New album release: Christmas at the Burchills

Christmas at the Burchills is the new album by Beth // James. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

On their new EP, Christmas at the Burchills, Jordan and Mikaela Burchill invite you into their home for the holidays. While the duo goes by the moniker Beth // James, Beth and James are in fact, their middle names. Both Jordan and Mikaela took an interest in music at a young age. Jordan grew up with a guitar in his hands, raised by musician parents, and Mikaela grew up at the studio, singing on records in Nashville since her elementary school years. The young songwriters met in music school and clicked immediately. They moved to Austin, Texas, after graduation, fell in love, and quickly became a duo. They have since released two EPs, one full-length record, and their song “Lion Eyes” was featured in Spike Lee’s Academy Award-winning film, “BlacKkKlansman.” Dubbed “masters of indie-folk” by Austin’s NPR station, KUTX, the Austin duo has cut their teeth touring all across the US, performing as Kerrville New Folk Finalists, and recently got back from a run in Europe and the UK where they played Germany’s only Americana music festival. (IV-PR, 2023)

With their latest EP, Beth // James balance their signature, indie-Americana sound with a healthy dose of varied holiday cheer. Out now, Christmas at the Burchills flies between classic Christmas sounds, touching down for an Elvis cover and Elvis-influenced original, a Hawaiian-infused shot of Christmas paradise, dusty Americana set in Marfa, Texas, and a candle-lit Yuletide ballad.

EP highlight “Tiki Christmas Land” imagines escaping winter heartbreak for Hawaii, drowning your sorrows in Mai Tais and December sun. It is simultaneously cozy as a sweater, and bursting with catchy tropical cheer. Meanwhile, “Marfa Christmas Lights” trades Hawaiian steel guitar for contemplative country western lap steel, serenading the mystical grandeur of west Texas in December. On piano ballad “The Christmas We Used to Know,” Mikaela explores childhood Christmas nostalgia and the difficulty of growing up. Like the writers of many classic Christmas songs, Mikaela grew up Jewish, explaining “as a kid I would always go to my childhood best friend’s house to spend Christmas with her and her family.”

Fans can stream or purchase Christmas at the Burchills in its entirety today by following this link. On December 15, the duo will celebrate their EP release with Beth // James & Friends Christmas Spectacular at Quack’s Soundspace in Austin. Tickets are available here.

Christmas at the Burchills track list:
Tiki Christmas Land
Marfa Christmas Lights
Santa Won’t You Deliver (My Baby This Winter)
Blue Christmas
The Christmas We Used To Know

Book highlight: ‘To Thrive or To Fall’ by Trinity Johnson

‘To Thrive or To Fall’ is a post apocalyptic novel by Trinity Johnson. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Post apocalyptic novels are usually set in the future after a major event changed the world people inhabited. They often explore possible responses to the destruction of the world or society and how they are trying to survive in their new surroundings. That is what makes them so fascinating and one of my favorite genres of science fiction. Today I would like to highlight one such novel: “To Thrive or To Fall” by Trinity Johnson. If you enjoy reading books set in a post-apocalyptic setting mixed with fantasy, science-fiction, action, and romance, then this is a story that you will surely enjoy. It is available on Barnes & Noble.

Trinity Johnson is a passionate author who enjoys writing purposeful books of different genres which are meant to teach and entertain. She is creating BagHead Scoop which is an ever-growing company founded with the belief of increasing the level of happiness through books and animation. There is also BookUp+Chill which is a YouTube channel that showcases book trailers to bring the story and characters to life. Between entertainment and teaching lessons, there is something for everyone. In her post apocalyptic novel “To Thrive or To Fall,” the result of radiation from nuclear war and the impact of a meteorite created a new world and has divided humanity into four kingdoms: Acropolis, Bunker 50, Oasis State, and Xanadu City. (Trinity Johnson, 2023)

“To Thrive or To Fall” – More than 100 years ago, World War III broke out amongst all countries. Nuclear war ravaged the planet and once it finally ended, the atmosphere was left with its radiation. To make matters worse, a meteorite struck the Earth and changed the world as our ancestors knew it. This event was called, ‘The Descent.’

