked all the sponsors, donors, volunteers and supporters for lending a helping hand to Ekal. Shiv said they were not merely sponsoring a school but were actually engaged in nation-building because their support was going to bring all-round development in far flung villages in India. Rotary Club of Lake Spivey was recognized as a long-time supporter which has a “matching program” much like the program that some of the larger US corporations have. Other clubs and organizations were also urged to join hands with Ekal to make it a much stronger movement. All sponsors get a tax-deductible receipt and can track the progress of their school or donate at www.ekal.org. All in all, it was a well-organized, exuberant and much appreciated program in the festive month of December for a very worthy cause!

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CHAI LOUNGE MAKE IN INDIA TO BE HIGHLIGHTED AT PBD, 3,000 DIASPORA TO ATTEND New Delhi (IANS) The Modi government's key programs, including Make in India, would be highlighted during the Jan 7-9 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) being held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, that is expected to see around 3,000 Indian diaspora attending. The annual PBD is being held in Gandhinagar to mark the centenary of the return of the "sarva sreshtha pravasi Bharatiya" or foremost Indian diaspora member, Mahatma Gandhi to India from South Africa, said External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj who is also minister for Overseas Indian Affairs. PBD is the world's largest annual gathering of people of Indian origin aimed at enhancing networking and reinforcing commercial linkages. There are 25 million people of Indian origin residing outside India. On a proposal to grant voting rights to NRIs, Sushma Swaraj said that they are examining several suggestions, including having Electronic Voting Machines placed in embassies during elections, allowing proxy voting or having the diaspora member to come home to vote. "There is no decision yet, we are thinking of a solution," she said. An exhibition on Mahatma Gandhi and his contribution to India's independence would also be inaugurated besides other events to mark the centenary of Gandhi's return to India.

WORLD IS NOW LISTENING TO INDIA: MODI - WORLD YOGA DAY Varanasi (IANS) The UN decision to declare June 21 as World Yoga Day was proof that India's voice was now being heard, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Thursday. Speaking at the Banaras Hindu University here, Modi also asked Indians to grab the global opportunities coming their way and said that he wished to see India exporting good teachers to other countries. Hoping that India becomes a 'Vishwa Guru' one day, the prime minister said he had requested the United Nations in September to declare a World Yoga Day. "Within 100 days, 177 countries became co-sponsors to this proposal which itself is a world record," he said to thunderous applause. This, he added, was a changed situation when whatever India said was taken seriously on international forums. Asking theatre and social groups to encourage people to be clean and spread awareness about issues like hunger and female foeticide, Modi said he felt ashamed to hear about children going hungry in a country like India where even stray animals were fed. He urged schools in Varanasi to spread knowledge on the holy Hindu town's rich culture and eminent personalities like Kabir and Tulsidas as well as its famous ghats along the Ganges.

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CHAI LOUNGE ALL POLICE STATIONS IN HYDERABAD ON FACEBOOK Hyderabad (IANS) In an attempt to move closer to people, Hyderabad police has now become accessible on Facebook, the popular social networking site. The office of the police commissioner and all police stations on the city have opened Facebook pages as a part of the Telangana government's vision to transform state police into a citizen friendly and responsive force. The local police stations can also keep local communities informed of the initiatives and actions taken by them from time to time on a real time basis in terms of crime prevention, crime detection, maintenance of law and order, surveillance over crime and criminals, citizen grievance redressal and emergency response management.

VIVEK MURTHY: THE PIO TASKED WITH GUIDING AMERICA TO A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE Among the many remarkable things about Dr Vivek Hallegere Murthy's confirmation as America's top doctor, formally known as the SurgeonGeneral of the United States, is his relative youth. At 37, he will by a long shot be the youngest Surgeon-General in the office's 144-year history that has seen only 18 incumbents before. In fact, he is so young that some lawmakers tasked with confirming him wondered if his ten-year medical experience qualified him for the job in the time of Ebola and other crises, even though he is a "double graduate" prodigy from Yale, earning an M.D from the School of Medicine and an MBA from the School of Management in 2003, and is currently teaching at Harvard Medical School.

