(NewsUSA) - Lost in Thought by Deborah Serra

Does your mind wander? Where does it go without you?

Ilana manages an opera house in Manhattan. Her world is well-planned until she begins to question her choices. Having been adopted, she decides to secretly spy on her birth family. When she does, her life explodes.

This novel is about how our lives are driven by unconscious choices and the consequences from our illusion of free will.

“Ilana’s journey as a woman trying to figure out who she is, is compelling, unexpected, and also heartbreaking. This novel captured me.” — Delia Ephron, author, screenwriter

“I am in awe. This is an extraordinary story, and one that will remain with me.” — WendiReviews

“This novel is a masterclass in psychological fiction.” — Rekha Rao

 “This book is about a character navigating matters of self-control. It’s gripping."  — Patricia S. Churchland, author, MacArthur grant recipient, neuro-philosopher

Purchase at https://bit.ly/3AFn4zk.

Civil Unity by Shola Richards

In order to transform our world, we must unite behind a new kind of civility.

In a world that is more divided than ever, it will take a radical act to transform our discourse, our lives, and our world. International civility consultant and keynote speaker Shola Richards believes that unifying our world around the power of civility is that radical act, and it’s not for the faint of heart.

Civil Unity is not another book about turning the other cheek when faced with harmful or hateful behavior. This book is about providing the practical tactics to disagree more effectively, bridge ideological divisions, actively prioritize our mental health, and fiercely create a more civil world that will sustain over time. If you are ready to transform our discourse, our lives, and our world, let’s get to work. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3yH4iqD.

The Little Bird by Ashby Jones

In 1964, a Black teenager was murdered by a drunken white cop who got away with the crime, and eight years later, the boy’s best friend, Shane, returns from combat intent on carving out justice himself. Suzanne, the daughter of the lawyer who failed in prosecuting the case, also lands back in Virginia, but her aim is to follow her father’s path to suicide, a path created by his loss and the severe rheumatoid arthritis that followed.

Shane and Suzanne were four years apart in high school and barely knew each other before they met, but after a chance encounter, an almost instant connection is made. Neither knows the other’s secret goal, but as their bonds deepen, their love will be tested by familial duty, long-held grief, and even shifting sanity. But love might have other plans for Shane and Suzanne. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3AJZ7GY.

Here There is No Why by Philip Graubart

Did Chaim Lerner, acclaimed Israeli author and Holocaust survivor, kill himself in 1983, 38 years after surviving Auschwitz? If so, was it traumatic memories finally catching up to him? Or despair over Holocaust denialism? Or ordinary, difficult health issues? Or simply a deadly episode of depression?

Or was it murder?

In 2005, Judah Loeb, Lerner's former student and now a struggling American journalist and single father, travels to Jerusalem to investigate Lerner's death. He drags along his 15-year-old daughter, Hannah, and they team up with Charlie, Judah's former Hebrew University roommate, now a Jerusalem homicide detective. Their investigation takes them through the darker corners of the Israeli psyche, where they uncover secrets that threaten to destroy Lerner's reputation and alter Jewish history. While probing the mysteries of Israel's past, they encounter personal betrayal, heartbreak, and the fragile possibilities of forgiveness and redemption. Purchase at https://bit.ly/46ZJLdy.

(NewsUSA) - Economic uncertainty and higher prices have brought shifts in consumer behavior, yet recent sales trends show steady spending, and economic indicators are moving in a positive direction heading into the holiday season. New data from ICSC, the member organization for the Marketplaces Industry, suggests that most people are eager to enjoy themselves this holiday season—including shopping and dining out.

ICSC has released its Annual Holiday Shopping Intentions Survey for 2024, and results suggest that 92% of American consumers plan to participate in holiday shopping this year, the highest percentage since 2019. The organization also forecasts an increase of 3.0% to 3.5% in retail sales from October through December, with a 6.0% increase in food and beverage sales.

Although online shopping continues, many shoppers combine online purchases with visits to brick-and-mortar stores. ICSC’s survey showed that nearly all in-store shoppers also plan to buy online from a retailer’s website, and almost half said that in-store browsing influences online purchases.

