Stallios - the next-generation social network

How Self-Publishing Made This Author A Best-Seller

(NewsUSA) - When Jess Michaels isn't obsessively checking her steps on FitBit or watching daytime Court TV, she's a best-selling author who writes historical romances with heroines who speak their mind.

Her first foray into publishing began, as many picture the life of an author, with a traditional publishing deal. But after releasing a few books, Michaels decided to turn down an additional deal and try self-publishing.

"I'd begun developing an audience for my books and wanted to try something different. Authors I respected had success and greater control over their work with self-publishing, so I was eager to try it for myself," says Michaels.

She mastered it quickly and decided to go "strictly indie" in 2015, using Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) service to publish in both eBook and print. Since her decision to self-publish, she has been on the USA bestseller list ten times. Her husband quit his job at a large technology company and now works with Michaels to run their publishing company.

"I wanted more control over not just the creative writing, but also the marketing strategy, cover art, and other business aspects of publishing. I grew frustrated being unable to make these decisions going the traditional publishing route," she says. "I'm both a writer and entrepreneur, and I'm enjoying more creative and financial rewards than I ever have."

For Michaels, who says the initial idea of going indie was "taking a leap off a cliff and hoping you can fly before you crash," the resulting benefits have exceeded her expectations.

For those authors wrestling with the idea of self-publishing, consider this:

- Creative control. Self-publishing a book allows authors to build characters and stories exactly the way they want and, ultimately, retain full rights to their original material. A book that has been nursed from inception to novel remains yours.

- Get to market fast. Once a book is ready, self-publishing services, such as KDP, guide authors through setting up their books and getting them in the hands of readers in just a matter of days.

- Make more money. Authors who opt to self-publish can set their own prices and take home a higher percentage of royalties.

While a self-published author serves as his or her own marketing department, indie publishers make marketing simple and effective. Self-publishing companies, such as Amazon, also offer authors additional promotional opportunities to make their work available to more readers.

Many authors find support through writers' groups online, such as Facebook groups, or in-person by attending workshops and writers' conferences. Most cities have local writing groups that meet regularly. These meetings can provide constructive criticism of your work and other resources.

"I fell into self-publishing by accident, and found that connecting with other authors and joining a local writers' organization helped me improve my technique and career tremendously," says self-published science fiction and fantasy author T.S. Paul. "When sales of my novels began to take off, I began working with freelancers and a virtual assistant, also, to grow the community around me."

Regardless of whether a writer is interested in romance, mystery, fantasy, or biographies, self-publishing with services such as KDP can empower them to pursue their dreams, especially if they're willing to study the business side of publishing as well as Jess Michaels did.

Who knows? Maybe the best seller list is closer than you think.

For more information, visit https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/.

Ref: Books - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - When Jess Michaels isn't obsessively checking her steps on FitBit or watching daytime Court TV, she's a best-selling author who writes historical romances with heroines who speak their mind. Her first foray into publishing began, as many picture the life of an author, with a traditional publishing deal. But after releasing a few books, Michaels decided to turn down an additional deal and try self-publishing. "I'd begun developing an audience for my books and wanted to try something different. Authors I respected had success and greater control over their work with self-publishing, so I was eager to try it for myself," says Michaels. She mastered it quickly and decided to go "strictly indie" in 2015, using Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) service to publish in both eBook and print. Since her decision to self-publish, she has been on the USA bestseller list ten times. Her husband quit his job at a large technology company and now works with Michaels to run their publishing company. "I wanted more control over not just the creative writing, but also the marketing strategy, cover art, and other business aspects of publishing. I grew frustrated being unable to make these decisions going the traditional publishing route," she says. "I'm both a writer and entrepreneur, and I'm enjoying more creative and financial rewards than I ever have." For Michaels, who says the initial idea of going indie was "taking a leap off a cliff and hoping you can fly before you crash," the resulting benefits have exceeded her expectations. For those authors wrestling with the idea of self-publishing, consider this: - Creative control. Self-publishing a book allows authors to build characters and stories exactly the way they want and, ultimately, retain full rights to their original material. A book that has been nursed from inception to novel remains yours. - Get to market fast. Once a book is ready, self-publishing services, such as KDP, guide authors through setting up their books and getting them in the hands of readers in just a matter of days. - Make more money. Authors who opt to self-publish can set their own prices and take home a higher percentage of royalties. While a self-published author serves as his or her own marketing department, indie publishers make marketing simple and effective. Self-publishing companies, such as Amazon, also offer authors additional promotional opportunities to make their work available to more readers. Many authors find support through writers' groups online, such as Facebook groups, or in-person by attending workshops and writers' conferences. Most cities have local writing groups that meet regularly. These meetings can provide constructive criticism of your work and other resources. "I fell into self-publishing by accident, and found that connecting with other authors and joining a local writers' organization helped me improve my technique and career tremendously," says self-published science fiction and fantasy author T.S. Paul. "When sales of my novels began to take off, I began working with freelancers and a virtual assistant, also, to grow the community around me." Regardless of whether a writer is interested in romance, mystery, fantasy, or biographies, self-publishing with services such as KDP can empower them to pursue their dreams, especially if they're willing to study the business side of publishing as well as Jess Michaels did. Who knows? Maybe the best seller list is closer than you think. For more information, visit <a target='_blank' href="https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/.">https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/.</a> Ref: Books - in Blogs

