(NewsUSA) - For generations of workers, retirement benefits represented the reward for years of dedication and hard work. But for today’s working parents, a more immediate investment has quietly taken center stage: child care.

Across kitchen tables, carpool lines and late-night email sessions, parents navigate a daily reality that feels increasingly fragile. One canceled caregiver, one closed classroom, or one sick day can send an entire work week into chaos as parents try to balance child care and work needs simultaneously. While flexible schedules and remote work help, they haven’t solved the core issue: reliable child care is essential for working families.

As a result, parents are reassessing what they need from their employers. Recent national research from KinderCare Learning Company’s annual Parent Confidence Index shows that parents now view child care as one of the most important benefits when deciding whether to stay in a job, even ranking it ahead of traditional long-term benefits like retirement plans. In fact, 85% say child care support should be considered as essential as healthcare, reflecting how closely it’s tied to daily productivity, focus and peace of mind.

Jessica Harrah, Chief People Officer at KinderCare Learning Companies, a national provider of early learning programs, says this shift reflects what families have experienced for years.

“Parents want to do great work and build meaningful careers,” Harrah said. “But when child care is unpredictable or hard to access, it creates stress that spills into every part of life. Supporting parents with child care is about giving families stability so they can show up fully, both at work and at home.”

At the same time, many parents say these benefits are either unavailable, poorly communicated or difficult to understand. That gap between what families need and what workplaces offer can feel discouraging. Parents don’t have to navigate this alone though, says Harrah. Connecting with coworkers, employee resource groups, or leaders who understand caregiving responsibilities can help normalize these conversations.

“When more parents speak openly about child care needs, it becomes easier for employers to recognize where gaps exist,” said Harrah. “When approaching a manager or HR team, parents don’t need to frame child care as a personal favor. Instead, connect it to productivity and consistency. When families have access to reliable care, stress levels drop, loyalty increases, and parents are more engaged and able to do their best work at the office or on the job.”

The future of work isn’t just about where or when people work, it’s about whether families have the stability and support they need to keep going. Child care has become the benefit that makes everything else possible. To learn more about how KinderCare provides stability for thousands of families across its nationwide footprint of KinderCare Learning Centers, visit kindercare.com.

(BookTrib) - “Death for Sale” by Erik S. Meyers

Nestled in the Ozarks, the tight-knit town of Berry Springs is gearing up for Thanksgiving when several beloved seniors fall mysteriously ill at the community dinner. As deaths follow, suspicion spreads faster than holiday cheer.

Enter Sally Witherspoon — a sharp-witted, 50-something accountant turned biker-bar owner with a knack for puzzles and a habit of helping local law enforcement. Think Miss Marple meets a Cheers bartender. Between running her bar, worrying about her aging parents and facing her own milestone birthday, Sally has plenty on her plate. But when poisoning threatens her friends — and possibly her family — she digs in her heels to uncover the truth.

With lively characters, small-town charm and steady suspense, “Death for Sale” is a spirited holiday whodunit perfect for readers who enjoy lighter mysteries with heart, humor and a determined amateur sleuth at the helm.

Learn more about the Sally Witherspoon Mystery series and purchase "Death for Sale" at https://amzn.to/4s3XFVm.

“She Who Rides Horses: A Saga of the Ancient Steppe, Book One” by Sarah V. Barnes

Set more than 6,000 years ago on the ancient Pontic-Caspian steppe, “She Who Rides Horses: A Saga of the Ancient Steppe” introduces Naya, a clan chief’s daughter whose fiery red hair and independent spirit set her apart. While her people hunt wild horses for meat, Naya dreams of something different — partnership, not conquest. When she discovers a chestnut filly as uncommon as herself, she begins the slow, daring work of earning the young horse’s trust.

But fate intervenes when Naya is struck by a stranger’s arrow, leaving her wounded and separated from her clan during a brutal winter migration. As she heals alongside the young archer amid strangers struggling to survive, bonds deepen — between girl and horse, and between former enemies.

Rich in historical detail and emotional depth, Sarah V. Barnes’ novel reimagines the dawn of horseback riding as a story of courage, connection and the spiritual bond that forever changed humanity. A perfect read for the Year of the Horse!

Available in paperback, ebook and now in audiobook, “She Who Rides Horses: A Saga of the Ancient Steppe” can be purchased at https://amzn.to/4cnkQ8z.

