(NewsUSA) - Want to get a little wild this winter? The Dallas Safari Club’s upcoming convention in Atlanta, Georgia has something for everyone to help take a bite out of the midwinter blahs.

The Dallas Safari Club (DSC), a conservation organization founded by hunters from around the world, avidly supports conservation and wildlife management. The group’s mission, “to ensure the conservation of wildlife through public engagement, education, and advocacy for well-regulated hunting and sustainable use,” resonates with anyone who values nature.

The DSC’s annual Convention and Sporting Expo, taking place February 6-8, 2026 at the World Congress Center in Atlanta, is open to the public and provides one of the biggest hunting, fishing, and outdoors events in the United States.

The event brings together hunters, conservationists, outfitters, families, and others who share a passion for wildlife, wild places, and ethical, sustainable use of natural resources.

“Wildlife conservation isn’t just the work of scientists and nonprofits; it’s increasingly being funded by hunting and outdoor enthusiasts who are transforming how we conserve and ensure the future of healthy wildlife populations and the wild places they call home,” said Russell Stacy, Dallas Safari Club Interim Executive Director. “Conservation is at the heart of our mission, which is why proceeds from this convention fund wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, anti-poaching projects, and educational programs around the world,” Stacy said.

The Expo is a place where adults and children of all ages can experience the excitement of the outdoors. The event showcases hundreds of top outdoor outfitters, including not only firearm and gear manufacturers, but also nature and wildlife-themed artists, jewelers, and conservation partners.

Throughout the Expo weekend, attendees can participate in live and silent auctions, seminars, banquets, luncheons, raffles, educational courses, and networking events. The Expo offers something for everyone, from seasoned hunters and outdoorsmen to anyone simply curious about hunting and wildlife conservation. Learn more about how DSC-supported programs and initiatives have contributed to wildlife conservation success stories worldwide.

Single-day passes for adults start at $35; admission is free for children and teens age 16 and under.

For more information and to get in on the action, visit www.biggame.org/convention.

(NewsUSA) - “Orville & Friends Crumble the Cookie Cartel: A Hero Pets Mystery-Adventure” by Avante Books and R. P. Wynes

When a daring rescue sends poodle Tinker tumbling downriver, her friends Orville the loyal Lab and Tina the clever cat leap into action — and into the adventure of a lifetime. What begins as a mission to return a lost bunny soon uncovers a dark plot: “The Grabbers,” a gang of pet thieves, are on the prowl. With the help of a quick-thinking crow and a few unexpected allies, the trio must crack the case and save their friends before it’s too late.

The first in the Hero Pets Mystery-Adventure series, “Orville & Friends Crumble the Cookie Cartel” brims with heart, humor and high-stakes heroism. Young readers will be swept up in a world of courage, teamwork and friendship where every paw, claw and feather counts. Perfect for children ages 8 and up who love animal adventures, daring rescues and mysteries that bite back — with sweetness to spare.

Purchase at https://amzn.to/4oZP44V.

“Teddy Lou, Bell Guru” by Chris Demeropolis

When young Teddy Lou’s fascination with bells leads him to wonder whether they might have “strange smells,” his imagination takes flight — and so does he, climbing right to the top of the bell tower! Can he get back down to the ground safely before the bell rings?

Perfect for ages 4 to 8, “Teddy Lou, Bell Guru” combines whimsical illustrations with an introduction to Newton’s Laws of Motion, inviting children to explore the world through hands-on curiosity. A daring adventure “about pursuing your ambitions and being ready and willing to take risks to achieve your dreams” (Feathered Quill Book Reviews), this delightful tale is equally engaging for storytime and early STEM learning. With catchy rhymes and a lovable hero, it’s a story kids will want to read again and again.

Purchase at https://tinyurl.com/teddyloubellguru.

“A Magical Loveliness of Ladybugs” by Amy L. Stark, Ph.D.