Shoppers will spend an average of approximately $700 on gifts and other holiday items this year, according to the data, with 58% reporting a plan to buy gift cards, 52% planning to buy clothing and accessories, and 50% planning to buy toys and games.

“Despite economic headwinds, 70% of holiday shoppers feel their financial situation is better than or the same as this time last year, signaling measured optimism among consumers,” said Tom McGee, President and CEO of ICSC. “Interest rate cuts and easing inflation are taking some pressure off holiday shoppers, but other macro factors such as geopolitical turmoil and the results of this year’s election are still at play.”

Consumers are still planning to spend this holiday season but are increasingly focused on how they can find the best prices, according to ICSC. Though inflation is moderating, 9 in 10 say it will impact their purchase decisions. In response, most consumers say they’ll plan to spend more time hunting for deals and discounts, and 68% say they’ll visit brick-and-mortar stores more often in pursuit of promotions – seven percentage points higher than in 2023.

“Shoppers overall are well-positioned for the holiday season,” McGee added. “While this year has seen consumers tighten their belts in some areas, they’re continuing to spend – and we expect that moderating inflation and a steady labor market will help maintain spending throughout the holiday season.”

Visit icsc.com for more information.

(NewsUSA) - Three key areas of technology – internet platforms, advanced battery technologies, and next-gen networks – have shown shifts in positions of power between the United States and China in the last few years, according to a recent report from the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP), a nonprofit and nonpartisan initiative with a goal of making recommendations to strengthen America's long-term competitiveness in AI.

Internet Platforms: U.S. Leads. Overall, the United States is ahead of China in terms of market capitalization and use of internet platforms to connect, communicate, and find information. As of July 2024, U.S.-based social media companies had the top four spots in highest number of monthly active users worldwide.

However, the popularity of People’s Republic of China (PRC) platforms, notably TikTok, shows that China’s growing impact on social media is not a fluke. Chinese e-commerce apps Temu and Shein also have experienced a surge in popularity worldwide, and something to watch is China’s Huawei, who plans to launch an app system on par with Apple’s App Store and Google’s Play Store.

Advanced Batteries: China Leads. China currently retains its grip on the battery supply chain, mainly through refinement of critical minerals. In 2023, China refined a majority of three key minerals needed for batteries: graphite (91%), cobalt (77%), and lithium (65%).

The U.S. does not currently rank among the top 10 global EV battery makers, but efforts are underway to increase U.S. competitiveness in the global battery supply chain. Specifically, “the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), aims to reduce U.S. reliance on China for batteries by offering tax credits to companies that manufacture them domestically,” according to the SCSP experts. Looking ahead, AI innovations in battery-related R&D could transform the energy storage sector and will be the lynchpin for the United States to regain an upper hand in the sector. 

Next-Gen Networks: U.S. Leads. The key to next-generation connectivity is low-orbit non-terrestrial networks (NTNs), and the U.S. currently has a strong lead in this area. The success of companies such as Starlink, which has deployed more than 5,000 low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites, is a prime example.

China is attempting to increase its stake in advanced networks through deployment of 6G networks, for which it has filed nearly double the number of patents as the U.S. On both the technological and standard-setting fronts, the U.S. needs to pay more attention to 6G, or risk losing out to China as it did with 5G.

Visit scsp.ai to learn more about the United States’ position in the global geopolitical technology competition.

(NewsUSA) - We take X-rays for granted, but they were unknown until German physicist Wilhelm Roentgen discovered them 130 years ago. Today, they’re associated with detecting problems with bones, teeth, and more, but one of their most important uses is curing common skin cancer.

More than 9,000 Americans each day are diagnosed with nonmelanoma skin cancer and, traditionally, they would be facing Mohs surgery to cure their disease. However, many cases are now successfully treated without surgery, thanks to research-backed, highly effective, noninvasive radiation therapies such as Image-Guided SRT, SRT, and Electronic Brachytherapy.

These nonsurgical treatments are available at select dermatology practices nationwide.

