(NewsUSA)

"The Mask"
by Clayton Marshall Adams

"The Mask" is an unconventional fairytale about an ugly and misshapen boy who has been abandoned to the forest by his parents when old enough to care for himself. His existence is lonely and sometimes painful, particularly when he encounters bullies from the village who abuse and torment him. His only comfort is sculpting, and he is able to sell some creations to a few villagers who can tolerate his presence.

One day, he makes an astounding discovery. It is a talking mask! It promises him a new life in a world of beauty that he never thought possible. The promise, however, comes with a price. But will the promise be worth the price? "The Mask" earned a star from a Kirkus review and a lightning bolt from BookLife. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3bXCrDi.

"New Beginnings: From Behind the Iron Curtain to America"
by Antonina Duridanova

Burning with the desire to share the value of freedom, Antonina takes you from her plight in communist Bulgaria to the free shores of America. Following unfortunate events in a totalitarian regime in Bulgaria, Antonina flees to the Western world. She provides true observations of life in a communist society: her family's lands and cattle being confiscated by the agricultural labor cooperatives; censorship of the press and other works from the West; religion being prohibited; and any deviation from the norm leading to detention in a labor camp.

Antonina describes how she could taste, smell, feel and touch freedom as she gets off the plane in New York, ready to embark on new adventures. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3B6fjN6.

"The Killing Carol"
by Jennifer Bee

"On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me the reason your husband had to die."

Anna Greenan found the cryptic lyric shoved against her front door. Each day of Christmas brings Anna a new stanza with a new clue. Will this mysterious Christmas carol lead Anna to uncover her husband's murderer or will these notes lead to her demise?

In her debut murder mystery, Jennifer Bee takes readers on an unforgettable journey full of unrelenting suspense and unexpected surprises. The book, the first in the Anna Greenan Mystery Series, makes the perfect holiday gift for the mystery lover in your family. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3bfvJIt.

"Uncommon Courage: An Invitation"
by Andrea T. Edwards

"Uncommon Courage" is an invitation to be your courageous best self every day. It's also an antidote to the overwhelming fear and rage rolling around the world. This book opens a path to inner contentment, peace and happiness, and a door to meaningful action. It brings you an opportunity to reflect. What if we could do something about the bigger issues facing our world? Well, despite today's turmoil, a transformational journey is possible.

You will discover 108 interlinking strategies to shift your thinking, improve your mood and lighten your heart. This book helps you take on anger, parenting, climate change, self-awareness and career change. Some of the stories are funny, while others may lovingly push your buttons. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3cg57b2.

NOTE: BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.

(NewsUSA) - -As the holiday season approaches, more families joyfully look to reconnect and celebrate with friends and loved ones. Chuck E. Cheese, the number-one children's entertainment brand, is ready to meet the demand during its second annual Winter Winner-land celebration. During this year's celebration, holiday festivities are met with merry entertainment and cheerful experiences for all ages, as well as a chance to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and BGC Clubs in Canada.

Every child who visits Chuck E. Cheese goes home a winner this holiday season! During Winter Winner-land, each child who enters a Chuck E. Cheese location receives an instant-win game piece featuring special treats, E-tickets, or a toy from the Chuck E. Cheese prize wall. Plus, one grand prize winner will take home the ultimate prize: A custom Chuck E. Cheese ICEBall Pro arcade game.

"The holidays are a special and magical time, and we want all guests who enter our venues to experience the spirit of the season. Snow globe-inspired decorations including giant snowflakes will transform each Chuck E. Cheese into our version of a Winter Winner-land," says Sherri Landry, CMO of CEC Entertainment, LLC.

Winter Winner-land is the latest installment of the brand's signature 4 Seasons of Fun and runs through January 2, 2022. The festive event brings joy and laughter to families at home and in-store through the holidays. Special experiences include not only games and prizes, but delicious seasonal sweet treats and family packages; gift card offers; and a new show and entertainment from Chuck E. and friends.

