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July 28, 2026

Wisdom Keeper Expands Storytelling Initiative to Preserve the Legacy of Historic African American Women

Wisdom Keeper has announced the expansion of its educational and storytelling efforts, broadening its mission to preserve, celebrate, and share the lives of historic African American women whose contributions have shaped the United States. The expanded initiative reflects the organization’s continued commitment to making history more accessible through compelling narratives that highlight leadership, resilience, innovation, and cultural influence. Founded by storyteller Lorraine Stone, Wisdom Keeper focuses on bringing overlooked chapters of American history to life by researching and presenting the stories of women whose accomplishments have often remained absent from traditional historical narratives. Through educational content, historical storytelling, and community engagement, the organization seeks to inspire audiences while encouraging a deeper understanding of the individuals who helped build the nation's social, cultural, and civic foundations. The expansion will allow Wisdom Keeper to introduce new stories, broaden its educational reach, and develop additional opportunities for audiences to engage with historical figures whose achievements deserve wider recognition. Rather than presenting history as a collection of dates and events, the organization approaches it through the lives of remarkable women whose experiences continue to resonate across generations. “My focus is to bring history alive by telling the stories of historic African American women,” says Stone. “Every story has the power to educate, inspire, and remind us that countless women helped shape this country in ways that deserve to be remembered.” Growing public interest in inclusive historical education has created new opportunities for organizations dedicated to preserving underrepresented voices. Wisdom Keeper’s expansion reflects that momentum while reinforcing the importance of documenting achievements that have too often remained outside mainstream historical discussions. By connecting historical research with engaging storytelling, the organization aims to make these narratives meaningful for students, educators, families, and lifelong learners alike. The initiative places particular emphasis on women whose leadership extended across education, business, civil rights, public service, the arts, science, and community development. Each story is intended to provide historical context while demonstrating the lasting impact these individuals have had on American society. “As a storyteller, I am seeking to bring new and exciting information about women who helped make this country what it is,” Stone says. “Their accomplishments belong in our shared understanding of history, and each generation benefits when those stories are preserved and passed forward.” Wisdom Keeper’s work also serves as a resource for educators and community organizations seeking engaging ways to introduce diverse historical perspectives. Through carefully researched narratives, the organization encourages conversations about perseverance, leadership, and the enduring influence of women whose contributions continue to shape modern America. The expansion represents a natural evolution of the organization’s mission to preserve historical knowledge while presenting it in formats that are accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences. As interest in inclusive storytelling continues to grow, Wisdom Keeper plans to build additional educational resources that encourage exploration of African American history through the experiences of the women who helped define it. Historical storytelling has increasingly become an important tool for connecting communities with their cultural heritage. By highlighting individual lives rather than broad historical summaries, Wisdom Keeper aims to foster stronger personal connections with the past while helping readers appreciate the complexity and richness of American history. Through its expanded efforts, Wisdom Keeper remains dedicated to ensuring that the voices, achievements, and legacies of historic African American women continue to inform future generations. The organization believes that preserving these stories strengthens historical understanding while celebrating individuals whose courage, vision, and determination helped shape the nation. As Wisdom Keeper enters this next phase, its mission remains centered on one enduring purpose: bringing history to life through stories that educate, inspire, and ensure extraordinary women receive the recognition their contributions have long deserved.

July 27, 2026

Books & Literature

Dr. Anthony E. Dixon Announces the Launch of Public History Services to Address Modern Challenges

Anthony E. Dixon, Ph.D. , a scholar in African Diaspora history, is officially launching his specialized consulting services through his public history firm, Archival and Historical Research Associates (AHRA). Established to assist libraries, museums, and historical sites nationwide, the firm is expanding its reach to provide specialized consulting services that apply deep archival insights to contemporary social issues. By utilizing detailed historical records to understand modern societal challenges, the initiative aims to build a reliable bridge between historical realities and present-day discussions. This effort is designed to support civic organizations, educational institutions, and community planners who seek to foster a well-informed public by utilizing the lessons of the past. The foundation of these newly highlighted services is the belief that history is a living asset capable of informing modern community development and policy discussions. Dr. Dixon offers extensive expertise in archival analysis, historical preservation, and public education, working directly with institutions to translate complex primary source documents into accessible public knowledge. The firm approaches historical data as a dynamic tool for contemporary analysis. Through meticulous research, the firm helps clients trace the origins of modern societal structures, offering a clearer perspective on how past events continue to influence community relations, institutional policies, and cultural identities today. A major focus of this initiative is to demonstrate the practical, real-world utility of the social sciences. Dr. Dixon emphasizes that rigorous academic methodologies are essential for developing reliable solutions to modern-day challenges. His extensive background underscores the analytical depth brought to every project. This foundation ensures that all consulting, exhibition planning, and archival organization are conducted with the highest standards of scientific inquiry. “The study of our shared journey is a practical tool for building a more cohesive society,” Dr. Dixon shares. “When we examine archival records with precision, we gain the clarity needed to address our current discussions with wisdom. The goal is to provide communities with the objective resources they need to understand their present circumstances through the lens of verified historical evidence.” Essentially, the services offered by AHRA encompass comprehensive archival management, curatorial consulting for museum exhibitions, historical site preservation planning, and educational curriculum development. Dr. Dixon has previously applied this expertise as the lead historian for major projects, including state-level museum exhibitions and historic preservation networks. By making these services widely accessible to public and private entities, the firm seeks to elevate the role of the public historian as an active contributor to community well-being. The services are designed to help organizations preserve their unique narratives while using those accounts to foster constructive dialogue and community growth. “Academic research gains its deepest value when it enters the public sphere to assist in solving everyday concerns,” Dr. Dixon notes. “A thorough understanding of archival data allows us to approach modern planning with a sense of perspective that only time can provide. We are dedicated to offering the kind of thorough, research-backed guidance that helps organizations make informed decisions for the future.” Through this launch, Archival and Historical Research Associates seeks to strengthen the relationship between academic research and community action. It aims to ensure that historical narratives are preserved and utilized to support a thoughtful, well-informed society.

