(NewsUSA) - A survey sponsored by More Perfect and the Daniels Fund finds a rare consensus across age, party, and geography that civic education needs more investment even as confidence in institutions hits new lows ahead of the nation's 250th birthday.

(NewsUSA) - As the United States prepares to mark 250 years of independence, a new national poll has found one of the clearest points of agreement in American public opinion today: 80% of adults say the country places too little emphasis on civic education.

More than half of respondents said the country places “much too little” emphasis on civic education, defined as teaching people how government and democracy actually work, while another 29% said “somewhat too little.” Just 13% said the current level is about right, and almost no one said the country teaches too much.

The survey, conducted by Hart Research Associates and Public Opinion Strategies for NBC News and sponsored by More Perfect and the Daniels Fund, polled 3,000 adults nationwide from May 29 to June 7.

It also found that more than half of Americans surveyed believe people share the same core values but disagree on policy, and that majorities see more uniting than dividing Americans across lines of gender, race and ethnicity, and immigration status.

“Eight out of ten Americans telling us we need more civic education is a wake-up call to educators and policymakers,” said John Bridgeland, co-founder of More Perfect, a nonpartisan nonprofit dedicated to advancing democracy. “People want to understand how their government works, the role of civil society, and how they can engage in helping to improve our union. The good news is that a growing movement is already answering that call, from Presidential Centers to classrooms to the National Civics Bee.”

“This research confirms what we hear every day in communities across Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming: people are hungry for the tools to participate in their democracy, not just watch from the sidelines,” said Hanna Skandera Grady, President and CEO of the Daniels Fund, a foundation dedicated to positively impacting American life. “As America approaches its 250th anniversary, investing in civic knowledge and engagement among our nation's rising generation is more important than ever, and the answers are often already taking shape, emerging from local communities across the country."

The poll also found that young and older Americans diverge sharply on national pride and views of the Constitution, but largely agree that the “American Dream” is harder to achieve than it was a generation ago — a sentiment shared by 78% of all adults.

The poll's findings come as a wide range of civic education efforts are already underway nationwide, including:

● The National Civics Bee, of which the Daniels Fund is the founding sponsor, has expanded to all 50 states and draws students into civic competition outside the classroom.

● iCivics reaches roughly 145,000 teachers and 9 million students each year, with a new Rule of Law unit for high schoolers.

● The National Constitution Center's Civics Quest offers families a play-based way to explore American history together.

● 44 Presidential Centers have come together for the first time around civic education and democratic renewal, a notable moment of cross-ideological alignment.

● More Perfect's In Pursuit initiative has generated nearly a million views with essays and insights about every U.S. president and first lady, ahead of an hour-long PBS documentary set for October 2026.

To learn more about More Perfect's work, visit joinmoreperfect.us.

(NewsUSA) - June marks the start of summer—a season defined by adventure, exploration, and the simple joys of childhood. June also highlights National Fishing Week, celebrated June 6-14, making it the perfect time for Marine Toys for Tots to champion outdoor play through its Give and Go: Outdoor Adventures Start with You initiative. Building on meaningful experiences that connect children with nature, the initiative helps children discover the confidence, curiosity, and joy that come from spending time outdoors.

In support of this initiative and in the spirit of National Fishing Week, Toys for Tots partnered with local Toys for Tots Coordinator Gina Capate to host a hands-on fishing event in Maple Shade, New Jersey—giving foster children a chance to connect with nature in a fun, supportive setting.

On a warm morning, 24 local foster children gathered by the water, not only to learn how to fish, but to experience something deeper: a sense of belonging. Alongside volunteers, local leaders, and law enforcement officers—many of whom personally invited and mentored the children—they practiced patience, teamwork, and resilience. What organizers fondly referred to as the “Cops and Boppers” event became more than recreation—it was a powerful example of how relationships and trust are built through shared, positive experiences.

Each child left with a fishing pole and a bag of their own, but also with an enduring feeling that their community sees them, values them, and is willing to invest in their happiness. Moments like these may seem small, but they are seeds of confidence and possibility that extend far beyond a single day.

“This fishing event was about more than spending time on the water—it was about creating moments where children feel supported, encouraged, and included,” said Lieutenant General Jim Laster, USMC (Retired), President and CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Sometimes all it takes is one opportunity to spark confidence that can last a lifetime.”

