Get Outside and Celebrate National Trails Day
(NewsUSA) – This year, on June 4, millions of people across the United States will hit the trail, any trail, to celebrate the 30th annual American Hiking Society's National Trails Day.® This year's celebration focuses on encouraging novice and veteran trail lovers to come together to leave trails and the outdoor community better than they found them. Hikers, cyclists, horseback riders, paddlers, trail clubs, federal and local agencies, land trusts and businesses will partner at events across the country to forge a more inclusive trail community and advocate for, maintain and clean up trails and public lands.American Hiking Society and the nationwide trails community invite people of all ages and abilities to connect with their friends and neighbors around the joy of being outside. Anyone can join the national movement by giving back to the trails to help ensure that everyone can enjoy the outdoors."There's something magical about being outdoors," says Kate Van Waes, Executive Director of American Hiking Society."Fresh air, birds singing, moving along a trail, or even just around the block; there's nothing quite like it," she emphasizes. "But today, those trails and green spaces are in dire need of help, and not everyone has access to or feels welcome in these places that can calm and inspire," Dr. Van Waes explains."National Trails Day is the perfect opportunity to get out there with the people you love, give back to the trails that bring us together and make sure no one is left out."Not just on National Trails Day, but any day is a great time to commit to keeping the outdoors accessible and restorative for all.Some ways you can make a difference include:- Join a local trail event, or start your own. Search the American Hiking Society website for events in your area.- Take the National Trails Day Pledge, and commit to leaving the trail and the outdoor community better than you find them. For example, take a trash bag with you on a walk or hike. Or speak up and tell your Members of Congress to support the Transit to Trails Act. You'll be entered to win prizes from National Trails Day sponsors AKHG by Duluth Trading Co., Athletic Brewing Co., REI Co-op, Osprey Packs, and more.- Share how you'll leave the trail and the outdoor community better than you found them, and tag #NationalTrailsDay and @AmericanHiking on social media. Photos and videos tagged on Instagram will be entered into the National Trails Day® photo contest for a chance to win premium gear prize packages.Visit americanhiking.org for more information and to find events near you.American Hiking Society's National Trails Day® is made possible by the generous support of corporate sponsors — AKGH by Duluth Trading Co., Athletic Brewing Co., REI Co-Op, and Osprey Packs. federal partners include the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, Federal Highway Administration, and U.S. Forest Service.Photo credit:Verónica Miranda
Siete maneras de mantener una presión arterial saludable durante el embarazo
(NewsUSA) – ¿Está embarazada o planeando un embarazo? Es hora de pensar en su presión arterial, incluso si nunca ha tenido presión arterial alta. Aproximadamente la mitad de las complicaciones en el embarazo, como tener un bebé prematuro, están relacionadas con la presión arterial alta. Las complicaciones en el embarazo también aumentan el riesgo de desarrollar una enfermedad cardíaca años más tarde. Pero muchas complicaciones en el embarazo se pueden prevenir.Usted puede comenzar su embarazo con una presión arterial saludable de menos de 120/80 mm Hg, pero aun así desarrollar un tipo de presión arterial alta que ocurre durante o justo después del embarazo. Una es la hipertensión gestacional, definida como presión arterial de 140/90 mm Hg o mayor. Por lo general, ocurre después de 20 semanas de embarazo o cerca del parto.La preeclampsia es una combinación de presión arterial alta que se desarrolla después de 20 semanas de embarazo con otros signos de que sus órganos no están funcionando bien, como niveles altos de proteínas en la orina. Los casos graves pueden conducir a convulsiones o coma potencialmente mortales, una afección conocida como eclampsia.Aquí se presentan siete maneras de ayudar a mantenerlos a usted y a su bebé a salvo de los problemas relacionados con la presión arterial alta. 1. Hable con su profesional médico.Incluso si aún no está embarazada, saber si tiene presión arterial alta puede ayudar a determinar si corre un mayor riesgo de desarrollar complicaciones relacionadas con el embarazo. Trabaje con su profesional médico a fin de hacer un plan para un embarazo saludable. Esto incluye hablar acerca de lo siguiente:
Continue Reading: Siete maneras de mantener una presión arterial saludable durante el embarazo
Seven Ways to Support Healthy Blood Pressure During Pregnancy
(NewsUSA) – Pregnant or planning a pregnancy? It's time to think about your blood pressure, even if you've never had high blood pressure. About half of pregnancy complications, such as having a preterm baby, are related to high blood pressure. Pregnancy complications also increase your risk of heart disease later in life. But many pregnancy complications can be prevented.You may begin your pregnancy with a healthy blood pressure of less than 120/80 mm Hg, but still develop a type of high blood pressure that occurs during or right after pregnancy. One complication is gestational hypertension, defined as blood pressure 140/90 mm Hg or greater. It typically occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy or close to delivery.Another condition is preeclampsia, a combination of high blood pressure that develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy with other signs your organs aren't working well, such as high protein levels in your urine. Serious cases can lead to life-threatening seizures or coma, a condition known as eclampsia.Here are seven ways to help keep you and your baby safe from problems related to high blood pressure.1. Talk to your healthcare provider.Even if you're not yet pregnant, knowing if you have high blood pressure can help determine if you're at higher risk for pregnancy-related complications. Work with your provider to make a plan for a healthy pregnancy. This includes discussing:
Continue Reading: Seven Ways to Support Healthy Blood Pressure During Pregnancy
American Legion Auxiliary Honors Military on National Poppy Day
(NewsUSA) -Memorial Day is approaching, and with it comes a simple opportunity for everyone to honor past military personnel — wear or display a poppy. The simple red poppy flower has symbolized the ultimate military sacrifice since World War I, and National Poppy Day is gaining more attention in the United States every year.National Poppy Day falls on the Friday before Memorial Day, which this year is May 27.The choice of a poppy was inspired by the poem, "In Flanders Fields," written by Canadian Lt. Col. John McCrae, M.D., while serving on the front lines in World War I in Europe. Since then, the poppy has become a symbol to raise awareness and recognize the sacrifices of military personnel and their families.The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA), a community of volunteers serving veterans, military, and their families, adopted the poppy as its memorial flower in 1921, and, in 1924, in conjunction with The American Legion, instituted the national Poppy Program. Each year, American Legion Auxiliary volunteers distribute millions of poppies, especially on veteran-related holidays."National Poppy Day is a time for Americans to come together and show their support for our servicemembers and veterans by wearing a red poppy — an unforgettable and historic symbol of remembrance, sacrifice, and hope," says Kathy Daudistel, ALA national president."The American Legion Auxiliary is proud to make and distribute poppies each year for this solemn tradition. I invite communities across the country to join the American Legion Auxiliary to honor the fallen and support the living by wearing a red poppy on Friday, May 27."Everyone can participate in National Poppy Day to honor the fallen and support the living. Wear a poppy or a poppy-themed item, such as a pin, T-shirt, bracelet, or even a poppy sticker, and tell people what it means. Share poppies with friends, family, and colleagues. Accept a poppy if you see American Legion Auxiliary members distributing the special flower. Poppies are never "sold," but donations are encouraged.All donations received are used by the American Legion Auxiliary to support veterans, active-duty military personnel, and their families with medical and financial needs.Visit poppydayusa.org for more information about National Poppy Day. Visit ALAforVeterans.org for more information about the American Legion Auxiliary.
12 Things You Need to Know Before Betting The 2022 NBA Finals
(NewsUSA) – The matchups are yet to be decided, but here are 12 facts you should know before placing your NBA Finals bets. Some of these little-known facts and figures can be the keys to placing winning bets. But keep in mind, betting lines are subject to change. Online sportsbooks such as BetUS.com update their NBA odds regularly.
* The winner of Game 1 has claimed the title in 14 of the last 20 NBA Finals.
* The home team has won Game One in 15 of the last 16 NBA Finals, excluding the 2020 championship, which was played on a neutral court. That trend could continue, so keep an eye on the NBA lines once the Finals are decided.
* The team with home-court advantage has also won the championship in 14 of the last 20 NBA Finals. Golden State will have home-court advantage no matter its opponent. Dallas would have homecourt advantage over Boston but not Miami.
* Since the NBA Finals MVP was first awarded in 1969, only two players — Joe White (1976) and Chauncey Billups (2004) — are among eligible players on the outside looking in at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The other 51 are either enshrined, still active or waiting to become eligible. That means the MVP will be: Steph Curry (+225), Jayson Tatum (+250), Jimmy Butler (+550) or Luka Doncic (+650).
* The East has not had consecutive titles from different teams since Detroit and Chicago won back-to-back championships in 1990 and 1991. The winner of Miami and Boston will try to end that streak after Milwaukee won last year.
* The last time a team outside the top two seeds represented the West was the 2012 Mavericks, who won the title vs. Miami as a No. 3 seed. The last time a No. 4 seed did the same? The 2008 Mavericks, who lost the championship series to Miami. Could we see a rubber match?
* The 2008 Celtics were the last No. 1 seed from the East to win a title without LeBron James on their roster. Miami has a chance to change that.