July 25, 2026

Books & Literature

Gaffen Stone Launches Witchy Sh!t by Design Podcast to Spark a New Conversation on Self-Authority and Authentic Living

Gaffen Stone announces the launch of the Witchy Sh!t by Design podcast , a new platform created by Human Behavior Expert and founder Michaela Gaffen Stone that explores the hidden behavioral patterns shaping women’s lives while blending evidence-based science with Human Design, neuroscience, and candid conversations designed to encourage greater self-trust and authentic decision-making. Created as an extension of Gaffen Stone’s growing educational ecosystem, the podcast challenges long-standing assumptions around success, identity, productivity, and leadership. Rather than offering quick-fix personal development strategies, Witchy Sh!t by Design examines why so many accomplished women continue to feel disconnected from themselves despite outward achievement. Through thoughtful discussions, expert insights, and practical reflection, the podcast encourages listeners to identify unconscious conditioning and replace externally imposed expectations with choices grounded in their own values and design. Gaffen Stone has built its reputation around a coaching philosophy rooted in Human Design, Applied Behavior Analysis, neuroscience, and personalized transformation. The organization describes its work as helping individuals strip away layers of conditioning and reconnect with what it calls their “original architecture,” allowing clients to move from performing a life that looks successful to creating one that feels genuinely aligned. The new podcast expands that mission by making these conversations available to a broader audience through an accessible, conversational format. “Women are not broken,” says Michaela Gaffen Stone, founder of Gaffen Stone. “Many have simply been living by invisible rules they never consciously chose. My goal is to help people recognize those patterns so they can reclaim self-authority, trust themselves again, and make decisions that reflect who they truly are rather than who they were conditioned to become.” A Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Human Design strategist, author, educator, and coach, Gaffen Stone brings decades of professional experience alongside more than 40 certifications spanning behavior science, coaching, health, and personal development. Her global background, having lived across multiple countries while studying diverse cultures and approaches to human behavior, informs a multidisciplinary perspective that connects scientific understanding with practical personal growth. Released this June, each episode of Witchy Sh!t by Design embraces honest conversations that question conventional narratives surrounding achievement, relationships, identity, burnout, intuition, and personal growth. Rather than positioning science and intuition as competing perspectives, the podcast explores how evidence-based behavioral principles, neuroscience, and Human Design can complement one another in helping individuals understand recurring behavioral patterns and make more intentional choices. Recent episodes address topics including decision-making, conditioning, productivity, and the social expectations that influence how women evaluate their worth. The launch also reflects growing public interest in conversations around authenticity, emotional well-being, and sustainable leadership. Increasingly, professionals are seeking approaches that move beyond performance metrics alone toward greater alignment between personal values and professional success. Gaffen Stone's broader body of work, including personalized coaching, Human Design readings, educational resources, workshops, and her book Aligned & Unapologetic: The Human Design Guidebook , supports individuals navigating those transitions through structured learning and personalized guidance. “The most meaningful transformation begins when people stop asking who they should become and start remembering who they already are,” Gaffen Stone added. “This podcast creates space for conversations that encourage curiosity instead of judgment and self-trust instead of self-abandonment.” The podcast launch also strengthens a growing community surrounding Gaffen Stone's educational initiatives. Alongside coaching and Human Design resources, the organization continues to expand opportunities for learning through books, articles, interviews, community engagement, and collaborative publishing projects. The Witchy Sh!t by Design platform further invites listeners, practitioners, and thought leaders to contribute to discussions that examine human behavior through multiple lenses while encouraging practical application in everyday life. As conversations surrounding women's leadership continue to evolve, Gaffen Stone positions the podcast as a resource for individuals seeking greater clarity, confidence, and personal agency. By combining rigorous behavioral science with reflective exploration and Human Design principles, Witchy Sh!t by Design aims to broaden public understanding of how unconscious conditioning influences decisions while offering listeners practical pathways toward authentic living, resilient leadership, and lasting personal transformation.

