(NewsUSA) - “Cinematic Destinies” by Patricia Leavy

Legendary actor Finn Forrester and his wife, philosopher Ella Sinclair Forrester, have captivated the world with their fairy-tale romance since Finn famously proposed on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival. As the couple now prepares to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary, they wonder if their children will ever find love.

Eldest daughter Betty is excelling in a medical residency program — and has convinced herself that distancing herself from emotions is the path to success. Youngest son Albert, a recent college graduate, is trying to find his footing in Boston as he struggles with his identity. Free-spirited Georgia is her mother’s spitting image and an actress following in her father’s footsteps — perhaps in more ways than one, as sparks fly with her new costar.

In this highly anticipated conclusion to “The Location Shoot” and “After the Red Carpet,” we see how Finn, Ella, and their children fulfill their cinematic destinies. Purchase at https://amzn.to/45yoqsF.

“Karma Never Sleeps” by R. John Dingle

When a second woman from a group of friends known as “the posse” is murdered in the woods near the New England enclave of Kendalton, FBI agent and profiler Gus Wheeler and his partner are called in to determine if this is a serial killing. He’s intrigued by a clue hidden on the body: a memorial picture of a teen who died 25 years ago.

Instead of helping with the investigation, the long-term friends stonewall the agents. But Gus can smell fear beneath their calm masks, fake smiles, and politely vague answers. Digging deeper, he discovers they are being terrorized by cyberstalking, spying, threats, and mysterious break-ins. When a third member is hospitalized after a brutal attack, Gus suspects someone in the posse is the hunter instead of the hunted.

Time’s running out, and Gus’s life depends on his skill at determining who’s the best liar in town. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3QOBRfu.

“Labyrinth of Shadows: The Witch's Rebirth (Part 1)” by Michaela Riley

2025 Winner of the NYC Big Book Award in Fantasy.

478 AD Gaul. The remnants of the once-mighty Western Roman Empire crumble under the rising power of the fierce Merovingian Franks. Amidst this chaos, whispers of an ancient prophecy circulate — a prophecy foretelling the arrival of a powerful witch, destined to illuminate humanity's darkest hour. It is on the fateful night of Samhain, as the veil between realms thins, that an infant is born under a celestial eclipse — a sign that foreshadows both hope and impending doom. Her name? Merona.

As Merona approaches her twelfth birthday, she unknowingly becomes a pawn in a deadly game orchestrated by a sinister sorcerer determined to extinguish her light. But he underestimates the forces at play.

Within Merona's veins flows a legacy of strength and untapped magic. Her awakening will ignite a cataclysmic struggle with the power to reshape the very fabric of existence. Purchase at https://amzn.to/4m6OwbM.

“The Order of the Wolf: Species Chronicles: Book Two: Covenant” by Lisa Lacriola

All is not well in Toni Luello's world. Losing Regan, her lover, was not on the agenda, but that loss was just a start as more secrets and half-truths came to light.

After learning about the Mythological Origins of her witchcraft lineage and being warned of an archaic organization called the Covenant, whose members can see 'that which is unseen' and possess medallions imbued with mystical properties, Toni pieces together her true purpose.

New allies, old enemies, and the questionable actions of those closest to Toni disrupt her quest to unite any remaining members of the Order of the Wolf with their supernatural brethren.

Follow Toni as she continues her journey as one of the blessed, a subspecies of wolf-human shapeshifters, and the last of her kind, if the prophecy holds. Who can she trust? What more will be revealed about her evolution? Where does she belong and with whom? Purchase at https://amzn.to/4mtfY3B.

(NewsUSA) - We all want to look as vibrant as we feel, but sometimes our skin tells a different story. If you've ever felt that dreaded dryness, dullness, or loss of firmness—especially as we get older and lines and wrinkles begin to show—you're not alone. By our forties, cell turnover slows by up to 50%¹, weakening skin’s ability to produce natural Hyaluronic Acid. And it makes an impact—more than two-thirds of women over 40 report uncomfortably dry skin, with over 70% saying it's their top concern².