Taste the flavor of the holiday season with Churro Frost Bites and Winter Iced Brownies, along with delicious family meal deals. Shop for everyone on your gift list, too; Chuck E. Cheese gift card deals make the perfect stocking stuffers, and exclusive holiday gift boxes are available in the Chuck E. Cheese online store.

This season, Chuck E. Cheese is encouraging kids to help others win, too. Kids can give back by donating Chuck E. Cheese e-tickets throughout the season to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and BGC Clubs in Canada. The company is donating up to 15,000 toys to regional locations, as well as an additional ten thousand dollars to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America programs.

Safety comes first at Chuck E. Cheese all year long, so families can feel comfortable enjoying the Winter Winner-land activities. All Chuck E. Cheese venues follow local COVID-19 guidelines with regard to masks, air circulation, and the cleaning of games, dining rooms, and restrooms.

Visit chuckecheese.com/winter-winnerland for more information and to find locations in your area.

(NewsUSA) -Many people routinely reach for over-the-counter pain medications for immediate pain relief, especially during cold and flu season. Individuals also may reach for these medications to manage symptoms related to COVID-19. However, most people are unaware that some over-the-counter pain relievers can raise blood pressure. Only six out of 10 (63 percent) of adults with high blood pressure say they check with their doctors before choosing an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever, according to a recent survey commissioned by the American Heart Association.

"People who have high blood pressure or are being treated with blood pressure medication -- along with their loved ones and caretakers -- need to be informed about safe over-the-counter pain relievers," says Willie Lawrence, Jr., M.D., volunteer chair of the American Heart Association's National

Hypertension Control Initiative oversight committee and interventional cardiologist, medical director for health equity, Spectrum Health in Benton Harbor, Michigan.

"Because some pain relievers may cause elevated blood pressure, the American Heart Association recommends consulting your doctor or pharmacist and making sure you read the label before taking any over-the-counter medication for pain, especially if you've been diagnosed with high blood pressure." Dr. Lawrence adds.

Only 28% of U.S. adults with high blood pressure know that the OTC medication acetaminophen does not raise blood pressure and is therefore a safe choice for immediate pain relief, according to the American Heart Association survey.

The American Heart Association's current guidelines for high blood pressure define it as a consistent blood pressure measurement of 130 over 80 or higher, in terms of units called millimeters of mercury (mmHg). The guidelines also state that some OTC pain relievers may elevate blood pressure.

So talk to your doctor about the potential interactions between blood pressure and any medication you are taking, including dietary supplements or other products for pain relief.

Individuals with high blood pressure can manage their condition by checking their blood pressure regularly at home with a validated monitor. Ask your doctor to recommend a monitor that would work best for you. These monitors provide useful information for regular communication with doctors through virtual visits as well as in person.

Visit heart.org/bptools for more information about managing high blood pressure and potential medication interactions.

(NewsUSA) - Today’s car shoppers want it all -- style, luxury, efficiency, and reliability. The subcompact SUV segment continues to be popular, but there is a new option on the market -- the 2023 Kia Sportage. The Sportage, Kia’s longest running nameplate, debuted the redesigned model at the 2021 Los Angeles Auto Show. 

The updated Sportage offers eco-appeal with an 8 percent improvement in fuel economy over previous models, despite its larger size. 

“While Kia moves purposefully toward electrification, we are further strengthening the Sportage lineup by adding a variety of options suited for all different kinds of customers,” says Sean Yoon, president and CEO, Kia America, Kia North America.

“The tremendous success formula of our current stable of SUVs has been infused into every ounce of the new Sportage, transforming it into a leader of the pack with its cutting-edge design, adventurous capability and desirable in-car technology,” Yoon emphasizes. 

The company’s design philosophy for the new Sportage is an “Opposites United” theme that combines futuristic and rugged elements for a look that’s sleek, but sporty. Click here to view video.