WI-FI MORE IMPORTANT THAN GOOD A NIGHT'S SLEEP FOR TRAVELERS When looking for the perfect hotel, its Wi-Fi service is the most important factor, according to new research. A survey on important factors when searching for accommodation revealed that 67 per cent of travelers are most concerned with Wi-Fi, above any other factor. The internet connection ranked higher than the hotel's location, a good night's sleep and friendly staff. According to the study, carried out by London's Amba Hotel, 67 per cent of those questioned said that free Wi-Fi would make them more likely to choose accommodation, beating 65 per cent, who would judge a hotel on location. When rating a hotel that they'd already stayed in, 60 per cent of travelers believed unlimited Wi-Fi was the important factor. Just 58 per cent cared most about a good night's sleep and only 40 per cent was bothered about hotel staff that were friendly and knowledgeable.

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MOVIE BUZZ

Crazy Cukkad Family RELEASE DATE: JANUARY 16, 2015 STARRING: SWANAND KIRKIRE, SHILPA SHUKLA, ZACHARY COFFIN, NORA FATEHI Mumbai (IANS) Filmmaker Prakash Jha has joined the world of Twitter, seemingly to promote his next production, a comedy film "Crazy Cukkad Family". His page mostly features retweets of the film's trailer, and updates on how many views it has received. Starring actors like Shilpa Shukla and Kushal Punjabi, the film is directed by Ritesh Menon. Jha received a welcome tweet from Amitabh Bachchan and Arjun Rampal. Arjun tweeted: "A big shout out to one of my most fav person @prakashjha27 welcome to the world of Twitter. Show him love and you will get loads back." The filmmaker is known for hitting on socio-political issues via movies like "Gangaajal", "Apaharan", "Raajneeti" and "Aarakshan".

Mumbai Can Dance Saala RELEASE DATE: JANUARY 02, 2015 STARRING: ASHIMA SHARMA, RAKHI SAWANT, PRASHANT NARAYANAN, ADITYA PANCHOLI, SHAKTI KAPOOR Mumbai (IANS) Rakhi Sawant says she doesn't have any limitations as an actress and doesn't mind exposing herself. Rakhi, who shot to fame with the item song "Mohabbat hai mirchi" over a decade back, is now tied up with promotions of her forthcoming film "Mumbai Can Dance Saalaa". But she said that she wasn't getting projects for some time and that she doesn't mind exposing herself to survive in the industry. "The movie has Rakhi playing a prominent role.

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Dolly Ki Doli RELEASE DATE: JANUARY 23, 2015 STARRING: SONAM KAPOOR, RAJKUMMAR RAO, PULKIT SAMRAT, VARUN SHARMA Mumbai (IANS) Filmmaker Abhishek Dogra says he was confident that Sonam Kapoor can pull of "Dolly Ki Doli" well because she deftly balances meaningful cinema and commercial movies. "Sonam has got two sides of hers. One is the fashionista and urban image. But at the same time she is doing films like 'Raanjhanaa' and 'Mausam'. I was quite convinced that she could carry anything on her shoulder," said Dogra. "All the films that she has done from 'Ayesha' to 'Mausam' to 'Raanjhanaa' all have been of different variations and I was sure she would be able to pull off 'Dollyâ&#x20AC;Ś' as well, it needed that earthiness, which I did get," he added. When the film comes out, he feels the audience would get to see interesting elements in the movie. the Arbaaz Khan production venture also features Rajkumar Rao.

Tevar

RELEASE DATE: JANUARY 09, 2015 STARRING: ARJUN KAPOOR, SONAKSHI SINHA, MANOJ BAJPAYEE Mumbai (IANS) Amit Sharma doesn't like to call his directorial debut "Tevar" a remake. He says that it should be seen as an adaptation of the original film "Okaddu" because it took him months to complete the script. "For me, the biggest challenge was to cast Manoj Bajpayee, I wanted only him for my film. So I pursued him to do the role. I took a script with eight scenes and asked him to say yes," said Sharma. "Sonakshi is one of the most brilliant actors. The best part about her is that she can just change into anything within minutes... that's magical. She is very hardworking and there are no tantrums at all," said Sharma. FOR ADVERTISING CALL 404-246-3256

BOLLYWOOD BUZZ

AT 58, ANIL KAPOOR STILL FEELS 'POWER OF YOUTH'