Highly skilled radiation therapists, in collaboration with dermatologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists, utilize the latest advancements in X-ray and high-definition ultrasound technology to precisely target and destroy cancer cells—without scalpel, pain, or surgical scarring. Image-Guided SRT boasts a cure rate of 99% or higher, comparable to Mohs surgery, while Electronic Brachytherapy achieves a 98.8% cure rate within two years. With each of these treatments, radiation therapists play critical roles in advancing patient care.

Dr. Jacob Scott, Chairman of the Dermatology Association of Radiation Therapy (DART), a nationwide association of medical practitioners in the field of skin cancer, says, “Radiation therapists are key medical team members in the fight against common skin cancer. They often have the most face time with patients and with their professional training, radiation therapists are well positioned to participate in treatment planning and execution. They are instrumental in assessing patient needs and progress, and in assuring patient compliance with the plan.”

DART member Kelsay Craig holds a Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy and a Radiologic Technology Certificate from the University of Iowa and is a radiation therapist with DoctorsNow in West Des Moines, Iowa. Craig notes, "It is such a privilege and pleasure to work with patients knowing that with each treatment, they are on the path to being cancer-free. Radiation therapy has been a hidden gem in most dermatology communities, and I'm thrilled to be able to present Image-Guided SRT as a noninvasive treatment option for nonmelanoma skin cancers.”

The week of November 3 is National Radiologic Technology Week. If you know or have been treated by a radiation therapist, give them your thanks.

Photo Caption: Radiation Therapist Madeleine Appleseth uses high-tech system to cure common skin cancer painlessly

(NewsUSA) - Deena Undone by Debra Every

A terrifying nightmare sets off a series of attacks on Deena Bartlett's five senses, and her eighty-year-old Aunt Agatha is responsible. But the old woman is not alone. She's made a monstrous bargain with the Sensu, a malevolent entity whose stock in trade is attacking a person's five senses, one by one. It has promised Agatha health in return for the killing of her niece.

Deena has remained loyal to her bitter aunt for years. But Agatha is dying and her insults will soon end... until a string of inexplicable incidents. A sound so piercing Deena's nose bleeds. A smell so vile her breathing suffocates. And after each attack her aunt's health improves. With mounting dread, Deena discovers her aunt’s bargain, and when the Sensu thrusts her into its terrifying realm, she must battle not only the power of her aunt's long-held secrets but her own guilt. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3THZfMX.

The Burning Years: Until This Last Quartet: Book 1 by Felicity Harley

In this first book in a series, it’s the year, 2060. Sophie, a top female scientist, dismantles the government weather modification program and steals the male and female trans-humans who hold the promise of extended life.

While the remaining inhabitants of Earth are forced to design new underground habitats in order to survive a harsh, overheated world, Captain Rachel Chen, takes the worldship Persephone to Proxima Centauri, hoping that this new star system will provide a refuge for the survivors of the human race.

One Amazon reviewer calls the book “captivating and fast-paced, covering important issues facing our planet through a very engaging story. The author provides a wealth of scientific information very creatively, easily weaving it in as part of the suspense and plot of this story.” Purchase at https://bit.ly/3C4gnHC.

Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover by Sierra D. Luchien

A scared woman is afraid to live for herself because she’s caught up in the street life and issues with gangs, men, money and abuse. Little did she know she would change her life.

A social worker comes into the picture. She takes Sierra’s siblings out of school, and says she is going to help the family turn things around. But was it a deal with the devil?

That day caused a domino effect, leading to overall depression with underlining pain that was covered with material things and a false pretense. Nothing would stop Sierra not getting raped, stabbed, shot. But she was a runner that ultimately ran right into God as her savior. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4d7xlm1.

Building Wealth Through Rental Properties by Dr. Amit Sachdeo

In the ever-evolving landscape of investment opportunities, real estate stands out as a powerful wealth-building tool that has stood the test of time. If you are completely new to rental property investing, this book serves as a comprehensive roadmap to mastering the exciting world of real estate investing.

Packed with practical advice and actionable strategies, this handbook covers everything novice investors need to build a successful rental property portfolio from the ground up. Each chapter is crafted to empower readers with the knowledge, strategies, and confidence needed to unlock the wealth-building potential of real estate. Inside, readers will find the motivation to transform aspirations of wealth and prosperity into an abundant reality of financial freedom.