0 53 0

added a blog

Shortages in Meat Inspire More To Try Plant-Based Protein

(NewsUSA) - In periods of change, we often find comfort in simple pleasures. A great burger is one of them.

Yet, some of those simple pleasures have been compromised by the dramatic changes caused by COVID-19, including the disruption of the animal meat industry. Meat plants are closing, causing meat to be harder to find and its prices to rise. Some grocers are limiting the amount of meat shoppers can buy to curb pantry loading.

I know these issues will be resolved as the pandemic subsides. The animal meat industry will recover, and supply chains will be restored. But right now, you may be asking: What do I do without meat?

Now is the time to try plant-based protein. Made from simple ingredients you know, Lightlife plant-based meat is as nutritious as it is delicious. And you can find the products in your grocer's meat case.

To be clear, I'm not against the animal meat industry. I believe we're all trying to solve the same complex challenge: how to feed Americans during this pandemic. But I do believe no diet should be entirely dependent on animal meat. That's why Lightlife is committed to delivering plant-based protein throughout the country to ensure as many people as possible have access to the food they need.

At Lightlife, we're not asking you to give up animal meat. If you want to eat meat, eat meat. But we believe you should also eat plants: whole plants and plant-based protein. That's why we strive to bring more high-protein options to your table. Fortunately, the trend toward eating more plant-based protein began well before COVID-19, driven by a desire for more balance and variety in our diets, as evidenced by the fact that 44 percent of Americans now describe themselves as flexitarian.

In fact, Lightlife sales were up significantly in the first quarter of 2020. And longer term, the plant-based meat category is expected to grow exponentially, with the Good Food Institute predicting a threefold increase in the number of American households regularly purchasing plant-based protein1.

The reality is it takes a little more work these days to make a good burger, even the ones we make with simple ingredients. I want you to know that we're committed to your dinner table. And your lunch table. And if you want a burger for breakfast, your breakfast table, too.

I am so proud of our production teams working around the clock to ensure our products are available at your local grocer. To ensure their health and safety, we have taken additional steps including social distancing wherever possible, daily temperature checks and health screenings, face coverings, increased sanitation efforts, and staggered breaks and start times to reduce the potential for congestion. This is in addition to the sanitation procedures our team is already accustomed to, and the variety of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) we routinely wear.

This is all part of our dedication to getting high-quality, plant-based protein to your tables. Because whether your burger is made from ground beef or plant-based ingredients, a good burger is something we can all agree on. And I believe that together, we will celebrate that simple pleasure once again.

Ref: Diet - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - In periods of change, we often find comfort in simple pleasures. A great burger is one of them. Yet, some of those simple pleasures have been compromised by the dramatic changes caused by COVID-19, including the disruption of the animal meat industry. Meat plants are closing, causing meat to be harder to find and its prices to rise. Some grocers are limiting the amount of meat shoppers can buy to curb pantry loading. I know these issues will be resolved as the pandemic subsides. The animal meat industry will recover, and supply chains will be restored. But right now, you may be asking: What do I do without meat? Now is the time to try plant-based protein. Made from simple ingredients you know, Lightlife plant-based meat is as nutritious as it is delicious. And you can find the products in your grocer's meat case. To be clear, I'm not against the animal meat industry. I believe we're all trying to solve the same complex challenge: how to feed Americans during this pandemic. But I do believe no diet should be entirely dependent on animal meat. That's why Lightlife is committed to delivering plant-based protein throughout the country to ensure as many people as possible have access to the food they need. At Lightlife, we're not asking you to give up animal meat. If you want to eat meat, eat meat. But we believe you should also eat plants: whole plants and plant-based protein. That's why we strive to bring more high-protein options to your table. Fortunately, the trend toward eating more plant-based protein began well before COVID-19, driven by a desire for more balance and variety in our diets, as evidenced by the fact that 44 percent of Americans now describe themselves as flexitarian. In fact, Lightlife sales were up significantly in the first quarter of 2020. And longer term, the plant-based meat category is expected to grow exponentially, with the Good Food Institute predicting a threefold increase in the number of American households regularly purchasing plant-based protein1. The reality is it takes a little more work these days to make a good burger, even the ones we make with simple ingredients. I want you to know that we're committed to your dinner table. And your lunch table. And if you want a burger for breakfast, your breakfast table, too. I am so proud of our production teams working around the clock to ensure our products are available at your local grocer. To ensure their health and safety, we have taken additional steps including social distancing wherever possible, daily temperature checks and health screenings, face coverings, increased sanitation efforts, and staggered breaks and start times to reduce the potential for congestion. This is in addition to the sanitation procedures our team is already accustomed to, and the variety of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) we routinely wear. This is all part of our dedication to getting high-quality, plant-based protein to your tables. Because whether your burger is made from ground beef or plant-based ingredients, a good burger is something we can all agree on. And I believe that together, we will celebrate that simple pleasure once again. Ref: Diet - in Blogs