NARGIS FAKHRI LIKES TO CAPTURE INDIA'S HISTORIC LOCATIONS

New Delhi (IANS) Actress Nargis Fakhri, who loves travelling and clicking selfies, says the country is full of locations worth capturing. On a recent trip to the capital, Nargis clicked her selfies with the Lodhi tomb in the backdrop as part of the Romancing India with Lumia 535 campaign. She was thrilled to be part of it as it brought together two of her passions travel and selfies. "There is so much to capture across the country, from the historic India Gate and Taj Mahal to evergreen popular haunts such as Leopold café and Koshy's," Nargis said in a statement. The campaign was announced by Microsoft Mobile Devices, inviting youths across the country to capture the essence of India. It aims at chronicling iconic landmarks and popular spots across the country through selfies and showcasing these to the world.Nargis will post selfies from popular hangout spots and iconic sites and challenge her fans to post better selfies on Facebook and Twitter. Participants can, in turn, nominate and challenge their own friends to join 'Romancing India with Lumia 535'. MARRIAGE ON SALMAN KHAN'S MIND FOR 2015? Mumbai (IANS) Superstar Salman Khan, who is often called Bollywood's most eligible bachelor, says in the New Year, he'd rather see himself getting married than doing a movie starring the three Khans together. Salman was present at the Big Star Entertainment Awards 2014 in Mumbai. Here, he was asked about what would he like to see happening in 2015, whether Salman Khan getting married or Bollywood's three Khans, Salman, Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan doing a film together. To that, the "Dabangg" star said: "I would rather see myself getting married than the three Khans doing a film together." 2015 WILL BE YEAR OF CHANGE FOR ME: PRIYANKA CHOPRA Mumbai (IANS) Actress Priyanka Chopra, who has turned producer this year, says in the New Year she will enter into more interesting ventures. "Next year I am entering into some new interesting ventures... when it comes to my music, when it comes to my company and a few things that I am doing. So, I think for me 2015 will be a year of change, a year of evolution and I am excited about the new things that I am taking on," Priyanka said. She has signed a one-year TV development deal with US-based ABC Television Studios. On the home ground, she is set to turn a producer with “Madamji", to be helmed by National Award-winning director Madhur Bhandarkar.

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New Delhi (IANS) Anil Kapoor, who turned 58, has been roped in to endorse Dabur Ratnaprash, a power-packed formula that fights fatigue and keeps people active all day long. A new commercial, starring Anil, has marked the launch of the latest offering by fast moving consumer goods company Dabur India Ltd. Its tagline is ‘Feel the Power of Youth’. It shows Anil dancing to the tune of popular song "Badtameez dil". The commercial communicates the message that Dabur Ratnaprash helps rebuild strength, stamina, vigour, vitality and energy. “This marks a first for Dabur and for the healthcare industry in India. Consumers have always sworn by the health benefits of Dabur Chyawanprash," Dabur India Ltd category head-health supplements Ajay Parihar said in a statement. "We are now offering the same immunity and health benefits of Dabur Chyawanprash while enriching it with ingredients like Moti, Kesar, Musali, amla and Brahmi to give you all-day-long energy and vigor,”

PM NAMES COMEDIAN KAPIL SHARMA FOR SWACHH BHARAT ABHIYAAN

Varanasi (IANS) Popular stand-up comedian and host Kapil Sharma was named by Prime Minister Narendra Modi among nine people and organisations to take forward the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan. The prime minister inspected the progress of work at Assi Ghat in Varanasi, where he began the mission in his parliamentary constituency Nov 8. Earlier, Modi named actors Kamal Haasan, Priyanka Chopra, Salman Khan and the team of popular TV serial "Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta Chashma" to spread the message of his Clean India campaign countrywide.

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WHAT’S YOUR RASHI? Aries: March 21 to April 20. You are in the mood to socialize, travel, explore, learn new things, network with others, and to pursue leadership roles. Some of these things clash with each other and others team up beautifully. You are unhappy with your leadership style. You seem to be the only person that is noticing that you are not living up to whatever standards you have set for yourself. You are not being hammered by others at work or within your community; you are the only one harshly judging you. You can travel and have fun if it is a social adventure, but not as a loner.

Taurus: April 21 to May 20.

This month could be a bit confusing for you. You have some excellent opportunities to earn profits through professional activities as long as they do not involve the Internet and/or groups of people, like teams, clubs, committees, associations, etc. You can socialize and networking with these groups, but do not mix your financial goals with these social groups. These relationships have a magical quality to them, but they are also capable of being extremely dysfunctional. It’s easier to socialize with them and leave the money out of it.

Gemini: May 21 to June 20. You are trying to be open-minded and accepting of other people’s needs and beliefs, but you are still struggling with some deep trust issues involving your finances or romantic relationships. Chances are good that a friend, teammate, colleague, and/or Internet entity is causing this drama. You are not imagining it. To make matters worse, your partner or a rival is unhappy with your reputation, leadership style, boss, father, or professional path. Still, you have fun with friends when money and love are not involved and you are doing great professionally as long as your partner or rival stays out of the picture.

