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(NewsUSA)

"A masterful storyteller." -Sacramento Bee

"One of the 21st Century's most exciting authors." -Washington Times

"Mike Bond's books are a national treasure." -Art Zuckerman, WVOX

Bestselling author Mike Bond is best known for his thrillers. His "Pono Hawkins" series, along with his novels of international espionage and military action, have garnered him much critical acclaim over the years.

Then he surprised us in 2018 with a volume of poetry, "The Drum that Beats Within Us," which spanned a wide range of subjects, from breathtaking studies of wilderness and the natural world, to the intimate corners of the human heart, and outward into life's biggest existential questions.

Mike Bond has done it again, focusing his formidable talents on yet another genre: the historical novel. "America" (Big City Press) is the first of a planned seven-volume series "capturing the transformations and heartbreaks of the last 70 years, and of our nation's most profound upheavals since the Civil War -- a time that defined the end of the 20th Century and where we are today." It's a wildly ambitious project.

FOUR FRIENDS SWEPT INTO TURBULENCE OF THE 1960s

Set in the '60s around Nyack, NY, four kids from disparate backgrounds grow up together.

Troy, an orphan living at the local Boy's Home, luckily meets Mick, who has a happy home life on a farm with his parents and sister Tara. He is later adopted by Mick's family. Tara, Mick's little sister and the girl Troy grows to love, takes off to become a rock star, mostly singing the blues like a young Janis Joplin.

Troy eventually joins the service, with his goal to explore the world of flight and outer space, encouraged by an exuberant and idealistic young president aiming to get us to the moon. Mick becomes a rebel who questions the war in Vietnam. His girlfriend Daisy ends up moving away with her abusive father and a mother who is brutalized every day. She escapes to join the Peace Corps and eventually to study the human mind.

America brings to mind classic coming-of-age masterpieces such as "Look Homeward, Angel" by Thomas Wolfe. The characters are so vivid and alive, you think you're reading about old friends and recalling fond memories of youth.

These are young people transformed by their times, by the emergence of the pill and sexual liberation, drugs and, of course, rock music. They are both witness and catalyst as America evolves from a post-World War II nation to a place where women's rights, civil rights, riots, soul searching, burning cities and bra-burning shake the country's cultural and political foundations to the core.

We now wonder if this generation had any impact in changing America for the better in the '60s, or if its struggles continue today, evolved but not solved. Think Black Lives Matter, the Women's March on Washington and the environmental movement. We wonder if the youth of today will have to fight the same fights for the same rights all over again. It would behoove them to read this book.

BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.

(NewsUSA)

(NewsUSA)

As we begin to transform to a “more normal life,” many of us are still expected to continue the trend of working from home in 2021 and beyond. However, working remotely doesn’t mean you need to compromise your work performance. Tech Expert Marc Saltzman and the KillerApps.com website recently partnered with brands that can help turn your home office into a more productive workspace. Let’s go through the numbers.

1. HP ZBook Firefly G8

Starting with a PC. The Z by HP PC line provides high performance laptops, desktops, displays, and solutions to power your next creative breakthrough. HP ZBook Firefly gives office power users and creators the performance and reliability to run professional apps, preventing the slowdowns and crashes of their previous business laptop – all in an incredibly thin and light design. HP’s lightest ZBook provides true mobility for those who push typical business PCs past the breaking point. For more information, visit www8.hp.com/us/en/workstations/zbook-firefly.html.

2. eero Pro 6

Moving to Wi-Fi in your home, the eero Pro 6 brings a fast, reliable, secure internet connection to your home office so you won’t need to worry about buffering or dead zones again. It works with your existing internet service to cover up to 6,000 square feet, bringing Wi-Fi to every corner of your home. Its TrueMesh technology intelligently routes network traffic to avoid congestion, buffering, and drop-offs so customers can video conference, stream in 4K and play games with ease. The eero Pro 6 can support more than 75 devices simultaneously to keep your whole-home connected. For more information, visit www.eero.com.

3. HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e

And you’ll need a quality and reliable printer. HP’s OfficeJet Pro 9015e all in one wireless printer is a smart choice. Made from recycled plastic, OfficeJet Pro is perfect for shared home offices doing a range of print tasks while working, learning and creating. With the HP+ smart printing system, this printer keeps itself up to date, secure and is always ready to print from virtually anywhere at any time. And with HP+, get 6 free months of Instant Ink, an extra year of HP warranty, and peace of mind knowing HP will plant trees and protect forests in equal measure for every page printed. For more information, visit www.HP.com/plus.

4. T-Mobile Tuesdays

Let’s not forget our smartphones. Many people know that T-Mobile customers can get free stuff and discounts from popular brands every week via T-Mobile Tuesdays, just for being a part of the T-Mobile family. But now, and every week, millions of Metro by T-Mobile customers can also get thanked with free stuff and exclusive offers from some of today’s most popular brands, like Pandora, Dunkin’, Popeyes, Shell, Redbox, Booking.com and more! For more information, visit www.t-mobile.com/offers/t-mobile-tuesdays.

5. Shure MV5C Home Office Microphone

And don’t underestimate the importance of great audio for work at home. The Shure MV5C Home Office Microphone is designed for professionals, students, and teachers who require pristine, studio-quality audio for important video calls and meetings. Unlike laptop microphones that can pick up every sound in the room, the Shure MV5C is a directional microphone that prioritizes the user’s voice, not the environment. Set up is intentionally simplified, so anyone can unbox, plug it into a computer, and that’s it.  For more information, visit www.shure.com/MV5C.

Head over to KillerApps.com for everything covered and more tech roundups. 

(NewsUSA) - As the approach of warmer weather draws more COVID-19-weary people outside, the allure of being in nature and out on the water is inspiring a boom in the fishing boat business. Regular fishermen and novices are eager to get out and enjoy the challenge and contemplation that comes with pond and lake fishing.

But, this type of fishing presents some barriers. To really go where the fish are in a pond or lake setting, a small fishing boat is essential, and the right boat can get you on your way to a wonderful, "one with nature," experience.

Many current boat styles used for lake and pond fishing have certain disadvantages. Motors can get caught in vegetation, and deeper draft boats can't navigate shallow coves.

The Twin Troller, however, is an innovative small water fishing craft distinct from other boats on the market because it's designed specifically to address the criteria for successful pond and lake fishing. Here's how:

- Maneuverability. The Twin Troller carries two electric motors that are recessed within the boat's hull, eliminating the risk of a motor getting damaged on rocks or tangled in branches, weeds or other debris in shallow water. The in-hull propulsion allows quiet operation, shallow draft, and a 360-degree turning radius. In addition, foot pedal controls allow for a completely hands-free navigation experience, with no paddling required.

- Safety. The Twin Troller is lightweight and easy to handle. The flat-bottom design and strong sides offer maximum stability, without the tipping risk associated with jon boats, canoes, or kayaks, and anglers of all ages and flexibility levels can step in and out easily.

- Comfort. Nothing spoils a day of fishing faster than a stiff back or sore bottom from sitting on an uncomfortable boat bench. The Twin Troller features an elevated and padded seat so you focus on fishing.

"Freedom Electric Marine is dedicated to providing a one-of-a-kind experience for small water fishing enthusiasts through our high-performance Twin Troller boats," says founder Frank Jones.

Angier, N.C.-based Freedom Electric Marine was founded in 2007 by Jones, an avid fisherman who saw a niche in the market for a small electric motorcraft and assembled a team to help create one. The Twin Troller is manufactured in Madison, Indiana and ships to all 50 states.

For more information about optimizing your small water fishing experience, visit freedomelectricmarine.com.

(NewsUSA) - Engagement rings mean many things -- romance, love, commitment. Each love story is unique, each engagement ring is the start of a new love story, and each will be a witness to a lifetime of memories.

An engagement ring is inspired by courtship memories. If an engagement ring could talk, it might tell you a story of "boy meets girl" and how an awkward guy got up the courage to approach the girl across a crowded room. The story continues with dates, vacations, meeting the parents. An engagement ring might reflect on a first vacation together, favorite walk, and the features of a girl's personality that captivated the boy into popping the question.

A ring might recall asking a father's permission, sneaking a sample ring from a drawer to determine the perfect size, and even providing some inspiration for a design that would bring her to tears when she said "yes."