July 24, 2026

Books & Literature

Griffith Debut Novel Earns Multiple Literary Honors

One Beautiful Year of Normal, the debut novel from author Sandra K. Griffith, has received a series of national literary honors, including recognition as Best Debut and Best Mystery from the Literary Global Book Awards and Best Mystery for 2026 from the Next Generation Indie Book Awards. The psychological thriller has drawn attention from critics and readers alike, establishing Griffith as a notable new voice in character-driven suspense fiction. A Debut That Captured Critical Attention One Beautiful Year of Normal follows a woman as she uncovers her family's darkest secrets, weaving together elements of southern family drama and psychological suspense. The novel is described as a story built on layered characters and atmospheric settings, appealing to readers who favor tension rooted in relationships and hidden histories rather than plot mechanics alone. The book earned a starred review from Kirkus Reviews, a distinction reserved for titles the publication considers exceptional. Kirkus went on to name the novel among its Top 100 Indie Books and included it on its list of Best Mysteries for 2026. In its review, Kirkus described the work as a "standout southern family mystery with lush settings, dazzling characters, and chilling surprises," language that reflects the novel's blend of vivid description and narrative intrigue. The Midwest Book Review offered a similarly favorable assessment, calling the novel "original, exceptional, and deftly crafted." These reviews, taken together, position the debut as a critically recognized entry in the mystery and suspense category. Recognition Across National Publications Beyond the awards and starred reviews, One Beautiful Year of Normal has been featured in a range of national and regional publications. Foreword and its Clarion Reviews program provided coverage, as did the Midwest Book Review and several other outlets that track independent and debut fiction. People Magazine featured the book among its recommendations, describing it as a "buzzy read by a debut author posed to hit the literary scene." Such mainstream coverage is uncommon for a first-time novelist and reflects the level of interest the title has generated within both trade and consumer media. The combination of trade recognition from Kirkus and Foreword alongside consumer attention from People Magazine illustrates a broad reach across different segments of the reading public. Trade reviews typically inform librarians, booksellers, and industry professionals, while consumer features reach general readers seeking new titles. The Distinction of Multiple Honors for a First Novel What sets this release apart is the accumulation of multiple honors for a debut work. It is relatively rare for a first novel to receive recognition from more than one awards body while also earning a starred trade review. The Literary Global Book Awards recognized the book in two categories, Best Debut and Best Mystery, and the Next Generation Indie Book Awards named it Best Mystery for 2026. These awards evaluate independently published and debut titles across a competitive field, and recognition in multiple categories from separate organizations suggests consistent quality as judged by different panels. For readers, such honors can serve as a signal of a book worth exploring. For the author, they mark a notable entry point into a literary career. Praise for the novel has also come from established authors and reviewers, including Suzanne Simonetti and Veena Rao, who joined Kirkus Reviews, Foreword Clarion Reviews, and the Midwest Book Review in offering positive assessments. Endorsements from fellow novelists often carry weight with readers who follow specific authors and their recommendations. An Author With a Distinctive Background Sandra K. Griffith brings an unusual professional background to her fiction. She is a doctorate-level psychologist and the owner of a large behavioral health agency, and she serves as an adjunct professor at Marshall University. This grounding in psychology informs the character-driven nature of her writing, where interior lives and family dynamics take center stage. The influence of her professional work is evident in the novel's focus on psychological tension and the gradual revelation of hidden truths. Readers who appreciate suspense that arises from human behavior and motivation, rather than from external action alone, are the intended audience for the work. Griffith's homepage at sandrakgriffith.com provides additional information about the author, including her biography, press coverage, book club resources, upcoming events, and contact details. The site also offers purchase links through major retailers for readers who wish to obtain a copy. Connecting With Readers The response to One Beautiful Year of Normal has extended into reader communities as well. The novel is available for review and discussion on Goodreads, where readers can share their assessments and connect with others who have read the book. Community platforms of this kind often play a significant role in the ongoing visibility of a title after its initial release. Griffith maintains a presence on social media, sharing updates about the book and her literary activities. Readers can follow her on Instagram at sandragriffith2024 and on Facebook under Sandra K. Griffith, Author. These channels provide a way for the author to communicate directly with her audience about events, book club appearances, and news related to the novel. The book has also been positioned as a strong selection for book clubs, given its themes of family, secrets, and psychological complexity. Titles that generate discussion tend to find sustained interest among reading groups, and the novel's structure lends itself to conversation about character choices and the layered revelations at its core. Looking Ahead With multiple awards, a starred trade review, and coverage across national publications, One Beautiful Year of Normal has established a foundation for Griffith's emerging literary career. The recognition the debut has received reflects both critical and reader interest in the work. For an author balancing a career in psychology and academia with fiction writing, the reception of a first novel marks a significant milestone. The honors accumulated in 2026 suggest that Griffith's work resonates within the mystery and suspense genre, and readers can follow her ongoing activities through her website and social channels. About One Beautiful Year of Normal One Beautiful Year of Normal is the debut novel by Sandra K. Griffith, a doctorate-level psychologist, behavioral health agency owner, and adjunct professor at Marshall University. The psychological thriller follows a woman uncovering her family’s darkest secrets. It has earned Best Debut and Best Mystery from the Literary Global Book Awards, Best Mystery for 2026 from the Next Generation Indie Book Awards, and a starred review from Kirkus Reviews. Learn more by visiting Sandra K. Griffith’s official website or following her on Instagram and Facebook . For inquiries, email [email protected] .

