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Expanding Coverage for FDA-Approved GLP-1s Is Critical for Patient Safety

(NewsUSA) - The newest generation of GLP-1 drugs has delivered life-changing benefits to patients managing diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and other chronic health conditions. And yet even though tens of thousands of lives would be saved each year by expanding access to GLP-1s, many insurers have declined to provide comprehensive coverage.

As a result, some patients have gambled with their health – likely unknowingly – by turning to compounded versions that are both risky and potentially less effective. These compounded GLP-1s—which are never approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and do not undergo their gold standard review for safety, effectiveness, or quality—come from loosely regulated pharmacies that don’t have to follow the same manufacturing standards. It’s a combination that can lead to catastrophic harm. As one example, in 2012, a fungal meningitis outbreak linked to a New England-based compounder killed more than 100 people and sickened over 700 others across 20 states. It’s no wonder why FDA has repeatedly warned that compounded products can have “potentially serious health risks.”

Fortunately, the clock has run out on those risky copycats. The FDA has declared that both semaglutide and tirzepatide—the active ingredients in Wegovy and Ozempic, and Mounjaro and Zepbound, respectively—are no longer in shortage, which had created a loophole for compounders to produce them. A federal court recently declined to issue an injunction blocking the FDA’s tirzepatide decision. The effect of those decisions is to put a halt to the continued manufacture and sale of these substandard drugs.

Efforts should now shift to helping increase access to FDA-approved GLP-1 drugs. As GLP-1 medicines continue to grow in popularity, expanded insurance coverage is critically needed to ensure that patients have access to safe and effective treatments. Patients living with obesity deserve access to FDA-approved treatments just like patients with diabetes or heart disease. There’s no reason why they should be denied insurance coverage for proven medicines like GLP-1s.

Manufacturers have launched programs to help make FDA-approved GLP-1s more affordable for patients who must pay out of pocket—but that’s just a start. To truly improve access, obesity has to be treated like every other chronic disease. And that means increasing government and commercial insurance coverage. 

Unsurprisingly, some insurers claim that the cost of GLP-1s is too high. That’s a shortsighted view. Given the current obesity public health crisis, covering these drugs now will not only help improve the lives of millions living with obesity but will also help reduce the prevalence and health care spending on the many costly conditions associated with it, such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and liver disease, among others. Robust coverage may also help more people join or return to the workforce and ultimately save billions in lost productivity.

Tens of millions of Americans are living with obesity and they deserve access to proven FDA-approved treatments—they should not have to settle for substandard alternatives. With the GLP-1 shortage resolved, policymakers need to focus on increasing GLP-1 insurance coverage so patients who need help managing chronic health conditions can access safe and effective FDA-approved GLP-1 medicines.  

Unleashing U.S. Energy: The Critical Need for Efficient Permitting

(NewsUSA) - There is broad agreement across party lines that it takes too long to build anything in the United States.   A new energy generation project, like a solar or wind farm, that needs a federal permit takes an average of 4.5 years to secure it. Projects that only need state or local permits can go faster but still take unnecessarily long.
Some projects’ permit wait time is more than a decade. That’s twice the time it took to build the Hoover Dam or the Golden Gate Bridge.  Protecting the environment is critical, of course, but deployment of the energy infrastructure necessary to help our nation meet the growing demand for electricity while continuing to power our economy is being done in ways that are compatible with environmental protection.

While the industry has been accelerating investments in clean energy projects, manufacturing facilities and new technology, timely permitting is critical to unlocking the pipeline of projects that will unleash economic growth, create additional good-paying American jobs, and reduce costs for American consumers.

Failure to reform our current permitting system puts clean energy projects that power millions of homes at risk of significant delay, along with 150,000 jobs and $100 billion+ of investment, including over 40 GW of projects reliant on the siting and permitting of new transmission lines.

Delays create uncertainty and raise costs for project developers that ultimately get passed on to the consumer. Delays can also have ripple effects throughout the economy—throwing off project timelines, the buildout of domestic supply chains, and the jobs and economic activity tied to these projects.

The American Clean Power Association (ACP) advocates for comprehensive permitting policies, working with members of Congress from both political parties to accelerate the deployment of clean energy and cut red tape—all while maintaining robust environmental reviews.

