(Jeffrey Pohn) - Over the years, service dogs have become an increasingly familiar sight on trains, planes and buses; in restaurants, nail salons and shopping malls, and even at the beach, diligently escorting and protecting their human charges through blindness, hearing loss, ambulatory limitations and even mental-health challenges—there are now half a million service dogs at work in this country. I’ve come to marvel at these fantastic beasts, the organizations and volunteers who train them and the Americans with Disabilities Act that provides a protective infrastructure. These four-legged friends are heroes. Heroes, one and all.

This week, I discovered that September is National Service Dog Month, and it occurred to me that I have been living with one of these heroes - albeit a non-credentialed one - for the past eight years. 

When my wife and I rescued Baby, a fifteen-pound terry-poo with a rasta-like coat and a slight underbite, she had been found on the streets of Tijuana, emaciated, and obviously abused. Baby immediately bonded with my wife, but every time I entered the room, she would shake violently. I finally suggested to my wife that we should take Baby back, it was hard living with someone who hated me. After my wife nixed that idea, I found myself tiptoeing around our home, in the most unthreatening way possible. Eventually, Baby came to at least tolerate me.

Then came Covid. My wife, Baby’s north star, decided to travel to England, to wait it out with her family. She never returned. Suddenly, it was just me and Baby, who was shattered by the disappearance of her ‘mommy’. Baby went on a hunger strike, and constantly gave me the stink-eye, blaming me for her heartbreaking loss. It destroyed my appetite, too, and ruined my sleep. I became a wreck. As a recovering alcoholic with bipolar disorder, and now utterly isolated and wifeless, with my only personal contact a dog who actively resented me, I was not exactly a ‘vision for you’. 

Over time, Baby mellowed and began to display affection for me. Perhaps that’s because she realized I was the sole provider of her food and walks, but I like to think it was more than that. We became inseparable, velcroed together. On the rare occasion that I left our house, Baby welcomed me home as if I was returning from the war. She started to sleep on the pillow next to mine, and the moment my eyes opened, I was the recipient of a thorough tongue bath. 

Baby became my own personal, emotional service dog; a daily calming presence, a reliable rock of support who demanded my attention 24/7, effectively yanking me out of myself by encouraging me to stroke, scratch, massage, and play with her. She was a nonstop source of activity, humor, and love, a furry anti-depressant, instrumental in my struggle to maintain my sanity. Having to focus on Baby’s care, feeding and happiness, I became largely freed from the bondage of crippling self-concern.

Even before Covid, I had been experiencing debilitating panic attacks, mostly in public, and, I was on the verge of becoming agoraphobic. But Baby coerced her couch potato master into taking her on walks more adventurous than our usual spin around the block. On these outings, she walked me. During a time when everyone else was retreating into their homes, my dog was leading me back into the world I had fled from; she took me to dog parks where she networked, and I got to enjoy distanced interactions with other humans. We became regulars at a nearby beach where she chased birds she would never catch, and insisted I join her, running on the sand, and frolicking in the surf. I think I became her new (less incandescent) north star.

Suffering from Covid Brain, I began talking to Baby all day long. My ridiculous longing for her to respond verbally was, of course, never requited. At the time, I was dying to write my second novel, but was unable to find a subject matter compelling enough to sustain the few years it would take to write. One night, when Baby and I were lying in bed, I leaned over to give her a goodnight kiss on the nose. She sneezed into my face, and it hit me, the idea for a new book to write - a tale about an isolated man and his talking dog. A couple of years later, fueled by love for and from a dog, and wish fulfillment, I published the book, HOUNDED: A LOVE STORY.

My rescue dog rescued me.

Having had the profound privilege of being serviced and saved by a dog, now, during National Service Dog Month, I salute all service dogs, credentialed and non-credentialed. I acknowledge their noble and necessary service to us humans. And to all of our heroic service dogs, with love and gratitude, I proclaim…Thank you for your service.

Purchase the book at amzn.to/4e0LyBv

Jeffrey Pohn, a screenwriter, published author, and avid dog-lover, lives with his beloved pooch, Baby, in Oxnard Shores, California. As of now, Baby has not uttered a single word.

(NewsUSA) - When it comes to installing a pool, spring and summer are the seasons that logically come to mind. But the best time to add a pool to your backyard is actually in the fall. There are definite advantages to installing later in the year that can make the process smoother, more cost-effective and, ultimately, more enjoyable.