Distinctive features of the Sportage include: 

- Looks. The Sportage design is available in adventure trims (the X-Line, Sportage X-Pro, and X-Pro Prestige) that showcase the Sportage AWD’s 1.5-inch increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and multi-terrain mode AWD system. 

- Luxury. The new Sportage offers upgrades in comfort as well as power and style. Key features include dual panoramic curved 12.3-inch display screens, angular air vents and smart story solutions. 

- Size. The Sportage is larger than its predecessors, with enhanced rear-seat legroom and the largest rear-cargo capacity in its segment. 

- Safety. Key safety features on the updated Sportage include eight standard Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including newly available features such as 360° Surround View Monitor with 3D View and live-feed Blind-Spot View Monitor within instrument cluster.

Visit kia.com for more details about the 2023 Sportage and other Kia vehicles. 

(NewsUSA) - Every family has a unique financial situation with its own set of challenges. However, financial planning can be a bit more complex for LGBTQ+ couples. Depending on the state in which they live, LGBTQ+ couples may find it hard to secure access to health care, higher earning opportunities and retirement savings.

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM professionals can help LGBTQ+ couples navigate these challenges and develop financial planning strategies tailored to their specific needs and the laws of their state.

Here are 4 examples of strategies that a CFP® professional can help you consider:

1. Estate planning: Estate planning is important for LGBTQ+ couples, particularly when considerable assets are involved such as multiple retirement accounts or real estate. In addition to a will and beneficiary designations, your estate plan should also explain how your medical wishes should be honored. Your plan should include health care proxies and medical powers of attorney.

2. Retirement planning: A CFP® professional will work with you to choose the best savings and investment options to meet your retirement goals. They can help align your investment options with your values, combine or consolidate retirement accounts, and make annual contributions. A CFP® professional can also help you review your beneficiary designations to ensure your loved ones are protected. This includes understanding the tax implications of naming a spouse and unmarried partner as a beneficiary.

3. Insurance planning: A CFP® professional can help you evaluate your needs for foundational insurance -- that is, health, life, long-term care and disability insurance. It is important to know your rights, resources and insurance-policy details before incorporating insurance into your financial plan. For example, many insurance carriers recognize domestic partner status and will offer a preferred rate if you live with your life partner, even if you are not legally married.

4. Family planning: Deciding whether to get married and whether to start a family involves many important financial considerations for LGBTQ+ couples. Marriage may offer several long-term financial benefits, including health care coverage and federal protection of certain assets. Alternatively, a domestic partnership agreement can provide financial protections for unmarried LGBTQ+ couples. And starting a family may mean saving for fertility treatments, or a domestic or international adoption program.

These strategies, along with other financial best practices, can help put LGBTQ+ couples on a path to financial success.

You can find a CFP® professional by visiting LetsMakeAPlan.org and using the Find A CFP® Professional tool. You can also filter your search to find a planner with experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples.

By Brad Bauer, Senior Vice President, Bamboo Health

(MWW) - Understandably, COVID continues to be a high priority for healthcare workers, public officials and the media. However, it has also drawn attention away from the opioid epidemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that more than 100,000 people died of drug overdoses from April 2020 to April 2021, up almost 30% from the 78,000 deaths in the prior year.

Of those deaths, more than two-thirds involved opioids. This astounding number exceeds the overdose death toll in any year since the opioid epidemic began in the 1990s and is the largest annual percentage increase since 1999, according to The Commonwealth Fund.

It's clear that healthcare providers, behavioral health professionals, and federal and state governments collectively must renew their focus on opioids. Not only does opioid addiction devastate communities and families, but it also exacts a huge toll on our economy.