Encourage children to slow down and notice the wonders around them with this picture book inspired by a true story. Jan comes home from school to find her bedroom filled with ladybugs. What follows is a gentle, poetic journey into nature’s quiet magic — where curiosity becomes discovery and even the tiniest creatures have lessons to share.

Through lyrical language and soft, enchanting illustrations, the book encourages mindfulness, environmental awareness and the joy of observation. Children learn how planting gardens and nurturing small habitats can sustain life and beauty in the natural world.

Perfect for story time, classrooms or bedtime reading, “A Magical Loveliness of Ladybugs” is a calming celebration of stillness, wonder and the interconnectedness of all living things — a reminder that sometimes the smallest visitors can open our eyes to the biggest truths.

Purchase at https://amzn.to/48hpnFE.

“The Outstanding Little Picture Book” by Simon P. J. Dorey

The Outstanding Little Picture Book knows it’s his destiny to be published, but he gets rejected by publishers and agents time after time. As his hopes and dreams keep fading away, will he ever make his dream come true? Cheer on Little Picture Book and his trusty dog, Pages, as they set out on the roller coaster ride to publication.

Written for ages 4 to 7, “The Outstanding Little Picture Book” teaches children not only about the world of publishing but also about resilience and perseverance in the face of rejection. Through the book’s simple storytelling, children learn that while there are many (and sometimes contradictory) reasons we get rejected, none are related to our inherent self-worth or are insurmountable to our ultimate success.

Available in English, French and Spanish and also as a coloring book, “The Outstanding Little Picture Book” is available for purchase at http://littlepicturebooks.com/.

(NewsUSA) - Chilly December air can make for an ideal time to get your fitness routine started. That’s because seasonal changes naturally affect our bodies and habits.

While it may be a magical moment to set new health goals and improve your quality of life, it might seem easier said than done.

Adjusting eating habits, developing a workout plan, and staying motivated can be tough at any time—but you don’t have to do it alone. Working with a health coach can make the journey to better health more enjoyable and effective.

“Coaches walk alongside people as they grow, learn, discover, and utilize their strengths to be the healthiest versions of themselves,” said Emily Adams, a program manager of coach performance at American Specialty Health (ASH).

Adams explains that coaches can be especially helpful for aging adults because they may be facing new health and well-being challenges. Some fitness programs like the Silver&Fit™ Healthy Aging and Exercise program, available through an ASH subsidiary, even offer coaching at no additional charge for members.

Adams and the ASH Well-Being Coaches provide quality support for Silver&Fit program members, helping them reach fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle goals through phone or video sessions. She explains that health coaches can create personalized plans based on your specific needs, guiding you toward success.

EATING HABITS

Adams says health coaches can offer nutritional guidance, helping you make the most of seasonal harvests and encouraging you to set goals that include nutrient-rich foods like carrots, beets, broccoli, spinach, grapefruit and apples. They can also help you discover healthy recipes, manage portions, and ensure your meals keep you energized and satisfied.

WORKOUTS

Autumn is perfect for outdoor activities such as brisk walks, hikes, or bike rides, says Adams. Indoor fitness classes—from yoga and Pilates to kickboxing and dance—also offer exciting variety when temperatures drop. Coaches encourage you to try new activities, help you overcome barriers, and ensure you stick with your commitments.

MOTIVATION

Staying motivated is crucial for long-term success. Health coaches provide strategic support to help you remain committed and enthusiastic. They help in setting realistic, achievable goals and breaking each down into manageable steps that you can track and celebrate progress along the way.

Adams adds that marking your achievements and recognizing even small successes can boost your motivation and help you stay on track. So, no matter what season it is, partnering with a health coach can lead to a more enjoyable and effective journey to better health.

(NewsUSA) - Rich food, extra stress and endless holiday gatherings can do a number on the digestive system. Between charcuterie boards, champagne toasts and once-a-year desserts, it’s no wonder bloating is one of the most common holiday complaints. And nothing kills holiday cheer faster than feeling uncomfortably full and sluggish. In fact, bloating is one of the most common holiday complaints. The good news is that bloating can be controlled without missing out on festive holiday foods.