* The last three head coaches to win NBA titles — Nick Nurse, Frank Vogel and Mike Budeholzer — were all first-timers. Golden State's Steve Kerr has three titles, and Miami's Erik Spoelstra has two, while Dallas's Jason Kidd and Boston's Ime Udoka are in search of their first rings as head coaches.
* The average NBA Finals score has leveled out since skyrocketing to 236 points per game in 2017. Averages were about 217 PPG in both 2018 and 2019 before dipping to 214.5 in 2020 and sneaking back up to 221 in 2021. Keep an eye on the totals (or over/unders), as anything outside that range may give you a leg up.
* Dallas finished 6-2 in the regular season vs. the three other remaining teams. Golden State went 4-4, Boston 3-4 and Miami 2-5.
* How long will the series last? History says six games is the most likely result. Since the 1976 merger, six series have been 4-0 sweeps, 10 have ended in Game 5 and eight have finished in a do-or-die Game 7. The other 22 went six games.
* Titles have been relatively even between the two conferences. The West holds a 26-24 advantage over the last 50 championship series, and the last 10 are split evenly at 5-5.
Smart bettors read between the lines, and keeping these twelve little-known stats, facts and figures in mind when laying your NBA Finals bets this year should improve your odds of making a profit as we send this year's NBA season off to the history books.
Turning 65: What to Consider When Selecting a Medicare Plan
(NewsUSA) – Approaching age 65 can be an overwhelming time for many newly eligible Medicare beneficiaries. When can you begin to enroll? Which plans should you consider? What do you need to know?Here's some information that can help.You have a seven-month window called the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) to sign up for Medicare benefits, which begins three months prior to the month you'll turn 65. You are first eligible to receive Medicare coverage at the start of your birthday month. If your current benefits end once you turn 65, it's important to begin researching and comparing your Medicare options early to make sure there's no gap in your coverage.There are several different types of Medicare plans available:* Medicare Part A (hospital) and Medicare Part B (medical)o Administered by the federal government, Original Medicare includes Parts A and B that provide hospital and medical coverage. For most people, Part A is free, so it's important to evaluate your options as soon as you become eligible for Medicare.* Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage)o Offered by Medicare-approved private insurance companies and can be considered an "all in one" alternative to Original Medicare. These plans include all the coverage provided by Medicare Part A and B, and some may include additional benefits like prescription drug coverage, routine dental, vision and hearing care, and innovative offerings such fitness programs, healthy food debit cards for those who qualify and transportation benefits to help you get to doctor's appointments.* Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Plans)o Original Medicare doesn't cover most prescription drugs, so you'll need to sign-up for a stand-alone prescription drug plan (PDP) if enrolled in Original Medicare. These Part D plans are offered by Medicare-approved private insurers, like Humana.* Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap)o Like Medicare Advantage, these plans are offered by private insurance companies and may help pay some of the healthcare costs that Medicare Parts A and B don't, like coinsurance, copayments or deductibles.When selecting a prescription drug plan, you'll want to make sure the medications you're currently taking are covered and compare their costs across different plans. Some plans also take steps to help save you money, like Humana for example. They suggest generic or lower-cost equivalent drugs to their members when they're available. And when it comes to costs, look beyond the monthly premium and consider the additional out-of-pocket costs. Always evaluate the full cost of the plan, including co-payments or co-insurance, and the deductible as well as which pharmacies are in network.While the many plan options can seem overwhelming, there are resources available to help you choose Medicare coverage that best suits your needs. The Medicare Plan Finder on Medicare.gov allows you to easily compare the benefits and costs of different plans. Other resources on sites such as Humana.com include helpful information to consider in shopping for plans like Physician and Pharmacy finders to help you see if your providers are in a plan's network. While planning ahead is helpful, rest assured that, as your needs change, you can change your plan during the Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plan Annual Enrollment Period, which goes from October 15th to December 7th each year.Medicare-eligible individuals can visit www.Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227), 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Additionally, you can learn about Humana Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans by going to www.Humana.com/Medicare, www.Humana.com/pdp or calling 1-800-213-5286 (TTY: 711) to speak with a licensed sales agent from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO, PDP, and PFFS organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal.
BookTrib's Bites: Loss, Lies, Betrayal, SciFi Thriller, Southern Saga
(NewsUSA) "All We Have to Believe In"
by Jeffrey LousteauA captivating story of love and loss, of betrayal and redemption, set against the backdrop of America in the 1920s. Edward Dooley is a disillusioned veteran of the Great War who comes home to San Francisco, struggles to fit into a fast-changing society, and falls in love with the daughter of immigrants who is as headstrong as he is idealistic.Beneath all the glamour of the dazzling decade, however, xenophobia is taking hold, prosperity is undone by greed, and Prohibition proves morally bankrupt. Told with compassion and rich in historical detail, the themes of this story continue to resonate today. Says one reviewer, "Will pull at your heartstrings and make you nostalgic about an era long forgotten." Purchase at https://amzn.to/3wocIPU. "A Good Lie"
by Roberta TemesCould you perpetuate a devastating lie and never reveal the truth to your daughter? Louie plans to.Could you withhold a shocking secret from your new spouse? Suzie plans to.Catastrophe occurs after a quiet Midwestern family receives flawed medical advice concerning psychotic postpartum depression. This psychological novel takes you from 1960s Iowa to 1980s New Jersey. You'll root for Laurie, the desperate, lonely teenager who is intrigued by a cult leader, and you'll probably root for Dot, the voice of reason and common sense, but will you root for the struggling dad, or the devious psychotherapist, or the strong woman who defies society's expectations?Families are complicated; good people may do bad things, and bad people may do good things. Are family secrets always harmful? Purchase at https://amzn.to/3tyReOy. "Dusted by Stars"
by G.A. MatiaszThis far-future science fiction adventure thriller is a rollicking space opera with a touch of fantasy. Set in the universe of the author's previous books, Stacy Jones is a small-time contractor and proud citizen of socialist Mars. But she barely makes ends meet as an independent starship pilot and freight hauler. When Stacy takes a commission to transport the mythical sangrael possessed by the legendary Medea Ae?tes, she unknowingly puts her life and livelihood at risk.Stacy teams up with Kryz, a diminutive Rarj, to battle thieves and hijackers across a galaxy swarming with aliens and riddled with danger. Together they maneuver through bar brawls and mercenaries, armed seizures and dogfights, suicide attacks and death squads to protect her precious cargo. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3Nbnq2c. "Exiled South"
by Harriet CannonThis book "rips the cover off traditional Southern sagas and takes you on a riveting international journey exploring the hidden trauma and deep wounds of three generations following the Civil War," says author Eleanor McCallie Cooper.School counselor Lizbeth Gordon returns home to South Carolina after her husband's sudden death. But the quiet life doesn't last. An elderly aunt has troubling family stories: a blockade runner hunted as a traitor after the fall of Charleston, and ancestors who disappeared during Civil War Reconstruction.We're taken across continents when Lizbeth takes a job at a school in Rio de Janeiro, where she meets a descendant of Confederate exiles, with the Gordon surname and nineteenth-century documents. Can the keys to generations-long secrets open a path to family reconciliation? Purchase at https://amzn.to/3DaZasp.NOTE: BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.
Celebrate 10 Years of California Avocado Month this June
(NewsUSA) – Ten years ago, the California Avocado Commission first observed June officially as California Avocado Month and is excited to continue celebrating this long-standing tradition. As an ode to the past ten years, the Commission has enlisted the culinary talents of Southern California-native Chef Nyesha Arrington to create delicious and seasonal recipes that prominently feature California avocados, which are grown by about 3,000 California avocado growers with groves from San Diego to Monterey.Arrington has been celebrated throughout her career for using farm fresh, locally and responsibly sourced ingredients, which made her the perfect partner to craft customized dishes for this celebratory anniversary."It's hard narrowing down the recipes when California avocados have countless possibilities! However, I love when they are paired with complementing flavors. These California avocados definitely hold their own by leveling up any dish and giving an extra wow factor, making it a California chef's key ingredient," Arrington says.Meticulously cared for and picked at their peak, California avocados are a heart-healthy superfood that provide "good" fats to one's diet. Inspired by how the bountiful flavor and nutrition pair perfectly, Arrington's Grilled California Avocado & Peach Salad showcases fresh and light flavors perfect for those warm summer nights. The recipe features fresh California avocados and peaches, grilled to perfection, layered on a bed of arugula and crispy quinoa, then paired with a tangy and delicious pistachio-arugula vinaigrette.To view other mouthwatering creations, including Arrington's California Avocado Crab & Tuna Stack, or to learn more about California avocados, visit CaliforniaAvocado.com.For even more celebration, check out Shop.CaliforniaAvocado.com to grab this season's newest merch just in time for California Avocado Month.Grilled California Avocado & Peach SaladRecipe created by Nyesha Arrington for the California Avocado CommissionServes: 4Prep time: 35 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 65 minutesIngredients
Continue Reading: Celebrate 10 Years of California Avocado Month this June
NFL Week One Odds Released: Bronco's Host The Seahawks
(NewsUSA) – The 2022-23 NFL season kicks off Thursday, Sept. 8, as a marquee matchup headlines several intriguing matchups. Here is a look at what you can expect.