0 27 0

added a blog

AI Meets Hip Hop in Innovative Music Partnership

(NewsUSA) - DigiTrax Entertainment, a pioneer in the music technology industry, brings its artificial intelligence (AI) expertise to the popular hip-hop segment.

With the introduction of KR38R Beats, a unique AI product specifically geared to the hip-hop artist, DigiTrax recognizes the importance of hip-hop music and how it is a great fit for AI technology. The company has paired with Spotlite, a popular and established singing performance app, to create "Rapping with the Robot," a contest for aspiring hip-hop artists.

The contest is scheduled to begin on Thanksgiving Day and end on New Year's Eve.

Prizes include an all-expenses-paid recording session, with professional production and distribution across all major platforms.

"We focused our AI on the most relevant segment of music in today's streaming economy," says Joe Vangieri, CEO of DigiTrax Entertainment.

"Hip-hop beats comprise one out of every three streams, and generate billions in revenue."

The KR38R Beats product is based on the Music Builder program, DigiTrax's unique and innovative technology that helps artists harness the power of artificial intelligence. Artists can feed ideas into the program, which then serves as a composing partner and allows them to create more songs more quickly.

Spotlite is a free, direct-to-fan singing app designed to allow amateur and professional vocalists to sing original music, covers, and karaoke across all musical genres.

"As a fan, you used to go out and buy CDs to support your favorite artist," says Juan Munoz, general manager of Spotlite Media.

"With the change in how fans ingest content, Spotlite has not only allowed fans a new way to directly support their favorite artists, but the fans become the tastemakers. Through our contests, fans tell us who should truly be recognized for their talent," he explains.

Other benefits of using artificial intelligence in creating original hip-hop music include greater profitability and protection for the users under copyright law.

"Because we own both the publishing and the sound recording that our AI has written," Vangieri explains, "this gives us free reign to fully exploit both sides of a song - the publishing and the sound recording."

DigiTrax plans to introduce several more contests in 2019 to showcase the way its technology is transforming how music is created and enjoyed.

For more information about the company and its future business goals, go to digitraxentertainment.com.

Ref: Bands - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - DigiTrax Entertainment, a pioneer in the music technology industry, brings its artificial intelligence (AI) expertise to the popular hip-hop segment. With the introduction of KR38R Beats, a unique AI product specifically geared to the hip-hop artist, DigiTrax recognizes the importance of hip-hop music and how it is a great fit for AI technology. The company has paired with Spotlite, a popular and established singing performance app, to create "Rapping with the Robot," a contest for aspiring hip-hop artists. The contest is scheduled to begin on Thanksgiving Day and end on New Year's Eve. Prizes include an all-expenses-paid recording session, with professional production and distribution across all major platforms. "We focused our AI on the most relevant segment of music in today's streaming economy," says Joe Vangieri, CEO of DigiTrax Entertainment. "Hip-hop beats comprise one out of every three streams, and generate billions in revenue." The KR38R Beats product is based on the Music Builder program, DigiTrax's unique and innovative technology that helps artists harness the power of artificial intelligence. Artists can feed ideas into the program, which then serves as a composing partner and allows them to create more songs more quickly. Spotlite is a free, direct-to-fan singing app designed to allow amateur and professional vocalists to sing original music, covers, and karaoke across all musical genres. "As a fan, you used to go out and buy CDs to support your favorite artist," says Juan Munoz, general manager of Spotlite Media. "With the change in how fans ingest content, Spotlite has not only allowed fans a new way to directly support their favorite artists, but the fans become the tastemakers. Through our contests, fans tell us who should truly be recognized for their talent," he explains. Other benefits of using artificial intelligence in creating original hip-hop music include greater profitability and protection for the users under copyright law. "Because we own both the publishing and the sound recording that our AI has written," Vangieri explains, "this gives us free reign to fully exploit both sides of a song - the publishing and the sound recording." DigiTrax plans to introduce several more contests in 2019 to showcase the way its technology is transforming how music is created and enjoyed. For more information about the company and its future business goals, go to digitraxentertainment.com. Ref: Bands - in Blogs