For millions of underserved children, access to these opportunities is far less certain, but no less important. Safe outdoor play, educational toys, and enriching books are not always within reach.

Ensuring opportunities for these children is the heart of our Give and Go: Outdoor Adventures Start with You initiative.

“Outdoor experiences help children discover confidence, patience, and a sense of possibility that stays with them long after the day ends. Every child deserves the chance to step outside, try something new, and realize what they are capable of,” said Lieutenant General Laster.

It is often in these moments that children begin to recognize their own potential. These aren’t grand experiences, but they are powerful ones. Through Give and Go: Outdoor Adventures Start with You, donations are transformed into fishing poles that teach new skills, soccer balls that spark a new hobby, books that ignite curiosity about the world, or games that encourage creativity and problem-solving. These experiences create space for children to simply be children.

This is what the American public’s generosity makes possible—and why outdoor play, educational toys, and meaningful experiences remain at the heart of Toys for Tots’ mission. Your generosity helps ensure that moments like this aren’t the exception—but something all children can count on.

Because Outdoor Adventures Start with You—and every child deserves to be celebrated.

To learn more about Toys for Tots and its year-round mission or to donate, visit toysfortots.org.

(NewsUSA) - A whiter, brighter smile remains one of the most desirable dental improvements, but many consumers are concerned about commercial tooth-whitening products, especially those with sensitive teeth.

The high levels of peroxide in many commercial whitening systems are effective, but can cause or increase tooth and gum sensitivity. Peroxide penetrates tooth enamel to break down stains, but generates free radicals which can irritate the nerves inside the teeth, promoting sensitivity that lasts for days. In addition, improperly applied peroxide-based whitening products can irritate the soft tissue of the gums, causing redness, pain, or a burning sensation.

“Consumers are increasingly seeking whitening solutions that deliver cosmetic results without compromising oral comfort,” said Herb Moskowitz, DDS, Chairman of ioTech International. “People want effective whitening products that are gentle enough to support everyday oral wellness.”

A new, gentle tooth-whitening gel, ioBrite Gentle^TM, was designed by a cosmetic dentist to provide professional strength whitening while removing the stubborn stains caused by coffee, wine, tea, soda, smoking, and age-related discoloration. Unlike many commercial bleaches, ioBrite Gentle improves the appearance of teeth without the irritation, for a zero-sensitivity tooth-whitening system that is gentle on tooth enamel and gums. Testing on over 80 dental professionals with sensitive teeth confirms the efficacy and lack of sensitivity, said Dr. Moskowitz.

The new ioBrite Gentle system kit contains enough gel product for up to 30 treatments. The gel can be used with custom dental trays or applied directly with the included applicator brush and cheek/lip retractors. The mint-flavored formula is enamel-safe, cruelty-free, gluten-free, and made in the U.S.A.

The ioBrite Gentle tooth whitening system reflects ioTech’s broader focus on gentle oral care formulations and overall oral wellness, and provides a dentist-strength teeth-whitening kit designed for people who want professional whitening results without sensitivity, that is easy to use at home and is only a fraction of the cost of dental office whitening.

Dr. Moskowitz notes that ioBrite Gentle is ideal for patients with sensitive teeth and is backed by a zero-sensitivity guarantee.

ioBrite Gentle is available directly through the company’s consumer store or from Amazon.com.

“Consumers should not have to choose between a whiter smile and oral comfort,” added Dr. Moskowitz. “The future of whitening lies in balancing cosmetic improvement with healthier, more comfortable oral care.”

Visit iotechinternational.com to learn more, and follow ioTech’s blog A Deeper Dive into Oral Health for more in-depth discussions on oral care. 

(NewsUSA) - Quantum technology is poised to permeate all corners of the global economy by dramatically changing the way the world computes, transmits, and measures information when compared to current conventional methods.  As the technology evolves, the United States must keep an eye on the quantum ecosystem in China, and how the government’s top-down approach is likely to impact quantum research and development, according to experts at 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 and other critical technologies.

The concept of quantum technology is relatively unfamiliar to those outside of the field. Simply put, quantum technology involves the physics of subatomic particles. Quantum technology is not new, but the hardware and software currently available allows for more widespread use. Potential applications include:

-Security. Quantum navigation systems, for example, could reduce current weak spots in GPS such as outages, cyberattacks, and atmospheric disruptions.