But what if the key to turning back the clock wasn't a complicated routine, but instead just a simple swipe? Meet the beauty innovators at RoC, who have rolled clinically proven, youth-boosting ingredients into convenient and incredibly effective stick formats. By massaging the serums into the skin in just seconds, it’s never been easier to achieve real results. This isn't just about skincare; it's about making a difference you can see and feel, with minimal effort.

Hydrate and Smooth

The foundation of any healthy complexion is moisture, and the new Hydration+ Replumping Serum Stick is designed to deliver it instantly. Inspired by in-office fillers, this powerhouse cooling stick is engineered to combat the natural slowdown of skin cell turnover that comes with age. Infused with pro-collagen, blue peptides, and a whopping seven forms of hyaluronic acid, it deeply hydrates skin beneath the surface in just seconds. The results? 100 hours of hydration to visibly smooth and plump lines, and dry skin symptoms such as flaking and dullness visibly reduced in just 1 week. 

Firm and Tighten

For those focused on firmness, RoC's cult-favorite Derm Correxion Firming Serum Stick is already a sensation, with one sold every 45 seconds, making it the #1 skincare launch this year³. Developed by both dermatologists and plastic surgeons for dramatic tightening results, this quick-absorbing formula combines retinol with THPE, a breakthrough firming ingredient for instant tightening of the skin. Together, they form a dynamic duo that visibly improves skin elasticity, leaving your skin tighter and smoother. In fact, in a clinical study, 94% of users saw visibly firmer skin after just four weeks.  The stick format allows users to effortlessly glide the product over the face, down the neck, to the chest, and even the back of hands, to target and tighten all signs of aging.

The true genius of these products is their versatility. No more guessing—just glide them directly onto your face, neck, or anywhere that needs a lift. They’re mess-free, portable, and perfect for a quick refresh on the go.

"It's a common challenge for my patients to find a routine they'll actually stick with," says Dermatologist Dr. Beibei Du-Harpur. "RoC's serum sticks are game-changing . They take powerful, dermatologist-recommended ingredients and make them incredibly easy to use. This kind of innovation helps bridge the gap between effective skincare and a busy lifestyle."

Both the Derm Correxion Firming Serum Stick and the Hydration+ Serum Stick are dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic, and free of fragrances and parabens, making them suitable for all skin types.

For a simpler path to younger-looking skin, visit rocskincare.com, Walmart, or Walmart.com.

(NewsUSA) - On Sunday, September 21^st, Marine Toys for Tots returned to the racetrack with Richard Childress Racing (RCR), proudly sponsoring Austin Dillon’s No. 3 Chevrolet in New Hampshire. But this race wasn't just about speed— it was about heart, hope, and the power of possibility through the impact of Toys for Tots and supporters across the Nation.  

As Austin Dillon revved up for race day, his car carried more than horsepower—it carried a mission. The No. 3 Toys for Tots Chevrolet represented Marine Toys for Tots' unwavering commitment to delivering toys, books, and resources to children living in poverty. Each lap was a testament to the belief that every child deserves the chance to dream big and chase brighter tomorrows.  

With every lap, we spotlighted the urgent need to fuel children’s journeys with toys, books, and educational resources that open doors to brighter futures. Every gift delivered represents hope in action—showing children they matter, they're valued, and their futures hold unlimited potential.  

Partnerships with organizations such as Richard Childress Racing are absolutely vital to advancing Toys for Tots’ year-round mission. “While many recognize Toys for Tots as the Nation’s flagship children's Christmastime charity, our work continues throughout the year—delivering toys, books, comfort and emergency assistance to families in crisis. High-profile collaborations like this amplify our message that childhood poverty doesn't take a break, and neither do we,” said LtGen Jim Laster, USMC (Retired), CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. 

"Racing reaches millions of fans who understand perseverance and the drive to succeed," LtGen Laster continued.  "When Austin raced the track in our colors, he carried our message to new audiences nationwide—audiences who know what it means to never give up.”  