Game of the WeekBuffalo Bills (+1) at Los Angeles Rams (-1)The season kicks off September 8th in a game featuring the defending Super Bowl champions facing the current AFC favorites — and the tightest opening point spread of Week One, with just a single point separating the teams.The Rams will begin their title defense when they host the Bills in primetime on Thursday night. With two of the league's best arms — Matthew Stafford and Josh Allen — and a gauntlet of weapons, you can expect a high-scoring battle between two of the NFL's top eight scoring offenses from last year. BetUS.com has the total (or over/under) pegged at 52.5 at press time.
Continue Reading: NFL Week One Odds Released: Bronco's Host The Seahawks
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Five Benefits of Financial Planning for Women
(NewsUSA) – Women often juggle many important duties. They are caregivers, business owners, household managers, community leaders and volunteers. Balancing these varied responsibilities often affects their financial needs and outlook, and it can present some challenges to reaching their personal and financial goals.Working with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM professional can provide some clarity for women who may feel overwhelmed or uncertain about their finances. CFP® professionals are trained to provide competent, ethical financial advice and can be trusted advisors who help you see the bigger financial picture.Here are five benefits of holistic financial planning for women.1. It alleviates financial stress. Changes in employment, family circumstances or housing are just a few of the things that can cause concerns about your financial future. A CFP® professional can help you weather these ups and downs, recommending sound financial strategies that keep you on track to reach your goals.2. It supports career transitions. Many women take time off from their careers to care for children and family members. Millions of others may be reevaluating their current jobs against their needs and values, potentially leading to a career change. These decisions have important implications for your income, earning potential and retirement savings. A CFP® professional can help you clarify your priorities and plan for your next career move.3. It helps your business thrive. If you own a business (or would like to), a CFP® professional can collaborate with you to create a financial plan to guide you through the start-up phase, company growth and expansion, and succession planning.4. It lets you determine your legacy. Estate planning is important for all women, but especially those who have considerable assets, such as real estate, insurance policies and retirement accounts, to bequeath. A CFP® professional can help you develop a thorough estate plan that fulfills your financial desires.5. It gives you confidence in your tomorrow. Creating a holistic financial plan that helps you establish short- and long-term life goals is a crucial step in mapping out your financial future. When you have a strategy and a financial plan, it's easier to make financial decisions and stay on track to reach your goals.Visit LetsMakeAPlan.org to find CFP® professionals in your area. A trustworthy financial advisor will help you focus on your needs and concerns and effectively manage your financial future.
Six Strategies to Maximize Your Salary Increase
(NewsUSA) – Many employers are finding ways to reward their loyal and productive employees with salary increases. A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional can offer guidance and strategies for how to maximize your salary increase. Think of this windfall not as an excuse for frivolous spending, but as an opportunity to line up your money with what matters most to you, says Karl Frank, CFP.®"With a little planning, a salary increase can become an opportunity to make a long-term impact in your quality of life," Frank says.Some smart uses for the new funds coming in include:1. Retirement security. If you have not started saving for retirement, a salary increase is the perfect opportunity. If you have already started saving for your golden years, directing more of your salary into your retirement accounts moves you further ahead.2. Long-term goals. Do you have an event on the horizon, such as a wedding, home purchase or dream vacation? Create an investment account and divert some of your pay increase into it.3. Debt elimination. A salary increase can be the ideal way to pay down or pay off lingering debt, whether from student loans, mortgages, car purchases, or overused credit cards.4. Emergency fund. Whether or not you already have an emergency fund, you can use your pay raise to add to it. "Usually, six months to two years of your living expenses are reasonable amounts of money to keep in safe, very low- or zero-interest, accounts at a bank," Frank says.5. Career development. Setting aside the money from a salary increase to invest in your career can pay off with even greater financial benefits and higher pay. Consider opportunities for certification or an advanced degree in your field that might take you to the next level. Seeking a career change? Setting aside money from a salary increase can help bridge the gap if you decide to switch to a different field, start your own business or take time off.6. Fun! Spending a salary increase carelessly can be easy, but if you create a budget and mindfully dedicate some of your salary increase to activities you value and enjoy, whether that's gym memberships, sports events, concerts or travel, you can improve your quality of life now and in the future.To learn more about ways to maximize your salary increase to reach your financial goals, visit LetsMakeAPlan.org.
BookTrib's Bites: Fascinating Characters and Sound Advice
(NewsUSA) "Lady Editor"
by Melanie Kirkpatrick Sarah Josepha Hale was the most influential woman in America for half a century. As editor of "Godey's Lady's Book," Hale was the leading cultural arbiter for the growing nation. Women (and many men) turned to her for advice on what to read, what to cook, how to behave, and — most importantly — what to think. She used her powerful pen to promote a woman's right to an education, to work and to manage her own money.There is hardly an aspect of nineteenth-century culture in which Hale did not figure prominently as a pathbreaker. Americans' favorite holiday — Thanksgiving — wouldn't exist without Hale. "Lady Editor" recreates the life of this major historical woman, whose career as a writer, editor and early feminist encompassed ideas central to American history. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3ArTLeq. "Almost Happy"
by Dr. Brian Kaplan and Hephzibah KaplanIt's a proven fact: We are healthier and happier when we are laughing. Not only is laughter good for our body, mind and spirit, but it can also help us face the uncomfortable challenge of dealing with our personal difficulties."Almost Happy" provides practical and accessible ways to use humor to effect change. Reverse psychology can provoke us to discover, own and enact authentic solutions to many of our issues. Are you ready to read a book that will gently tease you about your issues? Some 114 original buttons and provocative suggestions are offered with a twinkle in the eye and affection in the heart. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3iQFBf6. "Bars for Days"
by Mic NickelsIn this generational time capsule, the author vividly describes his experiences growing up alongside the hip hop revolution and into the dawn of the Information Age. He recounts early struggles being raised by a single mother affected by the 1980s drug epidemic, his coming-of-age experiences pursuing a career as a rapper and musician, and his travels to exotic destinations such as Egypt, Peru, Japan and Cuba; Nickels provides brilliantly lucid glimpses into times past."Bars for Days" is an inspiring human-interest story which encapsulates the relentless drive of an aspiring musician. Interactions with celebrities from the underground hip hop community provide entertaining anecdotes. But the true story lies in his commitment to family, becoming a long-distance father and dealing with unexpected loss. Purchase at https://amzn.to/31o8E4V. "Leaders: And What They Need"
by CW5 Issac D Smith Jr."Has the role of the 21st century leader changed? And if so, in what way? This book approaches these questions through a distinct lens. It teaches people how the life of an army soldier includes lessons that can be equally applied to working individuals in the corporate world.While in the army, the author took charge of multiple leadership roles. He learned that, at the very core, all these functions are similar, and reaching your full potential takes commitment and relentless hard work. Being a great leader is not only about the things you say but the actions you take. This book will help you discover new ways to bring out the best in your employees, coworkers or students. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3E9FODL.NOTE: BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.
BookTrib's Bites: Unsung Hero, Kids Fun, Covid Theory, Fair Pay
(NewsUSA) "Honor Through Sacrafice"
by J.L. Doucette"A man can fight if he can see daylight down the road somewhere," said President Lyndon B. Johnson. "But there ain't no daylight in Vietnam — there's not a bit." As he said that, he was committing the first U.S. ground combat units and initiating a massive bombing campaign in North Vietnam. Unaware of Johnson's misgivings, Gordon Lippman dutifully entered Vietnam as an Infantry Division executive officer.Lippman was the man soldiers wanted to follow, a stud from small-town America destined to become a leading member of "The Greatest Generation."This is a sweeping story on the broad landscape of twentieth-century compromise, accommodation and conflict, from the allied war in Europe to the forgotten victory in Korea to the televised dinnertime war in Vietnam. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3Gtv4BD. "Xavier Marx and the Missing Masterpieces"
by Hilary Genga and Sean CroninWhen shy Xavier goes on a field trip to an art museum, all he wants to see is Vincent van Gogh's "The Starry Night." But suddenly the museum's masterpieces go missing and Xavier must figure out where the paintings went, who took them, and why.This fun mystery's whimsical rhymes and joyous pictures take readers on a dazzling journey of discovery. Featuring art from children around the world, this book is a treat for all ages. Get ready to let your curiosity soar. The book includes a real-life treasure hunt hidden within the pages, with a $10,000 prize. This treasure hunt benefits the International Child Art Foundation and proudly features works from child artists around the world. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3nR9azI. "And The Sky Fell"
by Justin C. Denton"Somebody's playing a game with us," says General Beringer in War Games. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many questions have been asked: Who is responsible? Where did the virus come from? What happened in the Wuhan Institute of Virology? Why did this happen? And more.In this book, many of the dots are connected, and the navigation buoys are anchored and ready to steer you through this most terrible fact-filled account of the proceedings that have caused the event. The entire world has been played and is the victim of crimes against humanity. This book will inform, make you think and help you understand the event that continues now and in the foreseeable future. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3nHBOTP.