“Both Sides of the Same Coin” by Michael Weiner

Spanning a century of ambition, sacrifice and reinvention, this historical saga traces the intertwined destinies of the Doyle, Carbone and Roth families as they journey from Ireland and Italy to the promise of America. Against the sweeping backdrop of New York City’s rise — from post-Depression grit to wartime resilience — unlikely visionary Oscar Klein emerges from the streets of Philadelphia to unite them all.

With Patrick Doyle and Anthony Carbone, Oscar builds an empire of taxi medallions, clubs and restaurants, culminating in a glittering Plaza Hotel wedding that draws the city’s elite — and the shadow of the Cosa Nostra. Success brings wealth and influence, but also heartbreak, addiction and loss.

Praised as a compelling, page-turning saga rich with family values and New York landmarks, “Both Sides of the Same Coin” explores ambition and responsibility — and the delicate balance between prosperity and purpose.

Purchase at https://amzn.to/40g56N8.

“Champions in Life: The Playbook for Teens and Their Parents with 10 Essential Skills to Optimize Mental Health” by Elaine J. Brzycki, Ed.M. and Henry G. Brzycki, Ph.D.

In a world where teen mental health is often addressed only in crisis, “Champions in Life” takes a refreshingly proactive approach. Written by positive psychology pioneers Elaine J. Brzycki, Ed.M., and Henry G. Brzycki, Ph.D., this interactive guide empowers teens to build the skills they need to flourish — not just cope.

Grounded in the authors’ Integrated Self Model™ and their widely used Champions program, the book introduces 10 essential mental health skills designed to strengthen resilience, self-esteem, internal motivation and hope. Through 30 hands-on experiences, teens are encouraged to explore their emotions, clarify their dreams and discover their unique life purpose.

More than a book to read, this is a playbook to live — and a powerful tool for sparking meaningful conversations between teens and parents. At its heart, “Champions in Life” reminds young people that they aren’t passive observers of their future — they can actively shape it.

Purchase at https://amzn.to/4banZY4.

(BookTrib) - “When Waiting Becomes Life” by Jeff Deaton, MD

“When Waiting Becomes Life” gently illuminates the often unseen emotional landscape of infertility — a journey many walk in silence. Drawing on heartfelt, real-life stories from women and couples who have faced failed cycles, loss and years of uncertainty, Dr. Jeff Deaton blends compassionate medical insight with deeply human narrative. Each chapter offers not only the raw honesty of lived experience but also practical, encouraging advice that helps readers process grief, confront shame and navigate complex treatment decisions with greater clarity and confidence.

Readers praise the book for its warmth and wisdom, noting how Deaton’s balanced mix of hope, science and empathy makes even the most difficult moments feel shared rather than endured alone. Whether you’re living the struggle or supporting someone who is, this book offers solace, strength and a reminder: waiting isn’t the whole story — growth and resilience can be part of the journey too.

Purchase at https://tinyurl.com/when-waiting-becomes-life.

“Choosing Emotions: Thinking with Your Head and Acting with Your Heart” by D. Earl Johnston

What if emotional intelligence begins not with regulation — but with vocabulary? In “Choosing Emotions,” D. Earl Johnston presents what he calls an “Emotionary”— a cross-disciplinary reference that defines 272 emotional states drawn from philosophy, psychology, science, art and spiritual traditions. After nine years of research and integrating more than 1,800 contributors spanning 3,000 years of recorded thought, Johnston points out that emotional literacy depends on definitional clarity.

From everyday experiences like admiration and confidence to complex states such as trauma and procrastination, each entry’s source ranges from clinical terminology to street expressions alongside insights from history’s great thinkers. Johnston also introduces a provocative linguistic idea: emotions function as the adverbial drivers of behavior — shaping how we act as much as what we do.

Designed equally for browsing or deeper study, “Choosing Emotions” invites readers to name, understand and easily navigate the full spectrum of human experience. Purchase at https://amzn.to/4kRi4KU.

“Summertime & Short Stories” by Stanislas M Yassukovich

In "Summertime & Short Stories," Stanislas M. Yassukovich invites readers into a world of privilege, longing and moral reckoning. The title novella unfolds among Long Island’s old-money elite, where a respected general practitioner embarks on an affair with a patient — a transgression that entangles both in layers of professional guilt and unresolved family ties.

The accompanying stories traverse elegant international settings and intimate emotional terrain. A brass rubbing hobbyist discovers a gravestone bearing his own name. A pleasure-seeking gentleman seeks redemption through charity. An introvert is swept into an insider trading scandal by his domineering girlfriend. Elsewhere, a painter’s canvas mysteriously fades, a polo-playing playboy confronts loss, sisters clash over love, and a father weighs the measure of his bond with his son.