However, something miraculous happened. When the radiation from the bio-weapons used in World War III mixed with the impact of the meteorite, a major chemical reaction spread everywhere, evolving humanity into something more. Now people are divided into four kingdoms: Acropolis which resides in the mountains, Bunker 50 which is made up of bunkers, Oasis State that dwells near the lakes, and Xanadu City which is underground.

Easy-going Fleur Solace from Xanadu and stern Atlas Aslan from Acropolis were close friends as children. But after a terrible misunderstanding, they were forced apart by their nations. Ten years later, the two young adults have become the ambassadors of their kingdoms and must work together to unify their people.

However, with tensions from the past, new personalities, potential traitors, and seemingly orchestrated attacks, will they be able to win against each other and the dangerous political arena?

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‘To Thrive or To Fall’ book trailer
Meet the characters of ‘To Thrive or To Fall.’

Celebrate the holidays with foodie gifts and merchandise

Bakery Lorraine’s pecan pie. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

With the Holiday season upon us and people searching for gifts to give and ways to celebrate this year, nationally recognized pastry shop Bakery Lorraine, flavor factory Twang and the iconic Lone Star Beer have some gift ideas. (Bakery Lorraine, Twang, Lone Star Beer, 2023)

Bakery Lorraine offers delectable pastries perfect for any holiday gathering this season, including holiday pies and a traditional Bûche De Noël available for local pick up at all locations. Twang presents a festive stuffed stocking filled with cocktail, beer and seltzer salts and koozies that are available for national shipping while supplies last. Lone Star Beer offers limited time merch in partnership with Morgan Mercantile that’s available for national shipping.

Bakery Lorraine

Bakery Lorraine offers delectable holiday pies and traditional Bûche De Noël for pre-order from Monday, December 11 to Sunday, December 24. Items need to be pre-ordered with 72 hours notice to the desired pickup date through the custom order request page. The traditional Bûche De Noël is made with tart cherries, vanilla mousse, and chocolate sponge cake soaked in a spiced kirsch syrup.

Each of Bakery Lorraine’s nine inch holiday pies serve between 8 – 10 people and can be ordered for pick up at all Bakery Lorraine locations.

Flavors include:

  • Whiskey Pecan – made with Jack Daniels No. 7
  • Dutch Apple – made using five varieties of apples and topped with a cinnamon streusel 
  • Apple Cranberry – made using a variety of apples similar to their Dutch Apple Pie but cranberries are added for a beautiful flavor and extra color and topped with Christmas spice

Price: 

  • Bûche De Noël – $48
  • Whiskey Pecan Pie – $28
  • Dutch Apple – $32
  • Apple Cranberry – $32

Twang

Twang offers their festive Twang Stuffed Stocking this holiday season while supplies last and available for national shipping. Customers can use the code “HOLIDAYCHEER” for 10% off stockings. Twang is a family owned manufacturer of premium flavored salts, seasonings, cocktail mixes and more based in Texas.

Packed with Twang favorites, the festive stocking includes:

  • 1 Twang Stocking
  • 2 Christmas Koozies
  • 4 Beer Salts (Lime, Lemon Lime, Cucumber Chile Lime & Grapefruit)
  • 1 Twang-A-Rita Rimming Salt (Chile Lime)
  • 1 Mango Chile Twangerz

Price: $20

Lone Star Beer

Lone Star Beer partners with Morgan Mercantile for the perfect Texan gift this holiday season. The national beer of Texas offers limited time merch for guests to order through its online shop beginning Thursday, December 7.