"Leveling the Paying Field"
by Rick GillisFor anyone who takes home a paycheck, is seeking a new job opportunity or carving out their own career path, here's the opportunity to take pay parity into your own hands. Several books exist on the topic of fair pay, but none offers an individual approach to achieving fair pay such as "Leveling the Paying Field."Author Rick Gillis has created a rich new metric for measuring the value of the work you produce which he calls the QTNT® (pronounced: 'quotient'). Your QTNT score can then be used to reasonably and realistically challenge your current rate of pay. Not only can equal pay for equal work ultimately be realized, but proper pay for outstanding performance becomes the new normal. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3All21g.NOTE: BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.
Bet on Veterans for Manufacturing Jobs
(NewsUSA) – Manufacturing companies continue to struggle to find skilled employees, but they may be overlooking the perfect talent pool — veterans.Veterans generally possess the skill sets, both hard and soft, and the personality to make them desirable hires in any field.In fact, veterans share many traits that make them an especially good fit for jobs in manufacturing, according to Julie Davis, director of workforce development at the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), an organization dedicated to supporting North America's manufacturers of construction and agricultural equipment."Military veterans have been trained to live the values of their service whether in or out of uniform," says Davis."So, when you're talking to a veteran during a job interview, ask them what their values are. When you hear their answer, you'll likely conclude that they are a much better culture fit than you'd originally thought."Traits that make veterans great employees include:- Entrepreneurial spirit. Veterans tend to take ownership of their responsibilities and do their best work at whatever job they are assigned.- Versatile. Many veterans were trained in one area and shifted to another during their military service. They are adept at transferring existing skills and knowledge to adapt to new roles.- Flexible. Military veterans could be sitting at a desk one day, and deployed the next day; they are accustomed to adapting to changing business needs.- Skillful. The military is on the cutting edge of technology, and many veterans are highly trained experts with advanced knowledge of their field, and tuned in to how innovation can advance goals.- Loyal. Veterans have a strong sense of organizational commitment. They embrace many of the values important in the manufacturing industry, including duty, respect, selflessness, integrity, honor, courage, and commitment.Hiring veterans has financial benefits as well, both for the veterans themselves and for companies.Programs such as the Work Opportunity Tax Credit provides tax credits for companies that hire veterans, and the VA Special Employer Incentive Program is designed to reimburse portions of veterans' salaries. In addition, the Department of Defense Skill Bridge Program pays employers to hire veterans to train and work on a temporary basis for up to six months. Another option is the Manufacturing Institute Heroes MAKE America program created specifically to help train veterans for manufacturing jobs.Visit aem.org/workforce-solutions for more information on these programs and on workforce development for the manufacturing industry.
Freelancers Embrace ?Business Ownership' in New Economy
(NewsUSA) -The number of independent workers, small business owners and freelancers in the United States continues to grow as more workers embrace the flexibility and autonomy of being their own bosses. However, being THE boss also brings the need to wear many hats — office manager, marketing specialist, accountant, tech support — all while juggling multiple clients, time zones, and media platforms.In spite of the global pandemic, the freelance market continues to mature, driving a 22% increase in the workforce since 2019. This trend is expected to continue especially as companies have become more reliant on freelancers for essential contributions to their daily operations. Increasingly, independent workers are now shifting the way they self-identify away from the more conventional titles of "consultant" and "freelancer" in favor of more fluid terms such as "entrepreneur" to match the changing business climate.According to a recent 2021 survey of more than 200 independent workers by Indy – the all-inclusive, online platform for independent business owners — approximately 25 percent of respondents identified themselves as "business owners." And regardless, these entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, freelancers and business owners all want the tools and resources needed to help ensure the professional operation of their businesses. That means they want solutions to help manage administrative tasks, including invoicing, billing, dealing with contracts, expenses and organizing workflow.Smart strategies help independent workers focus on delivering for their clients, maximizing their potential and competing in a decentralized marketplace. Whether they are working strictly on their own, or managing a few other employees in a small venture, Indy helps fill the niche for freelancers and small business owners by offering a complete productivity suite that streamlines operations with the time-saving support features that help any business run smoothly and successfully."Ultimately, we believe in fostering community over competition and empowering today's 'indies' – the independent professionals, side hustlers and small business owners, to attain the stability and control required to be more successful, achieve a state of steady income and grow their business," according to Sebastian Gyr, Indy co-founder and CEO.Indy offers solutions specifically geared for the needs of self-employed business owners with tools that are simple, cost-effective and transferable across devices and platforms. Freelancers can use Indy's Proposal Templates to create new business proposals and land new clients. The tools all integrate to form a seamless workflow for aspiring freelancers who want to simplify their admin. Once a client agrees to a proposal, Contract Templates are available to quickly send the new client a professional contract and start the job. Later, once the work is finished, Indy's Invoice Templates give freelancers a starting point to create a professional invoice quickly. Each invoice can integrate with payment providers like PayPal and Stripe to make tracking payments easy, too. All the tools work together to make running a small business easier.Today's self-employed business owners take their business seriously, and they deserve the tools and support to make the most of it.Visit weareindy.com for more information and to create an account.
Find Exclusive Adventure on a Galapagos Cruise
(NewsUSA) – Remember the pile of hair on the salon floor when you finally got your first real haircut after coronavirus restrictions were eased?Even in normal times, the beauty industry creates more than 877 pounds of waste every single minute when you combine all the hair clippings, color tubes, used foils, excess hair color, aerosol cans and the like. That's over 421,000 pounds of usable materials needlessly heading straight into landfills every day.How to deal with all those pounds in an environmentally friendly way has become a real issue. Enter Green Circle Salons, a beauty waste recovery service that started out 12 years ago in Canada before going on to help U.S. businesses recycle and repurpose up to 95 percent of their beauty waste.Want to do your part for the planet? Green Circle Salons makes it easy to find a Certified Sustainable Salon near you through its online directory.See full-sized image here.
What Future Grads Should Know About A Career in Financial Planning
(NewsUSA) – With school back in session, now is a good time for college students to consider their potential career options.Unfortunately, many students know little about the financial planning profession. This includes being unfamiliar with what financial planners do, the variety of career opportunities available, the skillsets that are helpful in the profession and how the career can be personally rewarding.What Financial Planners DoFinancial planning is much more than working with spreadsheets, budgets, sales and stock tickers.Financial planners help individuals and families make sound financial and investment decisions to achieve life goals based on their priorities and fundamental values. They can help their clients save for college, pay off debt, purchase a home, start a business, preserve family wealth and plan for retirement. Financial planners can also help businesses design and manage retirement plans and other financial welfare programs for their employees.Most people think all financial planners are "certified," but this isn't true. Just about anyone can use the title "financial planner," but a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional is a financial planner that has met rigorous qualifications. Most important, a CFP® professional made a commitment to CFP Board to act in the best interests of their client.A CFP® professional establishes a one-on-one relationship with each of their clients. They also provide holistic advice to guide clients through all aspects of their finances and help them maximize their potential for meeting their financial goals.Career OpportunityThe financial planning profession is in a period of significant growth.For example, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 19,200 openings for personal financial advisors are projected each year throughout the next decade. Many of these openings are expected to result from the need to replace advisors who transfer to different occupations. What's more, part of this aging wave includes advisors themselves, many of whom — about 37% — are expected to retire over the next decade.As for opportunity, financial advisor-related jobs are ranked fourth in "Best Business Jobs" by U.S. News and World Report. Additionally, those who obtain credentials, such as CFP® certification, will likely have the best job prospects.Helpful SkillsTo help clients reach their financial goals, financial planners need knowledge of budgeting, taxes, financial products, investments and investment markets.They also need to possess analytical skills, as it is common for entry-level professionals to start their career supporting a financial planner. In this role they would gather and maintain client data, enter it into financial planning software, and then analyze and examine financial plans with the financial planner or the financial planning team.As for interpersonal skills, students considering a career in financial planning should enjoy working on teams, helping and responding to people, and communicating with others. They should also enjoy listening to people's needs, asking questions and developing financial plans — while possessing high integrity and a "coaching" mindset.A Rewarding CareerA financial planner also enjoys the rewards that come with helping their clients bring all of the pieces of their financial lives together. For example, a career in financial planning can provide:
Continue Reading: What Future Grads Should Know About A Career in Financial Planning
Financial Planning Careers Offer Job Satisfaction and Flexibility