Key steps include: how to identify lucrative rental properties, optimal financing methods for investing in rental properties, tips for effective property management, real-life case studies, and more. Purchase at www.sachdeo.com/shop.

(Bart S. Fisher) - Former President Donald Trump has proposed replacing the federal income tax with tariffs imposed on imported products. Indeed, this is the central pillar in his campaign's economic program.

There are four problems with this flawed proposal.

First, it would trigger a global trade war, as other countries would surely retaliate with their own tariffs. It was the protectionist Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930 that contributed to the Great Depression, which occurred when other countries retaliated against the draconian tariffs imposed by the United States. Far from Making America Great Again Trump's tariffs would bring America a Great Depression again. It is the consensus view of economists and economic historians that the passage of Smoot-Hawley dramatically worsened the effects of the Great Depression. We should remember the wise words of George Santayana, who said that "Those who cannot remember the past are doomed to repeat it.".

The second problem is that the president does not possess the legal authority to replace the income tax with tariffs. Under Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1 of the Constitution, known generally as the Commerce Clause, Congress possesses the plenary power over the the collection of taxes and the regulation of foreign commerce, including the power to "lay and collect Taxes, Imposts, and Excises," unless and until it delegates such power to the Executive Branch. Moreover, an attempt by Congress to delegate across the board tariff-making authority to the president would surely be struck down by the courts as an impermissibly broad delegation of authority.  

The third problem is that the tariff is essentially a regressive national sales tax that would discriminate against lower income consumers and permit corporations and higher income Americans to escape paying their fair share of taxes. American consumers would see higher prices and increased inflation as a result of the Trump tariffs. Contrary to Trump's repeated erroneous assertions, tariffs are passed along in large part by importers to consumers. 

Fourth, replacing the income tax with tariffs would be irresponsible fiscal folly, as tariffs imposed on goods alone could not raise the revenues required to run the federal government. America is a service-based economy, with 77.6 percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) coming from services in 2021.  Indeed, the reason the federal income tax was instituted by the 16th Amendment in 1913 was that tariffs alone could not adequately support the activities of the federal government. The purpose of the federal income tax is to pay for the essential services of the federal government, including defense, highways, supporting the justice system, social security, and providing services that benefit all citizens, who could not provide such services very effectively for themselves.

In a nutshell, replacing the federal income tax with tariffs is a simple proposal from a simple mind designed to soak the poor. It ignores the lessons of history, a major symptom of Trump Derangement Syndrome.

 

* Bart S. Fisher is a lawyer in Washington, D.C. He was nominated in 2019 and 2020 for the Nobel Peace Prize.

(NewsUSA) - Artificial intelligence (AI) creates many things, including a staggering demand for energy, and the United States is exploring ways to meet the power requirements of the future, according to experts at the recent AI + Energy Summit in Washington, D.C.

 The Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP), a nonprofit and nonpartisan initiative with a goal of making recommendations to strengthen America's long-term competitiveness in AI, hosted the Summit, which brought together top policymakers, technologists, and energy industry leaders.

SCSP identified 12 key takeaways that should be part of a strategy for how America can maintain its competitive edge at the intersection of AI and energy.

1. Acknowledge the surge in energy demand. AI applications could potentially drive a 160% increase in global energy demand from data centers by 2030.

2. Modernize electrical infrastructure. A smart and flexible grid is essential to handle the demands of AI and renewable energy.

3. Improve energy systems. Using AI to improve energy systems to power more AI could be a key accelerator of progress.

4. Rethink nuclear regulations. Thoughtful regulatory reform could open the door for small nuclear reactors that could power AI data centers.

5. Consider climate benefits. The energy demands of AI could accelerate the transition to clean energy by helping to reshape energy infrastructure.

6. Take risks on emerging technology. Fusion and advanced geothermal technology, which taps into the earth's heat, have great potential payoffs as energy sources.

7. Embrace the moonshot mentality. Create a regulatory system that allows public and private sectors to explore and push boundaries.

8. Support public-private partnerships. Empower the Department of Energy's national labs to act more like startups and partner with the private sector to expand promising energy technology and innovation.