Together, we turned every lap into lasting joy. With every donation, we fueled futures and crossed the finish line toward brighter tomorrows filled with possibilities and promises for disadvantaged children across the Nation.  

To learn more about Marine Toys for Tots or to donate, visit www.toysfortots.org. 

(Andy Gordon, Head of Life Insurance, Financial Protection and Retirement Solutions, and Jessica Vanscavish, Head of Disability, Absence, Life, and Supplemental Health, Group Benefits, Guardian) - The loss of a loved one is a tragedy we’ll never be fully prepared for, but there are tactics to consider that can ensure a family is protected financially in the face of personal loss.

Recent research from Guardian found that eight in ten Americans are concerned about being financially prepared in the event of a premature death. At the same time, however, LIMRA reports that life insurance ownership in the US has been declining over the past 40 years.

Life insurance is a key tool for financial protection, but many individuals may be putting off the purchase or don’t have enough coverage. Some don't think they need it because they have no current financial dependents, others are juggling competing financial priorities, and some may not even know where to start. Regardless, there can be serious risks to not considering a policy earlier in life.

To help guide your search and ensure you find a policy that protects you and your family’s well-being, here are a few factors to consider.

Finding the right coverage

Most working adults receive life insurance through their employers. In fact, Guardian research shows that nearly two-thirds of working adults who currently own life insurance got their coverage through work.

While employer-provided coverage offers an important financial foundation, many individuals underestimate the financial impact their premature passing could have on their loved ones. Consider, for instance, factors such as bringing in income, paying off a mortgage, funding a child’s education, or building retirement savings.

Given this gap, it’s worth reviewing your life insurance coverage early on and considering if additional individual life insurance may be effective to help ensure your family is fully protected if the unexpected happens.

Understanding your needs

Regardless of whether a policy is purchased through their employer or individually, there is a disconnect between what many people think they know about life insurance and what they actually do. According to Guardian, only 41% of people say they understand their family’s life insurance needs, including:

• How much coverage to purchase.
• What benefits are included.
• How life insurance can be used.

Having a basic understanding of the different life insurance options can help ensure individuals are choosing the right policy for their needs given that there are different types of life insurance to consider, such as term versus whole.

Many Americans purchase term life insurance by default because it’s straightforward. However, this may not account for changing life stages and financial needs. In some cases, whole life insurance may be a better long-term solution.

Whole life insurance can go beyond income replacement in the event of death. It can also be used during one’s lifetime to address what Guardian has found to be some of Americans’ most pressing financial concerns, including saving for retirement. Understanding what you want from your policy will help you make an informed decision that supports your long-term financial wellness.

Getting guidance

Consider working with a financial professional to obtain the right policy for you. While having an employer-provided policy creates a solid foundation, a financial professional can help you assess your full financial picture and recommend any additional coverage.

Ultimately, life insurance is most effective when the coverage amount allows you to plan appropriately for the future, both for your family’s confidence and your own lifetime needs. By understanding what life insurance you may already have from work, reviewing your current situation, and getting guidance where needed, you’ll be able to confidently determine the right life insurance strategy that best supports your financial goals.

To learn more, visit www.guardianlife.com/reports/prepared-and-protected.

8397795.1 (09/2027)

(NewsUSA) - Las afecciones cardíacas pueden afectar a cualquier persona, en cualquier lugar y, a menudo, sin previo aviso. Ana Florencio, de 59 años, lo experimentó ella misma, cuando lo que comenzó como un día normal se convirtió rápidamente en uno de los momentos más aterradores de su vida.