Clean power sources like solar and wind have minimal environmental impacts and proactively take steps to reduce even those and they provide economic benefits in the form of tax revenue, land lease payments and job creation. They also generate large amounts of electricity while diversifying America’s energy portfolio, which enhances reliability while benefiting consumers.

Expanding power generation and transmission is about as fundamental as you can get – we need more electricity to power our devices, factories, workplaces; really our entire lives. Having a dependable supply of electricity is not something we should ever take for granted. Reforming the permitting process is critical to setting the U.S on a path to greater energy security.

 

Spring Forward – Don’t Let Varicose Veins Hold You Back

(NewsUSA) - As the cold of winter fades, spring brings a fresh sense of renewal—and for many, it’s the first time in months they’ll be showing off their legs again. But for some, the thought of revealing their legs can come with hesitation. This may be especially true for those with varicose veins.

Varicose veins are a common condition that affects more than 30 million Americans.1 These enlarged veins, visible just beneath the skin, are not just a cosmetic issue – they can signal underlying vein disease that causes blood to flow backward and pool in lower leg veins, causing pain and discomfort.

Varicose Veins as More Than Just a Cosmetic Issue

While cosmetic concerns and wanting to feel comfortable in your skin can be reason enough for treatment, varicose veins may also be a potential sign of a more urgent health condition that requires early diagnosis and treatment.

“Varicose veins go beyond appearance—they can be a sign of underlying vein disease that can lead to swelling, skin discoloration, general discomfort in the legs, and in more advanced cases cause venous ulcers,” said Dr. John Laird, Chief Medical Officer for Peripheral Vascular Health at Medtronic. “If these symptoms are familiar, I would encourage you to reach out to a doctor who can do an evaluation and determine the best course of treatment to help you find relief from pain and other symptoms.”

Know If You’re at Risk and Learn How to Step Up Your Health

Varicose veins and vein disease don’t discriminate — anyone, regardless of age, gender, or race, can be affected. However, certain factors may increase your risk. A family history of vein disease, smoking, or obesity can make vein problems more likely.Additionally, women who are pregnant, taking birth control, or going through menopause may experience a higher risk due to hormonal changes that can relax vein walls, making it easier for veins to swell.2

"Varicose veins can worsen over time if left untreated,” explained Dr. Laird. “But the good news is there are innovative treatments and simple self-care strategies that can help manage symptoms. Adopting a few healthy habits can make a significant difference."

Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, elevating your legs when possible, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing are all helpful steps.3 Dr. Laird also recommends wearing compression socks to support improved circulation and relieve discomfort.

 

VenaSeal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Medtronic just marked the milestone of shipping over one million VenaSeal closure system units worldwide.

A Quick and Easy Option for Varicose Vein Treatment

While lifestyle changes can help manage varicose veins, they won’t cure them. For a more permanent solution, treatments like VenaSeal™ are gaining popularity. This medical adhesive is a quick and effective way to treat varicose veins with minimal recovery time— and may not require compression stockings following the procedure.5-6  Following the procedure, your doctor can help you know when you are able get back to doing what you love— from outdoor activities to spending time with family.4-7

Heather Anderson, a mom, avid runner, and boot camp enthusiast, opted for the VenaSeal procedure to treat her tired and achy legs. “The treatment was smooth. I was awake the whole time, felt no pain, and was incredibly comfortable,” Heather shared of her experience. “When it was done, I got up and walked right out. I’d recommend it to anyone.”

Minimally invasive treatments like VenaSeal are becoming the go-to choice for people dealing with varicose veins. “More patients are choosing minimally invasive options to treat varicose veins,” Dr. Laird said. “Medtronic recently celebrated a huge milestone — shipping over one million units of the VenaSeal system worldwide, showing just how popular and effective this treatment has become.”

VenaSeal is a procedure where a small tube is inserted into the affected vein, and a specially formulated medical adhesive is used to seal the vein walls together. This reroutes blood to healthier veins, providing long-term relief from pain and discomfort. The best part? While each patient experience is unique, pain is generally considered mild, and most are back to their daily activities with minimal downtime.4-7

Break Free from Leg Pain this Spring

If you’re dealing with varicose veins, it might be time to take action. Life shouldn’t be limited by pain caused by vein disease. Relieve your leg pain and talk to your doctor about whether VenaSeal could be the right option for you – it’s a quick and effective treatment that can help you get back to enjoying the beach, the lake, the pool, or wherever your warm weather adventures take you.