-Communications. Quantum networks could support more secure transfer of information.

- Computing. Quantum computing could accelerate scientific research or optimize supply chains by quickly finding the best solution among thousands of possibilities.

Quantum technology demands the support of an entire ecosystem, with supply chains for semiconductors, nanotechnology, and photonics, among other areas, and involves collaboration among technology companies, academic institutions, government research agencies, and related startups. Currently, China has an expansive and state-backed quantum ecosystem, according to SCSP experts. Information from Datenna, an intelligence platform designed to analyze primary data from China at scale, shows multiple state-affiliated telecom giants, with China Telecom at the center, that fund a network of quantum startups. “Many of these firms trace their origins to state laboratories or university research groups, where Beijing retains influence through funding, ownership, procurement, or institutional ties,” according to Dr. Damien Bérubé, a researcher in Emerging Technology Policy and Quantum Science.

In a recent SCSP newsletter, Bérubé highlighted how Datenna data helps estimate China’s quantum technology activities. According to the data, China is creating demand for quantum technology before the market can sustain itself, which means that state-backed customers and government subsidies are helping Chinese companies build themselves up before competing on the world stage. For example, the Chinese quantum firm Origin Quantum was supported by funding from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and is now preparing for an IPO with a valuation of approximately $1 billion, according to Datenna information.

The rise of Chinese quantum technology companies does not pose an immediate risk of replacing U.S. and allied firms in every high-end market, according to SCSP experts. Instead, Chinese suppliers that can survive on protected domestic demand will ultimately enter foreign markets at lower prices, they said.

“A network map of these contracts should therefore be read less as a list of isolated transactions and more as an industrial policy map: which buyers sustain certain suppliers, which sectors are receiving demand signals, and which firms are being positioned to scale,” the experts concluded.

Visit scsp.ai to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - Why Does Your Diet Matter for Heart Health?

What you eat plays a major role in your heart health. According to the American Heart Association, poor diet quality remains one of the leading contributors to cardiovascular disease and related health risks.

More than half of adults and about 60% of children in the United States have unhealthy diets. These eating patterns can contribute to high blood pressure, obesity, and other chronic health conditions. The good news is that healthy eating does not require perfection. Small, sustainable improvements can make a meaningful difference over time.

The American Heart Association's updated dietary guidance focuses on an overall healthy eating pattern rather than counting individual nutrients. The goal is to make heart-healthy choices easier, more practical, and sustainable throughout life.

What Are the 9 Steps for a Heart-Healthy Diet?

1. Maintain a Healthy Balance Between Food and Activity

Achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight starts with balancing energy intake and physical activity. Paying attention to portion sizes and staying active can help support long-term heart health.

2. Eat More Vegetables and Fruits

Fill your plate with a variety of vegetables and fruits every day. Different colors, textures, and types of produce provide a wide range of nutrients that support overall wellness.

Fresh options are excellent, but canned and frozen fruits and vegetables can also be nutritious, affordable, and convenient choices.

3. Choose Whole Grains More Often

Whole grains provide more nutritional value than refined grains.

Examples of whole-grain foods include:

• Whole-wheat bread
• Brown rice
• Oatmeal
• Whole-grain pasta

Choosing whole grains more often can support a healthier dietary pattern.

4. Prioritize Healthy Protein Sources

The American Heart Association recommends shifting toward plant-based protein sources whenever possible.

Healthy protein choices include:

• Beans
• Lentils
• Peas
• Nuts
• Seeds

Fish and seafood are also encouraged as part of a heart-healthy eating pattern.

If you choose to eat red meat, select lean cuts, avoid processed varieties, and keep portions moderate.

5. Replace Saturated Fats with Unsaturated Fats

Not all fats are the same.

Heart-healthy unsaturated fats can be found in:

• Nuts
• Seeds
• Avocados
• Nontropical plant oils

Replacing foods high in saturated fat with these healthier fat sources can support cardiovascular health.

6. Choose Minimally Processed Foods

Whenever possible, select foods that are close to their natural state.

Minimally processed foods typically contain fewer added ingredients and may help reduce reliance on ultraprocessed products. Building meals around whole foods can make healthy eating easier and more satisfying.