Try these simple strategies and science-backed tweaks to maintain a happy gut and avoid that dreaded holiday bloat this year.

• Front-load each day with protein and fiber. A high-protein, high-fiber breakfast steadies blood sugar. It also helps boost satiety, making it easier to pass up office goodies or a second slice of pie.
• Eat smaller portions. Oversized holiday meals take much longer to digest, potentially leading to bloating. Try saving some favorites for the next day.
• Pause between bites. Taking at least 30 minutes to finish a meal helps prevent excess air from sneaking into your stomach, and the bloating that comes with it.
• Boost dietary fiber intake. Fiber helps move food through the digestive system at the right pace to keep things regular. Holiday foods that are good dietary fiber sources include pears, cranberries, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, walnuts and pecans.
• Give your digestive enzymes extra support. Digestive enzymes are the behind-the-scenes heroes that help break down food into usable nutrients. But if those enzymes are overwhelmed by a large holiday meal, undigested food may just sit in the gut becoming fuel for gas-producing bacteria. This may lead to bloating and discomfort. A simple way to get back on track is EZZDAY Debloat and Gas Relief, which combines probiotics, digestive enzymes and stress-regulating adaptogens for a total digestive reset. 
• Balance the bubbly. Champagne and other carbonated drinks add gas to the GI tract, which may intensify bloating. Alternate with water to support digestion.
• Walk it off. Short walks after meals help the body digest food more efficiently, while also helping to reduce bloating and lower stress.
• Restore gut balance with post-holiday TLC. Strict liquid diets aren’t always necessary for a great detox. Some gentle plant-based ingredients help flush toxins, promote regularity, and support metabolism (energy) and weight management. An easy option is EZZDAY Colon Detox capsules, which contain trusted botanicals such as senna leaf, milk thistle, dandelion, aloe and cranberry to naturally help cleanse, soothe and reset the digestive system.

With a few mindful digestive-friendly habits, it is possible to enjoy the season’s flavors without the discomfort. Find more wellness ideas and strategies at EZZDAY.com.

(The Obesity Society) - Obesity is a chronic disease affecting over 100 million Americans. Despite its prevalence and serious health consequences, widespread insurance barriers limit access to FDA-approved GLP-1 treatments.

Fortunately, that may be changing.  The Trump administration and FDA-approved GLP-1 manufacturers recently announced a partnership to expand access to these potentially life-saving medications by lowering monthly prices to $299 for cash-pay patients and covering millions of Medicare patients with a $50 monthly copay. It’s time for states—who, under the deal, can purchase FDA-approved GLP-1s on the same terms as Medicare—and private insurers to step up and do their part by covering these treatments. Otherwise, some patients may continue to turn to unsafe compounded GLP-1 knockoffs.

Patient Safety Is at Risk

Compounding is meant to be a narrow solution for those with unique medical needs that cannot be met by FDA-approved medicines. But large-scale compounders are unlawfully selling mass-produced GLP-1 knockoffs that are not vetted by the FDA for safety, efficacy, or quality and often include untested changes—posing a serious public health risk.

For instance, some compounders are adding ingredients like B12 without medical indication and falsely claiming their products are personalized, when in fact they are making the same changes to all their unapproved knockoffs without regard to patient need. These knockoffs carry significantly higher risks, including over twice the rate of hospitalization.

Access to FDA-approved GLP-1s Is More Important Than Ever

Obesity management medications are critical interventions for a serious chronic disease that is related to several other health conditions, and they can help reduce long-term spending on the many costly health complications associated with obesity. This is why it is critical that states, employers, and commercial insurers expand coverage for FDA-approved treatments.

Meanwhile, patients should take precautions by speaking with a trusted healthcare provider and avoiding risky compounded products that falsely claim to be proven safe and effective.

For credible, science-based guidance on comprehensive obesity care, visit www.obesity.org.