July 20, 2026

Books & Literature

Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr. Announces Release of The Stewardship Standard for Private Golf Clubs

Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr. has announced the release of The Stewardship Standard: A Hospitality Operating System for Private Golf Clubs , a new book that presents a leadership framework designed specifically for the private club industry. Rather than positioning club leadership as a matter of day-to-day management, the book frames it as an act of stewardship, one in which leaders are entrusted to strengthen institutions on behalf of the generations who will inherit them. Photo Courtesy of Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr. Gibson brings a background spanning automotive management, golf operations, and resort leadership to the book. He currently serves as General Manager at Marietta Motors and Westfall Towing, and has held leadership roles in golf and hospitality including Senior Director of Operations and Resort Operations Manager with National Golf Management Group, as well as General Manager and Head Pro at the Golf Club of South Carolina at Crickentree. Earlier in his career, he served as a Military Intelligence Analyst in the United States Army, an experience that informs the structured, systematic approach he brings to leadership. The book argues that private clubs occupy a distinct category among organizations. Unlike businesses measured primarily by quarterly performance, clubs are built to endure, with success defined less by annual figures and more by whether the institution is stronger for the members and families who will belong to it in the future. According to the book, this requires leaders who view their roles as temporary responsibilities rather than permanent positions, and who prioritize relationships over transactions. "Stewardship begins with a fundamental realization that what we lead does not belong to us," Gibson said. "We are temporary custodians of institutions shaped by previous generations and destined to serve future ones." The book is organized into eight chapters and sixty-three modules, moving systematically from foundational philosophy through practical application to legacy thinking. Early sections address why private clubs differ from conventional businesses and what mindset defines a steward, including qualities such as humility, responsibility, courage, and patience. Later chapters turn to leading culture, stewarding people, and stewarding excellence, before concluding with a focus on succession, institutional memory, and generational leadership. Gibson frames the book's central commitments as honoring the past, serving the present, and preparing the future. "The clubs we serve deserve this kind of leadership," Gibson said, "and so do the generations who will inherit these institutions." The book is intended for general managers, board members, and emerging leaders within private clubs who are seeking a structured approach to culture-building and long-term institutional health. Its content is designed to be applied incrementally, with each chapter building on principles introduced earlier in the book. James Mitchell Harrison, former President of the Club Management Association of America, contributed a foreword to the book, describing it as arriving "at precisely the right moment" for an industry navigating the tension between operational demands and long-term institutional purpose. In closing, Gibson said the book is meant to invite readers into a broader calling rather than simply offer a set of management tactics. "Stewardship is not ultimately something we do," Gibson said. "It is who we become." The Stewardship Standard is available now on Amazon and Kindle. Visit Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr. website to learn more about The Stewardship Standard. About Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr. Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr. holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Virginia College and multiple associate degrees from the Golf Academy of America. He is active in community mentorship through organizations including Celebrate Recovery and the First Tee Golf Program. The Stewardship Standard reflects his combined background in business operations, golf and resort management, and hospitality leadership.

July 18, 2026

Books & Literature

Tahj Mills Announces the Release of Chef: You Should Know I Understand and Companion Album Quick Spoke