First, treatment services for substance use disorders such as opioid addiction need to be made more accessible and affordable to those who need it. Accessibility starts with helping to fund financially imperiled and resource-strapped treatment organizations to keep their doors open and services available. To that end, the Biden Administration in August announced $10.7 million in federal grants to enable state and regional networks of pediatric mental healthcare providers to integrate telehealth services into behavioral healthcare programs and substance abuse treatment. While that's a start, more government investment in opioid treatment is critical.

Second, we need to upgrade and expand crisis services to make these easily accessible to all in need. In July, the 988 initiative launches, establishing a new nationwide 3-digit number for people in crisis to connect with a mental health professionals and suicide prevention counselors. Beyond infrastructure needed to support this, such as mobile crisis teams, states must also invest in digital infrastructure necessary to ensure people can access care once they've contacted a crisis line.

Third, we must integrate new treatment models such as telemedicine into care plans. This may require relaxing regulations governing the delivery of remote care. We know from our experience during the pandemic that telemedicine is effective, so it makes sense to permanently waive remote care restrictions so more people can get help to overcome mental health challenges and addiction.

Finally, we must continue to use the powerful technologies already at our disposal to monitor the dispensing of prescribed opioids. State prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) allow physicians and pharmacists to see a patient's recent prescription history and make more informed decisions to keep patients safe. Providers are more aware of prescriptions and changes in prescription history to help reduce negative drug interactions, prevent opioid misuse, and reduce the risk of opioid-related harm.

Bamboo Health's NarxCare is a clinical decision support tool and care management technology application currently used in more than 30 states and jurisdictions. The platform helps prescribers and dispensers analyze controlled substance data from PDMPs to make more informed prescription-care decisions. NarxCare automatically analyzes PDMP data and then it provides an interactive visualization of prescription drug usage patterns along with use scores and an overdose risk score.

NarxCare is designed to provide physicians and pharmacists with a tool to ensure highly addictive pain medication is prescribed accurately to those who need it, while also helping to identify patients who may need intervening steps.

The opioid epidemic isn't going away by itself. We must all focus on reducing the death and destruction caused by insidious and persistent addiction. It will take caring, commitment, cooperation, and the right tools and resources. It will be a tough fight, but it's one we can win.

(NewsUSA)

"Red Deception"
by Ed Fuller and Gary Grossman 

What would happen if all the major bridges in the U.S. were bombed, all commerce came to a dead stop, and the nation's natural resources, like our water supply, were cut off? The importance of protecting America's critical infrastructure has rarely been depicted so powerfully as in the fast-paced thriller, Red Deception, the follow-up to 2019's "Red Hotel."

Blending career insight with first-hand knowledge of global politics, the authors have drawn a chilling portrait of the fragile fault lines in Europe and the players poised to seize power.

Packed with action scenes and brimming with spies, sexpionage, counter-spies and unlikely heroes, this riveting geopolitical thriller will have you guessing until the very last page. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3gwMm4J. Now also available as an audiobook at https://adbl.co/3hRvdnM.

"A Christmas at Gingerbread Falls"
by Katie Mettner

Actress Carrie Murray's films are a Christmas-lover's delight. Filled with twinkling lights, festive carols and happy endings, they're the perfect escape from reality for both her and the audience. Then Tinseltown calls. Braxton Timothy is Hollywood's biggest action star. Handsome and talented but decidedly on the naughty list, no one can fathom his sudden desire to produce a feel-good Christmas movie, least of all his nameless co-star.

Alternating between scenes reminiscent of everyone's favorite made-for-TV movies and unexpected, off-screen chemistry, the town of Gingerbread Falls has surprises in store this holiday season. The question is, will there be enough Christmas magic to convince two imperfect people that they're perfect for each other? Purchase at https://amzn.to/3n2R3Xc.

"Revolution (The Sol Saga: Book One)"
by James Fox

War is good for business ... and business is about to boom. When the President of the solar system is assassinated on Mars, General Keith Brennan is the obvious choice to investigate. If he comes up with the wrong answer, though, his career will be over. However, when the investigation uncovers a trail of corruption and a conspiracy on a systemwide scale, Brennan's career is the least of his worries.

