(NewsUSA) - College graduates have a lot to think about -- finding a job, finding a place to live and finding a way to manage their finances. Whether you have graduated with or without student loans or other debts, making a financial plan after graduation will pay off later.     Build good financial habits now to make “adulting” more fun. Start with these time-tested tips:     

• Set aside savings. Once you start earning, it’s time to start saving. Many financial planners recommend you save 20% of your income as a savings goal, but even 1% is a great place to start. Don’t let your inability to save 20% scare you off from getting in the savings groove. If you set up automatic savings systems, you can save without even thinking about it. Set up direct deposit so that part of your paycheck goes into a separate savings account, or send part of it directly to an employer 401(k).     

• Spend smart. Think about a budget now so you can reap the benefits later. “Divide your take-home pay into three buckets: 65% to 70% for lifestyle spending and debt service; 10% to 15% for fun, vacation and gifting; and 20% for savings,” advises CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM professional Tom Morris. To help with budgeting, Morris recommends budget apps, such as Mint and You Need A Budget (YNAB).     

• Boost your benefits. Your salary is only part of the financial picture when considering job offers. Be sure to review the employee benefits and take those into consideration. Top benefits include paid time off, health/life/dental/vision insurance and healthcare spending accounts, such as Health Savings Accounts, Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Reimbursement Arrangements. Other benefits that can save you money include relocation reimbursement, long-term or short-term disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, childcare benefits, gym memberships or discounts and wellness programs.     

• Protect yourself. Many young adults think they are invincible, but in today’s uncertain world, it is essential to protect your ability to earn an income. Check out disability insurance, which can help keep you afloat if you have a major health crisis and can’t work. Some employers offer disability insurance, but you might consider getting more. Policies can be complicated, so do your homework or consult a CFP® professional to find the coverage that works for you.     

• Decrease your debts. Most college graduates have some debt that requires consistent payment, whether it is a car loan, student loan or credit card bill. Monthly automatic payments are a great way to make sure you hit your scheduled payments on time to avoid late fees or other penalties.     

Visit LetsMakeAPlan.org for more information about setting strong financial goals after graduation.

(NewsUSA) -  

“Shadow Song”
by Anita Morrish       

“A brilliant story of courage, resilience and love.” Rome 1943 ... As war ravages Italy, Rome’s inhabitants are watched and under curfew. Some join the resistance. Francesca, a talented art student, finds work at Rome’s opera house where nothing is as it seems. Carlo, a doctor, returns unexpectedly to Rome, unable to escape his past. Danger lurks in the shadows, threatening Francesca, Carlo and those they love.  

“The story is unputdownable,” says www.lovereading.co.uk. “Shadow Song” is a gripping, heart-wrenching World War II tale that will stay with the reader long after the book is finished. Anita Morrish's story is filled with inspiration that people can act for what is right in the face of adversity and tragic circumstances.”

Purchase at https://amzn.to/3rVUAd9.

“Primitives”
by Erich Krauss  

From NYT bestselling author Erich Krauss comes the story of two unlikely heroes thrust into a post-apocalyptic mission to restore humanity.    

Thirty years after The Great Fatigue infected the globe, Seth Keller makes a gruesome discovery which forces him to leave the safety of his desert home and the only other person left in the world … at least, as far as he knows.    

Three thousand miles away in Costa Rica, Sarah Peoples has made her own discovery -- just as horrific, and just as life-changing.    

On separate journeys a world apart, Seth and Sarah find themselves swept up in a deadly race to save humankind. But does humanity deserve to survive? “An absolute page-turner,” says NYT bestselling author, Glen Cordoza.

Purchase at https://amzn.to/36biwlh.

“Paul S. Endy Jr.: Las Vegas Casino Gaming Legend”
by Eric P. Endy.  

There isn’t a person who had anything to do with the gaming industry in Las Vegas -- or the world for that matter -- who doesn’t recognize the company name of Paul-Son Dice. But how many know the name of the man behind PaulSon, Paul S. Endy Jr.? He was known by many names, including Mr. Paulson, the old man, a mover and a shaker, a bull in a china shop, and Mr. Endy. But he was the author’s father, and this is the story of his life and the legacy to the gaming industry he left behind.  

