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(NewsUSA) - As the coronavirus pandemic rapidly turned the "new normal" household into hubs for all daily activities, Summer 2020 now means moving parents' offices, kid's camps, vacation destinations, and virtually everything under one roof.<br /> <br /> Although this dynamic could forge family bonds, it can also ignite the already heated stresses and struggles facing many Americans during this difficult time - making optimal home climate control a critical key to keeping their cool as temperatures heat up this season.<br /> <br /> Recent studies show how our increased togetherness can significantly disrupt domestic bliss. In fact, research suggests that people forced to live in quarantine conditions face a greater risk of anxiety, depression, anger, irritability, insomnia and post-traumatic stress symptoms.<br /> <br /> And, despite feeling close to their children during the pandemic, 61percent of parents say they have shouted, yelled, or screamed at them at least once over the past two weeks, according to a University of Michigan study. Further, married and engaged couples in quarantine are fighting more, with only 18 percent of surveyed couples reporting satisfaction in communication with their partner, according to a survey conducted by the publication, "The Knot and app Lasting."<br /> <br /> When temperatures - and tempers - rise, a dreaded "Family Thermostat War" can ensue. Following are some useful tips to help you save money on utility bills and keep your family cool.<br /> <br /> With home heating and cooling accounting for nearly half of home energy use and air conditioner energy expenses costing homeowners more than $11 billion a year, small steps can go a long way.<br /> <br /> * Ease Into Electric: According to Columbia University's Earth Institute, electric systems are a solution to decarbonize home climate control. Among the most energy-efficient heating and cooling products, electricity-powered ductless mini-split systems, offered by companies including Fujitsu General America, can save as much as 25 percent on your energy bill. Mini-splits use thin copper tubing to pump refrigerant from an outdoor compressor directly into an indoor air-handling unit, where the air is quietly distributed to the interior space.<br /> <br /> * Get "Smart" About Climate Control: When it comes to smart home temperature control, there are Smart HVAC Systems and Smart Thermostats. Smart HVAC systems have built-in Internet capability and can be controlled directly without additional equipment. Smart Home Thermostats create "smart" systems by enabling remote temperature control via a mobile or Internet-connected device or voice-operated home automation system.<br /> <br /> * Voice Your Preference: Take control of your comfort. Most HVAC manufacturers offer apps that enable systems to be controlled from anywhere using a mobile device. Voice-control capability uses digital assistants, such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home, to verbally dictate home temperatures. Easily controlling the temperature more closely allows homeowners to be more comfortable and improve energy savings.<br /> <br /> * Find Your Efficient Comfort Zone: Many of us live in homes designed for bigger families, but have yet to downsize. If you find yourself using a fraction of your home on a regular basis, consider upgrading to a zoned, ducted, or ductless system. That will allow you to save energy heating and cooling spaces where you and your family don't spend a lot of time. This will multiply savings as you're not only needing less cooling, but you also gain from a more efficient system in the spaces you do still use.<br /> <br /> * Try Low-tech Fixes: Simple changes can have a big impact. Try to use heat-producing appliances - stoves, irons and dryers at night or early morning. Switch to LED light bulbs instead of incandescent bulbs - which consume 90 percent more power. Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and places where pipes and wires come through walls. And check existing caulking and weather-stripping for gaps or cracks.<br /> <br /> Achieving a sense of peaceful co-existence in your increasingly crowded, multi-functional home does not need to make your family members hot under the collar. If a new system is right for you, many Fujitsu systems with the Energy Star rating are more than twice as efficient as the minimum standard set by the government. To learn more or find a contractor near you, call 888-888-3424 or visit www.constantcomfort.com.<br /> <br /> Ref: Furnitures - in Blogs

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(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.<br /> <br /> And, yes, that does mean college and even high-school sports.<br /> <br /> 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.<br /> <br /> 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.<br /> <br /> "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."<br /> <br /> So what's a concerned parent to do?<br /> <br /> 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.<br /> <br /> Know, too, that the most popular non-pharmacologic alternative to routine care is drug-free chiropractic care.<br /> <br /> "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.<br /> <br /> Ref: Exercise - in Blogs