For more details, including important safety information, on VenaSeal, visit: https://www.medtronic.com/breakfree.

Sources

  1. Gloviczki P, Comerota AJ, Dalsing MC, et al. The care of patients with varicose veins and associated chronic venous diseases: Clinical practice guidelines of the Society for Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum. J Vasc Surg. 2011;53(5 Suppl):2S–48S. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2011.01.079.
  2. Mayo Clinic: Varicose Veinshttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/symptoms-causes/syc-20350643
  3. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: Varicose Veins https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/varicose-veins
  4. Morrison N, Gibson K, McEnroe S, et al. Randomized trial comparing cyanoacrylate embolization and radiofrequency ablation for incompetent great saphenous veins (VeClose). J Vasc Surg. 2015;61(4):985–994. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2014.11.071.
  5. Proebstle T, Alm J, Dimitri S, et al. Three-year follow-up results of the prospective European multicenter cohort study on cyanoacrylate embolization for treatment of refluxing great saphenous veins. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2021;9(2):329–334. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2020.05.019.
  6. Almeida JI, Javier JJ, Mackay EG, Bautista C, Cher DJ, Proebstle TM. Thirty-sixth-month follow-up of first-in-human use of cyanoacrylate adhesive for treatment of saphenous vein incompetence. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2017;5(5):658–666. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2017.03.016.
  7. Morrison N, Gibson, Vasquez M, et al. VeClose trial 12-month outcomes of cyanoacrylate closure versus radiofrequency ablation for incompetent great saphenous veins. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2017;5(3):321–330. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2016.12.005.

 

 

Summer Camps Guide: Helping Parents Choose the Right Fit for Their Child

(NewsUSA) - Spring break often reminds families of the approach of summer and the need to find the best summer camp experiences for their children. Whether a child is entering kindergarten or transitioning to middle school, there’s a camp to suit their interests and needs, as well as those of their parents. It can be hard to sort through the many options (and price points) available to determine what’s best for each child.

Variety is important because not all camps are one-size-fits-all, just as not all children are the same. Brands like KinderCare, Champions and Crème de la Crème Schools offer different summer camp experiences that allow for flexibility, convenience and amenities to meet the needs of all families each summer.

Here are some important considerations for parents to remember as they narrow their summer camp search.

Location and Scheduling Options

For busy parents juggling multiple kids, finding a summer camp that combines convenience, affordability, and fun is key. A camp that accommodates various age groups allows siblings to enjoy a safe, engaging environment while learning and growing together and means parents only have to think about one drop-off and pick-up location. However, the camp should follow a curriculum designed by education experts to support the social and academic development of children of all ages, expanding on the skills children learned during the school year.

Another convenient summer-long option for families is programs located within elementary schools, allowing for familiarity for the child since it's an extension of the out-of-school time programs many children are already used to.

Whether you choose a location in a child care center or a school setting, both options should incorporate screen-free activities that provide children with opportunities for skill-building, teamwork, hands-on experiences, and fun with their friends.

Specialty Amenities

For children who crave action or parents looking for a specialty experience, look for a camp that offers a high-energy summer filled with amenities, including bowling alleys, basketball courts, and STEM programs. Weekly themes, outdoor excursions, and creative play ensure that children remain engaged and active, which makes it the ideal choice for kids who love variety and new experiences.

For school-age children seeking adventure, outdoor nature camps offer a perfect summer full of classic summer camp activities. Whether for a week or the entire season, children will enjoy outdoor exploration, multiple weekly field trips, and exciting activities like hiking, swimming, and nature play. This style of camp provides unique experiences that combine fun with education about plants, animals, and all that Mother Nature has to offer, ensuring a summer filled with unforgettable memories in the great outdoors.

All of these summer camps provide a perfect balance of fun, learning, and adventure. Whether parents are seeking something educational, exciting, or flexible, there’s a camp that will keep their child engaged all summer long.

Key Points for All Families

No matter what kind of summer experience parents want for their child, there are few things to consider when sorting through the various options.