Says Wayne Newton, “Paul Endy was a real Casino Gaming Legend and a great human being! I will always cherish the time we spent together. This book continues his legacy.” Purchase at legendendy.vegas.

“Asterisk: A Wildcard Character”
by Booth Milovnik  

In January of 1983, 14-year-old Cindy found out she was pregnant. Her faith-filled mother was crushed. She ended up giving birth and naming the baby Matthew. Cindy ended up calling Matthew her little asterisk. As Cindy tells us the story of her life, Matthew seems to be a footnote to everything that happens.  

But Matthew is not just an asterisk in his mother’s story. Family members and friends also share their stories, and Matthew seems to be an asterisk in all of them. Who is Matthew? Who is his father? Just how important is Matthew to everyone he encounters as he grows up? Read stories that are raw and emotional, sometimes funny, often sad, but always compelling.

Purchase at https://bit.ly/386ctyJ.

NOTE: BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.

(NewsUSA) - Why not send a homestyle crumb cake? You can’t always be with friends and family in times of joy or sorrow, but sending special treats for comfort, support, or celebration is an easy way to show you care when you aren’t there.     

Parents with a new baby, first-time homeowners settling in, graduates with newly-minted degrees all are great candidates for something special. Friends and family in need of sympathy and support through a bereavement period or recovery process could also appreciate some comfort food. For a sympathy gift, a new baby gift, a get well soon gift or a housewarming gift, a New York-style crumb cake could be just right.     

“All our cakes are baked fresh daily, and feature extra-large handmade crumbs,” says Andrew Hahn, whose mother started Hahn’s Old-Fashioned Cake Company in her kitchen. The current selection of crumb cakes was inspired by an old family recipe that Mrs. Hahn often made for friends and neighbors. Word got out, and an expanding circle of crumb cake fans began requesting cakes. A business was born, and it has been family owned and operated for more than 40 years.     

Key features that set Hahn’s crumb cakes apart include:     

• Quality. Hahn’s crumb cakes are made fresh daily, with fresh eggs to create a moist base with optimum texture. They are popular not only as individual sales, but also they sell well in delis, coffee shops, and gourmet food markets.     

• Convenience. Hahn’s cakes are packed to ship, or to enjoy immediately. Delivery is available nationwide.     

• Crumbs, crumbs and more crumbs. For those who can’t resist picking the crumbs off a crumb cake, Hahn’s has you covered. The company recognizes the crumb obsessed, and fills that niche with a Can of Crumbs or a Bucket of Crumbs. These ready-to-eat crumb cookies are considered by many to be the best part of a crumb cake, and lend themselves to easy shipping and gift giving.     

Crumb cake flavors include the original plain crumb cake (with plenty of crumbs), raspberry-walnut, apple, and chocolate.     

Hahn’s Old-Fashioned Cakes also offers fundraising opportunities for schools, churches, and non-profit organizations.     

Visit crumbcake.net for more information.

(NewsUSA) - It’s outdoor living season and there’s nothing better than kicking back and enjoying some fun in the sun with family and friends. And whether you’re looking to build an open-air space to relax, or the outdoor kitchen of your dreams, natural materials like cypress canI make a bold design statement and withstand the elements.

“A recent report by Wakefield Research says homeowners are spending an average of seven hours per week outside—and they’re spending that time entertaining and grilling,” says Cassie Lewis of the Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association. “That’s why homeowners—especially Millennials—are investing in warm and welcoming outdoor spaces that are extensions of their indoor rooms. And for homeowners who value the look and feel of Real American Hardwood™ woodwork, cypress is the natural choice because it performs well in hot and humid climates, and is resistant to decay and insects.”

Custom home builder Brett Flanagan, president of Flanagan Development, LLC, based in Sea Island, Georgia, agrees and adds that durability and aesthetics are the two most important factors to consider when selecting building materials for the outdoors.

“Just because a product is durable doesn’t mean it looks pleasing, and just because it’s attractive doesn’t meant it will hold up well outside,” he explains. “And in my experience, cypress is a great choice for outdoor projects because it pairs natural durability with undeniable beauty.”

Flanagan says his team loves to use cypress in structural applications—like beams and columns for porches and pavilions—as well as for more functional projects—such as outdoor kitchens.