Even as an American, I love Eurovision. I just get so invested in it every year. I've become so interested in so many countries and cultures I wouldn't have really been exposed to otherwise-- all because their representative had a song that had me hooked.<br /> <br /> It's been about two months since the 2025 edition wrapped up, but I'm honestly still kinda feeling the sadness of its finality. So, I figured I'd discuss my top 20 of the year! While everybody was talking about how much they hated this year and the songs, I actually thought it was a very strong year: so much variety, with all kinds of different sounds and genres (which is something that has been hard to come by in previous years.)<br /> <br /> 20. Ireland (Laika Party, Emmy) 💚🤍🧡<br /> Unpopular opinion, but... I like Ireland's song! It's reminiscent of the Europop music that helped define the late 90s/early 2000s. While some may call the song disrespectful or tasteless, I would disagree-- I find it sort of sweet that it gives poor Laika the space dog a happy ending.<br /> <br /> 19. Greece (Asteromata, Klavdia) 💙🤍<br /> I'm not usually a ballad fan, but this song is too good to ignore. Klavdia had some of the best live vocals this year and sounded exactly like the recording. It's a beautiful song with a meaningful message and anyone who thinks it didn't deserve 6th place in the final is simply wrong!<br /> <br /> 18. Spain (Esa diva, Melody) 💛❤️<br /> While most people would disagree, I'd say Spain is probably my favorite Big 5 country from the years I've been watching. Some criticize Esa diva for being dated, stale, and "pandering to middle-aged gay men"... guess I'm a middle-aged gay man then!<br /> <br /> 17. Iceland (Róa, VÆB) 💙🤍❤️<br /> It's pure Eurovision silliness at its finest. The song is upbeat, funny, and catchy, and the VÆB brothers have very unique and charismatic energy (and big iPad kid vibes, honestly.) When Róa comes on, I always just kinda want to... laugh. But in a good way!<br /> <br /> 15. Estonia (Espresso Macchiato, Tommy Cash) 💙🖤🤍<br /> Similarly to Iceland's entry, Estonia has sent the kind of song that makes Eurovision, well, Eurovision. Fun, goofy, and only elevated by the iconic staging. Though, I do feel bad for the hate poor Tommy Cash receives online-- he seems like a sweetheart.<br /> <br /> 15. Cyprus (Shh, Theo Evan) 🧡🤍<br /> I'm usually not a big fan of Cyprus' entries, but this is certainly an exception. I really like the techno/industrial elements used in the song, which sets it apart from other dance entries by giving it a darker sound. The staging was among my favorites of the year. (Also love the way he sings, "Who am I?)<br /> <br /> 14. Germany (Baller, Abor & Tynna) 🖤❤️💛<br /> Despite Abor's... strange political and social stances, Germany really knocked it out of the park with this entry. The song and staging both have immaculate clubbing vibes-- we're having a Baller summer this year! I honestly thought it would've scored higher than 15th.<br /> <br /> 13. Poland (GAJA, Justyna Steczkowska) 🤍❤️<br /> Justyna is a true talent-- in a 3-minute performance, she sings, dances, plays violin, and is hoisted mid-air... all at the age of 52! The song itself is very dark and witchy, which... how could I not love that?! Probably deserved higher than 14th.<br /> <br /> 12. UK (What the **** Just Happened?, Remember Monday) 💙🤍❤️<br /> I think the only reason people hate this song so much is because it's a UK entry. The girls of Remember Monday have a cute vibe, their harmonies were on point, and it's truly chaotic, girly fun. The frequent tempo and style changes fit the crazy theme of the entry!<br /> <br /> 11. Malta (Serving Kant, Miriana Conte) 🤍❤️<br /> I'm obsessed with Miriana's entire image. I see a lot of people criticize this song, but I simply think it's too campy for them (and camp isn't for everyone, I guess...) Even with the censorship of the lyrics, the effect is still there, and Miriana really DID serve kant.<i class="twa twa-xlg twa-wink"></i><br /> <br /> 10. Belgium (Strobe Lights, Red Sebastian) 🖤💛❤️<br /> When I say I want to go dancing, this is the kind of music I want to hear. I can't believe people were saying Red Sebastian's vocals in the semi-final were off, because I thought he was great-- I mean, that iconic high note! Still haven't recovered from its non-qualification...<br /> <br /> 9. Australia (Milkshake Man, Go-Jo) 💙🤍❤️<br /> Now THIS is a robbery if I've ever seen one. I find the claims that the staging was underwhelming rather laughable-- anything that involves a GIANT BLENDER cannot possibly be "underwhelming." The song is upbeat, stuffed with ****** innuendo, Go-Jo is fabulous, and all is right here.