(BookTrib) - “The Heart of It's a Wonderful Life” by Jimmy Hawkins

In this special book, Jimmy Hawkins helps us focus on the true meaning behind the classic holiday movie. It’s not just about the message or its many famous lines, but about the motivation behind the film’s creation and director Frank Capra’s unrelenting vision for what it should be.

As a boy, Jimmy played George Bailey’s youngest son, Tommy. And he has spent the eight decades since living out the heart of the story and becoming arguably the world’s foremost expert on the movie. Filled with unpublished facts that the author has collected about the cast and crew, this book gives a clearer understanding of what they all brought to the scripted pages.

Through excerpts from the screenplay, never-before-seen photos, and a lifetime of friendship with both Frank Capra and the movie’s stars, Hawkins guides us to discover why this story still touches the spirit generations after its release.

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

“Quinn Goes to the Farm” by Mary Mueller

Featuring pure, clean storytelling, “Quinn Goes to the Farm” is a simple, heartfelt story about a little boy bonding with his grandmother on a fun adventure. The author used to pick strawberries with her family at a local farm near her home in Minnesota. She recalls that experience through Quinn, who is dropped off at Grandma Mary’s house for a strawberry-picking expedition.

Mueller captures the boy’s excitement and details the dialogue between grandson and grandparent, as well as the events that will define their day. As they head to the farmer’s wagon, they discuss, for instance, the many ways they like to eat strawberries — as a jam, with peanut butter, even on ice cream.

Sometimes, it’s pleasure enough to recount a warm, charming experience using fundamental words and comforting pictures and let young readers smile with wonder. That’s what this charming book is all about.

Purchase at https://amzn.to/4otZ8lx.

“Journey to the Land of Integrity” by Bruce Beck

In a land of secrets, courage is the only way forward.

Isaiah, a young teen haunted by a hidden past, is unexpectedly transported to the mystical Land of Integrity — a realm where danger lurks, and truth is elusive. There, he is called to the role of a journeyman and mentored by Iswa, a wise old watchman with deep knowledge of the land. Alongside him is Ohtara, a fearless girl known for defending the helpless and fighting for justice, her bravery already revered as legendary.

As Isaiah journeys through a world filled with mystery and peril, long-buried truths begin to surface. When everything he thought he knew is challenged, Isaiah faces a decision that could have dire consequences. Will he have the strength to do what’s right, even if it costs him everything?

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

“Wings of Madness” by R. John Dingle

A third body is discovered in a field outside a small New England city on the day that FBI agent and profiler Gus Wheeler and his partner arrive to investigate a string of murders. The killings seem random, yet each victim was last seen in a club in the city’s Music Row, a scene Gus is uniquely qualified to navigate.

Camera footage shows the most recent victim flirting with the moody bassist of a popular cover band. Gus knows the former prodigy from his time in the New Orleans jazz scene, but the suspect’s memory is hazy. Complicating their inquiry, there’s no record of any of the victims leaving the clubs — with the bassist or alone. So where were they taken and how?

A serial killer’s at work, but as they circle their suspect, the killer strikes first, making it personal for Gus. And with time running out, Gus is forced to play a madman’s game.

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

(NewsUSA) - Until now, one of the most widely used Internet of Things (IoT) networks has operated quietly behind the scenes, powering smart cities, tracking shipments, and protecting public spaces. For years, it has connected the world around us and now, the same technology that powers smart cities is starting to enter your home.

It’s called LoRaWAN^®, short for Long Range Wide Area Network, and it’s one of the fastest-growing wireless standards in the world. Unlike Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, LoRaWAN^® uses very little power to send data over long distances, even through walls or underground. More than 125 million devices already rely on it, from air quality sensors to streetlights that alert crews when bulbs burn out.

LoRaWAN^® networks are increasingly popular among building managers for comfort, security and health and safety applications, including indoor air quality, temperature, energy consumption, water leak detection, office and desk occupancy, pest control, tracking, motion detection, panic buttons, thermostat, door/window contact sensors, and vibration sensors, among others.