All items are available for national shipping, including:

  • Patch Rope Hat
  • Pennants
  • Diner Mug
  • Pin
  • Beanies
  • Trucker Hat
  • Hoodies
  • Crewnecks

 

 

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Book of the week: ‘The Life And Times of Vinny The Pug’ by Allen Y Kimble, Jr

‘The Life And Times of Vinny The Pug’ makes the perfect holiday for dog lovers. Photo: Allen Y Kimble, Jr, used with permission.

Don’t look now, but there are only 14 days until Christmas and if you still need some gift ideas, may I suggest a book? For the dog lover on your list, especially if he or she likes pugs, consider “The Life And Times of Vinny The Pug” by Allen Y Kimble, Jr. When Vinny’s family had to move from Florida to Arizona after the September 11 attacks, Vinny The Pug had to adjust from living in lush and green surroundings to an arid desert. He adapted, of course, and learned to pose atop boulders. Follow Vinny’s journey in this gorgeous picture book that is perfect for dog lovers everywhere. Aside from pictures, it includes coloring projects and is suitable for all ages. It is available on Amazon. Learn more about the Kickstarter campaign.

Allen Yhorst Kimble, Jr is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana and grew up in the mid-1950s. Upon turning a young man, he entered the United States Air Force and served one year in Vietnam, eight years in Asia, and a total of 11 years total service time. While in South East Asia, he picked up photography as a hobby, which he still enjoy today. In 2001, he acquired a little pug in Orlando, Florida and named him Vinny. As a result of the 9-11 Terrorist Attacks, he took the family out west to Phoenix where Vinny learned to climb and pose atop boulders. His new book “The Life And Times of Vinny The Pug” is a picture story book of his best friend Vinny. (Allen Y Kimble, Jr, 2023)

“The Life And Times of Vinny The Pug” – This is a true-life picture book of the life and times of Vinny the Pug. It began on September 12, 2001 following the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington. Florida’s economy was left in shambles after the attacks. Overnight Orlando’s tourism industry ground to a halt, forcing Vinny’s human to move the family. They went out west to Arizona to find better employment opportunities.

Vinny The Pug atop a boulder. Photo: Allen Y Kimble, Jr., used with permission.

When they arrived, Vinny was still just a puppy, not yet one year old. However, he was mature enough to be surprised by what he saw. Arizona was very different from what he remembered back home in Florida. Orlando was lush with greenery; there were trees, vegetation, and lakes everywhere. All at once it hit the little pug; his new home in Phoenix, Arizona was in the desert. This book of photographs shows how the little pug adapted to the harsh realities of living in Arizona. It shows how Vinny the Pug came to appreciate his new home in the the desert. Before a year had passed, he had even launched a challenge to set a new Guinness World Record.

Vinny the Pug’s picture book is an enjoyable experience that will work well in classrooms. It is suitable for all ages from 5 through adults.

It includes:

  • 50 – Color Pictures
  • 87 – Black & White Graphic Arts
  • 5″ x 11″ pages for best viewing
  • Includes coloring projects

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New book release: ‘The Perfect Fit’ by Gena Palumbo

‘The Perfect Fit’ is the new children’s book by Gena Palumbo. Photo: Amazon

Children’s books are so versatile. They can be entertaining, educational, and perfect for story time to bond at the end of the day. Introducing children to reading at an early age is an excellent way to get them started on a good habit that will last a lifetime. Today’s new book release is a children’s book by Gena Palumbo titled “The Perfect Fit.” It is a beautifully illustrated tale about finding one’s place in the world. With the holiday shopping well under way, why not pick up a copy for the child or children on your shopping list? It is available on Amazon.

Gena Palumbo is a writer from New England and new to motherhood, which inspired her to start writing children’s books. (Gena Palumbo, 2023)

“The Perfect Fit” is a charming children’s book that tells readers that “there is a place out there for everyone.” It is a perfect tool for parents to discuss themes of exploration, belonging, and self-discovery with their children. Reading age: baby to 7 years.

Embark on an enchanting adventure with Roo, a charming and curious character whose quest to find her place in the world is both inspiring and touching. As Roo navigates through vibrant landscapes, she discovers the true essence of belonging and the joy that comes with it. Join Roo on her remarkable journey and discover the perfect fit for yourself.