  • Convenience: Camps in familiar locations, such as schools, child care centers, and community facilities make drop-offs and pick-ups simple. Overnight camps can be expensive and are often located in remote areas. High-quality daytime programs provide children the opportunity to have just as much fun at competitive prices and are often more convenient for busy families.
  • Flexibility: Whether care is needed for just one week or the entire summer, full-time or part-time, look for options like those above that are tailored to fit busy family schedules.
  • Affordability:  Summer camp is an investment. When exploring summer care options, check if your camp collaborates with various employer, state, and federal programs, including the military, to offer families tuition support, making these camps a practical and affordable option.
  • Engaging Activities: From educational programs and creative play to field trips and physical activities, there’s a summer camp experience for every child. When school lets out, it’s time for children to put down screens, get outside, explore, and experience hands-on learning that connects them with nature and their peers.

Enrollment for many summer camps is open now. Parents should start planning ahead before spots fill up.

 

Help Marine Toys for Tots Combat Childhood Illiteracy

(NewsUSA) - March is National Reading Month, and the Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program is committed to expanding access to books and educational resources for children living in low-income communities. Our initiative, “March into Reading” reflects our Program’s dedication to fostering literacy among underserved youth.

Toys for Tots’ mission extends beyond the holiday season, and our Literacy Program is one of our programs that enables us to be a year-round force for good, providing disadvantaged children with direct access to books and educational resources that enhance their ability to read and communicate effectively.

According to The Nation’s Report Card (NAEP), 37% of fourth graders read below the basic reading level due to a lack of educational materials. With 1 in 4 children in America growing up without learning how to read, the need for accessible books is more critical than ever. The Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program works to combat this illiteracy crisis by distributing books and educational resources to children in underserved communities and Title I funded schools, helping them develop creative thinking, problem-solving skills, and a love for reading.

"By getting books into the hands of struggling students, we are helping children become their best selves," said LtGen Jim Laster, USMC (Retired), CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. "Our goal is to dramatically change the landscape for economically disadvantaged children and provide the essential tools to ensure their future success."

Last year, Marine Forces Reserve, GySgt Bacchus, and author Will Baggett, visited Hynes Charter School, a Title I funded school in the New Orleans metro area, to conduct a reading event promoting the Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program. They shared the fundamental value of literacy with first- and second-graders, emphasizing the importance of getting educational books and materials into the hands of all children, regardless of their circumstances.

"The Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program not only brings the joy of reading to these children, but it also serves as a vital instrument in breaking the cycle of poverty and highlighting the importance of literacy," said LtGen Laster.

The Toys for Tots Literacy Program believes that reading is a basic, essential skill that can transform lives and open doors to a more fulfilling future. Since its inception in 2008, the Toys for Tots Literacy Program has distributed over 60 million books to disadvantaged children including nearly 2 million books to Title I funded schools, and in 2024 alone, distributed nearly 3 million books.

During National Reading Month, Toys for Tots is working to ensure every child experiences the power of literacy, and the sense of hope, optimism, and excitement that it generates.

For more information or to donate, please visit www.toysfortots.org.

 

BookTrib’s Bites: Spring Into These Four Spellbinding Reads

(NewsUSA) - High Tea“High Tea and Misdemeanors” by Laura Childs

When a wedding is tragically averted by the death of the bridesmaid, Theodosia is determined to prove that it was murder in the latest entry to this New York Times bestselling Tea Shop Mystery series.

Theodosia Browning and her tea sommelier, Drayton Connelly, are tapped to cater the elegant wedding of Bettina and Jamie. Theodosia and Drayton are setting up when they hear a crash from the greenhouse. Shockingly, they discover that part of the roof has collapsed, trapping a bridesmaid and the groom. He will pull through, but the bridesmaid is no more. Theodosia is convinced it was murder.

As an added feature, the book includes delicious recipes and tea-time tips. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4fvTGtK.

Why wolves matter“Why Wolves Matter: A Conservation Success Story” by Karen B. Winnick

Where did all the wolves go? The birds, the fish and the beavers?

When the top predator was wiped out, the balance of nature in Yellowstone National Park was disrupted. The circle was broken. Written in a lyrical style, “Why Wolves Matter” is an ecological tale that helps children understand the interconnectedness of all things in the natural world. Once all the wolves were gone, the elk population grew so large that the trees and vegetation on which they fed disappeared, throwing the Park and the remaining wildlife into disarray.