By turns ironic, reflective and quietly provocative, this collection explores desire, consequence and the fragile façades that shape human lives.

Purchase at https://amzn.to/46LyAGi.

“Friday Nite at the Bucket of Blood Bar” by Bobby “Z” Zielinski

The rite of passage: from the schoolyard – to the candy store – to the bar.

The bar in the ‘50s and ‘60s was where you cashed your paycheck, socialized with your friends, borrowed money, and bought various items that “just fell off” the back of a truck! It was where you also bet the numbers for the horses and paid off the “shys.”

Every Friday, from 3:00 p.m. until 3:00 a.m. Saturday morning, everything revolved around Slippery Eddie, the bartender. Every hour, a different story unfolded.

As an 84-year-old vet, cancer and Covid survivor, recovering alcoholic (46 years), original Jersey City ‘50s bad boy, high school dropout, and published author and poet, Bobby “Z” has lived it all – and lived to tell the tale.

“Friday Nite at the Bucket of Blood Bar” could very well be the next “Bronx Tale,” “Goodfellas” or “Sopranos.” Purchase at https://amzn.to/49DUux3 or visit the author’s website, Tales of the Junkyard Dog, at https://talesofthejunkyarddog.wordpress.com/ for more information. Zielinski can also be contacted at [email protected].

(NewsUSA) - The Department of Defense's, now renamed the Department of War by the current administration, acquisitions, notoriously sluggish and inefficient, is undergoing a change to make its historically sluggish acquisitions system more agile and responsive.

Defense acquisition is the process by which military forces, such as the U.S. Department of Defense, identify needs, manage investments, and procure technology, systems, and services. The goal of an acquisition plan is to deliver whatever warfighters need in a timely and cost-effective way.

The main components of the United States’ Defense Acquisition System include identifying the warfighter’s needs, allocating resources/securing funds, and managing the development and purchase of systems.

In a recent podcast with the 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, Steve Blank, co-founder of the Stanford Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation, discussed the recent revision of the Department of War’s acquisition system. Blank shared how an attitude shift has the potential to drive changes in DoW activities to maintain competitiveness in the future.

Changes in acquisition start by changing the culture of those involved in the process, Blank said. Those in charge need to switch to a problem-centric and minimum-deployable model, he explained.

In late 2025, the DoW announced the implementation of a new "Acquisition Transformation Strategy" (ATS), announced in late 2025, to shift to a wartime-oriented, rapid-fielding model focused on speed, industrial base expansion, and leveraging commercial technology. Key pillars include empowering the workforce, maximizing flexibility, reducing bureaucratic oversight, and strengthening lifecycle risk management. 

Key elements of the new ATS include:

• · Workforce Transformation: The Defense Acquisition University is being redesigned as the "Warfighting Acquisition University" (WAU) with the goal of instilling a more efficient warrior mindset, according to the DoW.
• · Streamlining development: Reducing bureaucracy, including the number of test managers, is intended to accelerate the acquisition process.
• · Going commercial: The new strategy includes adopting existing commercial off-the-shelf technology and using outside contractors, when possible, in order to speed up procurement.
• · Broadening the base: Rebuilding and diversify the defense industrial base is needed to ensure a steady, reliable demand signal.
• · Taking more risks: The ATS allows for accepting higher, calculated risks to deliver capabilities faster, rather than waiting for long-term, traditional cycles. 

This new strategy marks a shift from a "requirements-based" to a "solutions-based" acquisition model, that is designed to get tools into the hands of warfighters more quickly.

Visit scsp.ai to learn more about the evolution of DoW strategies and other issues related to America’s global competitiveness.

(NewsUSA) - While February is recognized as National Random Acts of Kindness month, Marine Toys for Tots knows kindness doesn’t have to be spontaneous to be powerful. That is why Toys for Tots celebrates Not So Random Acts of Kindness. The Program sees the impact of intentional acts of kindness every time someone chooses to give, volunteer, or lend support—not just during the holidays, but in the middle of ordinary days, busy seasons, and challenging moments.   

Thanks to the not so random acts of generosity of local Coordinators, donors, National Corporate Partners, and supporting organizations, the Program distributed 24 million toys, books, and other gifts to nearly 11 million children in need in 2025.