9. Build a pipeline. Encourage the government to focus on early-stage, high-risk research to create a pipeline of technology for private companies to commercialize and scale.

10. Maintain global leadership. Only a handful of AI training clusters exist globally, and where they are located will shape the future of AI development and energy geopolitics, so the U.S. needs to pay attention to these locations and engage allies in order to maintain energy leadership.

11. Create a coherent strategy. Leverage the American innovation culture of risk-taking to promote fundamental research and entrepreneurship in order to continue to compete with China in areas such as fusion and advanced nuclear.

12. Invest in technical education. Developing talent and building a workforce to deploy and maintain next-generation energy systems is especially crucial for fusion and advanced geothermal systems.

By focusing on smart regulatory reform, workforce retraining, and global competitiveness, the United States can stay ahead in this evolving landscape, SCSP concluded at the Summit.

To read more about the key takeaways from the AI+ Energy Summit, read Memo to the President on AI & Energy - Key Takeaways from SCSP's AI+ Energy Summit and visit scsp.ai to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - Photo caption: The Astoria fiberglass pool by Latham, The Pool Company

When it comes to building a residential swimming pool, homeowners have a variety of materials to consider. While concrete and vinyl remain popular, fiberglass is quickly becoming the go-to choice due to its unique blend of durability, easy maintenance and aesthetic versatility. Here are six reasons why:

1. Long-Term Durability

Fiberglass is remarkably strong and made of an advanced composite material, resistant to cracking and wear. Unlike concrete, which is rigid and can develop structural cracks over time, fiberglass has the ability to flex in response to environmental impacts, ground shifts and temperature changes. This makes it an ideal option for homeowners who want a pool that lasts for decades.

2. Low Maintenance

Concrete surfaces are porous, which means they can harbor algae and bacteria, necessitating regular brushing, chemical balancing and even resurfacing over time. By contrast, a fiberglass pool has a smooth, non-porous surface that resists algae growth and requires fewer chemicals and less frequent cleaning. This means less time and money spent on upkeep and a generally healthier swimming environment.

3. Quick Installation

Concrete pools can take months to install due to the labor-intensive process of excavation, forming, pouring and curing. Fiberglass pools come ready to install, drastically reducing installation time and disruption to daily life. In most cases, a fiberglass pool can be fully installed within just a few days.

4. Smooth, Comfortable Surface

Unlike the rough and often abrasive surfaces of concrete pools, fiberglass pools are known for their smooth, comfortable texture. There’s no need to worry about scrapes or rough patches, making every dip a relaxing experience.

5. Energy Efficiency

Fiberglass pools retain heat better than concrete pools, making them more energy efficient. This heat retention not only makes swimming more comfortable but can also reduce the need to run pool heaters as frequently, resulting in energy savings over time.

6. Modern Aesthetic Appeal

Today’s fiberglass pools come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and can be customized with built-in features like tanning ledges, benches, water features and other spa-like elements. Plus, advances in gel-coat finishes allow for different color options that add elegance and personal style to any backyard.

As homeowners increasingly prioritize ease and aesthetics in their outdoor living spaces, fiberglass pools are set to dominate the market as a modern, long-lasting and hassle-free pool solution. To learn more about fiberglass pools, visit LathamPool.com.

(NewsUSA) - “Gramnesia,” a popular portmanteau term coined from the words “grandparents” and “amnesia," is taking the internet by storm, including a recent mention in the HuffPost. The term describes unsolicited advice from grandparents and older generations about parenting today, given by those who seem to forget some of the more challenging parts of raising young children. Phrases such as “We never had to force you to eat your vegetables,” or "You never cried this much," are common examples of “Gramnesia.”