1. Contractor availability – By waiting until the weather is cooling, you miss the height of pool-building season and have a better chance of finding a contractor without a lot of other jobs to divert their attention. With fewer projects to juggle, contractors may also be able to offer shortened installation timelines. This is especially true for fiberglass pools, which can be delivered and installed quickly and, depending on the location, even enjoyed before winter arrives.
    
2. Construction-friendly climate – The moderate temperatures of fall lend themselves well to working outside. Fall weather is more predictable than other seasons, which can help reduce setbacks during construction. The ground is typically dry and hard after the summer, making it easier for construction, and minimal rain allows builders to get more done in a shorter amount of time.
    
3. Natural nurturing – No doubt you’ll want to do some landscaping around your new pool. Fall is the best time of year to plant trees and flower bulbs. Over the winter months, new plantings will have the opportunity to take root and mature while the ground recovers from construction disruption. When you’re ready to take that first dip of the season, you’ll have a yard that looks fully finished.
    
4. Off-season savings – As the height of pool season winds down and dealers begin looking at their year-end numbers, you may be able to negotiate better prices or take advantage of overstocked inventory. This can free up funds for other fun additions, like a diving board, slide, water feature or spa. Installing a pool in fall also allows you to break up construction costs for the pool and any decking or hardscaping you plan to add and take advantage of tax benefits over two years.
    
5. Tax benefits – Yes, a pool is not only a major purchase but is also considered a home improvement that can be claimed on your tax return. Imagine opening your pool in the spring and then opening your mailbox to a nice tax refund. Talk about a win-win!

To learn more about Latham pools, visit www.lathampool.com.

Photo caption: Ocean Breeze fiberglass pool and Placid spill over spa by Latham, The Pool Company. Photo Credit: Sun and Fun Pools in Mt. Clemens, Michigan.

(NewsUSA) - Individuals in India seeking life-saving bone marrow transplants have a new source of hope. Dr. Bart S. Fisher, Chairman of the Give Life Foundation, twice Nobel Prize nominee in Peace and Medicine, and patron member of the National Press Club, is set to launch the India Marrow Registry the largest in the world, along with a powerful awareness campaign. The launch will take place through a series of events in October 2024, culminating in a prestigious ceremony with the diplomatic community in Delhi in October. Dr. Fisher has been recognized globally for his efforts to establish marrow registries and advance healthcare.

The Give Life Foundation, a leading non-profit organization, is dedicated to improving healthcare access worldwide. In collaboration with PACT (Par Anand Charitable Trust), the Foundation is establishing the world's largest bone marrow registry to serve the critical needs of patients in India, where the demand for bone marrow transplants far exceeds the current donor pool. The Foundation's efforts will also support the H2OMovement, promoting sustainability and clean water access for all.

"We are thrilled to announce the launch of the Give Life Marrow Transplant Registry in India,” Dr. Fisher shared. “This initiative represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide accessible and effective healthcare solutions for those in need."

The need for bone marrow transplants is urgent. In India, an estimated 12,000 children are born each year with thalassemia major, requiring bone marrow transplants. Additionally, 10% of the 16,000 individuals diagnosed annually with leukemia also need transplants. Unfortunately, only 10%-20% of these patients find matches through current registries.

The Give Life Foundation also will sponsor several 5K Run/Walk events across India in October. These events, known as the March for Marrow, aim to raise awareness for the Swab for Life campaign, which encourages donor registration and highlights how simple it is to participate and potentially save lives. With a mission to recruit over 50 million voluntary donors, the new registry will collaborate with existing registries in India.

The H2O Movement Walk for Water Walk for Life Campaign another key focus of the Give Life Foundation, aims to raise awareness and funds for clean and accessible water.  "With every step we take, we walk towards a world where no one has to struggle for clean water," said Sanjana Jon, a prominent advocate for humanitarian causes and Chair of Give Life India.  PACT and the Give Life Foundation will work together in both marrow transplant and clean water efforts.

To learn more, visit www.give-lifefoundation.org.

(NewsUSA) - From classic shapes to modern technologies, the progression of eyewear continues to see advancements, driven by the desire for improved comfort, durability, and style. Frames were often heavy and uncomfortable, but over the decades, eyewear has transformed significantly, influenced by technological advancements, and changing consumer demands.

As the eyewear journey continues to evolve, more attention is put on versatility in eyewear – innovative designs, improved materials, comfort, and style. Initially, frames were constructed from materials like bone and wood. While functional, frames were heavy and often lacked comfort. Today more brands, like Flexon Eyewear are developing innovative ways to utilize materials like memory metal to create comfortable eyewear.