Mientras caminaba por las calles de la ciudad de Nueva York hace un par de años, Ana se desmayó dos veces sin previo aviso. Más tarde se enteró de que sufrió una crisis hipertensiva, lo que significa que tuvo un aumento repentino y extremo de la presión arterial. La experiencia marcó un punto de inflexión en la salud de su corazón, un punto que comparte con más de 1 de cada 3 mujeres hispanas en EE. UU. que viven con presión arterial alta.¹

Una Amenaza para las Comunidades Hispanas

La presión arterial alta es una afección crónica a menudo conocida como el “asesino silencioso” porque puede pasar desapercibida hasta que ocurre un evento grave, como le ocurrió a Ana. Cuando aparecen los síntomas, pueden incluir dolores de cabeza, mareos o dificultad para respirar. Si no se trata, la presión arterial alta puede provocar un ataque cardíaco, un derrame cerebral y otros problemas de salud potencialmente mortales.² 

Esta afección afecta a más de 30 millones de adultos hispanos en EE. UU.,³ y alrededor del 83% de los adultos hispanos con presión arterial alta no la tienen bajo control, lo que la hace aún más peligrosa.⁴

Antes de su desmayo, a Ana le diagnosticaron diabetes tipo 2, una afección estrechamente relacionada con la presión arterial alta. Al darse cuenta de que ahora estaba lidiando con múltiples afecciones crónicas, supo que era el momento de actuar.

Cuando los Medicamentos No Son Suficientes

Posteriormente Ana trabajó con su equipo de atención, el Dr. Prakash Krishnan, del Hospital Mount Sinai^*, para controlar su presión arterial. El Dr. Krishnan le recetó de cinco a seis medicamentos diferentes, un enfoque de tratamiento común. Si bien los medicamentos pueden ser efectivos para muchas personas, no funcionan para todos; de hecho, hasta el 50% de los pacientes no pueden controlar su presión arterial solo con medicamentos⁴. Este fue el caso de Ana, y a pesar de sus mejores esfuerzos, su presión arterial continuó subiendo peligrosamente. Para la mayoría de los adultos, las lecturas normales de presión arterial son inferiores a 130/80⁵, pero la de Ana se mantuvo por encima de las pautas recomendadas y experimentó algunos picos de presión arterial extremadamente peligrosos.

Además, Ana experimentó graves efectos secundarios de sus medicamentos, desde náuseas crónicas hasta dolores de cabeza. Estos síntomas le dificultaban hacer las cosas que antes amaba, como dar largos paseos, cocinar, limpiar y convertir las reuniones familiares en celebraciones memorables.

Encontrando Esperanza A Través de la Denervación Renal

Decidida a tomar el control de su salud, Ana comenzó a investigar opciones de tratamiento alternativas con sus médicos. Después de extensas consultas, se enteró de un procedimiento único llamado denervación renal, que es un procedimiento mínimamente invasivo para personas con presión arterial no controlada a pesar de los cambios en el estilo de vida y la medicación.

La denervación renal (o DRN) funciona mediante radiofrecuencia para calmar los nervios hiperactivos cerca de los riñones, que desempeñan un papel crucial en la regulación de la presión arterial. El procedimiento no requiere implantes y, una vez realizado, funciona las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana, para ayudar a controlar la presión arterial.

Al ver esto como una oportunidad para recuperar su salud física y mental, Ana decidió someterse al procedimiento. “Los resultados fueron increíbles”, compartió. “Ahora tengo la presión arterial dentro del rango normal, lo que me ha dado la energía para disfrutar de las pequeñas cosas de la vida, como dar largos paseos sin miedo a desmayarme de nuevo”**.

Forjando Tu Camino

La historia de Ana es un poderoso recordatorio de que el tratamiento para la hipertensión arterial, como la mayoría de las cosas, no es universal. Si bien los medicamentos y los cambios en el estilo de vida (como consumir menos sal y controlar el peso) son herramientas importantes, no siempre son suficientes para todos los pacientes. En el caso de Ana, un procedimiento como la DRN resultó ser la pieza que le faltaba para recuperar el control de su presión arterial.

Este mensaje es especialmente relevante durante el Mes de la Herencia Hispana, ya que expertos en salud pública trabajan para crear conciencia sobre enfermedades crónicas como la hipertensión arterial, que afectan desproporcionadamente a las mujeres hispanas. La experiencia de Ana enfatiza la importancia de comprender los riesgos personales y demuestra que, con el equipo de atención adecuado y determinación, es posible recuperar la salud.