Supplemented with a timeline and bibliography, the non-fiction picture book “Why Wolves Matter” is about the importance of the top predator in nature, how balance was restored in Yellowstone National Park and the circle made whole again — with important historical and scientific relevance for children. Purchase at https://amzn.to/415gGKV.

Gather, ye heroes“Gather, Ye Heroes” by C.S. Brown

In this first book of an exciting new fantasy series, securing victory against his enemies, Tianis is thrown into a world he is ill-prepared for. Confronted by a dragon, he is informed that he must lead mankind against an ancient foe returning after nearly 1,000 years.

Torg, 16, is looking forward to being released from his apprenticeship and taking his place in society. But his path leads him toward something completely different. He encounters a dragon, who brands him as the chosen leader of the armies of man and dragon.

Elsbeth, the daughter of a master weaponsmith who works alongside her father in the armory, makes an accidental discovery that brings her face to face with a dragon. She is told that there is more to the world than she ever imagined and that she is to be a leader on that stage.

But can prophecy be trusted? Purchase at https://bit.ly/4fSfe3Y.

Kalayla“Kalayla: Unraveling Tangles” by Jeannie Nicholas

This tale is told from three distinct points of view: a young teenager, her mother and their landlady. Kalayla is a bi-racial girl determined to teach adults a thing or two. Her mother, Maureen, has been disowned by her Irish family and works as a waitress. Their Italian landlady, a widow, is retiring as CEO of her family’s business.

Their deepening friendships provide a scaffolding of support and show the transformative power of connection as they each risk new adventures with laughter and courage. Their stories touch on race, sexuality, marital abuse, exasperations of adolescence, single motherhood and self-discovery.

Kirkus Reviews describes the book as “an eloquent tale about real-life people with difficult problems.” Purchase at https://amzn.to/40RaLcq.

OnCore Golf: Innovating the Game with Advanced Ball Technology

(NewsUSA) - At first glance, a golf ball may seem simple, but OnCore Golf has proven there's much more to it than meets the eye. This innovative startup has revolutionized golf ball technology in ways that larger companies haven't been able to.

Founded by longtime friends and business partners Bret Blakely and Steve Coulton, OnCore Golf was born out of a desire to bring innovation to golf ball design. Their proprietary perimeter-weighting technology minimizes unwanted sidespin—helping golfers achieve straighter shots, even in challenging conditions.

But OnCore's journey wasn't just about physics; it was also about breaking through barriers in the traditional golf industry. As newcomers introducing cutting-edge technology, they faced resistance. However, their perseverance paid off when, after a two-year appeal, the U.S. Golf Association approved OnCore balls for use in professional tournaments.

"OnCore represents those who embrace their differences and use them to shape a unique vision for what golf can be," Blakely shared in an interview. "We don't just sell products; we inspire individuality and drive through our approach and messaging."

A Golf Ball for Every Player

OnCore offers a lineup of balls tailored to different skill levels:

  • Beginner-Friendly: The Avant 55 is designed for golfers with slower swing speeds, offering a soft feel and enhanced distance.
  • Intermediate & Advanced: The Elixr and Elixr 2020 feature a urethane blend that enhances distance and accuracy for skilled players.
  • Tour-Level Performance:
    • Vero X1 (85 compression) is crafted for serious golfers seeking precision.
    • Vero X2 (95 compression) provides advanced players with exceptional control and responsiveness.

Smart Tech Meets Golf: The Genius Ball

OnCore isn't stopping at traditional golf balls—the company is pioneering smart technology with its upcoming Genius Ball. Equipped with microelectronics and AI-driven analysis, this revolutionary ball tracks data to help golfers refine their game.

Initially designed for chipping and putting, the Genius Ball provides real-time feedback to improve technique. A full-course version is also in development, though it will be a training aid rather than a tournament-legal ball.

For more details, visit oncoregolf.com.

 

Selecting the Right Auto Glass Shop for Your Repairs: Why Expertise Matters

(NewsUSA) - When it comes to auto glass repair and replacement, choosing the right provider is crucial for ensuring the safety and performance of your vehicle. The quality of the glass, the skill of the technicians, and the use of advanced technology all play vital roles in delivering a reliable repair that protects you on the road.