“We recently completed an outdoor kitchen for a homeowner who has a lot of cypress throughout their home’s interior,” he said. “The homeowner wanted to add a full outdoor kitchen and had several appliances to incorporate. We were able to blur the lines between indoors and out by designing the space with custom cabinetry wrapped in river-recovered cypress. And because the wood is so good-looking, we finished it with a clear sealer. That’s by far our favorite finish to apply because it protects and preserves the wood, while maintaining its inherent beauty.”

And when it comes to maintenance, Flanagan says real wood like cypress is easier to care for than you may think. “We recommend thoroughly cleaning cypress woodwork once a quarter, and applying a new coat of stain or sealer every other year,” he adds. “If properly maintained, cypress can truly provide a lifetime of service.”

If creating or renovating an outdoor space is part of your summer plans, get inspired at www.cypressinfo.org.

Cypress beams add form and function to outdoor structures, such as pool pavilions and pergolas. Photo courtesy of Flanagan Development, LLC.

Today’s outdoor kitchens are more than just a space to grill. Homeowners are outfitting them with a full set of appliances and custom cabinetry made with durable wood like cypress. Photo courtesy of Flanagan Development, LLC. 

(NewsUSA) - The award-winning documentary, “Adapting to Dive,” follows filmmaker David Marsh on a transformational journey. Marsh lost his son to an opioid overdose on Thanksgiving, one week before he joined the non-profit group, Diveheart, on an adaptive scuba diving trip to Cozumel, Mexico.     

The moving and inspirational film premiered on May 18, 2022, in Diveheart’s hometown of Downers Grove, Illinois, and it has earned laurels from the Orlando International Film Festival and the Cine Paris film festival, and has been named an official selection for the Marina Del Ray film festival and the 2022 Impact DOCS awards.     

Marsh did not share his son’s death with the Diveheart group until the filming was completed, and only after being asked by his new Diveheart friends for his overall impressions of the trip.     

Marsh explains in the film, “After going through this entire process of creating a film, releasing it to the world, and seeing the response, what I’ve learned is that we are all adapting to something in life. Diveheart and the adaptive divers showed me that we have to learn to go through these challenging things,” he says.     

“It is important to remain positive no matter what happens, because it doesn’t matter what happens, it only matters what you do with what happens that makes the difference in your life,” he emphasizes. “Share your story, because we are all moved by hearing another person’s perspective. Each one of us is a unique, individual reflection of creation itself, so honor and appreciate your uniqueness. Give grace to others with patience, because, like you, they are also having to adapt to something in life,” he adds.     

“When David and his brother Scott were not filming and interviewing participants, they were always busy helping others. We had no idea what David was dealing with mentally and emotionally after the sudden loss of his son,” says Diveheart founder and president Jim Elliott.     

“The story that David has articulated through this film is nothing short of amazing,” says Tinamarie Hernandez, Diveheart’s executive director. “Throughout the film you see the transformation that David experienced -- a transformation that no one realized was unfolding each day,” she adds.     

Adapting to Dive is especially powerful in light of the ongoing opioid crisis that affects so many families, and the film’s inspiring messages of empathy, hope and healing. Viewers will experience the genuine themes of trust, adapting, challenge, loss and love.     

Founded in 2001, Diveheart serves youth, veterans and others with physical and cognitive disabilities, and trains instructors and divers of all abilities in adaptive scuba.     Adapting to Dive can be found on Amazon and other streaming services and select film festivals around the world.     

Visit diveheart.org for more details.

(NewsUSA) - The COVID-19 pandemic didn’t change it.  

Neither has the inflation we’re currently experiencing. In fact, if anything, Americans’ belief in the importance of saving for higher education has increased slightly over last year – up from 51 percent to 55 percent – according to the latest Morning Consult survey done with financial services firm Edward Jones.  But here’s the crazy thing:  Even as college costs continue to rise, only 13 percent of respondents said they were taking advantage of 529 Education Savings Plans.

Here's why.

1. 529 Plans are a tax-advantaged way to help save and potentially grow your money.