(NewsUSA) -Many of today's students are tuning in to the possibilities of a career in financial planning.According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for personal financial advisors is expected to grow at a rate of 4% through 2029, in part because of the increasing numbers of baby boomers who are retiring and are more likely to seek planning advice from personal financial advisors. Additionally, the replacement of traditional pension plans with individual retirement accounts is expected to continue, meaning individuals must save and invest for their own retirement, further increasing the demand for personal financial advisors.A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional works one-on-one with their clients to develop strategies for meeting both short-term and long-term financial goals. These goals might include paying off student debt, saving for a house or planning for an adventure-filled retirement. This level of personal financial planning service is in high demand. So that is why, according to the April 2020 Pulse Survey: The Impact of Covid-19 On CFP® Professionals and Their Clients, 78% of CFP® professionals surveyed reported an increase in client inquiries during the beginning of the pandemic.CFP® professionals find not only job security, but also personal satisfaction in their chosen profession. For example, a 2019 CFP Board study conducted by Fondulas Research found that 93% of CFP® professionals reported they were satisfied with financial planning as a career choice and 92% were satisfied with their decision to pursue CFP® certification."Being a financial planner allows you to build the work-life balance that you want," says Dorsainvil, CFP®. For example, the CFP Board Center for Financial Planning's Career Paths Guide lists work-life balance as one of the top five attributes that makes financial planning an attractive career.Dorsainvil decided to combine her CFP® certification skills with the virtual platforms of today's professional world. She is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of 2050 Wealth Partners, which focuses on empowering entrepreneurs and first-generation wealth builders to own their money story and pursue their biggest dreams. "I decided to become a CFP® professional because I liked putting my clients' interests first and helping them make smart decisions as they pursue their financial goals," she adds.Benefits of a career in financial planning include:
Continue Reading: Financial Planning Careers Offer Job Satisfaction and Flexibility
Online Support Platform Eases Pains of Independent Workers
(NewsUSA) – According to a 2020 study, amid the Covid-19 pandemic an estimated 59 million Americans have freelanced in the past year, which is equivalent to 36% of the country's entire workforce. The number of freelancers in the US is continuously growing and is expected to exceed 90.1 million by 2028, contributing $1.2 trillion to the U.S. economy.Today's independent workers are not only becoming a driving force in the American workforce, they are also busy people, often juggling multiple clients in multiple time zones across a multitude of media platforms. And with comes the operational pains of being a business owner. According to a recent 2021 survey of more than 200 freelancers by Indy – the all-inclusive, online platform for independent business owners, approximately one-quarter of respondents spend 10 or more hours a month on essential work tasks unrelated to their actual business and/or paid projects. These administrative tasks including invoicing, billing, dealing with contracts, expenses and organizing workflow often impede the ongoing management and potential for growth needed to succeed in today's competitive, decentralized marketplace.Indy's survey also revealed that 30% of respondents use at least five tools and 44% spend more than $50 a month, including a subset of that group who pay $300 or more, on tools used to operate and manage their business each month. When deciding services used to maximize operations productivity and grow their businesses, these self-employed, solopreneurs and small business owners cited ease of use, cost and availability across all devices were the top three criteria for selecting and utilizing the critical resources and productivity tools needed for their daily and ongoing business operations.Indy, offers a complete productivity suite that simply and easily streamline the key pain points for independent workers. Indy is invested in the success of today's independent workers and it's primary purpose is to help solopreneurs and freelancers streamline the business of running their business. "Ultimately, we believe in fostering community over competition and empowering today's 'indies' – the independent professionals, side hustlers and small business owners, to attain the stability, control and growth required to be more successful, achieve a state of steady income and grow," according to Sebastian Gyr, Indy co-founder and CEO.Indy's freelancer survey, consisting of mostly independent workers outside of its customer base, also identified: saving time, peace of mind and fostering business relationships as the top three most sought out features when considering productivity tools. Indy's suite of productivity tools tick all the boxes for freelancers, from cost to ease of use. Invoice generator templates help streamline billing and process payments easier and faster. Calendar, Indy's new Calendar tool, syncs with existing calendars including Google Calendars and helps indies organize events and tasks, track time and more, while seamlessly linking project hours to invoices for accuracy and efficiency.Indy offers effective solutions to the unique, operational challenges facing today's self-employed business owners.Visit weareindy.com for more information and to create an account.
Environment : Copyright Free Content
Why Eco-Warriors Will Love or Hate You, Depending On Where Your Hair is Done
Hint: It's all about a new certification.
1.Right now, the beauty industry creates more than 877 pounds of waste every single minute in the U.S. and Canada.That's over 421,000 pounds a day.And we're not just talking hair (though there's 63,000 pounds of clippings alone). There's also excess hair color, lightener and toner (over 42,000 pounds) … used metal like hair foils, color tubes and aerosol cans (over 110,000 pounds) … And don't get us started about all the other stuff, including the personal protective equipment like gloves, masks and disinfectant wipes the staff has been running through since the coronavirus hit.
Continue Reading: Why Eco-Warriors Will Love or Hate You, Depending On Where Your Hair is Done
Bypass Global Supply Chains and Support Local Manufacturers
(NewsUSA) – The delays and confusion caused when a 200,000-ton cargo ship got stuck in the Suez Canal sent ripples through the U.S. economy and led many people to explore alternatives to the global supply chain, which is also susceptible to other forces ranging from weather to cyberattacks.Although global cargo traffic has become the norm for obtaining many products used in the United States, innovative companies such as Baru are examples of a trend towards supporting local manufacturers of American-made and locally-sourced products.Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen recently described the United States' reliance on foreign supply chains as "a vulnerability," and emphasized the need to produce more goods domestically for economic and security reasons."Even when supply routes are relatively calm, the global supply chain is an overly complex and lengthy process. Product prototypes take valuable months to make, ship, test, plan, and re-make," according to Baru founder and CEO Tino Go.Local manufacturing has many benefits, notably putting the customer in the driver's seat and creating a relationship with local communities."By combining automation, craftsmanship, and virtual customization, we're able to send manufacturing instructions to workshops local to the customer," Mr. Go explains.When Baru creates made-to-order furniture, other environmental and economic benefits include reduction of global CO? emissions, prevention of unsold inventory landing in landfills, creation of local jobs, and support of industrial innovation by American artisans and craftspeople.Baru also shows its commitment to the environment with an ongoing tree-planting initiative as part of its sustainable manufacturing model.During the design process, Baru selects sustainably engineered wood panels that are both beautiful and durable. The wood goes to one of Baru's local manufacturing partners, which uses the latest technology of automated machinery for efficiency of scale and design, combined with the skills of local carpenters and woodworkers to create a unique and lasting item that is American-sourced and American-made. Baru's growing network of workshops ensures that the products are made as close to the final delivery destination as possible to reduce transportation costs and emissions. Finally, the model cycles back to trees — Baru's pledge is to plant three trees for every furniture purchase made to achieve carbon neutrality. After three years, three trees replace the wood used in production and absorb more CO? than Baru's hometown process emitted.Visit hellobaru.com for more information about how you can create furniture that is unique to you, with the bonuses of benefitting the American economy and the global environment.
Everyone's A Winner at the Chuck E. Cheese Winter Winner-land
(NewsUSA) – -As the holiday season approaches, more families joyfully look to reconnect and celebrate with friends and loved ones. Chuck E. Cheese, the number-one children's entertainment brand, is ready to meet the demand during its second annual Winter Winner-land celebration. During this year's celebration, holiday festivities are met with merry entertainment and cheerful experiences for all ages, as well as a chance to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and BGC Clubs in Canada.Every child who visits Chuck E. Cheese goes home a winner this holiday season! During Winter Winner-land, each child who enters a Chuck E. Cheese location receives an instant-win game piece featuring special treats, E-tickets, or a toy from the Chuck E. Cheese prize wall. Plus, one grand prize winner will take home the ultimate prize: A custom Chuck E. Cheese ICEBall Pro arcade game."The holidays are a special and magical time, and we want all guests who enter our venues to experience the spirit of the season. Snow globe-inspired decorations including giant snowflakes will transform each Chuck E. Cheese into our version of a Winter Winner-land," says Sherri Landry, CMO of CEC Entertainment, LLC.Winter Winner-land is the latest installment of the brand's signature 4 Seasons of Fun and runs through January 2, 2022. The festive event brings joy and laughter to families at home and in-store through the holidays. Special experiences include not only games and prizes, but delicious seasonal sweet treats and family packages; gift card offers; and a new show and entertainment from Chuck E. and friends.Taste the flavor of the holiday season with Churro Frost Bites and Winter Iced Brownies, along with delicious family meal deals. Shop for everyone on your gift list, too; Chuck E. Cheese gift card deals make the perfect stocking stuffers, and exclusive holiday gift boxes are available in the Chuck E. Cheese online store.This season, Chuck E. Cheese is encouraging kids to help others win, too. Kids can give back by donating Chuck E. Cheese e-tickets throughout the season to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and BGC Clubs in Canada. The company is donating up to 15,000 toys to regional locations, as well as an additional ten thousand dollars to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America programs.Safety comes first at Chuck E. Cheese all year long, so families can feel comfortable enjoying the Winter Winner-land activities. All Chuck E. Cheese venues follow local COVID-19 guidelines with regard to masks, air circulation, and the cleaning of games, dining rooms, and restrooms.Visit chuckecheese.com/winter-winnerland for more information and to find locations in your area.