Auto Glass Now understands that selecting an auto glass shop goes beyond just price—it's about getting the right service from qualified professionals who understand the complexities of modern vehicles. As vehicles have become more advanced, particularly with the integration of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), it's essential that your repairs are performed by skilled technicians using the latest technology. Keep reading to learn more!

CalibrationWhy Expertise and Technology Matter

Auto glass repair isn't just about replacing a cracked windshield or a shattered side window. Today's vehicles often incorporate ADAS technologies, such as lane departure warnings, collision sensors, and automatic braking systems, all of which rely on precision alignment of sensors and a camera attached to the windshield. If these systems aren’t properly calibrated, it could result in malfunctioning safety features, potentially putting drivers and passengers at risk.

This is where Auto Glass Now excels. Their team of certified technicians is fully equipped to handle not only standard auto glass repair and replacements but also the ADAS calibrations, ensuring that all sensors and cameras are properly calibrated after windshield replacements. They use state-of-the-art technology that guarantees accuracy and compliance with factory setting specifications.

The Auto Glass Now Difference

Fast, reliable service: They offer same-day / next-day appointments, so you don’t have to wait long for the repairs you need.

Flexibility and nationwide coverage: With hundreds of locations across the country, Auto Glass Now is always nearby, offering reliable auto glass services wherever you are. Can’t make it in shop? Auto Glass Now offers mobile service, as well.

They accept all insurance: They’re here to make life simple. If you decide to make an insurance claim for your auto glass services, there’s no need for additional phone calls! They’ll manage your insurance claim from start to finish. All you need to do is bring your insurance documentation to your appointment and they will take it from there.

Certified technicians and advanced technology: Their technicians are highly trained and experienced in all aspects of auto glass repair, including ADAS calibration. They use cutting-edge equipment and diagnostic tools that enable precise ADAS calibration, ensuring that your vehicle's safety systems perform as they should following a replacement.

Comprehensive services: Whether you need a simple windshield replacement, a more complex ADAS calibration, or simply need new windshield wipers, Auto Glass Now offers a full range of services to meet your needs. They will even inspect your vehicle’s glass damage and give you an honest opinion, free of charge!

When it comes to auto glass repair, don’t compromise on safety. Trust the experts at Auto Glass Now to deliver high-quality repairs and replacements using the latest technology and techniques to keep you and your family safe on the road.

For more information about Auto Glass Now's services or to get a free quote, visit www.autoglssnow.com   or call 1-888-4-FIXGLASS
 

Why AI "Pop-Up" Tax Firms Are a Risky Bet for R&D Credits

(NewsUSA) - Tax policy is set for a pivotal year and while most will focus on potential corporate tax rate changes, a new issue is emerging: the role of AI in tax preparation.

Recently, an influx of AI-driven "pop up" tech firms have entered the market, claiming to be faster and cheaper than traditional tax consulting firms when filing for tax credits. However, these firms lack professional tax and legal expertise required to navigate complex filings.

When filing R&D tax credits, AI-driven tech firms can misinterpret tax laws and make mistakes exposing businesses and CPAs to IRS audits and fines. AI software lacks the judgment required for tax compliance and interpreting the law.

Even on simpler tasks, AI hasn't been accurate. A 2024 Washington Post review found AI chatbots used by major tax preparation firms provided inaccurate responses up to 50 percent of the time, reinforcing IRS's warning against AI reliance for complex tax questions. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) criticized the IRS's own AI-powered audit system, highlighting potential inaccuracies in tax compliance.

Meanwhile, the IRS stands to lose revenue if AI-generated filings result in a large increase in fraudulent or incorrect deductions. This feels eerily similar to the wave of fraudulent Employee Retention Credit (ERC) claims that led the IRS to freeze processing last year after pop-up firms flooded the market with improper filings—many that are now under investigation.

New AI-driven "pop-up" tech firms, like SPRX, market their software as a low-cost alternative to professional tax firms when filing R&D tax credits despite not being around long enough to make it through an audit cycle yet. They also don't disclose how their systems are trained. SPRX claims automation can handle up to 80 percent of the process, but automation cannot make legal and technical expertise required to determine eligibility, including nuanced legal judgments and employee interviews.