Flexon Eyewear, a Marchon Eyewear proprietary brand known for its memory metal and durability, launched in 1988. With over 30 years of experience utilizing its durable technology and innovation, Flexon frames provide premium comfort designed for everyday wear. Each frame is constructed from a titanium-based alloy that allows them to be flexed, bent, and twisted without breaking, and they return to their original shape. Displayed in the latest Evolution and Heritage collections, flexibility and versatility make these frames exceptionally durable and able to seamlessly fit into daily tasks outside of work and new hobbies.

Flexon eyewear’s timeless design, durability, and sleek look allows these masculine optical styles to adjust seamlessly to various occasions. Whether enjoying a new adventure with the kids, taking on a new DIY project, or exploring the world outdoors, the brand showcases its continued commitment to durability and versatility with the creation of each frame. Flexon frames are crafted with technologically advanced memory metal in the bridge and/or temples allowing them to be flexed, bent, or twisted to ensure they can return to their original condition.

The journey of eyewear innovation doesn’t stop here. Brands like Flexon are at the front of eyewear innovation, continuously pushing the envelope of what functional eyewear can be. As technology advances, the future of eyewear promises even more exciting developments, blending fashion with function and durability in increasingly sophisticated ways. To learn more about Flexon Eyewear and stay up to date with recent collections, visit flexon.com. 

(NewsUSA) - Cutting back on single-use plastic is trending across America. A recent Ipsos survey indicates that 81 percent of American consumers support the increase of reusable packaging and that trend is increasingly more prevalent among grocery shoppers.

DS Smith, a leading provider of sustainable fiber-based packaging worldwide, has introduced a new line of boxes for everyday grocery shopping that can replace plastic bags still used in many stores.

Data from the U.S. International Trade Commission show that Americans use 102 billion plastic bags per year, and few are recycled. DS Smith, in partnership with its customers, works to support the transition to a circular economy that helps eliminate waste and pollution by design. Creating 100% recyclable or reusable packaging and encouraging consumers to phase out plastics, the company keeps materials in use for longer periods.

The Shop.able Carriers from DS Smith are 100% recyclable and reusable, and feature patented food-safe and water-resistant Greencoat coating technology. The durable, stackable boxes are made from renewable resources as well. Consumer surveys suggest that shoppers who purchase groceries online are interested in deliveries with less packaging and more sustainable material.

“The Shop.able Carrier product line gives consumers the ability to potentially remove the billions plastic bags used across the United States each year while at the same time delivering convenience and sustainability to consumers’ day-to-day shopping experience,” according to DS Smith Managing Director, Packaging, Steven Rose. “This kind of innovative, sustainable packing solution will help communities move away from single-use plastic bags.”

Supermarkets can use Shop.able to create custom branded boxes and incorporate sponsored logos and messaging from other partner brands. Individual Shop.able Carrier boxes sell for prices similar to reusable totes, and each box can replace between 5 and 7 plastic bags. Supermarkets can sell the boxes at checkout and use them as a loyalty program benefit in online curbside pick-up orders. Other key features include a modular design for smooth stacking and ergonomic handles for easy carrying.

Visit dssmith.com/us to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts an 85% chance of an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season. So far, this has held true with storms Beryl and Debby already making landfall. Hurricanes can be catastrophic for any business, but particularly for rural small businesses. While there are many things that need to be done to be prepared for hurricanes, one important item is ensuring connectivity. In the aftermath of these storms, infrastructure is frequently damaged, and internet access is unavailable. One connectivity option is satellite internet service. Its reliability can provide backup communications, ensuring optimal operations and connectivity after even the most severe storms.

All businesses can benefit from satellite internet, however, rurally located small businesses have the most to gain in terms of connectivity and communication during hurricane season. Fortunately, a proper satellite internet connection can equip them with disaster and emergency communication capabilities, as well as reliable business continuity.

Disaster and Emergency Communication

In the aftermath of severe weather, businesses can provide necessary products and services if they are able to open their doors and complete transactions. Reliable satellite internet allows businesses to get connected, open their doors, and mitigate the trauma associated with severe weather events. In addition to processing transactions, the business can also become an information hub for the local community, providing updated information and other communication services.

Emergency response teams depend on communication to know where they need to deploy their resources. A business that has reliable connectivity can be of great help to these dedicated professionals who are coming to the aid of the community.

Back Up and Running

For most businesses, when internet service goes down, so do operations. Which is why relying on a single form of connectivity can create challenges in communication. When severe weather events occur, traditional communication networks can be unreliable, isolating impacted areas. In these situations, satellite internet is an ideal backup connectivity option and can restore operations in even the most hard-to-reach areas.