Engagement rings are followed by wedding rings, which tell the story of a bright day full of joy as two become one in front of family and friends. In the future, these rings will experience years of holding hands, warming hearts, rubbing shoulders, holding babies, and serving as a reminder of a lifetime of love with the love of your life.

Custom diamond engagement rings from Cornelis Hollander help you tell your unique love story with timeless beauty. Our engagement and wedding rings represent your love, energy, and commitment to each other.

The story doesn't stop with the walk down the aisle some bright day in June, it is only beginning, and the team of skilled designers at Cornelis Hollander is honored to help start you on your journey together.

The Arizona-based company has four decades of awards and testimonials for its customized engagement ring designs that range from classic to modern, with stunning settings and sparkling gems.

"Our diamond rings are exceptional because they are made uniquely for the wearer, making them exclusive, memorable, and personal. Your ring is the ultimate storyteller of your style and commitment," according to Cornelis Hollander's son, Walter Hollander, who inherited the company from his father.

Visit cornelishollander.com for more details and to explore a unique collection of handcrafted diamond ring designs.

(NewsUSA)

"Her Three Lives"
by Cate Holahan

In bestselling author Cate Holahan's new thriller, a family must determine the real enemy after a brutal home invasion breaks their trust in each other.

Jade Thompson is an up-and-coming social media influencer with a beautiful new home and successful fiancé. But there's trouble. Greg's suburban Connecticut upbringing isn't an easy match with her Caribbean roots.

Then a savage home invasion leaves Greg with a brain injury and glued to the feeds from his security cameras. As police investigate, Jade begins to wonder what Greg may know about their attackers.

Greg becomes convinced Jade's behavior is suspicious and wonders whether the break-in was really random. And whether he's worth more to Jade dead than alive. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3uLcteu.

"Ruby Falls"
by Deborah Goodrich Royce

"Imaginative, unique, spine-tingling," says New York Times bestselling author Sandra Brown.

Like the chilling psychological thriller, "The Silent Patient," "Ruby Falls" is a nail-biting tale of a fragile young actress, the new husband she barely knows, and her growing suspicion that the secrets he harbors may eclipse her own.

In this thrilling and twisty homage to Daphne du Maurier's "Rebecca," the story ricochets through the streets of Los Angeles, a dangerous marriage to an exotic stranger, and the mind of a young woman whose past may not release her. "Secrets abound in this bang of a book, a haunting tale … a stunner with serious Gothic vibes," says bestselling author Kimberly Belle. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3rfKLEF.

"Under the Southern Sky"
by Kristy Woodson Harvey

Recently separated Amelia Buxton, a dedicated journalist, never expected that uncovering the biggest story of her career would become deeply personal. But when she discovers that a cluster of embryos belonging to her childhood friend Parker and his late wife Greer have been deemed "abandoned," she's put in the unenviable position of telling Parker -- and dredging up old wounds.

Parker has been unable to move forward since the loss of his wife. He has all but forgotten about the frozen embryos, but once Amelia reveals her discovery, he knows if he ever wants to get a part of Greer back, he'll need to accept his fate as a single father and find a surrogate. Purchase at https://amzn.to/32ACJM2.

"Top Students, Top Parents "
by Kathleen Burns

Millions of parents are frustrated because they know their children can do better, yet they don't know how to help. They need to know how to prepare their preschool children for formal learning, then give them the support they need to succeed.

This how-to manual is packed with fun and creative activities, giving parents tools to make their children's education a vital part of daily living and child care. Parents see how to tap into their children's thirst for learning, whether in the kitchen, backyard, car, on a picnic, or anywhere. The straightforward language cuts through all the academic jargon and is the most comprehensive guide for parents today. Purchase at https://amzn.to/2DlRMQ7.

BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.

(NewsUSA) - Whether you are new to the workforce or a seasoned pro, retirement planning is the secret to long-term wealth, and it is never too early or too late to make a plan to live your best life in later years.

With the unique challenges and unpredictability caused by the coronavirus pandemic, many people were forced to neglect or ignore their savings and financial planning. That's certainly understandable. But as the economy improves, new workers and those approaching retirement can take advantage of smart ways to plan and save in a way that they may not have been able to a year ago.