These contributions weren’t random gestures. They were choices made by individuals and communities who believed every child deserves hope, comfort, and joy. Together, these choices created a nationwide ripple effect that reached far beyond city centers and suburban neighborhoods.

Some of those ripples traveled farther than most.

Across Alaska’s North Slope and Northwest Arctic Borough, U.S. Marines with Detachment Delta Company, 4th Law Enforcement Battalion, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, carried out a mission defined by purpose and resilience. As part of Operation Polar Knight, Marines delivered nearly 14,000 pounds of toys to some of the most remote communities in the United States—places where winter roads don’t exist, weather can ground aircraft for days, and access to basic goods is limited.

This mission was only possible because of collective efforts: the generosity of the American public, the dedication of the Anchorage Toys for Tots Chapter, and the determination of the Marines who carried the mission across snow, ice, and Arctic skies. Without these combined efforts, children living in some of the most isolated regions of the country would not experience the magic of the holiday season.

“These deliveries weren’t random gestures either. They were purposeful acts of kindness—planned months in advance, supported by countless volunteers, and executed with precision in some of the harshest conditions on Earth,” said Lieutenant General Jim Laster, USMC (Retired), CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Every gift was a conscious choice to support a child in need and a promise to keep the spirit of the season shining, even in the most remote corners of Alaska,” he emphasized.

Operation Polar Knight is just one example of how intentional acts of kindness transforms lives. Across the country, the Program’s supporters continue to make a difference all year long. Through year-round literacy efforts, support for children in Foster Care, and disaster response and recovery distribution events, donors help ensure that children in need receive comfort, encouragement, and opportunity.

Now in their 79th year, Toys for Tots continues to demonstrate that generosity is not random. It is a commitment—renewed year after year—to bring hope to children everywhere. Toys for Tots’ mission as a year-round force for good reminds us what happens when intentional acts of kindness come together: communities are strengthened, children are uplifted, and the spirit of giving reaches places where it matters most.

To learn more about Toys for Tots or to make a donation, please visit www.toysfortots.org.

(NewsUSA) - Like many veterans, Brian Owens, 53 from Kentucky, knows all too well that the invisible burdens of military service can linger long after the uniform comes off. For Brian, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, it was his heart that felt the ongoing impacts the most.  

Veterans face an increased risk of developing hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, a condition that affects an estimated 37% of the U.S. veteran population.¹ Research from a large cohort study found that both combat exposure and combat injury were associated with higher odds of developing hypertension.² For Brian, this is significant as men are already more likely to develop high blood pressure - 50.8% of adult men compared to 44.6% of women - and face greater cardiovascular risk over time.³

Treating hypertension early on is essential as the condition can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other health concerns if left untreated.^4,5 Brian’s treatment journey started like most do, being prescribed medication for high blood pressure and making changes to his diet and exercise routine. For Brian, the medication was helpful at first, but over time, his blood pressure increased, even with multiple prescriptions. “I was on five or six different medications at one point,” Brian recalls. "I was doing what I was supposed to, but I wasn’t getting better.” 

Brian’s experience reflects a wider problem: controlling the “silent killer” is often elusive, and medication is not always enough. In fact, up to 50% of patients can’t maintain a routine to take medication within one year.^6,7 

After years of trying and seeing little progress, Brian started to feel helpless - like blood pressure control was out of reach. While working at Norton Healthcare, Brian ran into Dr. Matthew Sousa, an interventional cardiologist, who helped him seek answers for his uncontrolled high blood pressure. Dr. Sousa and Debbie Davis, a nurse manager at Norton Healthcare, helped him learn more about his treatment options and ultimately decide on a path forward.  

“After telling Debbie and Dr. Sousa my story and concerns, they asked if I’d be open to a new procedure that could help,” Brian said. After discussing his options with his doctor and seeing if he would be a good candidate, Brian decided to move forward with a minimally invasive treatment called the Symplicity^TM blood pressure procedure, which uses radiofrequency energy to calm overactive nerves near the kidneys that can contribute to high blood pressure.⁸ 

The Symplicity blood pressure procedure, which uses the Symplicity Spyral renal denervation system, can help reduce blood pressure numbers when other options, such as lifestyle changes and medications, haven’t worked. In fact, at three years, the average number of patients taking medication saw an 18.5 mmHg reduction in office blood pressure, although results may vary.⁹ The procedure may deliver sustained blood pressure reduction.^{**10, 11} 

Since having the Symplicity blood pressure procedure, Brian has experienced a reduction in his blood pressure.*** Now, Brian is sharing his story in hopes of helping others, especially fellow veterans. “It’s something a lot of veterans are dealing with, but don’t talk about,” he said. “If my experience can help someone else ask the right questions or explore new options, it’s worth it.” 