Rave reviews for “The Perfect Fit:”

**Vivid and Captivating Illustrations** – “Each turn of the page in “The Perfect Fit” reveals stunning, colorful artwork that breathes life into Roo’s world. These illustrations are not just visually appealing, but also effectively convey Roo’s emotions and the story’s deeper messages. It’s engaging use of font delights reader’s attention from the first page!”

**A Tool for Emotional Growth** – “This book is an excellent resource for parents an educators to introduce important themes and helps build emotional intelligence in children, guiding them to understand and appreciate the beauty in self-discovery.”

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New book release: ‘Shape Your Life By Changing Perspective’ by Siddhesh Dongare

‘Shape Your Life By Changing Perspective’ is the new book by Siddhesh Dongare. Photo: Shift Life Perspective.

As distinct individuals, our journeys are unique and can be challenging at times. One way to improve our lives is to dare to change our perspective on what we expect out of life. Today’s new book release is a self help guide for personal and professional development by Siddhesh Dongare titled “Shape Your Life By Changing Perspective.” His goal is to provide a resource that can inspire, motivate, and guide individuals facing various life challenges. Through the written word, he hopes to share the valuable lessons and perspectives that have resonated with those in his immediate circle, extending the positive impact to a wider audience. So if you are looking for expert advice on making your life’s journey a little easier, consider this guide. It is available exclusively on Amazon India.

Siddhesh Dongare is a career coach and mentor who believes in the power of changing your perspective to transform your life. He wants to encourage readers to play an active role in their personal growth journey. As a storyteller and an advocate for this type of mindset, his vision is to empower individuals to embrace change, cultivate empathy, and navigate the complexities of life through the lens of a changing perspective. Students and individuals who perceive him as a mentor have shared how his insights have positively influenced and motivated them. He recognizes that his strength lies in offering a different point of view when confronted with problems or challenges. By documenting his experiences and insights, he hopes to reach a broader audience beyond his current network. In his new book “Shape Your Life By Changing Perspective,” discover the power within you and begin a transformative journey of self-discovery and self-empowerment. (Siddhesh Dongare, 2023)

“Shape Your Life By Changing Perspective”– In a world filled with diverse and unique experiences, it is easy to feel lost, trapped, or overwhelmed by the challenges life throws your way. Life can feel like a puzzle, and changing your viewpoint might be the key to finding the missing piece. Dare to start this empowering exploration now. Do not just let life happen to you—take charge, shape your future, and discover amazing opportunities when you choose to see the world in a new way. The author tells his own story about how having different perspectives can make a big difference.

Have you ever felt stuck, facing tough challenges, and wanting a better, more fulfilling life? If yes, this book is for you. Life can be tricky, with ups and downs that leave us searching for something more. This book is for anyone open to new ideas, ready to  think differently, and wanting practical help for a happier life. Whether you are young or older, going through a tough time, or just wanting positive changes, this book is a guide.

It is rooted in psychology, mindset changes, and tools to make good things happen. It is about seeing the world in a new way to transform your life. The way we perceive things shapes our lives, and in this book, you’ll find suggestions and instructions for shifting your viewpoint. Whether you are dealing with personal or work issues or just wanting a better life, this book will give you valuable insights and practical strategies to help you reshape your life with the power of perspective. Each chapter serves as a step towards a more fulfilling life. Are you ready for a journey of self-discovery and positive change? Let this book be your guide to reshaping your life with a new or fresh perspective.