Para obtener más información sobre la denervación renal, visita beyondHBP.com.

*En el pasado, este médico recibió pagos por participar en conferencias de Medtronic.

**El testimonio de este paciente es su experiencia y opinión individual. No todas las personas experimentarán los mismos resultados.

Las personas con presión arterial más alta antes del procedimiento pueden experimentar una mayor reducción de la presión arterial y una menor necesidad de medicamentos para la presión arterial después del procedimiento. Sin embargo, los resultados individuales pueden variar.

1 THE HEART TRUTH ® FOR WOMEN. (n.d.). (LA VERDAD DEL CORAZÓN PARA LA MUJER) https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/sites/default/files/publications/The_Truth_about_Hispanic_Latina_Women_and_Heart_Disease_Factsheet.pdf

2 World Health Organization. (2023, September). Hypertension [Fact sheet]. World Health Organization. Organización Mundial de la Salud. (septiembre, 2023). Hipertensión [Hoja de datos). Organización Mundial de la Salud. https://www.who.int/news‑room/fact‑sheets/detail/hypertension

‌3 “Data Finder - Health, United States.” (Buscador de Datos - Salud, Estados Unidos”.) “Www.cdc.gov, 8 Aug. 2022, www.cdc.gov/nchs/hus/data-finder.htm?year=2019&table=Table%20022.

4 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Health and Economic Benefits of High Blood Pressure Interventions.” National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP), 2024, (Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades. “Beneficios para la Salud y la Economía de las Intervenciones para la Hipertensión Arterial”. Centro Nacional para la Prevención de Enfermedades Crónicas y la Promoción de la Salud).  www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/priorities/high-blood-pressure.html.6 Berra E, Azizi M, Capron A, et al. Evaluation of Adherence Should Become an Integral Part of Assessment of Patients With Apparently Treatment-Resistant Hypertension. Hypertension. 2016 Aug;68(2):297-306. (La Evaluación de la Adherencia Debe Convertirse En Parte Integral de la Evaluación de Pacientes Con Hipertensión Aparentemente Resistente Al Tratamiento. Hipertensión).

5 National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. 2024. “High Blood Pressure - What Is High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) (Presión Arterial Alta: ¿Qué Es La Presión Arterial Alta (Hipertensión)?) | NHLBI, NIH.” Www.nhlbi.nih.gov. 2024. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/high-blood-pressure.

(NewsUSA) - Novice chefs and everyday meal preparers finally have their answer to avoiding tears and smelly hands from chopping garlic and ginger. When it comes to the secret ingredients behind impressing your family, friends and office party peers, one can literally say the missing ingredient is now in the bag. 

The purveyors of Spice World products have introduced new products such as Fresh Diced Garlic and Peeled Ginger — ideal for cooking up zesty chili, champion chicken wings or the garlicky goodness in a potato salad that you can proudly present at the cookout or reunion. These packaged ingredients in leading national grocery produce sections are the latest in a diverse line-up of trending flavors also including Ginger & Garlic Fusion and other ready-to-use and squeezable options proving popular in meal or snack prep. 

Customer research, including data about the recipes accessed the most online, demonstrates a growing preference for preparing new meals that break typical routines. Additionally, garlic is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense ingredient known for its medicinal properties (attributed largely to the compound allicin) linked to benefits for heart health, immunity and more. 

"On our website and social channels, we're inspiring consumers every day with cooking ideas from around the country you can make easily at home," said Chris Kiser, CEO of Orlando-based Spice World. "Our newest products such as Fresh Diced Garlic and Peeled Ginger allow you to prepare new culinary creations without the hassle."  

Even influencers such as celebrated 4-year-old Chef Penny Kay, making pesto caprese grilled cheese, and YouTube influencer Pauly Shore, making BBQ garlic crabs, have demonstrated deft delicacies using Spice World in the mix. 