7. Limit Added Sugars

Added sugars are commonly found in beverages, snacks, desserts, and packaged foods.

Reducing consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and foods with added sugars can support heart health and help maintain a balanced diet.

8. Reduce Sodium Intake

Many people consume more sodium than they realize because it is often hidden in packaged and prepared foods.

To reduce sodium:

• Read nutrition labels
• Choose lower-sodium options
• Cook more meals at home
• Use herbs, spices, and lemon for flavor instead of salt

These simple adjustments can help support healthy blood pressure levels.

9. Be Mindful About Alcohol Consumption

If you do not drink alcohol, don’t start.

For those who choose to consume alcohol, moderation is important. Excessive alcohol intake may increase the risk of high blood pressure and other health concerns.

Why Is It Important to Start Healthy Habits Early?

Healthy eating patterns benefit people at every stage of life.

The American Heart Association recommends establishing healthy dietary habits early because they can influence long-term cardiovascular health. Children should begin following a heart-healthy eating pattern at age one.

Families also play a critical role. When adults consistently make healthy food choices, children are more likely to develop similar habits that can last into adulthood.

Creating a healthy home environment can help reduce reliance on highly processed foods while encouraging lifelong wellness.

Progress Matters More Than Perfection

One of the most important messages from the updated guidance is that healthy eating should be realistic and sustainable.

Rather than focusing on strict rules or individual nutrients, the American Heart Association encourages people to focus on their overall eating pattern and make gradual improvements over time.

Every healthier choice adds up. By incorporating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, plant-based proteins, and minimally processed foods into your daily routine, you can take meaningful steps toward better heart health.

Learn More

For additional heart-healthy eating resources and practical guidance, visit:

www.heart.org/healthydiet

(NewsUSA) - For many pet parents, the countdown to the Fourth of July comes with a familiar concern: helping their pets stay calm during fireworks. While fireworks may be festive for people, they can be overwhelming for animals.

According to a 2026 Rover survey, 65% of pet parents say their dog or cat is afraid of fireworks, and 23% say fireworks are their pet’s number one stressor. The concern is widespread—over half (57%) of pet parents say they would even ban fireworks entirely to protect their pets, and 78% have skipped fireworks shows to stay home and provide comfort instead.

Preparing Ahead Makes a Difference

Experts say the best way to help pets through fireworks season is to plan ahead and create a calming environment before the first loud boom.

Key steps include:

• Preparing any veterinarian-prescribed anxiety medication in advance
• Creating a safe, quiet indoor space where pets can retreat
• Playing white noise or calming music to reduce the impact of loud sounds
• Using a pressure wrap, such as a compression vest, for added comfort

These small preparations can significantly reduce stress and help pets feel more secure during unpredictable noise events.

Support During Fireworks Events

When fireworks are unavoidable, consistency and comfort are key. Staying home may not always be possible, especially during peak holiday travel or celebrations.

In those cases, pet parents can use trusted services like Rover.com to find and book sitters who provide in-home care and companionship, helping pets stay calm in a familiar environment while their families are away.

A Growing Focus on Pet Comfort

The same Rover research highlights just how much pet parents are adjusting their holiday habits:

• 57% would prefer to eliminate fireworks to reduce pet stress
• 78% have chosen to skip fireworks displays to stay home with their pets

The findings reflect a growing shift toward prioritizing animal comfort during seasonal celebrations.

More Safety Tips for Summer

For additional guidance on keeping pets safe during fireworks and other summer-safety tips, pet parents can visit Rover Blog Safety for expert advice, including dos and don’ts for seasonal pet care.

The Bottom Line

Fireworks may define summer celebrations, but for many pets, they bring fear and anxiety. With early preparation, a calm environment, and trusted support, pet parents can help dogs and cats feel safe and supported throughout the season.

To learn more or find pet care for upcoming travel, visit Rover.com

(BookTrib) - “The First Cycle: NUE World Chronicles” by F.N. Knight

In this ambitious science-fantasy epic set nearly a thousand years after humanity’s flight from a dying Earth, the planet Thelo is both refuge and prison — a world of twin suns, corrosive mists, dangerous beauty and old bargains with a long reach.