With the holiday season on the horizon, many millennial or Gen Z parents may feel anxiety or dread about unsolicited advice during more extended family visits. Here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind when navigating generational differences:

1. Respecting everyone is essential. From the youngest child to the oldest individual present, it is crucial to maintain respect for all. Whether you’re feeding a child, helping them nap, or providing comfort, everyone wants to be treated respectfully. Try to pause before offering a rebuttal to unsolicited parenting advice. You have the option to respond to the “Gramnesia”-related comments right away, later in the day, or via phone or text after the visit concludes. Setting boundaries is completely acceptable; just ensure they are communicated respectfully and thoughtfully. The classic advice, “Treat others the way you want to be treated," applies here.
2. Embrace the differences. The concept of “Gramnesia” could extend beyond mere forgetfulness and reflect more on the expectations shaped by different generations and cultures. Second generation immigrants, blended and same-sex families might experience different journeys compared to their family’s previous generations. However, in many multigenerational households, people find their place by embracing a variety of expectations, leading to mutual compromises. With a little flexibility, it’s possible to navigate the challenges together. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, it’s okay to gently remind everyone that this is your child, and you’re simply doing what feels right for them.
3. Define the common goal. It’s okay to pose questions in return, asking what the advice-giver meant by the comment they made. New parents may feel judged, while grandparents may feel dismissed. Open dialogue is needed to find common ground and meet the child's needs. For instance, grandparents inquiring about rice cereal or formula may only be wanting to ensure the baby is well-fed, not criticizing the parent’s preference to exclusively breastfeed.
4. Use expert points of view to help navigate the circumstances. Child psychology and brain science have advanced in recent decades. Older generations might not be familiar with today’s recommendations and may need a refresher on today’s research or methods.
5. Children can sense the vibe of the room. If you’re tense and find the emotional temperature is rising, chances are your child can pick up on that feeling, and some children may respond with their own attention-grabbing behaviors. If you feel overwhelmed or overstimulated, lessen the impact of those feelings on your child by removing yourself from that room or area and taking a few deep breaths. Once you’ve managed your emotions, think about expressing your feelings regarding the comment. Use this chance to apply all the previous suggestions by establishing clear boundaries and ensuring that everyone is respected as you work towards a shared objective.

For more parenting or holiday-related tips, visit KinderCare.com.

(NewsUSA) - Diabetes remains a growing health crisis in the United States, but many people living with diabetes are confused as to which foods should be part of their meal plan, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA). For example, many people believe that those with diabetes or prediabetes should avoid potatoes, but in fact potatoes are highly nutritious and can be part of any healthy diet.  

“We want those living with diabetes and prediabetes to feel confident eating potatoes with their breakfast, lunch or dinner as long as serving size and preparation recommendations are followed,” according to Jamey Higham, president and CEO of the Idaho Potato Commission. “This partnership aims to enhance people’s understanding of nutrition, especially carbohydrates, help build healthy eating habits and debunk some myths about potatoes and diabetes.”

The ADA's Better Choices for Life program uses the ADA’s evidence-based guidelines and perspective to help consumers make informed choices about food purchases. Participating products display the Better Choices for Life mark on their packaging. In the coming months, this mark will appear on select 5-lb and 10-lb bags of fresh Idaho® potatoes.

The Diabetes Plate is one way the ADA educates people with diabetes about healthy eating.

This simple plan shows how to put together a meal that consists of vegetables, protein, and carbohydrates, which can include potatoes.

The Diabetes Plate:

Step 1: Fill half your nine-inch plate with non-starchy vegetables. Non-starchy vegetables are low in carbohydrates, so they have less impact on blood glucose.

Step 2: Fill one-quarter of your plate with lean protein, such as fish, chicken, lean beef, soy products, and cheese.

Step 3: Fill the last quarter of your plate with carbohydrate foods, such as starchy vegetables, beans and legumes, grains, fruit, and low-fat dairy products.

Step 4: Drink water or another zero-calorie beverage.

Step 5: Choose healthy fats in small amounts.

Potatoes are a starchy vegetable and can be a selection for the carbohydrate section of the Diabetes Plate. They are considered a superfood by many nutritionists because they contain potassium, vitamin C, and fiber. In addition, one 5.3-ounce potato has 110 calories, contains no sodium, and is naturally gluten-free and free of saturated fats.

Of course, preparation matters. Tips for healthy potato preparation include baking or boiling instead of frying, keeping the skins on for extra fiber, and using healthy oils when needed, such as avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil.

For more information on how those living with diabetes can enjoy Idaho potatoes, visit www.idahopotato.com.