<br /> <br /> 8. Finland (Ich Komme, Erika Vikman) 🤍💙<br /> I'm a big fan of whatever Finland is doing-- weird, alternative, and and completely unconventional year after year. I'm kind of shocked the only thing that was censored here was Erika's outfit, considering the song is quite explicit (but that's exactly what makes it so awesome!)<br /> <br /> 7. Albania (Zjerm, Shkodra Elektronike) ❤️🖤<br /> We love a good electro-folk song around here. The lyrics are powerful, and the instrumental is heavy and intense... it's hard to not be affected by Zjerm. I couldn't think of a better closing song for Eurovision 2025, and it was criminally underrated by the juries.<br /> <br /> 6. Switzerland (Voyage, Zoë Më) ❤️🤍<br /> This may just take the cake for my all-time favorite Eurovision ballad. This is yearning at its finest... and French at its finest. I'd have to side with the juries for once on this one, this is an extremely underrated and beautiful song... and it never fails to make me emotional.<br /> <br /> 5. Portugal (Deslocado, NAPA) 💚❤️💛<br /> Everyone jumped on the bandwagon after it blew up on TikTok, but I'd been in love with Deslocado since day one. Everybody called it boring and dull, but I obviously disagree... guess you could chalk it up to my love of rock and indie music. Sickening to think it was last in the betting odds for so long!<br /> <br /> 4. Ukraine (Bird of Pray, Ziferblat) 💙💛<br /> I'm sick of the hate for this song! But to be fair, it's not a particularly accessible genre-- I guess 70s-inspired prog rock is a pretty foreign genre to a lot of people. But to say Bird of Pray would be Ukraine's first NQ is hysterical! The song is too good to have ever been that.<br /> <br /> 3. Latvia (Bur man laimi, Tautumeitas) ❤️🤍<br /> It's witchy, it's enchanting, it's literally a song about manifestation. The harmonies are intoxicating, and I'm addicted to playing it on loop. Anyone who calls this beautiful song boring is not someone I'd want to know-- they just don't get it.<br /> <br /> 2. Italy (Volevo essere un duro, Lucio Corsi) 💚🤍❤️<br /> My love for this song is immeasurable. Lucio is essentially Italian David Bowie-- everything from the song to his outfits. I don't think I could ever tire of this entry! I'm a proud Italian-American whenever this one comes on... and I will ALWAYS defend this song from the 12-year-olds on TikTok.<br /> <br /> 1. Lithuania (Tavo akys, Katarsis) 💛💚❤️<br /> A rock fan's *********. Real, genuine, post-punk/grunge at Eurovision... I foam at the mouth for this song and Katarsis. No notes. Perfection.<br /> <br /> And that's my top 20 of Eurovision 2025! Thinking I'll make lists for past years as well, so stay tuned if you're invested...<br /> <br /> <span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Entertainment - in Blogs</span>

(NewsUSA) - Summertime. It's the time of year to put your feet up, relax and have a little fun. So, why not make it a little safer for the whole family?<br /> <br /> The following tips can help keep everyone healthy and injury-free -- and, with any luck, away from the doctor's office:<br /> <br /> * Handle vacation baggage with caution. Be careful handling your luggage. There were more than 75,500 luggage-related injuries in 2013 alone. To avoid luggage-related injury and pain, keep your body straight when lifting and carrying luggage -- do not twist. Instead, point your toes in the direction you are headed, and then turn your entire body in that direction. Also, only use luggage that is sturdy and light weight with wheels and a handle.<br /> <br /> * Dive into summer safety. Diving and swimming is a popular summer activity for many families and their children, but it does carry some risk.<br /> <br /> "Swimming and diving injuries are most common among children, 17 or younger," says A. Jay Khanna, MD, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) spokesperson and orthopedic surgeon. "For that reason, it's important to equip kids with the proper safety precautions at an early age."<br /> <br /> The AAOS suggests that individuals never dive into above-ground pools or into water that isn't clear -- where sand bars or objects below the surface may not be seen. As for swimming, never swim alone, always swim in supervised areas, and avoid rip currents.<br /> <br /> * Follow the rules of the road while biking. More than 80 million Americans enjoy cycling because it's an environmentally efficient way to get around, a great form of exercise and a fun activity for the whole family. However, according to 2013 statistics from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, bike-related injuries were the reason for more than 1.3 million visits to hospitals, emergency rooms and doctors' offices.<br /> <br /> To avoid being a statistic, always wear a helmet and ride in the direction of traffic. Also, don't listen to music with headphones, talk on your phone, text or do anything else that would distract you while riding.<br /> <br /> * Beware of bouncing. Jumping on a trampoline is a favorite pastime among kids because of the thrill that comes with it. Unfortunately, it also carries risks. The most common injuries are sprains and fractures that result from falls on the mat, falls on the frame or springs, collisions with another jumper and falls off the trampoline, according to the AAOS. To protect kids, trampolines should not be used for unsupervised recreational activity.