The following tips from CFP Board, a nonprofit organization dedicated to benefitting the public by supporting professional standards in personal financial planning, may give you some ideas on how best to plan for your retirement:

- Go high-tech, with caution. "Keeping track of your personal finances is time-consuming and not what you want to do in your retirement years," says CFP Board Ambassador Bill Schretter, CFP®.

"I recommend all my clients automate as much of the saving and reporting functions as possible. However, I do not recommend that you use free service apps," he emphasizes.

Why? Many free service apps will use your information to try to sell you financial and non-financial products that you don't need and could siphon away from your retirement savings.

"I recommend that you purchase your own program or use programs that your advisor or bank provide to help you keep your finances organized," says Schretter. "Let an app automate regular tasks, but leave the most important financial advice and management to qualified human beings," he adds.

A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional can provide guidance as you consider these points in retirement planning, whatever your current work status or age:

- Review your goals. Does your retirement wish list include a cruise to Alaska, an African safari, or your own house on a secluded lake in the woods? Do you want to open a small business, or help out your children and grandchildren with education costs? Consider potential expenses now to plan savvy withdrawals later.

- Watch for tax traps. "If your withdrawal plan puts you into a higher tax bracket, you might want to lower the amount you plan to pull out," says CFP Board Ambassador J.J. Burns, CFP®.

Also, diversify with a range of accounts that are taxed differently for more flexibility. If you don't have a Roth IRA or 401k, it is never too early or too late to start one, and a certified financial planner can give advice on moving some retirement savings into one of these accounts to maximize future income.

Visit LetsMakeAPlan.org for more advice and tips to make the most of your income in retirement.

(NewsUSA)

"Veronica Viggle and the Bubble Gum Machine: A Mad Scientist Story"
by Louis Goldman

A graphic novel for children (and adults) "with illustrations that jump off the page and characters that you cheer for." After being trapped by Veronica Viggle and held in the Mad Scientist's deep and dark (yet freshly scented) laboratory, the Little Boy is in for a world of trouble, destined to be turned into grasshoppers … or marshmallows … or worse yet, bubble gum!

The Little Boy's friends team up to stage a daring rescue from the Mad Scientist's laboratory. But can they overcome Veronica's cunning and the Mad Scientist's crafty inventions? You are about to find out!

"Conveys some eternal truths in a highly accessible manner, in language that is simple and clear." Purchase at https://amzn.to/39V0oLz.

"The Mystery at Turkelton Manor"
by Kraig Dafoe

Twelve-year-old Nathaniel Jones wants to be a detective. Though his imagination tends to run wild, Nate knows something strange is going on and he is determined to figure it out. Hearing noises at night, the young detective sees a strange figure lurking about.

The Turkeltons are rich, and Nate's grandfather is their groundskeeper. As a result, Nate gets to spend the summer on the manor grounds. With priceless art and expensive jewelry in the mix, and someone creeping around at night, Nate becomes determined to catch a thief. There's just one problem -- nothing seems to be missing. For ages 10 and up. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3rraUjn.

"Sink or Walk on Water"
by Stevenson Jones

"Stevenson will capture your heart, mind and faith. He takes you on a journey during a simple meeting, and when it's over you realize he has tricked you into discovering yourself."

Life has taught the author lessons that have helped him in his growth as a person. This book will inspire individuals from all walks of life because it speaks on a lot of everyday issues that we all face. The hope is that this book will help those who are unsure of their faith by listening to the author's story on how God has helped him overcome tough situations in life. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3d4C2RB.

"Vector to Destiny"
by George W. Kohn

In this memoir that goes beyond the classic Vietnam war story, the author faces a life-changing dilemma: Should he do what is expected of him or dare to pursue his heartfelt dream? His decision takes the reader on an inspiring, action-packed journey from a demanding farm life in Wisconsin to treacherous skies over Vietnam. He will capture your heart with farm adventures and his struggles and determination to get through college and Air Force pilot training.

You will be his co-pilot in an F4 Phantom jet, narrowly surviving perilous missions as a combat fighter pilot. Experience this compelling, true-life journey of a destiny accomplished through faith and perseverance. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3bFPmcK.

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