Deeply rooted in its founder’s original vision since 1949, Spice World is dedicated to helping consumers elevate the way they eat, delivering innovative flavors that remove common obstacles of prep time, seasonality and clean-up. Anchored by the fresh bold flavor of garlic, company offerings also include zesty ginger, Easy Onion and hearty shallots, offered in ready-to-use, peeled and squeezable versions, plus ready-to-use seasoning blends. 

Readers can visit spiceworldinc.com for both a store locator for new products and a free supply of fresh recipes. 

(NewsUSA) - In the United States, severe weather events continue to increase on an annual basis, and with that comes the growing threat of power outages. During National Preparedness Month in September, experts recommend developing a plan to stay safe during a storm-induced power outage, including determining the best backup power options for your home and lifestyle.

A recent study from Texas A&M University found that the U.S. has experienced a 20% annual increase in power outage severity since 2019. With that has come increases in the length and frequency of power outages with more customers being affected annually.

Areas that have reported some of the highest risks of weather-induced blackouts fall along the coastlines and in the Great Lakes regions – areas that commonly see severe weather like hurricanes, tornadoes or powerful thunderstorms.

“As the number of severe weather events rise, so too has the number of blackouts,” said Kyle Raabe, President of Consumer Power for Generac Power Systems. “In 2024, the U.S. had nearly 1.5 billion electric outage hours, which was the most since Generac began tracking this statistic. Homeowners should prioritize backup power to plan for their own safety and security during a storm-induced outage.”

For National Preparedness Month, the power outage experts at Generac advise people to make a plan for severe weather that includes a source of backup power and to identify the backup power option that will best fit their home’s needs in the next outage.

Several options exist for those looking to secure backup power in emergency situations. Each has advantages and drawbacks, and the choice will depend on individual needs, budget and the specific risks posed by the local climate.

• Home Standby Generators are not only a more permanent solution but also the most reliable option. These units are installed outside the home and are connected directly to the electrical panel. Standby generators are powered by natural gas or propane and automatically activate when utility power is disrupted, allowing for continuous power for extended periods of time. This makes them ideal for homes in areas prone to frequent or prolonged outages.
• Portable Generators, also known as open frame generators, are an ideal option for emergency backup power. Fueled by gasoline or liquid propane, portable generators can power the whole home or connect to individual appliances with an extension cord. While larger than inverters and portable power stations, portable generators include features like handles and tires for easy positioning.
• Inverter Generators are an efficient, lightweight portable generator, perfect for those who want a compact but powerful backup power solution. Unlike classic portable generators, inverter generators are fully enclosed and operate quietly. The easy start function is a distinct benefit of inverter generators, which start with the turn of a dial instead of the manual pull cord used on larger generators.
• Battery-Powered Portable Power Stations are an emission-free option that doesn’t require fuel, offering a backup power source designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Ideal for condos or apartments, they are even quieter than inverter generators, operating without any sound. Portable power stations are the smallest backup power option and can power a wide range of electronics that are crucial during an outage, including phones, refrigerators, sump pumps, laptops and more.

The 2025 fall and winter seasons are expected to bring a high risk of extreme weather events, making backup power solutions a preparedness priority. Hurricanes and severe storms can significantly damage the power grid, leaving homes without electricity for days or weeks.

A backup power source is not just about convenience; it’s about being prepared for the unexpected. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you can maintain essential functions, such as heating, cooking, and communication, during a power outage is invaluable. Generac is a global leader in energy technology and offers information and resources at https://www.generac.com/prepare/

(NewsUSA) - For most kids, the back-to-school season means catching up with friends, shopping for  supplies, and falling back into familiar routines – military kids face a different reality. They’re often walking into yet another new school, in yet another new city.

Military kids typically attend 6-9 different schools before they graduate high school. Every time their parent receives orders for a change of station, the whole family is once again transplanted into a new community. And these moves aren’t from one base to another – 70% of military families live in civilian neighborhoods, not on military installations. Despite living alongside their civilian neighbors, only 39% of military families feel connected to them, according to the 2024 Military Family Lifestyle Survey.  