Anibel Azure, the youngest daughter of the ruling Azure family, has been raised to become Lady Head of the Medium. But first she must face the Test, a secret coming-of-age rite that has claimed generations of Azure daughters and bound her people to the mysterious Black Towers. Haunted by visions of humanity’s violent first days on Thelo, Anibel begins to question the history she has inherited.

With Jael, a quick-witted acolyte drawn into her orbit, Anibel may uncover the truth behind the ritual, the ruling Vaine families and the rebellion gathering in the shadows. Richly imagined and morally charged, “The First Cycle” launches a bold new saga.

Purchase at https://tinyurl.com/the-first-cycle.

“Grab Another Gear: Disrupt the Norm. Ignite Your Passion.” by Wayne Williams

This compelling self-help and leadership guide is designed for anyone ready to break out of autopilot and live with greater purpose. Drawing on Wayne Williams’s deep experience helping leaders navigate pivotal transitions, “Grab Another Gear” invites readers to disrupt the routine, rekindle dormant passion and embrace meaningful change rather than comfort.

Through his signature Grab Another Gear framework, Williams blends vivid racing metaphors, personal insights from wins and wipeouts, and clear “Gear Check” action steps that help individuals clarify identity, strengthen relationships and make courageous choices that matter. Far from a typical motivational read, this high-octane guide empowers readers to shift from merely successful to truly significant — living fully engaged, fully awake and fully alive. It’s the ideal read for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone feeling stuck or seeking clarity, courage and a renewed sense of impact.

Purchase at https://tinyurl.com/grab-another-gear.

“Dawn Before Darkness” by Liz Lazarus

A psychological thriller inspired by real events, “Dawn Before Darkness” reveals the treachery of a ruthless stalker, the alarming failure of the legal system and the unthinkable battle a daughter must face to protect her family.

Dawn Smith, a vet tech, meets her dream guy. Not only does he woo her with fancy dates and thoughtful gifts, but he charms her widowed mother. Soon, however, strange things begin to happen — a break-in at her home, a missing necklace, and most alarming of all, a rapid decline in her mom’s health. The facade of Mr. Charming is cracking and before Dawn understands the magnitude of his lies, she’s immersed in a battle she never saw coming.

Drawing on real-life guardianship cases and interviews with stalking victims, Lazarus crafts an emotionally charged thriller that explores how the systems designed to protect us can be manipulated.

Details at https://tinyurl.com/dawn-before-darkness.

“Scripts” by Brandon Knightley

In mid-twentieth-century America, Arlene Zirner is a woman no one seems to see clearly — least of all her cold, dismissive husband, Charlie. Raised with an unusual worldview and trapped in a marriage that has taught her to disappear, Arlene quietly accepts the boundaries of her life until a chance encounter in a park awakens a hidden gift.

With a typewriter tucked away like a secret, Arlene begins to discover not only a talent for writing, but a self she has long been denied. Woven through her story are intimate two-person dramatic scripts, read aloud by other couples who find in them a language for emotions they cannot otherwise express.

Inventive, tender and quietly powerful, "Scripts" is a literary novel about marriage, silence, unseen goodness and the private acts of creation that can become a path to liberation.

Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/scripts-review or purchase at https://tinyurl.com/scripts-novel.

(NewsUSA) - Two Bedsure PureWoven™ styles now carry the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval

Naturally Textured Comfort with Elevated Everyday Bedding from Bedsure PureWoven™

Creating a bedroom that feels calm, inviting, and visually put-together doesn’t have to involve complicated styling or constant rearranging. The look many people are embracing right now is all about natural texture, soft layering, and a relaxed finish that feels lived-in in the best way.

Bedsure PureWoven™ brings that aesthetic to life with duvet cover sets designed to make an everyday bedroom feel more elevated—without extra effort.

A Relaxed Look That Feels Instantly Styled

Lifestyle expert Jennifer Bonner highlights how the right bedding can completely shift the feel of a room.

“You know that moment when your bed suddenly looks like it belongs in a magazine, even though you didn’t overthink it? That’s exactly what these pieces are designed to do,” she shares.

The Bedsure PureWoven™ collection focuses on naturally soft cotton, breathable comfort, and textures that feel easy and unfussy. Instead of aiming for overly polished perfection, the design embraces a relaxed finish that complements a wide range of bedroom styles.

Bedsure PureWoven™ Washed Cotton Duvet Cover Set

For those who prefer a clean, understated look with a naturally soft feel, the Washed Cotton Duvet Cover Set offers an easy foundation for the bedroom.