Most people use personal savings accounts to try to cover the cost of college, and then hope they’ll be lucky enough to qualify for financial aid or some scholarship.  But the interest earned on such accounts is subject to federal and state taxes – unlike the special treatment afforded these state-sponsored 529 plans, which are exempt from the former and, in many instances, also the latter as long as the money is used for qualified education expenses.

“People are leaving money on the table by not using this attractive and practical way to save,” said Steve Rueschhoff, a principal at Edward Jones.

And that’s not something most people can afford to do.

The average annual cost of attending a private four-year college this year was $51,690, including room and board, according to the College Board. Which almost made the tabs for in-state and out-out-state four-year public colleges seem like a steal at $22,690 and $39,510, respectively.

2.Tuition and expenses at colleges and universities aren't all they cover.

Have a kindergartener?    

Eureka!

For those eager to get their kids into private schools, some states’ plans also allow for up to $10,000 per year, per beneficiary, to be applied towards K-12 tuition.

Also covered: everything from computers to registered apprenticeships to student debt repayments.

3.The burden of funding the account doesn’t have to be yours alone.  

Here’s a chance to see just how much little Janie’s or Jimmy’s grandparents really love them.

Not a lot of people realize it, but anyone who wants to save for your child’s education – be it a relative or a friend – can either open a new 529 plan account or gift money to an existing one.

“The federal gift tax exclusion allows a contributor to give up to $16,000 per year, per beneficiary, or $32,000 if they’re giving as a married couple,” explained Rueschhoff.  

And, sure, they could just hand you the cash, but this way they’ll be certain it’s going for its intended purpose.  (See “qualified education expenses” above.)

4. Inflation isn’t making it any easier for people to save

Every state’s 529 plan allows for maximum contributions of at least $235,000 per beneficiary, with places like New York and California setting a cap of well more than double that.  (Your accountant can discuss the tax implications with you.)  But even though 45 percent of the 2,220 adults, age 18 to 65, surveyed said they didn’t feel like they were saving enough, only 11 percent planned to increase the amount they sock away for higher education.  Which jibes with reports that Americans have begun cancelling vacations and summer camp for their kids out of concern about the economy.

Still, as Rueschhoff stressed, you shouldn’t be overwhelmed by the potential cost of college.  A financial advisor, like a trusted local one at Edward Jones, can look at your entire financial picture, including what other goals you might be saving for, to be sure your college savings strategy makes sense for your family.  And the firm’s online tools can help provide a broad idea of how much you’ll need by the time your child is ready to enroll.

(NewsUSA) - Spice up your summer with the premiere of the much-anticipated, four-part limited series, Flowers in the Attic: The Origin, starting July 9 on Lifetime Television.     

The series is inspired by the gothic “Flowers in the Attic” book series from best-selling author V.C. Andrews, and is based on the prequel novel, “Garden of Shadows,” by Andrew Neiderman, longtime ghostwriter of the V.C. Andrews franchise.     

Jemima Rooper (Gold Digger) stars as Olivia Winfield Foxworth, with Max Irons (Condor) as Malcolm Foxworth, parents to Corinne Foxworth and grandparents to Cathy and Chris Dollanganger. Additional series stars include Kelsey Grammer, Harry Hamlin, Kate Mulgrew, Hannah Dodd, T’Shan Williams, Paul Wesley and Alana Boden.     

In the first installment, airing July 9, Olivia Winfield is a young woman in the early 20th century who gives up her career, her home, and her name to become Mrs. Malcolm Foxworth, the wife of the nation’s richest man. However, Olivia soon realizes that life at Foxworth Hall is far from the fairytale she imagined, and that her husband has a dark side. She begins to question her choices, but she is already on a journey that will take her down her own twisted path.   

In the second episode (July 16), Olivia and Malcolm’s family grows, but Olivia struggles to give her children a safe and happy childhood in the face of Malcolm’s sinister nature and obsession over his own family secret, which severs their relationship further.     In part three (July 23), Olivia opposes the unions of her adult children after suffering another devastating loss of her own. As the episode ends, she finds blood on her hands and uncertainty over the fate of an old foe.     