For military kids, this means the start of school can feel lonely and overwhelming, with frequent moves disrupting everything that helps kids thrive: their friendships, extracurricular activities, and academic progress. That's why the way military children are welcomed into their new schools and communities matters so much. It can make the difference between facing yet another difficult transition and a fresh start filled with exciting possibilities.  

This year, communities across the country have a chance to make that difference. The sixth annual Blue Star Welcome Week (September 27–October 5, 2025), presented by Blue Star Families, is a nationwide effort to turn the back-to-school season into a time of belonging for the 600,000 military families who move each year.

This nationwide call to action encourages neighbors, schools, and local businesses to create meaningful connections with the military families in their neighborhoods. 

“Imagine you are a military kid on your sixth move, gearing up for your seventh new school – it’s tough,” said Kathy Roth-Douquet of Blue Star Families. “That’s one reason we developed Blue Star Welcome Week – to help schools, libraries, businesses, and neighbors ease the way for these kids and their families. It takes a village to support our military families, and Welcome Week is an easy and fun way for anyone to do their part. Help us welcome military families to your neighborhood and build a stronger, more united America at the same time!”

Here are five simple ways Blue Star Families encourages you to  Do Your Part to welcome military families and help kids feel at home in your community during Welcome Week and beyond:

• Welcome Military Kids. Meeting classmates, exploring new places, and joining community activities helps them feel they belong. With free access to parks and cultural attractions through Blue Star Outdoors  and Blue Star Museums, you can turn small gestures like an invitation or shared meal into lasting connections.
• Attend or Host a Community Gathering.Organize or join a neighborhood coffee, block party, outdoor movie, or potluck to help military families meet new neighbors and begin building local connections.
• Support Military Spouses and Parents.Consider hiring a military spouse, connect them to professional networks, or volunteer at a military-impacted school to bridge the military-civilian divide.
• Learn About Military Families’ Lives. The 2024 Military Family Lifestyle Survey shows that frequent relocations often create significant financial strain, with many families taking months – or even longer – to recover from the costs of a move. Taking time to understand these challenges is the first step toward meaningful support and building stronger, more connected communities. 
• Every Little Bit Helps. Make a gift to Blue Star Families to strengthen programs that connect, support, and empower military families. Your donation can fuel initiatives and research that drive lasting change – ensuring families feel a true sense of belonging in their communities.

Blue Star Welcome Week is more than an event – it’s a movement to ensure every military child and family feels valued, supported, and truly at home.

Join the movement September 27–October 5, 2025. Learn more at bluestarwelcomeweek.org.

(NewsUSA) - With the fall season here and parents settling into back-to-school routines, now is an ideal moment to ensure preschoolers are getting the best care and education possible for the year ahead. For many families, this means seeking programs that offer more than just a few hours of pre-K, and that align with family schedules and budgets.  

Low or No Cost Options Still Enrolling 
Many state and local pre-K programs with free or subsidized tuition are still accepting students, even if the school year has already begun in the area. These public pre-K programs provide foundational learning at little or no cost to families. Checking with your state or school district office, or local early childhood providers, is the first step to finding openings. 

Extending Beyond Local Districts 
Importantly, some public pre-K programs in local child care centers extend beyond local school districts. In several states, partnerships with providers like KinderCare allow families to access state-funded pre-K in community-based settings, offering parents more options and greater flexibility when choosing where their child learns and grows. 

Wrap-around Care Adds Convenience & Value 
For parents who need care before and after the state’s allotted pre-K hours, or for full days, wrap-around care is essential. Providers like KinderCare offer full-day programs that extend beyond free pre-K slots, allowing parents with multiple young children to have one convenient drop-off and pick-up. This arrangement eases daily juggling for working parents, means fewer transitions, and ensures children have a consistent, supportive learning environment all day long. 

Public Pre-K Partnerships Across the Country 
Across the U.S., states are expanding access to early learning by partnering with trusted providers like KinderCare. Families in 19 states can enroll in KinderCare centers that participate in state-funded pre-K programs, giving them access to high-quality education that fits their schedules and budgets. Today, nearly all of these states still have spots available for parents to enroll their children. These partnerships open doors for families who might not otherwise have access to convenient, affordable preschool options. 