<br /> <br /> For more information and safety tips this summer, visit OrthoInfo.org.<br /> <br /> Ref: Bicycles - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - Enhancing a once-in-a-lifetime event, such as a wedding proposal or ceremony, with the right song takes the experience to a whole new level. It adds a personal touch that makes for ongoing memories, as couples have the opportunity to play the song at anniversaries or other special events through the years.<br /> <br /> Just in time for anyone planning to propose on Valentine's Day (or any day), an original song called "The First Time," by Del Henry, makes its debut February 1, 2019, on multiple channels, including iTunes, Amazon Music, Apple Music, Tidal, Spotify, Pandora, YouTube Music, Google Music Store, Shazam, and many more.<br /> <br /> The release of the song coincides with a release of a video. The video version of "The First Time" being released is, in fact, the first time the song was performed live, at a wedding as a gift from the groom to the bride, and her reaction says it all.<br /> <br /> "How can I say, in a most simple way/My living started when you came that day/ How can I tell you when all's said and done/ My Heaven started with you as the one."<br /> <br /> Many couples can relate to these lyrics. The song stands out as an example of the power of music to capture a moment and move an audience, so it is both a personal and a shared experience.<br /> <br /> Many of the guests seen in the video of the song's debut are as emotional as the bride, because the lyrics evoke memories of their own shared lives and ongoing love stories.<br /> <br /> "It's truly a story about how and why couples come to the moment when they want to be together … 'eternally,' says David Shewmaker, the Minister conducting the ceremony.<br /> <br /> "As a Groomsman, I could see Brandon's live performance and saw the audience's response, which was electric and moving. I was hearing the song for the first time too," says Tim Delany, a 23-year-old college graduate.<br /> <br /> Lyrics such as "The first time I felt your eyes touch mine/The first time I felt your smile" can be part of the setting of a proposal on Valentine's Day or any day, but they are equally appropriate for an anniversary, whether a first or a fiftieth, or simply to thank someone for bringing joy to your life.<br /> <br /> Use the song to show your affection for someone who matters to you, share the heartwarming video, and appreciate the skill of 18-year-old musician Brandon D. Henry, who performed "The First Time" for its first time at the recent wedding shown in the video, accompanied by master guitarist Dave Murdy.<br /> <br /> Ref: Concerts - in Blogs

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(NewsUSA) - A gold coin worth $7 million dollars. What could make one coin so valuable? The coin, purchased at an auction in 2002, was a 1933 Double Eagle, a survivor from a time when the U.S. government made owning gold illegal. Now, due to the economic downturn, Americans might be turning their attention to gold once again.<br /> <br /> People have used gold coins since 640 B.C. -; the metal has inherent value, making its value more stable than paper currency. It is soft, malleable and easily hammered thin. Pure gold does not rust or tarnish -; it keeps its beauty and value, no matter its age.<br /> <br /> The U.S. first produced official gold coins in 1795, with $5 and $10 coins that still remain attractive to serious collectors. Massive amounts of gold were later discovered in the U.S. in 1848. By 1849, America was making the Double Eagle, or the Twenty Dollar Gold Coin. Containing nearly a full ounce of pure gold, Double Eagles remain some of the most famous coins ever minted. The first U.S. Mint, located in Philadelphia, produced gold coins up until 1933.<br /> <br /> So, why did they stop? The U.S. entered a financial crisis. Banks failed, and the U.S. economy started to fall fast. Americans no longer wanted unreliable paper or cheap-metal currencies -; in a time of economic insecurity, gold coins promised to retain their value. In response, the federal government decided to outlaw gold. Americans exchanged their gold coins with the federal government, where the Double Eagles were melted into gold bars. Those same gold bars still exist, in storage, at Fort Knox. A few straggling Double Eagle coins escaped the recall -; now, they fetch millions of dollars at auction.<br /> <br /> And they might soon become more valuable. The current financial crisis has once again made gold interesting to investors -; according to the New York Mint, gold is selling at unprecedented levels.<br /> <br /> For more information about gold coins or coin collecting, please contact the New York Mint at 800-642-9160 ext. 4390 or visit its Web site at www.newyorkmint.com.<br /> <br /> Ref: Collectors - in Blogs