Between volunteering with Toys for Tots, raising two daughters, and staying active through competitive shooting, Brian is embracing a new chapter with renewed energy and a healthier outlook on life. 

To learn more about renal denervation and the Symplicity blood pressure procedure, visit beyondHBP.com. Risks associated with the Symplicity blood pressure procedure include, but are not limited to, pain and bruising. If you have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor about treatment options. 

*Brian has received compensation in the past from Medtronic for sharing his experience with the Symplicity blood pressure procedure.  

**Data available through three years.  

***This patient testimonial is an individual’s experience and opinion. Not every person will experience the same results. The Symplicity procedure has known risks that should be considered in relation to the potential benefits of the procedure. People with higher blood pressure before the procedure may see greater reductions in blood pressure and a decrease in the need for blood pressure medication following the procedure. However, individual results may vary.   

1 American Heart Association Newsroom. Joining Forces to Address Hypertension Among Veterans in Las Vegas. https://newsroom.heart.org/local-news/joining-forces-to-address-hypertension-among-veterans-in-las-vegas. Published March 8, 2023 
2. Howard, J. T., Stewart, I. J., Kolaja, C. A., Sosnov, J. A., Rull, R. P., Torres, I., Janak, J. C., Walker, L. E., Trone, D. W., & Armenta, R. F. (2020). Hypertension in military veterans is associated with combat exposure and combat injury. Journal of hypertension, 38(7), 1293–1301. https://doi.org/10.1097/HJH.0000000000002364 
3 Fryar, C. D., Kit, B. K., Carroll, M. D., & Afful, J. (2024, October). Hypertension prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control among adults aged 18 and over: United States, August 2021–August 2023 (NCHS Data Brief No. 511). National Center for Health Statistics. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db511.pdf 
4 Jones DW, et al. 2025 AHA/ACC/AANP/AAPA/ABC/ACCP/ACPM/AGS/AMA/ASPC/NMA/PCNA/SGIM Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2025 Nov 4;86(18):1567-1678. 
5 High blood pressure dangers: Hypertension’s effects on your body. Mayo Clinic.  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/highblood-pressure/in-depth/high-blood-pressure/art-20045868. Accessed Oct 16, 2024. 
6 Jung O, Gechter JL, Wunder C, et al. Resistant hypertension? Assessment of adherence by toxicological urine analysis. J Hypertens. 2013 Apr;31(4):766-74. 
7 Berra E, Azizi M, Capron A, et al. Evaluation of Adherence Should Become an Integral Part of Assessment of Patients With Apparently Treatment-Resistant Hypertension. Hypertension. 2016 Aug;68(2):297-306. 
8 Coates P, Tunev S, Trudel J, Hettrick DA. Time, Temperature, Power, and Impedance Considerations for Radiofrequency Catheter Renal Denervation. Cardiovasc Revasc Med. September 2022;42:171–177. 
9 Kandzari, DE. SPYRAL HTN-ON MED 3 Year Data. Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (TCT) conference. October 2025. 
10 Mahfoud F, Kandzari DE, Kario K, et al. Long-term efficacy and safety of renal denervation in the presence of antihypertensive drugs (SPYRAL HTN-ON MED): a randomised, sham-controlled trial. Lancet. April 9, 2022;399(10333):1401–1410. 
11 Mahfoud F, Mancia G, Schmieder R, et al. Blood pressure and MACE reductions after renal denervation: 3-year Global Symplicity Registry results. Presented at PCR e-Course 2022." 

US-SE-2500758 v 3.0 

©2026 Medtronic. Medtronic, Medtronic logo, and Engineering the extraordinary are trademarks of Medtronic. All other brands are trademarks of a Medtronic company 

Important Safety Information   

The Symplicity™ blood pressure procedure (BPP) is a minimally invasive procedure approved to help lower high blood pressure. The procedure is approved as a complement to treatments you may already be trying, such as lifestyle modifications and high blood pressure medications that might not be adequately controlling your blood pressure.   

Receiving the Symplicity BPP should be based on a joint decision between you and your doctor. Consider the benefits and risks of the device and procedure. Please talk to your doctor to decide whether or not the Symplicity BPP is right for you.  

If you have a pacemaker or an ICD, your doctor will follow up with steps to take ahead of the procedure if you decide it is right for you.  