Christmas, National Crises and Celestial Sagas in This Charismatic Collection
(NewsUSA) "Red Deception"
by Ed Fuller and Gary GrossmanWhat would happen if all the major bridges in the U.S. were bombed, all commerce came to a dead stop, and the nation's natural resources, like our water supply, were cut off? The importance of protecting America's critical infrastructure has rarely been depicted so powerfully as in the fast-paced thriller, Red Deception, the follow-up to 2019's "Red Hotel."Blending career insight with first-hand knowledge of global politics, the authors have drawn a chilling portrait of the fragile fault lines in Europe and the players poised to seize power.Packed with action scenes and brimming with spies, sexpionage, counter-spies and unlikely heroes, this riveting geopolitical thriller will have you guessing until the very last page. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3gwMm4J. Now also available as an audiobook at https://adbl.co/3hRvdnM. "A Christmas at Gingerbread Falls"
by Katie MettnerActress Carrie Murray's films are a Christmas-lover's delight. Filled with twinkling lights, festive carols and happy endings, they're the perfect escape from reality for both her and the audience. Then Tinseltown calls. Braxton Timothy is Hollywood's biggest action star. Handsome and talented but decidedly on the naughty list, no one can fathom his sudden desire to produce a feel-good Christmas movie, least of all his nameless co-star.Alternating between scenes reminiscent of everyone's favorite made-for-TV movies and unexpected, off-screen chemistry, the town of Gingerbread Falls has surprises in store this holiday season. The question is, will there be enough Christmas magic to convince two imperfect people that they're perfect for each other? Purchase at https://amzn.to/3n2R3Xc. "Revolution (The Sol Saga: Book One)"
by James FoxWar is good for business … and business is about to boom. When the President of the solar system is assassinated on Mars, General Keith Brennan is the obvious choice to investigate. If he comes up with the wrong answer, though, his career will be over. However, when the investigation uncovers a trail of corruption and a conspiracy on a systemwide scale, Brennan's career is the least of his worries.With Earth and Mars on the brink of a shooting war and forces behind the scenes determined to push them over the edge, only Brennan can stop the slaughter before it's too late. Unless, of course, it already is. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3Aki9xw. "It's a Very Merry Christmas: If Not You, Then Who?
by David and Emberli PridhamIt's Christmas time at the Fairley house, and that means it's time for Christmas traditions. Join Brooke, Noah, baby Graham and the rest of the family as they decorate the tree, hang lights, watch Christmas movies and invent a brand-new tradition: building their own ice rink!Presented by If Not You Brands, "If Not You, Then Who?" aims to teach children about the inventions and patents in everyday life and inspire them to create their own.Purchase at https://bit.ly/3CxIrhe.NOTE: BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.
Next Wave of Electric Cars Have Better Batteries
(NewsUSA) – The delays and confusion caused when a 200,000-ton cargo ship got stuck in the Suez Canal sent ripples through the U.S. economy and led many people to explore alternatives to the global supply chain, which is also susceptible to other forces ranging from weather to cyberattacks.Although global cargo traffic has become the norm for obtaining many products used in the United States, innovative companies such as Baru are examples of a trend towards supporting local manufacturers of American-made and locally-sourced products.Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen recently described the United States' reliance on foreign supply chains as "a vulnerability," and emphasized the need to produce more goods domestically for economic and security reasons."Even when supply routes are relatively calm, the global supply chain is an overly complex and lengthy process. Product prototypes take valuable months to make, ship, test, plan, and re-make," according to Baru founder and CEO Tino Go.Local manufacturing has many benefits, notably putting the customer in the driver's seat and creating a relationship with local communities."By combining automation, craftsmanship, and virtual customization, we're able to send manufacturing instructions to workshops local to the customer," Mr. Go explains.When Baru creates made-to-order furniture, other environmental and economic benefits include reduction of global CO? emissions, prevention of unsold inventory landing in landfills, creation of local jobs, and support of industrial innovation by American artisans and craftspeople.Baru also shows its commitment to the environment with an ongoing tree-planting initiative as part of its sustainable manufacturing model.During the design process, Baru selects sustainably engineered wood panels that are both beautiful and durable. The wood goes to one of Baru's local manufacturing partners, which uses the latest technology of automated machinery for efficiency of scale and design, combined with the skills of local carpenters and woodworkers to create a unique and lasting item that is American-sourced and American-made. Baru's growing network of workshops ensures that the products are made as close to the final delivery destination as possible to reduce transportation costs and emissions. Finally, the model cycles back to trees — Baru's pledge is to plant three trees for every furniture purchase made to achieve carbon neutrality. After three years, three trees replace the wood used in production and absorb more CO? than Baru's hometown process emitted.Visit hellobaru.com for more information about how you can create furniture that is unique to you, with the bonuses of benefitting the American economy and the global environment.
Better Batteries Make Electric Cars More Convenient
(NewsUSA) – The electric car trend shows no signs of slowing down, and the next generation of electric cars are more than up to speed. Although widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) got off to a slower than expected start in the United States, more car shoppers are seeing the benefits of EVs and hybrids. Several improvements in the latest models have helped overcome some hurdles that might have made buyers hesitant to embrace EVs.Some of the key features consumers want include:- More power. Consumers want increased range and fast charging. The battery life of newer electric cars allows for several hundred miles on a single charge.- More style. Car buyers don't want to sacrifice comfort and style, and manufacturers are rising to this challenge with roomy designs equal to those of conventional cars."Consumers are ready to switch to electric vehicles," according to Brian Moody, Executive Editor for Autotrader."Things they consider when thinking about buying an electric vehicle include reduced environmental guilt, less time refueling, and never having to change your oil again," he says.One example of the latest in EV technology is the EV6, auto maker Kia's first entry into the battery-powered vehicle market. (Click here to view video).The EV6 features an ultra-fast 350-kilowatt charger that enables the car to go from a 10 percent to 80 percent charge in less than 18 minutes, ready for up to 210 miles of range.It's also designed with a distinctive Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature that enables use of the battery as a mobile power source for multiple applications, according to the company website. Other advances include both rear wheel drive and dual-motor all-wheel drive, as well as two battery sizes, 58.0 kWh and 77.4 kWh.The latest battery technology meets consumers' need for speed with the 576 HP power to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in less than 3.5 seconds. The style factor is there, too. The EV6 channels the design of current crossover vehicles with a four-door sedan body and seating for five passengers. The EV6 is scheduled to debut in early 2022.Visit kia.com for more information about the latest in electric vehicle technology.
Chemical-Free Air Purifier Protects Public Spaces
By Heidi Splete, Senior Writer
For NewsUSA(NewsUSA) – Cooling towers, a key component on large buildings, require special levels of cleaning to control biocontaminants including Legionella, heterotrophic bacteria, and others. However, poorly maintained towers, which are often treated with corrosive chemicals, can become 'super spreaders' of Legionnaires' Disease, an acute bacterial infection of the lower respiratory tract that is not rare and causes severe pneumonia.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, potable water is the most frequent source of Legionella exposure, but cases have been linked to cooling towers. Because it is difficult to distinguish from other forms of pneumonia, unless specifically investigated, many cases of Legionnaires' Disease go undiagnosed and unreported.In August 2019, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM) reported that the real number of Legionnaires' disease cases may be as many as 70,000 cases per year in the United States.Clean, efficient, and effective treatment of cooling towers can improve the air quality and reduce the spread of disease-causing bacteria into the atmosphere. A novel, chemical-free technology, the Plasma Disinfection System (PDS) uses a combination of high-temperature plasma streamers, ultraviolet rays, and ozone to reduce the impact of air- and water-borne bacteria and viruses that can spread in public spaces through cooling towers.The PDS is a state-of-the-art, fully-automated, integrated treatment technology for liquids.What makes PDS solution unique is its combination of three major treatment technologies: novel plasma (the 4th state of matter) plus two traditional technologies (biocidal ions and hypochlorite), that work together to provide continuous reduction and management of Legionella and bacterial growth in water systems. The PDS also reduces the use of corrosive chemicals, thereby vastly extending the life and warranty life of costly mechanical equipment.Public health organizations in the United States and worldwide have expressed concerns over the risks for Legionnaire's Disease and other respiratory infections due to poor management of cooling towers. Private industry has responded by publishing guidance for water management programs.In June 2017, the CDC published a toolkit for businesses on "Developing a Water Management Program to Reduce Legionella Growth & Spread in Buildings;" the toolkit stated that "legionella water management programs are now an industry standard for large buildings in the United States."Visit www.reverseionizer.com for more information about how Reverse Ionizer's chemical-free technology can improve air quality in public spaces and reduce the spread of disease.