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Book review: ‘The Science Behind Unbreakable Parent-Child Bonds’ by Ansh Verma

‘The Science Behind Unbreakable Parent-Child Bonds’ is the new book by Ansh Verma. Photo: Amazon

Ansh Verma is a researcher, author, and philosopher based in Dhanbad, Jharkhand (India). He researches on almost everything that can be observed, felt and/or read, including but not limited to technology, politics, divine, war, behavioral, engineering, investing, military, finance and mathematics. Post graduation, Verma has almost 20 years of experience in thinking/making sense of the world. His new book, “The Science Behind Unbreakable Parent-Child Bonds,” unravels the mysteries of why individuals, even those who appear stoic and detached, maintain an enduring connection with their parents.

“The Science Behind Unbreakable Parent-Child Bonds” – in this book, readers embark on a fascinating journey through the complex world of human relationships from a unique perspective – behavioral science and logic. Delving deep into the evolutionary, cognitive, and emotional aspects of parent-child bonds, it uncovers the hidden drivers behind this unbreakable link. From the psychological mechanisms that underlie parental recognition to the influence of socialization and culture on these connections, it presents a rich mosaic of insights backed by extensive research and real-world examples. It also challenges conventional notions of parent-child relationships, offering a fresh and scientifically grounded perspective that explains why these bonds persist and how they shape our lives. With clear, engaging prose, this book invites readers to discover the profound behavioral science behind what truly keeps us forever linked to our parents, shedding light on the enduring power of this fundamental connection. (Amazon, 2023)

There is no doubt that the bond between parent and child is one of the strongest relationships out there and the author explores these types of human relationships through the perspective of behavioral science and logic. Not only does psychology play a part of this bond, but so does society and culture. It is well researched and even though the subject may be scientifically presented, he explains it in a way that is easy to understand.

Some of the chapters include The Evolutionary Roots of Filial Attachment, Cognitive Mechanisms of Parental Recognition, and Psychological Resilience and Attachment. A couple of my favorites are 5. The Influence of Socialization and Culture where he explains the impact of societal norms on the parent-child bond and 6. Stoicism and Parent-Child Bonds – even if the parents do not display feelings or complaints, it still has an effect on a growing child. If you have ever wanted to know more about the parent-child bond, I highly recommend this book. Even if you don’t have children, it will help you understand how your parents’ upbringing influenced who you are.

“When we assist our relatives, we are, in essence, promoting the survival and propagation of a significant portion of our own genetic code. This act of altruism…..indirectly contributes to the preservation of our genetic lineage.”

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Upcoming new movie release: First Time Caller

The podcast turned sci-fi thriller comes to Video On Demand on January 12, 2024. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Buffalo 8 is thrilled to open their 2024 line up with the North American VOD release of First Time Caller, the feature adaptation of the fan-favorite podcast “The Earth Moves” from directors J.D. Brynn and Abe Goldfarb. Based on Gideon Media’s acclaimed podcast, First Time Caller is a darkly hilarious look at success, power, loneliness, and the apocalypse. First Time Caller debuts on Cable and Digital VOD on January 12, 2024, including Prime Video, Vudu, Vubiquity, Cox, and Comcast. (Justin Cook PR, 2023)

First Time Caller – Brent Ziff is an internet shock-jock at the top of his game. Fans and followers tune in from coast to coast to be insulted and enlightened by their favorite on-air provocateur. But on one very unusual night, Brent’s world is rocked by a long-time listener who calls in with a grave message.

75 Minutes/USA

Abe Goldfarb and Brian Silliman reprise their roles from “The Earth Moves” as Brent and Leo, alongside vocal performances from Greg Proops, Ophira Eisenberg, and Ashlie Atkinson. Mac Rogers, who wrote the original podcast, adapted the script. Patrick Terry produced for Cinedata. Gerry Ohrstrom, Thomas Campbell Jackson and Lawrence Starr are executive producers, alongside Buffalo 8’s Matthew Helderman and Luke Taylor, Nikki Stier Justice and Grady Craig.

First Time Caller world premiered at the Seattle Film Festival and earned the Grand Jury Prize, along with awards for Best Actor (Goldfarb) and Best Director (Goldfarb and Brynn). The film went on to win Best Feature Film at the Brooklyn SciFi Film Festival and was the headliner as the Opening Night Feature at the Bowery Film Festival. On the festival circuit, Film Threat hailed First Time Caller as “extremely inventive, quite a ride!”