There are moments when creative ideas refuse to stay within a single format. For Tahj Mills, one story became many. What began as a deeply personal reflection evolved into a book filled with memories, relationships, recipes, and observations, while the same spirit of expression found another voice through music. With the release of Chef: You Should Know I Understand and the companion album Quick Spoke , Mills introduces audiences to a project that embraces both literature and sound as equally important parts of his creative identity. A Story Built From Memories And Meaning Rather than following the familiar path of a traditional memoir, Chef: You Should Know I Understand offers readers a collection of personal reflections arranged alphabetically. Each chapter is inspired by women who left meaningful impressions during different stages of Tahj Mills' life, creating a series of stories that examine relationships, ambition, resilience, and personal growth. Instead of presenting events in chronological order, the book invites readers into individual moments that stand on their own while contributing to a larger picture of self discovery. Conversations, memories, and emotional experiences come together with honesty, allowing each chapter to become both a personal reflection and a universal reminder that every meaningful connection can shape a person's future. The opening dedication establishes this thoughtful tone by honoring people who became "a chapter, a lesson, a memory, or a reason to keep going." That message carries throughout the publication, encouraging readers to reflect on the people and experiences that have influenced their own lives. Food Adds Another Layer To The Story One of the most distinctive aspects of Chef: You Should Know I Understand is the way food becomes part of the storytelling itself. Rather than serving as a separate cookbook, the publication naturally weaves original recipes into its narrative, creating a connection between meals and memories. Readers will encounter recipes such as American Pancakes, Baked Pork Chops, Crab Cakes, Doughnut Bread Pudding, Eggnog, French Toast, and Guacamole Chicken Salad alongside personal reflections. These recipes reinforce the idea that food often becomes part of life's most meaningful conversations, celebrations, and turning points. This creative structure transforms the reading experience into something that extends beyond memoir. It blends storytelling with culinary inspiration while demonstrating how everyday moments often leave the strongest and most lasting impressions. Literature, Music, And Culture Come Together Throughout the book, Tahj Mills incorporates references to music, film, poetry, motivational thoughts, and cultural experiences that have influenced his journey. These elements help establish the atmosphere surrounding each story while providing readers with additional insight into the experiences that shaped the author. The result is a publication that moves comfortably between several literary styles. Memoir inspired storytelling sits alongside creative nonfiction, personal journals, recipes, and poetic reflection. Each section contributes to a broader artistic vision that values authenticity and emotional connection over conventional structure. By allowing different creative influences to coexist within a single work, Mills presents storytelling as something that reflects the many ways people experience life itself. A New Album Continues The Creative Journey The release of Quick Spoke arrives alongside the publication of the book, extending the same themes into music. Available across major digital streaming platforms, the album provides another creative outlet through which Tahj Mills explores personal experiences and artistic expression. While the book communicates through written reflection, the album offers listeners an opportunity to experience related emotions through music. Together, the two releases create complementary works that encourage audiences to engage with the same creative vision from different perspectives. Launching both projects simultaneously represents an important milestone in Mills' career as an author and musician, highlighting a commitment to creating meaningful work across multiple artistic disciplines. Creativity Without Boundaries At its heart, this project reflects a belief that creativity is not limited by format. Stories, recipes, music, memories, and cultural influences become interconnected expressions of the same personal journey. Rather than separating literature from music, Tahj Mills combines them into a unified body of work that celebrates reflection, growth, and individuality. The publication revisits the idea that every experience, whether joyful or challenging, contributes to personal development. That perspective serves as a consistent thread throughout both the book and the album, encouraging readers and listeners to find value in their own experiences. As audiences discover Chef: You Should Know I Understand and Quick Spoke , they are invited to explore not only the creative work itself but also the broader message that life is shaped by relationships, memories, and the willingness to keep creating. About Tahj Mills Tahj Mills is an author and musician whose work combines literature, music, personal reflection, and cultural influences to create multidimensional creative experiences. His latest book, Chef: You Should Know I Understand , blends memoir inspired storytelling with original recipes and reflective observations, while his companion album, Quick Spoke , extends those themes through music. More information about the book is available at Amazon.eu/d/Chef: You Should Know I Understand . Follow Tahj Mills on Instagram . For additional information, media inquiries, or collaboration opportunities, contact [email protected]