Six Inspiring Farmhouse-Style Ideas Using Natural Wood
(NewsUSA)Farmhouse-style interiors have been popular for the last few years and the look remains as sought after as ever. There are enough iterations of the style (modern, industrial, French, rustic, and more) to suit most tastes. Signature elements include open shelving, shiplap, apron sinks, and a preference for natural, honest materials-stone, metal, and above all wood, new and reclaimed. "When it comes to farm-style decor, most of us think of the kitchen first," says Linda Jovanovich, of the American Hardwood Information Center. "But it can work equally well in bedrooms, living areas, even bathrooms. Incorporating natural hardwood into the design is a great way to achieve the look without going overboard into kitsch." Here are six inspiring uses of the perennial style.1. A warm contemporary farmhouse kitchen Photograph by Caitlin MurrayA large apron sink in cream-color cast concrete sets up a warm and sophisticated country tone in this Portland, Oregon kitchen by Emerick Architects. The island's black-walnut-slab top is complemented by open shelving and undercounter cabinetry in honey-stained maple, gray quartz counters, stainless-steel appliances, and a handmade ceramic-tile backsplash.2. Corral-inspired stair railings and balustrades Photograph by SpacecraftingRift-sawn white oak with a custom whitewash stain forms the handrails and posts of the main staircase in a Stillwater, Minnesota house by Home Design by Annie. An elegant reinterpretation of the traditional wooden-rail fences found throughout rural America, the stair gets a high-tech twist in the form of stainless-steel guard wires.3. A characterful rustic kitchen Photograph by Scott DW SmithCharming rusticity is the name of the game in this Hesperus, Colorado kitchen remodel by Veritas Fine Homes. Existing beams and columns and a new oak floor-all in a dark finish-are joined by knotty-alder cabinetry and floating shelves stained a similar color to the island's honey-tone maple butcher-block top.4. A cool western ranch-style bedroom Photograph by Rikki SnyderAs this bedroom in Sag Harbor, New York designed by Timothy Godbold shows, the classic look of Southwestern ranches-pared down and sun scorched-adapts well to a modern interior. The aesthetic is evoked with minimalist means: simple bone-white accessories set against an expanse of white-oak boards that clad the walls like barn siding. 5. The industrial-farmhouse look in a loft Photograph by Manolo LangisReclaimed hardwood is a beautiful, sustainable material that can be used in a farmhouse-style kitchen to create a sense of warmth, age, and texture. In this Santa Monica, California loft conversion, SUBU Design Architecture juxtaposes recycled wood with plumbing pipes and similar machine-age elements that nod to the building's industrial heritage.6. Open-shelf wet bar with a rural-art vibe Photograph by Rikki SnyderTimothy Godbold conjures another variant of that farmhouse staple, open shelving, with this wet bar cunningly tucked under the open stairs in a North Haven, New York residence. Stocked neatly with interesting glassware and bottles, the floating slabs of white oak and the gray honed-granite countertop become an art installation in their own right. Visit www.hardwoodinfo.com for more about farmhouse style with American hardwoods.
Hispanic Homeowner Follows A Step-By-Step Plan to Buy A House
(NewsUSA) – La pandemia de COVID-19 está generando temor, confusión e incertidumbre económica en muchos estadounidenses mayores, especialmente aquellos que viven con un ingreso fijo.Afortunadamente, el Consejo Nacional para Adultos Mayores (NCOA), una organización sin fines de lucro y confiable que ayuda a adultos mayores a envejecer con dignidad y seguridad económica desde hace 70 años, ofrece información valiosa sobre el coronavirus en su sitio web, www.ncoa.org.Expertos del NCOA están seleccionando y actualizando periódicamente recursos de vital importancia para los adultos mayores y sus cuidadores. Encontrará blogs, enlaces y videos sobre una gran variedad de temas, como: Alimentos Si usted o alguien bajo su cuidado necesita entrega de comidas, el NCOA ofrece enlaces a Meals on Wheels y Feeding America con opciones de búsqueda de servicios locales según su código postal. Feeding America y otros bancos de alimentos se están adaptando a la situación y establecieron pautas sobre el distanciamiento social y puntos de entrega más pequeños en la comunidad. Para quienes reúnen los requisitos, hay un enlace para solicitar el programa SNAP, antes conocido como "cupones de alimentos", que ofrece asistencia para adquirir alimentos nutritivos. Finanzas Muchos estadounidenses mayores, especialmente quienes viven con un ingreso fijo, están preocupados de que el COVID-19 afecte su situación financiera ahora y en el futuro. Hay muchos programas de beneficios federales, estatales y locales para ayudar a los adultos mayores con dificultades financieras, como el pago de servicios públicos, costos de medicamentos, alquileres y otros gastos.El sitio web complementario del NCOA, www.BenefitsCheckUp.org, ofrece información sobre la elegibilidad y cómo solicitar miles de millones de dólares en beneficios.Además, aunque se aconseja a los estadounidenses mayores que eviten los viajes no esenciales, los adultos mayores encontrarán opciones de transporte crítico para ir a citas médicas esenciales o para recoger alimentos y medicamentos. El NCOA ofrece un enlace a Eldercare Locator para buscar servicios de transporte local, y además ofrece información sobre el uso de las visitas de telemedicina, que cada vez son más sencillas y habituales.Quienes estén preocupados por los beneficios de Medicare en cuanto a la atención de la salud debido al COVID-19 pueden usar los enlaces del NCOA hacia los sitios estatales y gubernamentales para obtener la última información. Sentimientos El estrés y el aislamiento a causa de la pandemia de coronavirus afecta las emociones de todos. Si bien el NCOA insta a los adultos mayores a cumplir con las pautas de aislamiento físico para mantenerse sanos, también ofrece consejos para que los adultos mayores, cuidadores y familiares usen la tecnología para mantenerse en contacto con sus seres queridos y amigos, y permanecer emocionalmente sanos.Visite www.ncoa.org para obtener información necesaria para adultos mayores sobre el COVID-19 y otra información sobre un envejecimiento saludable. Es un valioso tesoro de recursos para los adultos mayores y sus cuidadores.
Eco-Smart Company Keeps Landfills Free of Old Textile Fibers
(NewsUSA) – You probably don't think much about the fate of old, worn-out uniforms from restaurants, stores, healthcare facilities, sports teams, and other industries. But the fact is that many end up in landfills. However, one company is doing its part to lessen this carbon footprint by repurposing these old uniforms into new.Eco Tek 360, a forward-thinking fiber technology company and a division of Global Fiber Technologies, Inc. a public company, (GFTX), has developed a proprietary technology that removes the fibers from fabrics that have reached the end of their useful life cycle. The fibers are extracted from a landfill-destined garment and used to create yarn, make new fabric, and then get sewn into fabric which is turned into "rejuvenated" uniforms. Each time the uniform comes back to the client, the process creates a true circular economy and reduces carbon footprints."It takes between 500 to 700 gallons of water to grow one pound of cotton and Eco Tek 360 can help save billions of gallons each year through utilization of its patent- pending process," says Chris Giordano, president and co-chairman of Global Fiber Technologies."We will take corporate uniforms at the end of their useful life that would otherwise head for disposal and re-purpose them back to the same company as sustainable, high quality uniforms for their employees," says Giordano."Our primary raw material is sourced from uniforms being disposed of by our corporate clients, allowing us to be competitive on price," says Paul Serbiak Global's CEO.There are three steps to the ECOTEK process:- Recovery: Companies collect old uniforms and send them to Ecotek. Customers earn a credit towards new uniform purchases.- Rejuvenation: Rejuvenation is the heart of the Ecotek philosophy. The company uses a patented procedure to remove old fiber from fabric, restore it, and create new fabric. The rejuvenated fiber is soft, strong, and comfortable, and looks like new.- Re-creation: The fabric made from the rejuvenated fiber is then used to make new uniforms."The entire process takes place in the USA, ensuring fair labor practices and extremely high quality standards," according to the company. Ecotek will offer customized design in large and small batches with quick turnaround times.Buying uniforms made with rejuvenated fibers not only saves water and energy, it saves money, and allows employees to feel proud and look great with options for customized style and sizing.Surveys show that a majority of entry-level employees prefer to work for an environmentally friendly company and more than half of consumers prefer to buy from companies with a green reputation.For more information about how your company can go greener and look great doing it, visit https://globalfibertechnologies.com/ecotek-360/.
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BookTrib's Bites: Nostalgia, Human Drama and Two Thrillers
(NewsUSA) "Into the Sky with Diamonds"
by Ronald P. GrelsamerOne small step for a man. One giant leap for rock 'n roll. NASA's race with the Russians to land a man on the moon. The meteoric rise of the Beatles, considered by many to have revolutionized the music industry. In the postwar era, each stood as an unprecedented cultural watershed. Together, they captured the heady zeitgeist of the 1960s and ignited the imagination of just about everyone on the planet."Into the Sky with Diamonds: The Beatles" and the "Race to the Moon in the Psychedelic '60s" is an exhilarating account of these two global phenomena as seen through the eyes of Dutch Richtman, a young and enterprising NASA engineer who manages to snag a front-row seat to both. The audiobook has received an Earphones Award from Audiofile magazine. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3fvggXW.
The Road Remembered
by Kaye D. SchmitzLove and humanity triumph amid the atrocities of World War II. Sam and Gerda face their enemies head-on, but they also battle internal elements on their own sides of the war that violate their shared values of humanity. They meet under the worst of circumstances and find a way to help each other through the trauma of the global struggle. They also prove to each other that people are people regardless of which end of the rifle they face and what their countries dictate they believe.The book is inspired by nine true stories of World War II that are woven into a rich tapestry of historically accurate fiction. Purchase at http://www.kayedschmitzauthor.com/shop. Death on the Downbeat
by Durden KellToh, no! Another killer stalks the local jazz community. Jazz jams, gigs and murder combine in the ultimate trio that is sure to be "killing it" all around Atlanta. Adman and CC, his wife, now own The Farm, where a show horse dances and Adman builds it all up. CC rescues a pup called Harold and looks for other dogs to join her pack. And gigs and tours just keep a-comin'!But who is the killer and what is the motive? Nobody knows until clues are put together by famous saxophonist John Cold "Adman" Dann and the Amateur Sleuth Society, featuring Adman's best friend, Misha Stefanukvand, as well as other great jazz musicians Ty, Carl, Arturo, André, David, Chip, Gerry and Leland. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3C8sQWh.