With Earth and Mars on the brink of a shooting war and forces behind the scenes determined to push them over the edge, only Brennan can stop the slaughter before it's too late. Unless, of course, it already is. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3Aki9xw.

"It's a Very Merry Christmas: If Not You, Then Who?
by David and Emberli Pridham

It's Christmas time at the Fairley house, and that means it's time for Christmas traditions. Join Brooke, Noah, baby Graham and the rest of the family as they decorate the tree, hang lights, watch Christmas movies and invent a brand-new tradition: building their own ice rink!

Presented by If Not You Brands, "If Not You, Then Who?" aims to teach children about the inventions and patents in everyday life and inspire them to create their own.

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

NOTE: BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.

By Brad Bauer, Senior Vice President, Bamboo Health

(MWW) - While COVID rightly remains a high priority for healthcare professionals, public officials, and the media, the pandemic has drawn attention away from the opioid epidemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that more than 100,000 people died of drug overdoses from April 2020 to April 2021, up almost 30% from the 78,000 deaths in the prior year.

Of those deaths, more than two-thirds involved opioids. This astounding number exceeds the overdose death toll in any year since the opioid epidemic began in the 1990s and is the largest annual percentage increase since 1999, according to The Commonwealth Fund.

It's clear that healthcare providers, behavioral health professionals, and federal and state governments collectively must renew their focus on opioids. Not only does opioid addiction devastate communities and families, but it also exacts a huge toll on our economy.

First, treatment services for substance use disorders such as opioid addiction need to be made more accessible and affordable to those who need it. Accessibility starts with helping to fund financially imperiled and resource-strapped treatment organizations to keep their doors open and services available. To that end, the Biden Administration in August announced $10.7 million in federal grants to enable state and regional networks of pediatric mental healthcare providers to integrate telehealth services into behavioral healthcare programs and substance abuse treatment. While that's a start, more government investment in opioid treatment is critical.

Second, we need to upgrade and expand crisis services to make these easily accessible to all in need. In July, the 988 initiative launches, establishing a new nationwide 3-digit number for people in crisis to connect with a mental health professionals and suicide prevention counselors. Beyond infrastructure needed to support this, such as mobile crisis teams, states must also invest in digital infrastructure necessary to ensure people can access care once they've contacted a crisis line.

Third, we must integrate new treatment models such as telemedicine into care plans. This may require relaxing regulations governing the delivery of remote care. We know from our experience during the pandemic that telemedicine is effective, so it makes sense to permanently waive remote care restrictions so more people can get help to overcome mental health challenges and addiction.

Finally, we must continue to use the powerful technologies already at our disposal to monitor the dispensing of prescribed opioids. State prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) allow physicians and pharmacists to see a patient's recent prescription history and make more informed decisions to keep patients safe. Providers are more aware of prescriptions and changes in prescription history to help reduce negative drug interactions, prevent opioid misuse, and reduce the risk of opioid-related harm.

Bamboo Health's NarxCare is a clinical decision support tool and care management technology application currently used in more than 30 states and jurisdictions. The platform helps prescribers and dispensers analyze controlled substance data from PDMPs to make more informed prescription-care decisions. NarxCare automatically analyzes PDMP data and then it provides an interactive visualization of prescription drug usage patterns along with use scores and an overdose risk score.

NarxCare is designed to provide physicians and pharmacists with a tool to ensure highly addictive pain medication is prescribed accurately to those who need it, while also helping to identify patients who may need intervening steps.

The opioid epidemic isn't going away by itself. We must all focus on reducing the death and destruction caused by insidious and persistent addiction. It will take caring, commitment, cooperation, and the right tools and resources. It will be a tough fight, but it's one we can win.