LoRaWAN^® runs on open, unlicensed radio frequencies, and leverages its low-power and high-penetration capability to enable use cases that are not practical or cost-effective with other in-home technologies. A single gateway can connect dozens of devices without draining power, and it can easily penetrate walls and ceilings to offer very strong coverage with long battery times for connected sensors.

At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, LoRaWAN^® is stepping into the spotlight. New products will demonstrate how the same secure, energy-efficient network used by cities and industries can power home technology. Solutions encompass applications such as smart sensors for health, climate, security and energy monitoring, to automated irrigation, pest control, and more, which all come together to provide efficient, reliable, and cost-effective home automation solutions. 

For anyone looking to deploy IoT, CES offers the opportunity to connect with LoRa Alliance^® members, who are the leading IoT experts. They have extensive experience deploying IoT across multiple verticals and are bringing it to this year’s show in the LoRa Alliance^® Pavilion, LVCC North Hall booth 10349 and a dedicated conference track on Wednesday, January 7, titled “LoRa Alliance^®: Massive IoT Unfolding – LoRaWAN^® in Action,” in the LVCC North Hall, room N257.

LoRaWAN^®’s reach extends across continents, yet its promise is simple: connect what matters, reliably and efficiently. With its arrival in the home, that promise is about to become personal. For more information about the next generation of networking, visit lora-alliance.org.

(NewsUSA) - On December 2nd, the world came together for Giving Tuesday—a day of generosity and impact. At Marine Toys for Tots, Giving Tuesday transformed into Giving TOYSday—the perfect day to support the Program’s mission of delivering toys and hope to children in need.

Rising costs have stretched budgets to the breaking point, and millions of families are being forced to choose between providing basic necessities or watching their child’s face light up on Christmas morning.

"It’s a heartbreaking reality when families can't afford Christmas presents for their children. For parents and guardians struggling to make ends meet, Toys for Tots offers more than something tangible—it offers relief and reassurance. The simple act of unwrapping a toy gives children a moment of joy and reminds them that they are cared for,” said Lieutenant General James B. Laster, USMC (Retired), President & CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Our supporters help fulfill our mission of providing comfort and hope—every gift given on Giving TOYSday tells a child they are valued and gives families the encouragement they need most this holiday season.”

For 78 years, Toys for Tots has delivered more than 708 million toys, books, and games to 314 million disadvantaged children across the country. What began as a simple act of kindness by a local chapter in Los Angeles County has grown into a nationwide holiday tradition built on the belief that every child deserves to feel the magic and joy of Christmas. Right now, nearly 900 local Toys for Tots Chapters are working tirelessly to collect, sort, and distribute gifts to children in need in their local communities, but we still need the help of the American people.

Every dollar given has the power to transform a child’s future. The generosity shown on Giving TOYSday will do more than brighten the holidays—it will spark resilience, joy, and inspiration that children will carry with them for a lifetime.

“What made Giving TOYSday so powerful was the generosity of the American people,” said Lieutenant General Laster. “That’s our Nation coming together to ensure children feel the magic of Christmas. It’s that spirit of giving that has sustained Toys for Tots for nearly eight decades, and it’s what will carry this mission forward for generations to come.”

Toys for Tots is more than a holiday tradition—it’s a lifeline for families and a symbol of what communities can accomplish. From the first toy donated in 1947 to the 708 million gifts shared since then, our mission has stayed same: to ensure no child is forgotten at Christmas.

We encourage our supporters to continue embracing the spirit of generosity shown on Giving TOYSday and help children in need unwrap the magic of the season.

To learn more or donate, visit www.toysfortots.org.

(NewsUSA) - As autonomous vehicles (AV) continue to evolve, consumers may be on the cusp of a new age of autonomous mobility, 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.