Cancer: June 21 to July 22.

A partner or rival is still unhappy about your professional situation. You and your coworkers are dealing with legal, cultural, political, long-distance shipping, and/or education related issues causing a slowdown in productivity levels. And yet, you are able to boost profits and negotiate for better benefits as well as find ways to broker peace talks with partners and rivals. Things are stressful, but you have it under control.

Leo: July 23 to August 22.

You have these huge financial or romantic trust issues making it difficult to goof off and have fun. You also have some big issues involving education, travel, politics, religion, and/or legal matters causing problems for you and your coworkers. However, when you join forces with your romantic, social, and/or business partner, you are able to maneuver your way through all of these various topics without any trouble at all. As a dynamic duo, you are unstoppable, but alone, you are crashing into immovable brick walls. It is no wonder that you decide to forge some kind of a new partnership or a new agreement within an old partnership.

Virgo: August 23 to September 22.

You are very productive this month and getting a lot done professionally and around the house. You are also in a position where you can work to earn more money too. Unfortunately, a romantic, social, or professional partner is unhappy with someone or something in your home life

JANUARY 2015 and/or a rival is trying to create havoc in your home life or they are using your love of home and family against you in an effort to make you look bad. Keep working hard and eventually it will work itself out.

Libra: September 23 to October 22. Trouble is brewing at work and you may find that telecommuting helps you to avoid having to get mixed up in all of the mess. You and a romantic, social or business partner have not been getting along, but you will have some opportunities to have some fun together and reconnect on a happier note. Despite being really busy, you may find that this is an excellent time to work on health issues and to begin a doctor-approved fitness program.

Scorpio: October 23 to November 22. You are able to get your household budget in alignment with your efforts to fix things up around the house. You get a lot of work done and enjoy creating an environment that you can really look forward to coming home to. You are also able to have fun with loved ones, spend time on your hobbies, and enjoy some playtime activities. However, you do have to be careful that you do not blow your budget on these extracurricular activities. The money is there for household improvements and budgets but not really for splurging on toys and playtime stuff.

Sagittarius : November 23 to December 21.

You are in the mood for having fun and hanging out with local friends and relatives. That is not a new thing but what you have to watch out for is when they start arguing about religion, politics, academia, cultural issues, etc. You have never been really good at suffering fools. Still you love them and find ways to pick and choose who you are and are not in the right frame of mind to socialize with. You are also getting a little ticked off about something or someone in your home or private life. You might be a little too pushy on this one and might need to be a little more open to hearing what they have to say. However, if they are truly dysfunctional, then by all means take the leadership role and start creating the changes you want.

Capricorn – December 22 through January 20. While you are working very hard to choose the right words and to express yourself, there appears to be issues with many of the people in your private life either accusing you of dysfunctional or secretive agendas or they simply misunderstand your meaning and then attack you for what they think you said rather than hearing what you actually meant to say. And yet at the same time, you are able to communicate beautifully when trying to negotiate financial and business matters. It is only those in your close personal life that do not comprehend what you are saying.

Pisces: February 19 to March 20. You can socialize, network, and spend time working on online activities. However, you cannot spend any money doing so. This has been an ongoing thing for years now and you are somewhat used to it by now. There will be time later in the year when these two areas of your life are not clashing with each other. In the meantime, you can work on your finances, your career, and try to get your boss to see why you want to be able to follow your spiritual and ethical beliefs while also earning a living. At times, he or she will think you are a flake, but you can still make progress in this area.

* All astrological predictions are to be considered friendly advice based on the author’s personal opinions and used for entertainment purposes only. These are not to be considered as promises, guarantees, or psychic predictions. They are simply potentials to be used at the reader’s own discretion. For important decisions, consult your personal intuition, doctor, accountant, lawyer, educator, or clergy as needed. It is best to be informed on all levels.

Aquarius: January 20 to February 20. Over the last few years, you have had an ongoing problem concerning your financial goals clashing with your social life and/or Internet activities. This month, you are feeling quite social and ready to mingle, mixing business with pleasure. You can conduct business meetings and sales meetings for work, but you cannot mix these social events with your own personal finances or you will pay a lot more than you expect to. Money will slip through your fingers if you are not careful.

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