Despite internet outages that may exist from damaged wirelines, businesses utilizing satellite internet preserve the ability to process online transactions, accept payment via credit cards, respond to customers, monitor security, and many other critical operations.

To prepare for any weather event, including hurricane season, small businesses should consider a reliable and flexible backup solution. Hughesnet Internet Continuity seamlessly delivers broadband internet when primary service fails, preventing costly, frustrating, and even dangerous outages. Ensuring small businesses are well-prepared for hurricane season will minimize disruptions, safeguard customers and employees, and keep business on track.

(NewsUSA) - State fairs are an opportunity for families, friends and communities to celebrate on an annual basis. Along with the yearly tradition, the state fair is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the important role U.S. agriculture plays in the global economy. The state fair is a place for young farmers to showcase their expertise in the food and farm industry while also learning the value and role of risk management.

At this year’s Governor’s Sale of Champions, CME Group presented each of the nine champion livestock exhibitors with $5,000 scholarships that will be used to advance their education. This was the ninth year CME Group has provided scholarships at the Illinois State Fair, bringing total contributions to over $500,000. CME Group also purchased the Grand Champion Barrow at the Governor’s Sale of Champions, which was exhibited by Olivia Shike.

 Recipients of the 2024 CME Group scholarships included: Bryce Clayton (Scott County); Kade Gensini (Putnam County); Nora Hoge (McDonough County); Kadie Hummel (Ford County); Karly Reel (LaSalle County); Chase Riley (Grundy County); Olivia Shike (Champaign County); Chesney Thorton (Piatt County); Oakley Yard (McDonough County).   

“We are proud to support scholarship programs that help the next generation of agriculture leaders to pursue their education,” said John Ricci, Managing Director and Global Head of Agriculture, CME Group. “The agriculture industry has not evaded the uncertainty faced within the global economy. It is as important as ever for the future leaders of agriculture to find new and innovative ways to continue feeding the world. We applaud all the scholarship recipients and are excited to see what their futures have in store.”

CME Group sponsored this year’s 4-H Illinois Superior Young Livestock Producers Contest at the fair. Nine 4-H members from across Illinois have competed in this year’s skillathon and have engaged in hands-on challenges in livestock management, livestock marketing and hedging, breed identification and use, quality assurance and equipment identification and use.  The contest promotes youth development, career development, and personal growth through increased knowledge of the livestock industry.

The nine skillathon champions each received a $1,000 CME Group scholarship to continue their education. The 2024 scholarship recipients were: Ryker Beckmier (Christian County); Kaylee Blackford (Vermilion County);  Morgan Crouch (Macon County); Taylor Crouch (Macon County); Gwen Hall (Ogle County); Blaine Homann (Coles County); Kadie Hummel (Ford County); Molly McCalla (Madison County); Hayden Miller (Livingston County).

(NewsUSA) - Although most Americans recognize the benefits of spending time outdoors, 57 percent say that they don’t spend as much time in nature as they need and want, according to research from RVshare, the largest online community for RV owners and renters in the United States.

Following these insights, RVshare embarked on a second extensive research campaign to identify where Americans are participating in outdoor recreation and where they are not. In partnership with Cairn Consulting Group, RVshare developed a ranking of the “10 Most (and Least)  Outdoor-Friendly Cities” in the United States. The rankings were based on a range of factors including the behavior or residents in each city, access to outdoor recreation, and how each city is perceived in terms of outdoor spaces and activities by residents and visitors.

Based on their findings, Seattle, Washington, got the nod as the top Outdoor-Friendly City in the United States. Rounding out the top ten were Denver, Colorado; Grand Rapids, Michigan; Miami, Florida; Portland, Oregon; Nashville, Tennessee; San Francisco, California; Richmond, Virginia; Los Angeles, California, and Charlotte, North Carolina.

With a central mission to get people outdoors and exploring the unbridled freedom of an RV trip, RVshare is highlighting these rankings to flip the script and prove that despite preconceived notions, it’s possible to get outside and explore the great outdoors from just about anywhere. The full report reveals the fully ranked list, and RVshare has gone the extra mile to encourage city-dwellers to get outdoors by providing RV rental options available in all of the markets.

For city-dwellers seeking more outdoor time, an RV trip could be the perfect solution. RVshare wants to help and encourage residents of all cities to experience more outdoor recreation, and wants to make it easy to explore all of the outdoor options that are available, regardless of their destination.