The international standard for vehicular autonomy classification includes six levels from 0 to 5, with 0 being cars with features that provide short-term and limited assistance, such as blind spot and lane departure warnings, and 5 being “full, unfettered autonomous driving,” according to SCSP.

The United States maintains a small lead in AV production over other countries, including China, and forecasts for 2030 project potentially more than four trillion dollars in revenue for fully and semi-autonomous vehicles. Auto manufacturers are responding to these forecasts by ramping up research and development.

However, changes in attitudes toward legal liability and shifts in consumer trust may threaten America’s slim lead, said George Ngoh, a research assistant on the Future Tech Platforms team at SCSP, in a recent newsletter.

Recently, a Florida jury ruled a carmaker partly responsible for a fatal crash involving a semiautonomous car. “To build confidence with both the public and policymakers, automakers and regulators require more than just miles driven; they need comprehensive, transparent data—especially fault data—to definitively prove the safety and reliability of these platforms,” Ngoh explained.

Looking ahead, global leadership in AV goes beyond commercial benefits; it is key to maintaining American security, according to SCSP experts.

AV technology offers a range of military advantages, such as improved precision for munitions guidance and fully autonomous platforms for strike, surveillance, and logistics.

The primary challenge to AV leadership comes from China, where advantages in data and nanometer design may make it easier to develop improved onboard chips in for better decision-making in AVs, and enhanced computing capacity will help Chinese companies develop the complex simulations needed to validate AV safety.

To maintain a competitive advantage, AV firms in the United States should increase their investments in modeling and simulation of their platforms and software, SCSP experts emphasize. In addition, state and federal governments must collaborate to collect the best and most stringent data for developing AV technology. These measures will build trust with policymakers and the public to increase domestic adoption of AVs and position the United States as a leader in the global automotive market. Autonomous vehicles more than the future of transportation; they are a bellwether of strategic advantage in an AI-driven world.

For more information about AV evolution and other aspects of American AI strategies, visit scsp.ai.

(NewsUSA) - Social interaction is more than just a nice-to-have, it’s key to aging well.

Joining a social club or special interest group offers a simple, uplifting way to build new connections through shared experiences, and those connections can help protect against the feelings of isolation many aging adults face.

In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General declared loneliness a national epidemic, affecting half of American adults. Older adults are especially vulnerable, according to the report, as social circles can shrink quickly due to life changes like retirement and loss of mobility.

While loneliness has been linked to increased risk of heart disease, dementia, and depression, staying socially engaged offers a powerful counterbalance. It can boost mood, sharpen memory, and improve quality of life.

“Social interaction is a basic human need, and for older adults, it can be the key to living longer and feeling better,” said Jaynie Bjornaraa, PhD, MPH, PT, who is the senior vice president of Clinical Quality Evaluation at American Specialty Health (ASH).

Building and maintaining social ties doesn’t have to be complicated, says Bjornaraa. Volunteering, joining an in-person social group, attending group fitness classes, or simply calling a friend can make a big difference. Even small interactions, like chatting with a neighbor, can promote a sense of belonging and help forge new friendships. Read more on the Silver&Fit blog.

For those who find it challenging to get out of the house regularly, virtual clubs are a lifeline. These online communities act like traditional clubs, except members meet, connect, and engage online over interests like wellness, cooking, and meditation.

“Virtual clubs offer an accessible ‘third space’ where members can connect, learn, and thrive,” said Penny Bailey, DrPH, who is a fitness instructor and educator at ASH. Bailey hosts virtual events offered through the Silver&Fit Healthy Aging Program Well-Being Club.

“During these live events, members talk, ask questions, and share stories,” said Bailey. “I’ve had people tell me, ‘This group is my family and my community.’ That’s the kind of connection virtual clubs create.”

Whether online or in person, meaningful social connections can be a powerful antidote to loneliness. In fact, research shows just how critical these ties are: people with strong social relationships are happier, healthier, and live longer than those who don’t. By seeking out shared experiences and staying engaged with others, older adults can nurture their emotional well-being and embrace a healthier, more joyful life.