1 38 0

added a blog

Amateur Athletes Seek Non-Opioid Pain Relief

(NewsUSA) - They may not make those "Agony of Defeat" sports reels, but amateur athletes get injured all the time. Maybe it's from an awkward golf swing. Or maybe it's from not warming up or stretching before an event.

Whatever the cause, though, there's one scary thing they have in common with the pros.

"The reality is that all athletes are one fall, twist, or tweak away from landing their own opioid prescription," Outside magazine warned.

The warning couldn't be better timed. It's not just that the country is in the midst of an opioid crisis that's claimed the lives of thousands of prescription painkiller abusers and left countless more addicted to the likes of OxyContin. It's also that -- as the magazine also noted -- physicians seem to be starting to heed last year's urging by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to dramatically curtail prescribing the drugs.

According to a survey conducted for the Boston Globe by the SERMO physicians social network, more than half of doctors across America are doing exactly that, and nearly one in 10 have completely stopped prescribing them.

So what's an amateur athlete suffering from pain supposed to do? One especially popular alternative is drug-free chiropractic care.

Whereas opioids (and Ibuprofen forms of over-the-counter drugs) only "mask" the pain, doctors of chiropractic approach the problem highly educated and trained in the structure and function of the human body.

And they use hands-on techniques to help enhance flexibility, muscle strength, and range of motion -; the very things all athletes need addressing. And yes, as the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress' Dr. Sherry McAllister says, chiropractic is covered by most insurance and health plans.

To locate a nearby doctor of chiropractic,visit f4cp.com/findadoctor.

Ref: Cool - in Blogs

0 18 0

added a blog

The most coloful world is hidden in the sea

0 29 0

added a blog

Some insects are created only to be beautiful

1 45 0

added a blog

When fashion meets its shadow in a sunny day

0 41 0

added a blog

Student Athletes Emulate the Pros in Abusing Prescription Painkillers

(NewsUSA) - Sometimes we're so caught up in all the pro sports stars whose lives have been wrecked by misusing prescription painkillers that we forget the problem extends down to the amateur level.

And, yes, that does mean college and even high-school sports.

At least one study put the number of college student athletes who've used prescription medications to enhance their performance at as high as 53.3 percent. And another recent study on high school athletes, published online in the Journal of Child & Adolescent Substance Abuse, reported that 12 percent of male seniors and 8 percent of female seniors admitted to abusing painkillers.

To former ESPN.com columnist Gregg Easterbrook -- who wrote about painkillers in his book "The King of Sports: Football's Impact on America -- it's no surprise that the largest percentage of those young abusers play football.

"Youth and high-school players see an example that appears to be of men so tough, they laugh at pain," he wrote. "The message sent is that young players should use their own bodies recklessly."

So what's a concerned parent to do?

Well, if your child is experiencing neuro-musculoskeletal-related pain from playing sports-- spinal pain, say, from too many tackles or strained soccer kicks --first know that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last March began urging physicians to avoid prescribing opioids for chronic pain in response to a record high 28,647 deaths involving the highly addictive drugs in 2014.

Know, too, that the most popular non-pharmacologic alternative to routine care is drug-free chiropractic care.

"Doctors of chiropractic play a key role in sports health care by providing hands-on care that help improve range of motion, flexibility, muscle strength, and other key performance factors," notes the not-for-profit Foundation for Chiropractic Progress' Sherry McAllister.