Made from 100% washed cotton, it delivers a lightly textured finish that resembles linen while maintaining a soft, breathable feel. Because it’s prewashed, it arrives with a relaxed, broken-in character that blends easily into both minimal and layered bedroom aesthetics.

Key features include:

• Naturally soft, breathable cotton fabric
• Relaxed, lived-in texture for effortless styling
• Lightweight feel suitable for year-round use
• Corner ties to help keep bedding in place
• Hidden zipper closure for easy use
• Machine washable for simple care

The design works especially well for those who prefer bedding that looks naturally styled without needing constant smoothing or arranging.

Prime Day Deal Up to 30% OFF

Available here: Bedsure PureWoven™ Washed Cotton Duvet Cover Set

Bedsure PureWoven™ Cotton Waffle Weave Duvet Cover Set

For a more visually textured bedroom look, the Cotton Waffle Weave Duvet Cover Set introduces a subtle 3D pattern that adds depth without overwhelming the space.

The waffle weave design creates a soft sculptural effect that pairs well with neutral tones, natural lighting, and layered bedding. It’s designed to feel airy and comfortable, making it a versatile option throughout the year.

Key features include:

• Distinct waffle weave texture for added visual depth
• Naturally soft cotton feel that becomes softer over time
• Lightweight, breathable construction
• Corner ties and hidden button closure for functionality
• Includes a spare button and reusable cotton tote
• OEKO-TEX certified materials for added peace of mind

This set is ideal for anyone looking to elevate their bedroom with subtle texture while maintaining a relaxed, effortless aesthetic

Prime Day Deal Up to 25% OFF

Available here: Bedsure PureWoven™ Cotton Waffle Weave Duvet Cover Set

Designed for an Effortless Bedroom Aesthetic

Both duvet cover sets share a common design philosophy: bedding should enhance the room without feeling over-styled. The focus is on natural texture, breathable comfort, and a look that fits seamlessly into everyday living.

Instead of chasing a perfectly arranged bed, the PureWoven™ collection leans into a softer approach—where slight texture, gentle folds, and natural fabric movement become part of the design.

A Simple Way to Refresh Your Space

Refreshing a bedroom doesn’t always require a full redesign. Sometimes, changing the bedding is enough to shift the entire mood of the space.

With Bedsure PureWoven™, the goal is simple: create a bedroom that feels calm, lived-in, and visually balanced—without extra effort or complicated styling choices.

Source: BEDSURE

Contact: [email protected]

(NewsUSA) - Summer gatherings rarely stay small for long. A quiet patio dinner can quickly turn into an evening filled with family, friends, and neighbors. When the guest list grows, your outdoor space should be able to grow with it.

The Transformer Table Outdoor Collection is built for exactly that. Designed for flexibility, style, and effortless entertaining, this modular outdoor furniture collection transforms any patio, balcony, deck, or backyard into a space that is ready for every kind of summer moment.

At the heart of the collection is the 6-in-1 extendable outdoor dining table, engineered to shift from a compact everyday setup to a full-size table that seats up to 12 guests. From intimate meals to lively celebrations, it expands in moments when more room is needed and contracts just as easily when the gathering ends.

The adaptability continues throughout the entire Transformer Outdoor Dining Collection. Expandable benches feature the same 6-in-1 extension system, allowing seating to grow in perfect sync with the table. Stackable patio chairs add even more flexibility, offering extra seating when guests arrive and compact storage when they leave.

Every detail is designed to make outdoor entertaining feel seamless. A multifunctional outdoor bar cart keeps drinks, dishes, and hosting essentials close at hand, while an oversized patio umbrella helps create a shaded, comfortable setting for long summer afternoons. Together, these thoughtful additions bring both function and sophistication to any outdoor space.

Crafted with durable, weather-resistant materials, the Transformer Table Outdoor Collection is made for long-lasting performance season after season. Its clean modern design, premium construction, and space-saving innovation create an outdoor furniture solution that looks refined, performs beautifully, and adapts effortlessly to real life.

Simplicity is one of its greatest strengths. The table slides open smoothly, extension panels lock into place without tools, and the setup can be adjusted in minutes. When the celebration winds down, the panels store neatly away, returning the furniture to a compact footprint without compromising style or comfort.