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New book release: ‘Whose Birthday Is It?’ by Dennis Lee Edwards

‘Whose Birthday Is It?: What Do You Really Know About The Day You Were Born?’ is the new book by Dennis Lee Edwards. Photo: Dennis Lee Edwards, used with permission.

Even though most people celebrate their birthday every year, how many of us stop and think about what really happened on our BIRTH DAY. Today’s new book release focuses on the human experience surrounding motherhood, loss, and family relationships. These topics are explored through one son’s experience after losing his mother. If this has gotten your attention and would like to read more about the subject, pick up your copy of  “Whose Birthday Is It?: What Do You Really Know About The Day You Were Born?” by Dennis Lee Edwards. It is available on Amazon.

Dennis Lee Edwards has been enhancing and saving lives as an Organ Procurement Coordinator serving the people of Maryland for the past 25 years. He has also founded, owned, or maintained partnership stakes in a variety of companies including Unlimited Tanning & Fitness, Proxy Entertainment, Prohealthsol Community Foundation, and more. His new book “Whose Birthday Is It?: What Do You Really Know About The Day You Were Born?” is a beautiful and insightful work of fiction that explores the universal themes of love, loss, and the human experience in a fresh and captivating way. (Dennis Lee Edwards, 2023)

“Whose Birthday Is It?: What Do You Really Know About The Day You Were Born?” – The author of this book captures the reader’s attention from the start by weaving a tale of a son’s grief over the loss of his mother, which is intensified by the coincidental alignment of his mother’s burial with his birthday. The man’s memories of his mother and the special ritual they shared on his birthday provide a lens through which the reader can explore the anthropological phenomenon of a woman’s transition into motherhood.

The story’s exploration of this phenomenon is both insightful and engaging, with the author taking care to provide historical and cultural context that helps to frame the phenomenon in a way that is accessible to the reader. The author’s narrative style is also captivating, with a poetic use of language that immerses the reader in the story. Overall, this book is highly recommended for anyone looking for a touching and thought-provoking read.

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Book highlight: ‘The Second Coming of Angela’ by George Thomas S

‘The Second Coming of Angela’ is the exciting thriller by George Thomas S. Photo: George Thomas S, used with permission.

Thrillers are so much fun to read, especially when they feature a storyline that takes place in several locales and contains mystery and suspense. You never know where the action will take you and half the fun is finding out. Such is the case in today’s book highlight by George Thomas S. “The Second Coming of Angela” takes the main character through Sao Paulo, Brasilia, and more in a dangerous rescue mission full of twists and turns. If you enjoy action and suspense novels, consider this one by George Thomas S. It is available on Amazon in English and Spanish formats.

George Thomas S writes poems, song lyrics, and short stories. Every one of them was written free flow. He took a public speaking class in high school, from the same wonderful teacher who taught Rod Serling, creator of The Twilight Zone. In 2005 he started writing “The Second Coming of Angela,” but as it often happens, life got in the way, including a six-year stint in Peru, and it took sixteen years before the editing began and a total of 17 years before it was finally edited and published. The sequel is currently slightly more than half finished and edited. He has also published a very short book of short stories, “Three Odd Tales.” In “The Second Coming of Angela,” Thomas risks his own life to save the life of his ex-wife who he thought was dead. (George Thomas S, 2023)

“The Second Coming of Angela” – When the telephone awakened Thomas at three in the morning, he wasn’t expecting to hear the voice of Angela; someone believed to have died five years earlier. Confused and in shock, he reluctantly agreed to fly to Brazil, where he would discover that he was unexpectedly committed to a dangerous rescue mission encompassing Sao Paulo, Curitiba, Rio, Brasilia, and Manaus, culminating in a gunbattle a thousand miles up the Amazon River. How many, and whose lives would it cost?

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