July 18, 2026

Books & Literature

J. René Walker Debuts Cozy Fantasy Series Grace Notes, Angels, Demons, and the Suburb That Heals Them

Constance Bellwether is very good at hiding. For three years she's lived quietly at the Halcyon — a Victorian house where the rosemary never dies and someone always turns on the porch light at dusk. She teaches four music students, makes her tea, goes to bed at ten-fifteen, and does not think about the choir she lost, or the silver ring on her hand that hasn't made a sound in years. She is also, as it happens, an angel. A burned-out one. This is the world of Grace Notes , a new cozy fantasy trilogy by J. René Walker, launching in July 2026 with all three books releasing through the summer. Set on Meridian Lane — an ordinary suburban street where celestial beings live among humans who bring casseroles and don't ask too many questions — the series follows burned-out angels, a reformed demon with a cello and exceptional baklava, and a Boss (God) whose methods are cryptic, whose intentions are kind, and who communicates through assignments, crossword puzzles, and the occasional fig. Three Books. Three Concerts. One Street Where the Light Is Always On. The Halcyon Days (Book 1) introduces Constance, a former celestial soloist whose voice once anchored creation itself — until she cracked. Now she teaches beginner music lessons in a converted garage and leaves trivia night at the halfway break. When a chaotic new angel arrives and starts rearranging everything Constance has carefully kept still, the comfortable stasis she's mistaken for healing begins to fall apart. A music school grows. An ensemble forms. And Constance has to decide whether she's willing to sustain something imperfect and alive. The Fig Tree in Winter (Book 2) shifts focus to Soren, the reformed demon who has been choosing — every morning, for three hundred years — to put his hands in the soil instead of through the wall. When a fallen angel moves onto the street carrying a cold that freezes gardens and silences wind chimes, Soren's quiet life on Meridian Lane faces its first real test. The Gate on Meridian Lane (Book 3) brings the series to its conclusion when three fallen angels arrive at the music school's open house and a charming new neighbor starts asking questions that sound reasonable and community-minded: are you sure you know who you've let in? The gate has always been open. Now the community has to decide whether it stays that way. The series is for readers who loved The House in the Cerulean Sea , Legends & Lattes , and Good Omens — cozy fantasy with warmth, wit, and the quiet argument that the most sacred thing in the universe might be an ordinary Tuesday on an ordinary street where people choose, daily, to take care of each other. A First-Time Novelist with a Story That's Been Building for Years Grace Notes marks Walker's debut in fiction, but storytelling is not new to her. As an author, executive coach, entrepreneur, and real estate professional based in Austin, Texas, Walker has spent years writing about resilience, faith, and building something that lasts. Her previous books — Her First Place (a homeownership guide for Black women), Daddy, I Have Cancer (a memoir of faith during illness), and My Daddy's DNA (an exploration of unconditional love) — share a common thread with the Grace Notes trilogy: the belief that ordinary acts of care, sustained over time, are how people build lives that matter. "I write cozy fantasy about broken people finding their way home," Walker says. "That's what all my work has been about, in one form or another — whether it's helping a first-time buyer find her house or writing about an angel who has to learn that showing up imperfectly, Tuesday after Tuesday, is enough." Release Details The Halcyon Days (Grace Notes, Book 1) — July 2026 The Fig Tree in Winter (Grace Notes, Book 2) — July 2026 The Gate on Meridian Lane (Grace Notes, Book 3) — July 2026 Coming Soon The Season Between – August 2026 Courage, Not Credentials – September 2026 Available in eBook, paperback, and hardcover on Amazon. Visit www.jrenewalker.com for more information. About J. René Walker J. René Walker writes cozy fantasy about broken people finding their way home. Grace Notes is her debut fiction series. She is also the author of Her First Place , Daddy, I Have Cancer , and My Daddy's DNA . Beyond writing, Walker is co-founder of Legacy Luxury Group and Walker Legacy Financial, and founder of the Her First Place Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to helping Black women navigate the path to homeownership. She lives in Austin, Texas. More information is available at www.jrenewalker.com . Additional information about her real estate practice is available at www.legacyluxurygroup.com , while financial services can be found at www.walkerlegacyfinancial.com . Her professional real estate profile is also available through Compass . Business inquiries may be directed to [email protected] .

July 17, 2026

Books & Literature

Meta's AI Backlash Raises a Chilling Question: Could AI Create the Perfect Crime?

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Christina McDonald Email: [email protected] Phone: +1 (202) 740-9088 Website: https://christina-mcdonald.com Meta's AI Backlash Raises a Chilling Question: Could AI Create the Perfect Crime? July 16, 2026 – Following public backlash, Meta recently rolled back its AI feature that allowed people to generate images from Instagram content. As debate grows over digital identity and consent, a new thriller, All The Lies We See , explores a chilling question: What happens when AI creates evidence more believable than reality? Written by bestselling author Christina McDonald, the newly released thriller explores timely questions about deepfakes, digital identity and what happens when people can no longer trust what they see. The book follows Detective Jess Lambert, who wakes in a hotel room with no memory of how she got there. On her phone is a viral video of her shooting a woman in cold blood. As the footage spreads and her own department closes in, Jess has no choice but to run. Someone has engineered her downfall, and the only way to clear her name is to uncover who’s turning her past into a weapon before the world decides the viral lie is more convincing than the truth. “I wrote this book after seeing how easily AI-generated content could blur the line between truth and deception,” says McDonald. “The story of Baltimore principal Eric Eiswert highlighted how damaging fabricated digital content can be, with devastating consequences. I wanted to explore what happens when seeing no longer means believing. The recent debate around Meta’s AI image features shows how quickly questions about privacy, consent and digital identity have become issues we are all now confronting. That’s the world All The Lies We See imagines, one where a convincing lie can destroy someone’s life.” All The Lies We See is the third novel in the bestselling Jess Lambert series, but can be read as a standalone. It is available now through Amazon and major online retailers. About the Author Christina McDonald is the award-winning, USA Today and Amazon Charts bestselling author of the Jess Lambert series and Do No Harm , Behind Every Lie and The Night Olivia Fell (Simon & Schuster), which has been optioned for television. Originally from Seattle, WA, Christina has an MA in Journalism from the National University of Ireland, Galway, and now lives in London with her husband, two sons, and their dog, Tango. For review copies, interview requests, podcasts, and other media enquiries contact [email protected]