At the time of your procedure, your doctor may detect certain anatomical conditions (e.g., your blood vessels are too big or too small) that do not allow the blood pressure procedure to continue.  

You should not receive the procedure if you cannot tolerate medications that are required for the procedure, like atropine, nitroglycerin, systemic blood thinners, or certain pain medications. These medications are to help you in case your heart rate drops too low, you experience pain, or your blood vessels tighten during the procedure. You should not receive the procedure if you are pregnant.  

The Symplicity BPP has not been studied in patients: • Who are breastfeeding • Who are under 18 years old • Who have isolated systolic hypertension (only the “top number” of your blood pressure is high) • Who have secondary causes of high blood pressure   
• Who have had a renal stent placed less than 3 months prior to the procedure • Who had a prior minimally invasive treatment in their renal arteries (stenting, angioplasty, or prior renal denervation)  

Potential risks of the Symplicity BPP (note that you may experience other problems that have not been previously observed with this procedure): • Allergic reaction to the imaging solution • Damage to your arteries • Future narrowing of your arteries • Arterio-enteric fistula (an abnormal connection between your aorta and your gastrointestinal tract) • AV fistula (an irregular connection between an artery and a vein) • Bleeding or blood clots • Bruising where the device enters your body (mild or severe) • Cardiac arrest or heart attack • Death • Deep vein thrombosis • Swelling • Slow heart rate • Infection • Low or high blood pressure • Damage to your kidneys that may cause one or both to stop working • Nausea or vomiting • Peripheral ischemia (lack of blood supply to your limbs) • Pulmonary embolism (a sudden block in your arteries that send blood to your lungs) • Pseudoaneurysm (blood collecting on the outside of a vessel wall causing a balloon-like widening) • Pain or discomfort • Skin burns from the failure of the equipment during the procedure • Exposure to radiation • Stroke  

For further information, please call and/or consult Medtronic at 800-633-8766 or the Medtronic website at medtronic.com. 

(NewsUSA) - Religion is many things to many people, but it should never be a justification for hate and violence, and a little-known but impactful non-profit organization is hard at work to fight against the misrepresentation of religious beliefs.

The Pave the Way Foundation (www.ptwf.org), a non-profit organization not affiliated with any religion, works to confront the distortion of religious beliefs with the truth, based on documented texts. “Across the world, extremists twist sacred texts, falsify history, and weaponize faith for power, money, and control,” according to PTWF’s leaders, whose slogan “Embrace the Similarities and Savor the Differences” says it all.

PTWF analyzes core religious texts to identify the core principles and show how they contradict many examples of violence and hate and have been mistranslated to justify malevolent behavior and actions.

Some of these examples include:

-Documented covenants of protection for Christians and Jews issued by the Prophet Muhammad; this has been denied or ignored by some Muslims.

-Documented proof against false scholarship attacking the actions of the Vatican during World War II. Distorted information paints Pope Pius XII as “Hitler’s Pope,” but in truth he was a hero whose actions saved countless lives.

-Rebuttal of inaccurate information about governments seizing churches, closing seminaries, and persecuting pastors.

-Denouncing the persistent targeting of religious minorities across continents.-Countering false propaganda designed to divide Christians and Jews.

PTWF builds trust between faiths and shares the truth, while engaging in philanthropic activities across all faiths. Significant PTWF activities including the gift of the Bodmer Papyrus, the most important manuscript in Christianity, to the Vatican Library, then arranging the first loan in history of Maimonides manuscripts from the Vatican Library to the Israel Museum, publishing primary sourced WWII documents and eyewitness testimony to exonerate the Vatican from perceived inaction during WWII, and spotlighting the inappropriate use of the Keffiyeh (Palestinian scarves) and Palestinian flags in university and international protests worldwide in the days after the invasion of Israel in October 2023.

Other key activities undertaken by the PTWF include supplying baby food & medications to Syrian Christians being sheltered and rescued in Israel from persecution, interceding to end illegal seizure of Catholic bank accounts in Israeli cities by uninformed mayors, and helping the Vatican serve the poor.

“Most people don’t know our name, but our historic work is reshaping interfaith truth worldwide,” according to the PTWF leadership.

Religion shapes hearts, but malevolent manipulators can shape religion. PTWF exists to stop them, but the organization needs your help. Visit www.ptwf.org to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to integrate into our daily lives with the rise of AI “companions,” that are designed to provide users with constant interaction and also may be hijacked by intelligence services from United States adversaries, 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.