These firms try to promote the idea that AI-driven tax services can replace tax firms and CPA's expertise, but human judgment remains essential in ensuring accuracy and compliance. AI should be seen as a tool, not as a replacement for tax professionals.

Without proper safeguards, relying on these "pop-up" AI tech firms to secure your R&D tax credit could result in the IRS denying your submittal, cost your business thousands or even millions of dollars, and it could also land your business in hot water with the IRS incurring fines, audits and potential fraud.

BookTrib’s Bites: Enjoy a Variety of Fascinating Reads This Spring

(NewsUSA) - conviction overturned"Conviction Overturned" by Willard Bakeman

A must-read for evangelicals and skeptics alike. “Conviction Overturned” is a forensic review of the Bible’s credibility based on legal principles of proof, written by someone with extensive expertise with the law and scripture. Author Willard Bakeman is a 35-year San Diego trial attorney, but also a seminarian and former evangelist turned skeptic. His background is uniquely fitting to perform an objective, informed, insightful and incisive forensic analysis of the Bible's credibility. In “Conviction Overturned,” he cuts no corners to deliver the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, no matter whom it may antagonize.

“Conviction Overturned” answers such compelling questions as: Is the life of Jesus a miraculous fulfillment of prophecy? Is there evidence that portions of the New Testament are forged? Was Jesus gay? Is Moses the spiritual forebear of Osama bin Laden? What did Jesus think about transgenderism? Purchase at https://amzn.to/40X7sAr.

The elderly gentleman's"The Elderly Gentleman's Ulyssee" by Hans Bodmer

A smarter, older Gentleman makes his way from Zurich to Geneva on hiking trails, wherever they exist. The declared goal is to reach a destination — the Café de la Place in Meyrin — as soon as possible. The adventures and encounters along the way are unforeseen and unexpected, and the experience brings smiles, laughter and a sense of achievement. But there’s also unpleasantness, tooth grinding and suffering.

He has much time to explore his thoughts and follow thought processes put in motion by the events. He inevitably ends up in complex, exuberant pipe dreams and bizarre, surreal spheres. Very often, he is sent into the virtual desert for his thoughts. Which he isn't concerned about. He wanders, ponders and continues to provoke, undeterred.

He meets different types of men, friendly ones and also disgusting ones. Not only that, he encounters many charming ladies and often risks falling in love. Join the journey. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3CRXcl9.

your home remedy"Your Home Remedy for Acid Reflux Disease" by Dr. Howard Christian

Tired of struggling with acid reflux disease? Looking for an authentic remedy that allows you to keep eating the foods you love? This self-help book reveals a no-diet, alternative healing approach to transform your life and relieve your GERD. However you define your struggle, your unbridled well-being is within reach. Dr. Howard Christian offers this essential guide to help you break free from the cycle of symptoms, medications and dietary restrictions.

Drawing from his personal battle with GERD and his background in immunology, Dr. Christian emphasizes understanding GERD not as an adversary but as a messenger signaling the need for growth and self-awareness. He uses a unique, non-dietary remedy rooted in ageless wisdom to promote emotional, psychological and physical transformation.

Imagine the lasting benefits! Start feeling better today. Purchase at https://amzn.to/4kukfmN.

soul flowers"Soul Flowers" by Cynthia Schumaker

“Soul Flowers” is Schumaker’s seventh poetry collection, delving into universal human emotions and experiences that connect us all. The collection provides enjoyable and accessible "word music" designed to appeal to dedicated poetry lovers and to others who might like to be. Employing both rhymed and unrhymed formats, Schumacher's work spans a wide array of subjects, often drawing inspiration from the natural world. Her poems touch on themes of hope and resilience, and offer comforting wisdom. Seamlessly blending new works with selections from previous publications, “Soul Flowers” invites readers to find solace and connection through shared human experiences.

Pacific Book Review says, “Schumacher's poems are seeds of wisdom, nurturing a sense of peace and connection to the cycles of life … ideal for anyone seeking solace, inspiration, and the gentle reminder that like flowers, the soul has its own seasons of blooming and renewal.” Purchase at https://amzn.to/3OUflRz.

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