July 16, 2026

Books & Literature

Kensington Publishing Creates New Buzz With The Revolutionary Healing Powers of Honey Revised Edition

Cal Orey’s expanded popular classic returns with fresh honeybee research, gripping and bittersweet survival stories, a new foreword, climate change discoveries and heart-healthy clean food recipes Kensington Publishing is swarming with excitement for the launch of the revised and updated edition of The Healing Powers of Honey: Revised and Updated, bringing buzzworthy data to Cal Orey’s newly revised edition of the #1 top hit to honey, honeybees, food traditions and the enduring power of nature’s golden nectar. The updated version gives readers a fresh, timely and expanded look at honey at a moment when food, wellness, Earth’s wake-up calls, resilience and everyday health choices are more connected than ever. The book will be available worldwide Aug. 25, 2026. More than a simple update, the revised edition reopens the hive with new research, new reporting, and a more personal storytelling vibe from Orey. The book explores why honey continues to fascinate readers, home cooks and wellness-minded consumers as interest grows in minimally processed foods, natural sweeteners and alternatives to refined sugar. The revised edition also arrives during a period of renewed attention around honey’s place in the modern pantry. During and after the COVID-19 pandemic, many consumers gave new attention to shelf-stable foods, traditional kitchen staples and ingredients with long cultural histories. Orey examines honey’s reputation among some beekeepers and consumers dubbing honey as an “apocalyptic food,” a phrase tied to its long shelf life, ancient immunity-boosting use and continued relevance in uncertain times. A major new focus of the book is the relationship between vanishing honeybees, climate chaos and the human food chain. Orey looks at how extreme weather, wildfires, shifting seasonal patterns and environmental stress may affect honeybee survival, pollination and the superfoods people rely on every day, including fruits, nuts and other bee-pollinated crops. The updated edition also adds a more adventurous and deeply personal layer. Orey shares up close and personal stories connected to rare blizzard conditions in Tahoe, a NASCAR driver life-threatening event, wildfire danger and the race against time, and a near-death experience that influenced her renewed focus on resilience, food choices and Mediterranean-style living—including the wonders of honey. New recipes give the revised edition additional flavor. The book includes heart-conscious, lower-sugar dishes with honey twists, including Hot Honey Glazed Turkey Loaf and Turmeric Honey Immunity Booster . Orey also explores the growing popularity of Manuka honey and hot honey from the hive. The book also features a new foreword by Jonny Bowden, Ph.D., author of The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth . The Healing Powers of Honey: Revised and Updated is a definitive “waggle-worthy” must-have read blending food writing, wellness history, honeybee reporting, recipes, research and captivating first-person storytelling into a lively new edition designed for readers interested in natural foods, and the changing role of remarkable honey in modern life. Health and Wellness Information Notice This release is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical, nutritional, dietary, therapeutic or health advice. The book discusses honey, honeybees, recipes, wellness traditions, research, food history and personal experiences for general educational purposes. No statement in this release should be interpreted as a claim that honey or any food product can diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease, viruses, infections or medical conditions. Readers should consult qualified healthcare professionals before making health, dietary or wellness decisions. About the Book The Healing Powers of Honey: Revised and Updated Subtitle: A Complete Guide to Nature’s Remarkable Nectar Author: Cal Orey Foreword by Jonny Bowden, Ph.D., author of The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth Publisher: Kensington Publishing, Citadel Series: Healing Powers #4 Publication Date: Aug. 25, 2026 ISBN: 9780806545721 Pages: 352 Category: Health & Fitness / Naturopathy Book Page: https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/shop/the-healing-powers-of-honey-revised-and-updated/?v=0b3b97fa6688 About Cal Orey Cal Orey, M.A., is a bestselling journalist and author, on-air personality and author of the Healing Powers series. She holds a master’s degree in English from San Francisco State University and has written for national and international publications for more than three decades, focusing on health, nutrition, food and science.