Ref: Exercise - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - Sometimes we're so caught up in all the pro sports stars whose lives have been wrecked by misusing prescription painkillers that we forget the problem extends down to the amateur level. And, yes, that does mean college and even high-school sports. At least one study put the number of college student athletes who've used prescription medications to enhance their performance at as high as 53.3 percent. And another recent study on high school athletes, published online in the Journal of Child & Adolescent Substance Abuse, reported that 12 percent of male seniors and 8 percent of female seniors admitted to abusing painkillers. To former ESPN.com columnist Gregg Easterbrook -- who wrote about painkillers in his book "The King of Sports: Football's Impact on America -- it's no surprise that the largest percentage of those young abusers play football. "Youth and high-school players see an example that appears to be of men so tough, they laugh at pain," he wrote. "The message sent is that young players should use their own bodies recklessly." So what's a concerned parent to do? Well, if your child is experiencing neuro-musculoskeletal-related pain from playing sports-- spinal pain, say, from too many tackles or strained soccer kicks --first know that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last March began urging physicians to avoid prescribing opioids for chronic pain in response to a record high 28,647 deaths involving the highly addictive drugs in 2014. Know, too, that the most popular non-pharmacologic alternative to routine care is drug-free chiropractic care. "Doctors of chiropractic play a key role in sports health care by providing hands-on care that help improve range of motion, flexibility, muscle strength, and other key performance factors," notes the not-for-profit Foundation for Chiropractic Progress' Sherry McAllister. Ref: Exercise - in Blogs

0 36 0

added a blog

Nature

Exploring the Charms of Nature through Tent Camping

In our fast-paced world, where screens dominate our daily lives, there exists a longing for a simpler, more natural way of living. Tent camping offers a perfect retreat into the heart of nature, where modern distractions fade away, and the beauty of the outdoors takes center stage.

Imagine waking up to the symphony of chirping birds, the rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze, and the warm glow of the sunrise painting the sky. Tent camping allows you to immerse yourself fully in these experiences, providing a direct connection to the environment that is both humbling and rejuvenating.

One of the most enchanting aspects of tent camping is its versatility. Whether you prefer the rugged terrain of mountain ranges, the tranquil shores of lakes, or the dense foliage of forests, there's a campsite to suit every preference. Each location offers its own unique charm and opportunities for exploration, from hiking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints to peaceful spots perfect for stargazing under clear night skies.

Moreover, tent camping encourages a sense of self-sufficiency and resourcefulness. As you pitch your tent and set up your campsite, you reconnect with basic survival skills and learn to appreciate the essentials. Cooking meals over a campfire or portable stove becomes a communal activity, fostering bonds with fellow campers and creating memories that last a lifetime.

Beyond the physical benefits of fresh air and exercise, tent camping provides mental and emotional rejuvenation. Away from the constant buzz of notifications and emails, you can truly unwind and reset. The simplicity of life in nature allows for introspection and mindfulness, offering a chance to recharge your spirit and return to daily life with a renewed sense of clarity and purpose.

In essence, tent camping is more than just a recreational activity—it's a lifestyle that celebrates the beauty of our natural world and the joy of unplugging from the digital realm. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature, a tent camping vacation promises to deliver an unforgettable experience that nourishes the soul and leaves you longing for more outdoor escapades.

Exploring the Charms of Nature through Tent Camping In our fast-paced world, where screens dominate our daily lives, there exists a longing for a simpler, more natural way of living. Tent camping offers a perfect retreat into the heart of nature, where modern distractions fade away, and the beauty of the outdoors takes center stage. Imagine waking up to the symphony of chirping birds, the rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze, and the warm glow of the sunrise painting the sky. Tent camping allows you to immerse yourself fully in these experiences, providing a direct connection to the environment that is both humbling and rejuvenating. One of the most enchanting aspects of tent camping is its versatility. Whether you prefer the rugged terrain of mountain ranges, the tranquil shores of lakes, or the dense foliage of forests, there's a campsite to suit every preference. Each location offers its own unique charm and opportunities for exploration, from hiking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints to peaceful spots perfect for stargazing under clear night skies. Moreover, tent camping encourages a sense of self-sufficiency and resourcefulness. As you pitch your tent and set up your campsite, you reconnect with basic survival skills and learn to appreciate the essentials. Cooking meals over a campfire or portable stove becomes a communal activity, fostering bonds with fellow campers and creating memories that last a lifetime. Beyond the physical benefits of fresh air and exercise, tent camping provides mental and emotional rejuvenation. Away from the constant buzz of notifications and emails, you can truly unwind and reset. The simplicity of life in nature allows for introspection and mindfulness, offering a chance to recharge your spirit and return to daily life with a renewed sense of clarity and purpose. In essence, tent camping is more than just a recreational activity—it's a lifestyle that celebrates the beauty of our natural world and the joy of unplugging from the digital realm. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature, a tent camping vacation promises to deliver an unforgettable experience that nourishes the soul and leaves you longing for more outdoor escapades. Category: Nature - in Blogs

1 32 0

Record a Vibe Video

Graphic Designer