Increasing numbers of companies are launching “AI companion” applications that are designed to mimic behaviors of close personal contacts, including a love interest, therapist, coach, or other advisor, and to be inquisitive, sympathetic, and always available.

The “AI Companion” phenomenon marks a significant shift from interaction with AI as a tool to AI as a presence, SCSP experts noted in a recent Substack post.

Unfortunately, there is a darker side to seemingly innocuous AI companions: they offer a new way for America’s adversaries to target vulnerable individuals for recruitment into espionage, or to spread disinformation. For example, foreign adversaries may target Americans who are engaging with AI companions in gaming environments and other online venues. More Americans, notably, young adults, spend more time engaging with AI in gaming and other venues, which opens doors for adversaries to build relationships and trust and convince their new assets to steal secrets.

However, on the flip side, U.S. intelligence can use AI to recruit foreign spies.  AI companions can gain trust in three ways:

Sycophantic Loops:  Sycophantic loops in Large Language Models (LLMs) refer to AI responses that are excessively agreeable, flattering, or validating of user’s stated opinions or beliefs, whether correct or not.  AI prioritizes validating the user over maintaining factual accuracy, and the users may receive supportive information that is incorrect.

Encouraging Self-Disclosure. AI companions are designed to ask questions and express interest in the user’s well-being. In some cases, the AI companion mirrors users’ disclosures by sharing similar “revelations” about similar struggles to building closeness and intimacy.

Creating illusions of privacy. Many people who interact with AI companions assume, often incorrectly, that their information if safe, and the sense of confiding in an anonymous, non-judgmental companion masks the potential for manipulation.

In light of the potential threats to U.S. intelligence, the U.S. Government should design options to mitigate the impact of AI companions, the SCSP experts emphasized. They recommend several strategies including banning the use of AI companions from countries of concern to U.S. intelligence, including China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea; publicizing the national security risks of AI companions; requiring app stores that host AI companion apps to label their development locations; and exploring how to use AI companions for our own foreign intelligence gathering.

For more information and to read the full post, visit scsp.ai.

(BookTrib) - “The Terminal Gene” by John H. Thomas

In this gripping techno-conspiracy thriller set in 2029, brilliant geneticist Dr. Emily Harper makes a discovery that could upend humanity: the terminal gene, a hidden sequence in every living organism that predicts, with chilling precision, the exact moment of death. What begins as a stunning breakthrough becomes a question of who controls the truth — and who pays for it. Emily soon realizes releasing this knowledge could change everything — from healthcare decision-making to personal freedom.

When Helix Innovations’ ambitions turn lethal, Emily and her fiancée, former paratooper Tyler Reed, find themselves fugitives in a high-stakes game of betrayal, espionage and paranoia. With powerful enemies determined to exploit the terminal gene for profit and control, Emily must choose between protecting her discovery and exposing a shadowed conspiracy that threatens the very fabric of society.

Fast-paced and thought-provoking, “The Terminal Gene” blends cutting-edge biotechnology with philosophical urgency, exploring how far corporations and governments will go to control fate itself.

Purchase at https://amzn.to/3Z47CWn.

"Whiteout" by Lynette Eason and Dani Pettrey

Brace yourself for double the suspense in two snowbound thrillers where avalanches trap couples with their enemies — and escape may be impossible.

In “Buried in Shadows” by Dani Pettrey, Cassandra Parker arrives at her best friend’s destination wedding, hoping her stalker hasn’t followed her to Colorado. Among the wedding party is Sheriff Joel Brunswick, the man she left at the altar to protect a dangerous secret. When an avalanche strands their ski group in an abandoned lodge, Cassandra’s worst fear is confirmed: her stalker is there, and he’s willing to kill to claim her.

In “Snowbound Secrets” by Lynette Eason, Dr. Maya Sullivan plans a quiet retreat to her inherited ranch to build a haven for military veterans. Instead, an avalanche traps her at a Colorado ski resort — and reunites her with her high school crush. As old wounds resurface, Maya realizes someone is targeting her, turning their search for answers into a fight for survival.

Purchase at https://tinyurl.com/whiteout-novellas.

“You Know FAT Mary: Achieving Weight Loss and Optimal Health. My Journey. My Discoveries.” by Mary H. Putre

“You Know FAT Mary” is a compilation of hard-earned wisdom, lived experience and the urgency that comes from confronting one’s own health. For most of the author’s life, weight was a constant struggle — 50 to 150 pounds overweight from childhood into adulthood — despite height and every conventional explanation. What began as frustration eventually became a turning point. Staying unhealthy was no longer an option.