July 16, 2026

Books & Literature

Author Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr. Marks Book Launch With The Stewardship Standard for Club Executives

Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr. has published The Stewardship Standard: A Hospitality Operating System for Private Golf Clubs , a practical playbook aimed at helping club leaders build organizational culture, uphold operational standards, and plan for institutional continuity beyond their own tenure. The book merges what its subtitle describes as corporate intelligence, operational excellence, and intentional hospitality into a single applied framework. Photo Courtesy of Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr. Gibson is a business executive and operations leader whose career spans automotive management, golf operations, and resort leadership. He currently serves as General Manager at Marietta Motors and Westfall Towing, and has held golf and hospitality leadership roles, including Senior Director of Operations, Resort Operations Manager, and Head Golf Professional with National Golf Management Group, as well as General Manager and Head Pro at the Golf Club of South Carolina at Crickentree. Earlier in his career, he served as a Military Intelligence Analyst in the United States Army, an experience he has said continues to shape his analytical and strategic approach to leadership. Structured across eight chapters and sixty-three modules, the book moves from foundational philosophy into direct application before closing with a focus on legacy and succession. Chapters four through six address leading culture, stewarding people, and stewarding excellence, covering topics such as vision, trust, accountability, dignity, mentorship, standards, consistency, and continuous improvement. In a foreword to the book, James Mitchell Harrison, former President of the Club Management Association of America, wrote that "the eight chapters and sixty-three modules provide club professionals, general managers, board members, and emerging leaders with tools they can implement immediately, while also challenging them to think beyond their tenure." Harrison added that this balance "between the urgent and the important, between today's operations and tomorrow's opportunities, represents the essence of stewardship itself." Gibson said the book was written to address a gap he repeatedly observed during his career in golf and hospitality: leaders who are operationally skilled but lack a broader framework for building lasting culture. "One pattern kept showing up over and over," Gibson said. "The organizations that lasted, the ones that built fierce loyalty across multiple generations, were being led by people who saw themselves as custodians of something bigger than themselves." The book's final chapters, covering the stewardship of legacy and the steward's calling, address succession planning, institutional memory, and generational leadership, positioning these topics as practical extensions of the operational material introduced earlier. In his foreword, Harrison frames the book's central challenge to club leaders directly: "The question is not whether your club needs stewardship. The question is whether you are ready to become a steward." Gibson said the book's broader aim is to shift how club leaders see their roles altogether. "What we lead does not belong to us," Gibson said. "We are temporary custodians of institutions shaped by previous generations and destined to serve future ones." The Stewardship Standard is available now on Amazon and Kindle. Visit Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr.'s website to learn more about The Stewardship Standard. About Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr. Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr. holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Virginia College and multiple associate degrees from the Golf Academy of America, specializing in golf operations, turf management, and teaching and player development. He is also active in community mentorship through organizations, including Celebrate Recovery and the First Tee Golf Program.

July 16, 2026

Books & Literature

Shalisa James Releases Audiobook Edition of ‘Three Years Left’

Shalisa James will release the audiobook edition of “ Three Years Left: Adventures in Music, Travel, Faith, and Terminal Cancer ” on July 20, bringing her memoir to streaming platforms in a format narrated in her own voice. Photo courtesy: Shalisa James Originally released earlier this year, “Three Years Left” shares James’ story of facing terminal cancer with courage, humor and faith while continuing to live, work and create through life-altering change. The upcoming audiobook offers listeners a more direct connection to that story, allowing them to hear the memoir as James herself tells it. At the heart of “Three Years Left” is a perspective shaped not only by hardship, but by the decision to remain fully present within it. Rather than allowing diagnosis to become the sole definition of her life, James frames the story around identity, resilience, faith and the determination to keep moving forward. James brings a natural authority to the audiobook format. An award-winning vocalist, musician, speaker and show producer, she has built her career in performance and public-facing creative work. Her vocal performances have been nominated for a Grammy and an Emmy, and the off-Broadway show she helped create with Toxic Audio won the Drama Desk Award in New York City. That background gives added resonance to her narration of Three Years Left. She and her husband, Jeremy, produce shows through Entertainment Central Productions, with collaborations that include Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Universal Hollywood, Dolly Parton, J.K. Rowling and Jimmy Fallon. That creative history places the memoir within a life shaped by performance, connection and continued movement, all of which come through powerfully in an author-narrated recording. The book has continued to gain recognition since its release. In April 2026, “Three Years Left” received an International Impact Book Award for nonfiction. The audiobook release marks the next chapter in the memoir’s reach and offers audiences a new way to experience James’ story. Readers can find “Three Years Left” through major online booksellers, including Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and in stores at Books-A-Million and Hudson News. More information is available at www.shalisajames.com. About Shalisa James Shalisa James is an award-winning vocalist, musician, speaker, and show producer. Her vocal performances have been nominated for a Grammy and an Emmy, and her off-Broadway show she helped create with Toxic Audio won the Drama Desk Award in NYC. Shalisa resides in Orlando, Florida with her husband Jeremy. Together, they produce shows with their company, Entertainment Central Productions. They have collaborated with Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Universal Hollywood, along with Dolly Parton, JK Rowling, and Jimmy Fallon, to create shows audiences enjoy every day. Her three adult children are Ashley, a doctor who lives in Miami with her husband Scott, and her LA-based boys: Julian, an actor and musician, and Jason, a screenwriter and content creator.

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