As outdoor living becomes an extension of the home, adaptable furniture is no longer just a convenience. It is the key to creating spaces that feel open, functional, and ready for anything. The Transformer Table Outdoor Collection makes it easy to entertain more guests, save valuable space, and enjoy every summer gathering with confidence.

By combining luxury, innovation, and versatility, the collection helps every outdoor space rise to the occasion whether it is a quiet dinner under the sky or a celebration with a full guest list.

To learn more about the Transformer Table Outdoor Collection and explore customizable outdoor dining solutions,

visit: https://ca.transformertable.com/collections/transformer-outdoor-dining

(BookTrib) - “The Captain's Clue” by Brock Eastman and Shaun Stevenson

In this hilarious action-adventure for Christian kids, the parables of Jesus literally come to life — and Parable Port is in deep water. Anthony and his friends have barely recovered from their last wild adventure when the storm of the century hits town. The rain won’t stop, the waters keep rising, and the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders has gone seriously haywire.

As flooded streets fill with electric eels and homes begin crumbling like sandcastles, Anthony teams up with Grace and Duck to find the mysterious lighthouse keeper, Captain David, who may hold the key to saving the town. Meanwhile, budding podcaster J.R. gets caught up chasing a big story and must decide whether popularity is worth risking real friendships.

Fast-paced, funny and faith-filled, this illustrated middle-grade adventure helps young readers discover what it means to build life on a solid foundation.

Purchase at https://tinyurl.com/the-captains-clue.

“Ashes of the Republic” by James Chesterton

In this chilling speculative thriller, America in 2046 is a nation transformed by surveillance technology, artificial intelligence and an increasingly authoritarian government. Former engineer Lily Osbourne knows this world better than most: years earlier, she helped create the technology that now monitors citizens, suppresses dissent and keeps those in power firmly in control.

Forced to abandon her former identity after falling out of favor with the ruling Dennison family, Lily discovers firsthand what happens to those who challenge the system. As she watches her inventions weaponized against ordinary people, she is compelled to confront her own role in creating the future she once helped build.

Blending high-stakes suspense with timely questions about power, responsibility and personal freedom, “Ashes of the Republic” is a thought-provoking cautionary tale that feels less like distant science fiction than a warning about the world taking shape around us.

Purchase at https://tinyurl.com/ashes-of-the-republic.

“The Peace Guidebook: How to Cultivate Hope, Healing, and Harmony for the Good of Humankind” by Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino and Dr. Katie Eastman

In a divided and uncertain world, “The Peace Guidebook” offers a practical path toward personal healing, compassionate leadership and meaningful collective change. Inspired by the global Percolate Peace Project, Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino and Dr. Katie Eastman draw on decades of work helping people navigate grief, transition and transformation to present Ten Principles of Peace for everyday life.

Blending reflection, storytelling and accessible daily practices, the book invites readers to quiet what is unsettled within, move through conflict with courage and grace, lead from a place of love, and build relationships rooted in shared values. The book’s prompts and exercises make the journey interactive, encouraging readers not only to think about peace but to practice it in their homes, workplaces and communities.

Part guidebook, part call to action, “The Peace Guidebook” is a steady companion for anyone seeking a more grounded, purpose-driven life — and a more compassionate world.

Purchase at https://tinyurl.com/the-peace-guidebook.

“The Alpha Trace” by J. Mayberry

A string of murders. A cryptic symbol. A small town where everyone seems to be hiding something.

True-crime podcaster Elena Coleman has spent years digging into the questions Millbrook Falls wants left alone — a decades-old serial killer known as the Alpha, a suspicious police shooting and the local forces determined to keep both stories quiet. When Elena is found dead in her apartment with the Alpha’s chilling mark left behind, Detective James Rios is pulled into a case that refuses to stay cold.

Then more bodies appear. Each one bears the killer’s signature. Each one pulls Rios deeper into a pattern of violence that grows more disturbing with every turn. To solve it, he must untangle a web of police corruption, family loyalties and evidence that refuses to point in only one direction.

A tense serial murder investigation full of twists and turns, “The Alpha Trace” is a psychological crime thriller where every clue raises new questions — and no one is above suspicion.

Purchase at https://tinyurl.com/the-alpha-trace.