Some states are going even further: New Mexico, for example, will now offer universal child care for every family in the state, regardless of income. This bold approach ensures that no family must choose between quality early education and affordability. 

And as the school year begins, parents have choices. With public pre-K, wrap-around care and state partnerships that extend programs beyond local districts, families can find options that fit both their budget and schedule, while giving children a strong, full-day foundation for learning, growth and success. 

Families can find more details on participating states and available programs at kindercare.com/public-prek. 

(NewsUSA) - “Animal Control” by Jonathan R. Miller

A young woman in California inherits a power that begins in the body and echoes out to the edges of the world. It isn’t explained and doesn’t come with rules. It gathers underneath the skin, waiting for direction.

As she begins to understand what the power can touch, rearrange, and dismantle, her decisions grow heavier. The results, stranger. Two friends join her — one driven, one deliberate — and the movement that forms between them gathers momentum until it starts to shift the balance between what is and what could be. Together they learn that transformation isn’t an event. It is a state. And not every becoming is safe.

“Animal Control” is a literary novel of restraint and reach, exploring how power circulates through the living world. It tells a story of instinct, intent, and of a young woman who must decide what she is willing to change and what she is willing to become. Purchase at https://amzn.to/4mtoEHl.

“Maya Blue: A Memoir of Survival” by Brenda Coffee

For fans of “Breaking Bad” and “Narcos,” a searingly honest and unforgettable memoir that challenges women to rethink everything they know about survival, resilience, and finding their voice.

At twenty-one, Brenda Coffee surrendered herself to her marriage and became a woman who would do almost anything her charismatic and powerful older husband, Philip Ray, wanted. Their life together was a fairy tale — until Philip, the founder of two high-profile, groundbreaking public companies, began making real cocaine in their basement and became addicted. Until the Big Six tobacco companies threatened their lives for creating the first smokeless cigarette, and brutal Guatemalan military commandos forced her into the jungle at gunpoint.

A suspenseful, fast-paced memoir that reads like a thriller, “Maya Blue” is an inspiring reminder that as long as you never surrender your voice and always keep your wits about you, you can survive almost anything. Purchase at https://amzn.to/4lyMBMf.

“Night of the Bear” by Alan Cockrell and Richard Hess

Reverend Bobby Chatman, a successful television preacher and the United States president's spiritual adviser, is hiding a dark secret. Immigrating to the US from Russia, he and his two assistants are deep-cover Russian intelligence operatives who have devised a plan to bring the United States to its knees with just four cruise missiles launched from within its borders.

Captain Mark "Suds" Matthews is a frustrated F-15 Eagle pilot who’s prepared to leave the Air Force and fly his final Eagle ride. Meanwhile, the career of his girlfriend, FBI Agent Darryl McCormick, seems to only be at its outset.

The night of the Russian attack is a desperate race to deliver the weapons and exit American airspace before being discovered, performed by an aircrew forced to risk their lives for a mission they don't believe in. Unbeknownst to him, Captain Matthews's last ride as an F-15 pilot may just be his most important. Purchase at https://amzn.to/45XsFwT.

BookTrib’s Lit Picks: 36 Free First Chapters from the Hottest Books of 2025

Readers get a free sneak peek into some of the hottest books and new voices being talked about in literary circles.

BookTrib.com — a leading source for book reviews, news, interviews and articles — offers readers the 2025 edition of its popular Lit Picks ebook collection of first chapters featuring excerpts from 36 new releases and hidden gems.

What to read is the most popular question our editors get a BookTrib.com.  This free gift can help readers decide what they will enjoy next. “BookTrib Lit Picks” includes lots to choose from, including contemporary and historical fiction, thrillers, fantasy, sci-fi, romance, self-help, memoirs and more from publishers like Blackstone, Koehler and Minotaur to award-winning small presses and works from independently published authors. Get your free download at https://booktrib.com/litpicks.