(NewsUSA) - After scaling back celebrations last year, people are ready to spend money on gifts, vacations, decorations and entertaining for the 2021 holiday season. But the pressure is on with news of inflation and ongoing supply chain issues. So finding everything on your wish list may be harder to find, and more expensive if you do find them.

According to Bankrate.com, the average American shopper will spend $998 on gifts and other holiday expenses. "If you have a large family or like to throw holiday parties, you could possibly double or triple that number," says Cheryl Costa, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. "Fortunately, there are ways to enjoy plenty of holiday fun, and find gifts for everyone on your list, without breaking the bank."

Costa recommends taking these steps to avoid starting the New Year with a sleigh full of bills:

Budget ahead. Subtract your "must pay" expenses from your income. Then decide how much you can reasonably afford to spend on various holiday expenses, such as:

• Decorations
• Party supplies and food
• Cards
• Gifts
• Travel

Do the math. If you go over budget in one category, cut back in another. Perhaps a family ski trip takes priority over hosting the neighbors. Or have a potluck party and invite everyone to bring a dish.

Trim the gift list. For work friends, book groups and extended family, suggest a Secret Santa, where everyone in the group is assigned someone at random. This allows each person to buy one gift, instead of buying gifts for everyone.

Get a seasonal job. Most retail stores seek extra help at night and on weekends during the holiday season. Flexibility is the norm, if your schedule permits. You can enjoy a seasonal second career and get an employee discount on your own purchases.

Curb the card. Avoid racking up high credit-card bills for holiday spending. Keep your budget in mind when you pull out the plastic for online purchases, and don't forget to look for free shipping.

A CFP® professional can help you manage your money with short-term and long-term plans to make the most of your money now and in the future. For more budgeting ideas during the holidays, check out LetsMakeAPlan.org.

(NewsUSA) -Cryptocurrency continues to expand through the global economy, but approximately 96% of Americans were unable to pass a quiz about the fundamentals of cryptocurrency, according to results of the inaugural Crypto Literacy Survey, part of a consumer education initiative from a coalition of key players in the digital currency industry.

The quiz consisted of 17 questions to assess knowledge in cryptocurrency, bitcoin, De-Fi, blockchain, mining, types of wallets, and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), as well as general feelings about digital currencies.

The quiz was developed by Cryptoliteracy.org, a coalition that includes Coinme, CoinDesk, and the Digital Currency Group. The coalition website launched in November in honor of the first annual Crypto Literacy Month, and includes complete results of the 2021 survey.

The survey and quiz were sent to 1,000 cryptocurrency or bitcoin-aware internet users in the United States, Mexico, and Brazil, balanced across age, gender, and education level (plus race/ethnicity in the U.S.). Similar to the low pass rate of 4% in the United States, 99% of Brazilian and Mexican participants did not pass the quiz.

However, according to the survey, 30% of Brazilians and 28% of Mexicans say they intend to buy or sell cryptocurrencies in the next six months, compared to 12% of Americans.

"Our industry needs to do more to improve crypto literacy throughout the world. By doing so, we can help people improve their lives by understanding how to utilize cryptocurrencies," says Neil Bergquist, CEO and co-founder of Coinme.

"As a champion of equal and simple access to digital currencies, Coinme is proud to lead this effort in collaboration with key industry partners," he adds.

Other key insights from the survey show that overall, cryptocurrency owners scored higher on the crypto-literacy quiz, and that most owners are younger, wealthier, and male.

In addition, younger generations in the United States are nearly three times more likely to use cryptocurrency as a means of payment, while older generations tend to view it as an investment.

Consumers around the world are invited to test their cryptocurrency literacy by taking the Crypto Literacy Quiz online. Scores will be privately emailed to participants, along with tailored courses provided by CoinDesk improve knowledge of cryptocurrency concepts.

Visit cryptoliteracy.org to learn more about cryptocurrencies, test your knowledge, challenge your friends, and to read complete results from the annual survey.

You can also join the social media conversation and follow CryptoLiteracy.org on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.