The series wraps up on July 30, with Olivia’s descent into the most notorious and terrifying version of herself. After losing connections with all her children, Olivia copes with the tragedy and tension by embracing religious beliefs instilled in her by her cousin. These beliefs turn into obsessions, and her desire to wreak vengeance on those around her drives her to become someone capable of locking her own grandchildren in the attic when her daughter returns after another family tragedy.     

The first two episodes of the series will also be available the day after they respectively premiere on the Lifetime app and MyLifetime.com without a cable subscription (for 10 days after they debut).  Additionally, V.C. Andrews fans can find more on Lifetime this summer; 14 titles from the V.C. Andrews movie collection will be available on demand and on TV Everywhere platforms from June 1 through August 31.     

Visit mylifetime.com for more information about Lifetime’s summer lineup and other programming.

Max Irons, Kate Mulgrew, and Kelsey Grammer star in Flowers in the Attic: The Origin ©2022 A+E Studios, LLC.  All rights reserved. Photo credit: Vlad Cioplea/ Courtesy of A+E Studios and Lifetime

(NewsUSA) - For a truly distinctive experience, Israel stands out as a dream destination that should be on everyone’s top travel list. For the first time since 2019, Israel is open to all travelers from around the world. Whether you are a solo traveler, or part of a couple, family, or group of friends, Israel is a diverse destination with something everyone can enjoy. When planning a trip to Israel, consider a range of destinations and events for a well-rounded itinerary.     

- History: Israel is steeped in history, and travelers can indulge in a journey to the past by visiting Jerusalem’s Old City. Key destinations include the Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Via Dolorosa, and the Dome of the Rock. Travelers also can experience a spectacular view of the Old City from the nearby Mount of Olives.     

- Natural Wonders: Tel Aviv’s world-renowned beach, spans the entire western side of the city along the Mediterranean. Travelers mix with locals to appreciate the sun, sand, waves, and water sports. When in Haifa, don’t miss the Baha’i Gardens on Mount Carmel. The gardens are designed with 19 mountainside terraces filled with flowers, small trees, small sculptures, water fountains and pools.     

- Food and Drink. Many visitors to Israel are unaware of the region’s rich wine-making tradition. In fact, Israel boasts more than 300 wineries, large and small, with signature brands inspired by the sweeping hills of Western Galilee and the low-lying Negev. Israel is well known for its abundance of delicious street food found in every city, but two markets not to miss are the Machane Yehuda in Jerusalem and Carmel Market in Tel Aviv. Vibrant food stalls feature Israeli staples ranging from the more familiar falafel and hummus to lesser known but equally delicious shakshuka and sabich.       

- Caves and Craters: For the geologists, or anyone who appreciates the power and beauty of nature, the Ramon Cater in Israel’s Negev Desert was created more than 220 million years ago, and remains the world’s largest erosion crater. Visitors can rappel down its sides, bike across its ledges and hike across its canyons. For those craving more rappelling, the Keshet Cave is a popular site with a stunning view from the highest point in Western Galilee. Adventurers rappel off a high natural stone arch through the air and down approximately 150 feet.     

- Dead Sea Dip: Located 1,412 feet below sea level, the Dead Sea is the earth’s lowest elevation on land. The waters of the Dead Sea are 10 times saltier than sea level water, which means marine life can’t live in it, but humans can enjoy the unique experience of floating effortlessly on the surface.     

- Inclusive atmosphere: Tel Aviv is one of the most LGBTQIA+ friendly cities in the world and celebrates Pride all year long; however, visitors can enjoy exceptional Pride events every June, when people of all genders, religion, and color flood the streets for a celebration of acceptance, love and joy.     

Visit Israel.travel for more information.

(NewsUSA) - Mammograms. Colonoscopies. Dental Cleanings. There are many diagnostic exams that we may not enjoy; however, we follow the prescribed regimen for our health and well-being. Health experts are encouraging families and older adults to take the same approach to a newly recommended examination that many adults are avoiding: the Elderoscopy.   

 An Elderoscopy is an important assessment that examines living and financial issues, health, relationships, driving and end-of-life plans. Older adults and their loved ones may avoid conversations about taboo aging topics because they fear the subject is too uncomfortable or sensitive. In fact, research from Home Instead, Inc. and The Marist College Poll shows that nearly 1 in 6 Americans would rather have a colonoscopy than discuss end-of-life plans with their loved ones.     