Please visit https://pages.rvshare.com/outdoor-friendly-cities/ for the full report. To book your RVshare rental today and to learn more about RVshare, please visit rvshare.com. 

(NewsUSA) - The average military family moves three times as often as their civilian peers, and most of these permanent change of station (PCS) moves occur during the summer, according to Blue Star Families, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering, supporting, and connecting military families in communities around the world.

Many military families live in their local civilian communities. However, military families whose lives are often disrupted by deployments and frequent moves often struggle to feel part of these communities, according to Blue Star Families’ 2023 Military Family Lifestyle Survey. Blue Star Welcome Week is a new American tradition spearheaded by Blue Star Families to create a greater sense of belonging and community for everyone.

Kathy Roth-Douquet, CEO of Blue Star Families, says, “It’s time for a new tradition where we make military families feel valued and included. Welcome Week connects military families with their civilian neighbors. Whether it’s a simple message or a community event, every gesture builds a stronger, more inclusive community. This is how we honor their sacrifices and show our gratitude.”

Blue Star Welcome Week happens every year during the last week of September – this year’s event is scheduled for September 21-29, 2024.

As we gear up for Welcome Week, here are four ways you can ‘do your part’. And, you can check out more inspirational ideas here!

• Host a Blue Star Family Welcome Week Block Party. Welcome the newest military families to your neighborhood by hosting a festive gathering where military and civilian families can connect and make memories. If hosting solo feels overwhelming, team up with a local organization or form a block party host group. With events happening around the world, your volunteer efforts help bridge the gap between military and civilian communities. Let's make a difference together!
   
• Every Little Bit Helps. Support military families in your neighborhood through small thoughtful actions. Make a meal, bring up trash cans, help find a babysitter (or babysit), cut their grass, or invite them to your next holiday gathering. These simple gestures can make a significant impact in helping our military families feel connected to their community.
   
• Educate Yourself on Their Unique Challenges. Military families face unique challenges that impact their daily lives. The 2024 Military Family Lifestyle Survey (MFLS) by Blue Star Families highlights key issues like financial strain, underemployment of spouses, mental health concerns, and feeling disconnected from their communities. These quality-of-life concerns have led to fewer service members recommending military service, threatening the future of our All-Volunteer Force. By understanding these challenges, you can better support and advocate for military families in your neighborhood!
   
• Support Companies That Hire Military Spouses. For decades, military spouses have endured an unemployment rate of 20% or higher, three to four times higher than their civilian counterparts – this remains the top concern for active-duty spouse respondents for the sixth consecutive year. The 4+1 Commitment is a way for employers to voluntarily commit to improving military spouse employment outcomes – extend your support by patronizing those who have made this commitment, like Starbucks, T-Mobile, PenFed Credit Union, USAA, Nextdoor, Navy Federal Credit Union, Comcast NBCUniversal, Home Depot, Amazon, Lowe’s, Johnson & Johnson, and Humana.

Blue Star Welcome Week is more than just a series of events – it's a movement to build stronger, more inclusive communities for our military families. By participating, you play a vital role in making every military family feel valued and supported and help lay the foundation for a new tradition.

Join us from September 21-29, 2024, and make a difference in the lives of those who serve our nation.

(NewsUSA) - The Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL) is national call center that helps people with disabilities get connected to information about local community resources that support independent living. DIAL also provides information about essential services such as transportation, housing support, disability rights and more. Additionally, DIAL has information on COVID-19, flu and other adult vaccines and can help you find how to access vaccines in your community.

DIAL serves people with disabilities across the country who have a variety of needs. DIAL Referral Specialists are trained to work with people with various communication abilities and will spend as much time as needed to ensure effective communication. For example, DIAL has enhanced accessibility with options for people to text or communicate through American Sign Language direct video call.

DIAL is managed by USAging, which represents the national network of Area Agencies on Aging and advocates for Title VI Native American Aging Programs. Through DIAL, USAging partners with disability organizations to ensure that people are referred to the appropriate disabilities services.

The training and expertise of DIAL Referral Specialists enables them to focus on and respond to the unique needs of each caller. Said one caller, “The specialist connected me with the person I needed to speak to. She went above and beyond, and I appreciate her so much.”

To find local services, you can contact DIAL in several different ways. To speak with a Referral Specialist by voice, videophone call or text use 888-677-1199. You can chat online with a Referral Specialist at dial.acl.gov. And Deaf and hard-of-hearing callers who use American Sign Language can contact DIAL by clicking here.