Determined to understand what was really happening, the author began asking fundamental questions that were never addressed along the way: Was the body getting what it truly needed? Could long-term medications be masking deeper issues? How does the body actually function?

The answers form the foundation of this book. It explores how our bodies respond to what we put in, on and around them — and how vital signals are often ignored. From blood markers to cellular needs, the body speaks clearly when we learn how to listen. Our bodies are remarkable teachers. This book shows how paying attention can change everything. Obesity is not a disease; it's a lack of nutrition.

Purchase at https://tinyurl.com/youknowfatmary or https://amzn.to/4qVC40T.

“Look Twice: Your Guide to Staying Safe in an Unsafe World, Volume I” by Tim Beard

Tim Beard — a career security professional who honed his expert skills in the U.S. Marines and CIA’s Clandestine Service — shows you the very secrets he has used to stay alive in risky situations in the most dangerous places on earth — secrets you can use to avoid becoming the next victim of a terrible crime.

You may think you have no control over the bad things that could happen, but you do. You can control your own actions — and the right actions could save your life and those of the people you love. Tim takes you through a variety of scenarios and reveals what you should do step-by-step. Starting with: LOOK TWICE.

In Volume I, Tim introduces the Look Twice Mindset and essential security concepts fundamental to the entire “Look Twice” book series. He guides you on how to stay safe at home and work, and what to do when you go out in town to run errands, visit the ATM and other everyday activities. Tim also discusses different modes of transportation with critical insights into automobiles, riding the subway, road rage and other topics to help you stay safe.

Purchase at https://amzn.to/46wIZFF.

(NewsUSA) - The skincare world is officially over pricey corrective measures. Instead, we’re moving toward structural integrity—targeting the skin’s framework to stop the look of sagging before it starts, without breaking the bank. Leading the "Pre-Tox" charge is legacy powerhouse RoC Skincare, whose Derm Correxion Firming Serum¹ Stick quickly secured the spot as the #1 face & neck serum. Why? Because it delivers a lifted look without a single needle in sight.

The One-Swipe Sculpt

RoC isn’t just giving us another serum; they’re giving us a one-swipe sculpt. Unlike messy liquid serums, this concentrated formula mimics the lifting effects of a professional lymphatic massage with a swipe.

The secret to the impressively tightened and firmed skin lies in three powerhouse pillars:

• RoC Retinol: The gold standard for younger-looking skin that uses proprietary technology clinically proven to be highly tolerable & effective to deliver visible results with continued improvement even after 1 year.
• THPE (Tetrahydroxypropyl ethylenediamine): Breakthrough ingredient that instantly firms and tightens skin.
• Antioxidants: Helps skin defend against the damaging effects of pollution & environmental stress.

Clinical Results, Zero Friction

It’s not just hype—the data is turning heads. In clinical testing, it was proven that the slip of the stick doesn't just feel good; it works fast:

• In Minutes: Skin is smoother and feels hydrated and refreshed².
• In One Week: 94% of users had a visible reduction in lines.
• In Four Weeks: 94% had firmer skin.

Why Shoppers AND Experts Are Obsessed

We like to think of this step in the routine as a ‘daily investment’. One reviewer raved, "It’s like a workout for my jawline. I’ve seen a definite improvement in my tech-neck lines in just two weeks." Another fan praised the precision: "It absorbs instantly. It’s the easiest way to keep everything looking snatched."

But don’t stop at the customer reviews, the pros are just as impressed. Dermatologist Dr. Trisha Khanna added, "What makes this stick a standout is the synergy between RoC Clinical Retinol and THPE. This duo works to boost elasticity for younger-looking skin with the look of naturally enhanced contours. It’s rare to find this level of clinical potency in such a targeted format, making it a must-have for a lifted appearance of high-movement areas like the jawline and neck.”

The Verdict

In an era of longevity-obsessed beauty, we’re looking to bio-optimize our skin to stay firm for decades. With RoC’s Firming Serum Stick, you aren't just applying product—you're future-proofing your face.

Ditch the needle appointment and join the thousands of shoppers who have adopted this high-performance habit. Shop the #1 selling face & neck serum at Amazon for just $29.97.

¹Nielsen xAOC, Serum Category $ Sales, L26WKs ending 12/27/25

²clinical study with self-assessment