“It can be difficult, especially for adult children, to accept that their loved ones are getting older,” says Lakelyn Hogan Eichenberger, Ph.D., gerontologist and caregiving advocate at Home Instead.     

“But it’s important that families don’t wait until there is an emergency to put plans in place. With proper preparation, families can alleviate stress and the uneasiness that may arise when planning for the future.”     

Many families prioritize conversations about their wills and other plans for after death.     

Just as important, an Elderoscopy conversation is about living. It is about understanding older loved ones’ wishes and empowering them to live life to the fullest and age with dignity and respect. Hogan Eichenberger recommends the following tips when starting these discussions:       

Keep an open mind: Certain topics, such as how and when to stop driving or where to live, may evoke an emotional reaction. Try to put yourself in an older adult’s position, and seek to understand by listening to their concerns. Be mindful not to get offended by what you hear.     

Don’t dwell on uncomfortable discussions. Unless there is a time constraint, it may be best to return to a certain topic that is causing angst at a later time. Recognize that this is an ongoing discussion and that wishes should be revisited periodically. Ultimately, developing plans for aging should bring a sense of calm and assurance to all parties involved, knowing that the wishes of a loved one are understood.     

Express your own wishes. It may be easier for an older adult to talk through what they desire for their final years if the conversation feels like a two-way street. Discuss how you envision aging when posing questions to your loved ones.     

Bring conversation starters. Photos and family heirlooms can open the door to a conversation about aging plans and alleviate some of the pressure of having sensitive conversations. Older adults may enjoy reminiscing about the past while they talk about what’s next.     

While older adults may plan carefully for the financial aspects of retirement and what they will do with their free time, many often fall short of planning ahead for their later years. To help guide families in talking with older loved ones, Home Instead developed Elderoscopy. The program includes tools for families to initiate conversations around aging and identify their current planning needs.       

While an Elderoscopy is not an official medical procedure, it is a critical step in the aging process. For more information on personalized care provided by local Home Instead offices and resources for conversations about final wishes, visit: www.HomeInstead.com/Elderoscopy.

(NewsUSA) - Whether you are at the gas pump, the grocery store or even shopping online, the higher prices resulting from the current state of inflation are hitting everyone hard. Fortunately, smart consumers can find ways to help reduce the inflation burden.     

One easy way to curb inflation is by getting cash back on your credit card purchases. For the maximum in savings and flexibility, look for credit cards that offer the highest percentages of cash back along with other benefits and opportunities to optimize your investments, as well as your purchases.     

SoFi, a modern personal finance company, has created a unique credit card designed to help you keep more money in your pocket and reach your financial goals.     

“SoFi is a one-stop shop for people’s financial needs. Our unique technology stack and broad suite of products enable us to build offerings that work better when you use them together,” says Anthony Noto, CEO of SoFi.     

It is easy to apply for a credit card online, but the ways the SoFi credit card helps consumers makes this one ideal for curbing inflation.     

- Save money simply. The SoFi credit card does not charge an annual fee and lets you earn up to 3% cash back for a full year once you are approved. To qualify for the 3% cash back reward, users must set up direct deposit through the SoFi network. Users can choose to send deposits directly to their high-yield checking or savings account. Also, there’s no need to worry about minimum balance requirements in your accompanying SoFi account; there aren’t any.     

- Enjoy extra benefits. Users who make 12 consecutive on-time payments can lower their APR by 1%. Other benefits include complimentary cell phone insurance coverage of up to $1,000, no foreign transaction fees when traveling overseas and Mastercard ID theft protection, which protects your personal information by identifying and alerting you to potential fraud.     

- Cash in on crypto. The SoFi credit card allows users to redeem their cash back directly into cryptocurrency; the funds go into your SoFi active invest account. This option allows you to trade crypto, as well as stocks and ETFs.     

- Pay down debt. SoFi credit card users earn two reward points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases, but you choose how you use these rewards. Deposit them as cash into your checking and savings account, as a fractional share in your investment account, as cryptocurrency or as payments towards SoFi personal or student loans.     

Keep these smart strategies in mind, and you can make the most of your money and credit to help manage the challenges of inflation.