And Then Ben
by Ed Fuller and Gary GrossmanPost-apocalyptic thriller and climate fiction come together in this story of one woman's struggle for survival in a world decimated by an endless, unrelenting winter.After the "event," 38-year-old Alice finds herself completely alone, cruelly separated from her children and left with only vivid, haunting dreams of life as it once was.Fueled by her sharp survival instincts and sheer resilience, Alice moves through each day like the one before – until she discovers she's not as alone as she thought. Alice's need for human contact helps her overcome her apprehension about Ben, the only survivor she's encountered for months. As the two are drawn closer together by their shared desire for companionship, their individual pasts begin to reveal that everyone is not exactly who they seem. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3aSZ637.NOTE: BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.
BookTrib's Bites: Books for All Ages and Tastes
(NewsUSA) – The auto industry continues to market electric cars as the "next best thing," and the newest generation of electric vehicles (EVs) are more than up to speed.Although widespread adoption of EVs took some time to find its footing in the United States and was slow to get off the ground, more car shoppers are seeing the benefits of EVs and hybrids. Several improvements in the latest models have helped overcome some hurdles that might have made buyers hesitant to embrace EVs.Some of the key features consumers want include:
Continue Reading: BookTrib's Bites: Books for All Ages and Tastes
Getting the Waste Out of Beauty Salons and Spas
(NewsUSA)
"The Sorting Room"
by Michael RoseIn Prohibition-era New York City, 10-year-old Eunice Ritter finds work in an industrial laundry sweat shop. When the diminutive girl first enters the sorting room, she encounters Gussie, the largest human being she has ever seen.Gussie, a powerful, hard-working woman, soon becomes Eunice's sole friend as she finds herself entrapped in the laundry's sorting room by the Great Depression, sentenced to bring her low wages home to her alcoholic parents. Then, on her 16th birthday, Eunice becomes pregnant and her drunken father demands that the culprit marry his daughter, trapping her anew. Within a couple of years, Eunice settles into a lonely life of drudgery and spends decades in virtual solitude before her secret history is revealed to those from whom she has withheld her love. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3litJFc. "If Not You, Then Who? We're Going Green!"
by David and Emberli PridhamThe Inventor's Fair is finally here, and this year's theme is Going Green! Noah has been tinkering for weeks but he's worried: can one invention make a difference? Join Noah to learn about the different ways we can all go green and make the world a better place.If you like fun, informative and factual kid's books like "The Magic School Bus," then you'll love the new STEM series "If Not You, Then Who?," a recent Amazon bestseller geared for 4 to 8-year-olds. The books are fun to read for both adults and children and can be read on multiple levels. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3yJZU3M. "My Sister's Mother: A Memoir of War, Exile, and Stalin's Siberia"
by Donna Solecka UrbikasIn this unforgettable memoir, Donna Solecka Urbikas recounts her family history and her own survivor story as she finally understands the damaged mother who had saved her sister.While Donna grew up in the U.S., her Polish-born mother and half sister endured dehumanizing conditions during World War II as slave laborers in Siberia. War and exile created a profound bond between mother and older daughter, one that Donna would struggle to find. In 1940, when Donna's mother and half sister were taken by Soviet secret police and sent to Siberia, so began their odyssey of hunger, disease, cunning survival, desperate escape and new love amidst terrible circumstances. In the 1950s, Donna yearns for a "normal" American family while Janina and Mira are haunted by the past. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3AmCwuj. "Bartholomew Mills and the January Dawn"
by David CarmaltThe year is 1798 and Bartholomew Mills has never left Plymouth, let alone been to sea. Suddenly orphaned, he joins Captain James Morel aboard the January Dawn and quickly realizes that life on the ocean is fraught with danger…from nature itself as well as from a tyrannical crew.These are the last years of Atlantic piracy for the Dawn; Morel and his sadistic first mate, Ivor Stanhope, will let nothing stand in the way of their journey toward the fertile hunting grounds of the Caribbean. Adventure ensues as Bartholomew and his small band of mates battle the elements, disease and the relentless threat of attack. But when he learns a terrible secret, Bartholomew's courage, loyalty and life will be tested. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3DlLZ6I.NOTE: BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.
BookTrib's Bites: Thriller, Whimsy and Life Lessons
(NewsUSA) "In the Black"
by Andrew CeroniThe CIA's most valued Russian double agents are being methodically assassinated one by one.When the Agency discovers the attacks originate from a Russian top-secret cyberwarfare program called Chernyy Almaz or Black Diamond, a mind-control program, the CIA must respond swiftly to shut down the attacks and extract its top agents before they're lost forever.Among them is Dr. Armand Mishenkov, head of Russia's research for cold fusion weaponry. Mishenkov escapes to Ukraine, but freedom is still far from his reach. Pursued by Russian assassins and Spetsnaz teams, agent Dave McClure and partner Tony Robertson must find Mishenkov and smuggle him across Europe and to the United States. Can they make it alive? Purchase at https://amzn.to/3uK5e68. "Hello Whimsy"
by Jean NgoIn this fun children's book, Whimsy the cat tries to make friends, ironically, with birds! When another furry feline comes along, does this make a great match because they are both cats? Whimsy travels through the day meeting one creature after another — but has her challenges. Find out in this tale about socializing beyond the genus-surface! And learn how beautiful frienships get started.The author lives in Southern California with her fur baby Misty, after whom Whimsy is modeled. Jean likes to spend her time off talking to roses, daydreaming or having a cup of tea. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3xnM4UO. "Functional Dysfunction: From Sour Grapes to Fine Wine"
by Dr. C. Errol BallLife can be a bumpy ride, and for some of us, our greatest challenges can present themselves as early as childhood and in the worst of ways. How we deal with those early challenges is often what will shape our world and how we see it.As a physician and a minister, the author bears witness to both the joys and the sorrows of his patients and congregants. He sees the world as an interplay of body, mind and spirit. And at the intersection of these pieces of his life, he has come to find that every experience — whether painful or pleasant — offers an opportunity for growth, a chance to turn our sour grapes into a fine wine. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3w92q3p. "Riding the Executive Roller Coaster: Medical Staffing Cases "
by Kelli ChristinaThis is a fictionalized book based on real-life events and court cases that went unnoticed by the public eye over the period of a decade. The author plays the primary role in the book, which covers the trials and tribulations of professional offices at their highest and lowest moments.The consequences of handling business and professional issues in the wrong manner or even illegally can escalate and destroy many lives along the way. The book follows the long path of success and falling in despair over lawsuits and loss; it includes all the important life lessons to be learned along life's path. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3onrwZb.NOTE: BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.
Retailers Embrace AI Tech for Improved Customer Experience
(NewsUSA) – Artificial Intelligence is becoming commonplace across major industries and retail is no exception.The retail industry is looking for ways to keep up with the times and many companies have started implementing AI technology across the entire product and service cycle – from assembly to post-sale customer service interactions.Major retailers such as Walmart, Sephora, Walgreens, North Face, Uniqlo, West Elm, and Macy's are using AI to enhance customers' experiences at their stores while also improving security. AI Applications in Retail While hardware giant Lowe's uses small robots to give directions and help customers navigate a large hardware store, Walgreens is using technology to track the spread of flu, based on the locations of customers picking up prescriptions so they can alert customers to the flu activity in their area and stock more flu-related products.Another example is makeup company Sephora, which now uses AI technology in many of its stores to scan customers' faces and help them choose the perfect shade of blush, lipstick, or eyeliner without having to test multiple products.Meanwhile, a Walmart store in New York is becoming the "store of the future" by incorporating the latest AI technology. The store's smart cameras will have the capability to alert workers when items are out of stock and even let them know when a bunch of bananas has gone bad. Providing a Customizable Retail Experience Artificial intelligence is being used for everything from preparing packages in warehouses to enhancing security to creating a customized experience for consumers.One company that is delivering solutions to retail and security is VSBLTY Groupe Technologies Corp. (CSE:VSBY) (OTC:VSBGF). VSBLTY is at the forefront of making AI work in the retail space, developing innovative facial recognition software and interactive digital screens that will provide retailers with a multitude of AI features.VSBLTY's VisionCaptor content management system brings interactive messages to any digital screen and provides insights on customer demographics and emotional states, allowing engagement with consumers in real time.By commanding guests' attention with dynamic digital displays, custom content can be provided based on what the display camera "sees," while gaining valuable insights in real time. Through engaging digital assets such as animations, photos, videos, and multimedia content, VSBLTY software creates a complete customer experience through digital displays, which can be utilized in transit hubs, entertainment and sports venues, grocery stores, drug stores and, really, any retail environments.What's more, VSBLTY's VisionCaptor can be i the night of Aug. 6, 1967 when Dean Chance of the Minnesota Twins pitched a perfect no-hitter against the Red Sox for five innings before the game was called because of rain. Collectors Abound Before his death in 1992, auction houses believe Sosnak created somewhere between 800 and 3,000 baseballs. As for worth, prices started creeping up posthumously as more people realized the individuality of his work. In 2009, the market was anywhere from $500 to several thousand dollars for a ball.