Fireworks Are No Fun for Pets, Tips to Help Protect Pets this July 4th

 

Guardians of Rescue is offering helpful tips to protect pets as people celebrate this Independence Day

 

SMITHTOWN, New York – (June 30, 2023) –Millions of people will be having a great time this July 4^th as they celebrate the country's Independence Day. The day will be spent with many people engaging in backyard barbecues, parties, pools, and fireworks. Meanwhile, the festivities will not be such a blast for pets. More pets go missing over this holiday weekend than any other time of the year, because they run out of fear.  Most pets find the celebration distressing, and it can lead to dangerous situations. The good news is that plenty of things can be done to help minimize the dangers and keep pets more comfortable during the celebrations.

 

“July 4^th is a day that many people worry about due to the stress that it brings to their pets,” explains Robert Misseri, co-founder of Guardians of Rescue. "The more you can plan now, the better protected your pet will be when the fireworks start."

 

The noises, smells, and sights of July 4^th fireworks and celebrations can be tormenting for pets. Some things can be done to help minimize the impact and keep them more comfortable throughout the festivities, whether during the day or in the evening when the sky lights up with fireworks. Days and nights of random fireworks and firecrackers can stress out even the calmest pet. 

 

Here are some ways to help protect pets this July 4^th:

 

• Keep them cooler. During daytime events, avoid taking your dog with you. It sounds like it would be fun to take them, but they don't sweat, so they can't cool themselves the way humans do. It can be easy for a dog to overheat at picnics or family barbeques. Heavy panting, drooling, or labored breathing are signs of heat exhaustion. Brachycephalic pets (i.e., pugs, bulldogs, etc.) are more at risk of overheating and should always be closely monitored all summer. Always remember that pets should never be left in the car, even with the windows down. The vehicle heats up quickly and the situation can be deadly.
• Skip the crowds. Taking dogs to events with groups can lead to problems. They can become overwhelmed by large crowds, unfamiliar people, and loud kids. Alcohol can exacerbate human behavior that stresses dogs out, and human food the dog is not used to is easily accessible, as is citronella and other products that dogs need to be monitored around. Remember, some foods are toxic for dogs, such as grapes, onions, and garlic, and a non-pet-owning guest may offer one of these items to your pet, unknowingly creating a medical emergency.
• Crate for safety. If you're having this year's party, confine or crate your dog away from the noise and activity. Even if your dog is used to going to the bathroom in the backyard where the guests might be, consider taking them on a nice walk to give him a break from confinement. And let's be honest, you could probably use a few minutes of alone time away from your guests! Keeping your dog in the house is a significant first step, but it's more ideal to have your pet behind a barrier when people are coming in and out of the house. This helps ensure your pet doesn't have the opportunity to dart outside and get loose.
• Prepare for fireworks. Give your dog a last walk before dark. Ideally, find an interior room your pet is used to and make sure his bed, toys, water, etc., are with him as any other comfort items he might have. Consider leaving a radio with soothing music playing or a white noise machine to mask the sounds of fireworks.
• Consider supplements. A wide assortment of calming supplements and chews, pheromone diffusers, and anxiety vests like Thundershirts can help soothe a stressed-out pet. Planning is necessary if your pet has a history of severe anxiety or stress. Your pet may need a prescription for anti-anxiety medication, and consider working on desensitization and behavior modification with a trainer for next year.
• Get registered. Even with all the precautions, sometimes accidents happen. This is the perfect time to ensure your pet is microchipped and the chip is registered. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for registration. Also, make sure your dog is wearing a collar and tag with your phone number on the tag. Ensure you have clear pictures of your pet at the ready in case your pet goes missing. These are helpful for social media posts and for reporting to the local shelter or animal control officer.

 

“Remember, with a little advanced planning, your pets can remain safe and happy during this upcoming holiday,” added Misseri.

 

Guardians of Rescue help military members to be reunited with their rescued pets with the help of animal lovers everywhere. They provide various services to help save animals, reunite people and pets, investigate animal cruelty cases, and offer disaster response assistance, such as in the aftermath of hurricanes. Their work has impacted people and animals around the world. They can only continue their work through the generosity of those who donate to support the cause. To get more information or make a donation, visit the site at:www.guardiansofrescue.org.

 

About Guardians of Rescue

Headquartered in New York, Guardians of Rescue is an organization whose mission is to protect the well-being of all animals. It provides aid to animals in distress, including rehabilitation, assisting other rescue groups, and supporting families, both military and not, who need assistance due to economic factors. To learn more about Guardians of Rescue, visit the site at www.guardiansofrescue.org.

 

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DISNEY+ TO RELEASE NEW SING-ALONG VERSION OF “HAMILTON” TOMORROW, FRIDAY, JUNE 30

WHAT TIME IS IT? SHOW TIME!

DISNEY+ TO RELEASE NEW SING-ALONG VERSION

OF “HAMILTON” TOMORROW, FRIDAY, JUNE 30

 

Fans Can ‘Take a Shot’ at the Most Complicated Verses from the

Musical While Watching the “Hamilton Sing-Along”

Tomorrow there’ll be more of “Hamilton!” Disney+ is releasing a new sing-along version of the revolutionary musical on Friday, June 30, just in time for Fourth of July weekend. This week also marks the three-year anniversary of “Hamilton’s” debut on Disney+. In celebration, fans can take a shot at the most complicated verses from the musical by following along with the on-screen lyrics as they watch the film.

The filmed version of the original Broadway production of the 11-time-Tony Award®-, GRAMMY Award®-, Olivier Award- and Pulitzer Prize-winning stage musical “Hamilton'' was brought to homes around the world July 3, 2020 when it premiered on Disney+. Filmed at The Richard Rodgers Theatre on Broadway in June of 2016, “Hamilton” features Tony Award winners Lin-Manuel Miranda as Alexander Hamilton; Daveed Diggs as Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson; Renée Elise Goldsberry as Angelica Schuyler; Leslie Odom, Jr. as Aaron Burr; Tony Award nominees Christopher Jackson as George Washington; Jonathan Groff as King George; Phillipa Soo as Eliza Hamilton; and Jasmine Cephas Jones as Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds; Okieriete Onaodowan as Hercules Mulligan/James Madison; and Anthony Ramos as John Laurens/Philip Hamilton.

 

The cast also includes Carleigh Bettiol, Ariana DeBose, Hope Easterbrook, Sydney James Harcourt, Sasha Hutchings, Thayne Jasperson, Elizabeth Judd, Jon Rua, Austin Smith, Seth Stewart and Ephraim Sykes.

 

A special look at the “Hamilton Sing-Along” is available here: https://youtu.be/bjMFebB2Coo

 

Disney+ subscribers can also check out the Sing-Along collection, which features sing-along versions of many fan-favorite musicals, including “Encanto,” “Frozen,” Beauty and the Beast,” “Moana,” “Into the Woods,” and more. Explore the Sing-Along collection here: https://www.disneyplus.com/editorial/sing-alongs 

 

Twitter: @DisneyPlus

Instagram: @DisneyPlus

Facebook: @DisneyPlus

TikTok: @DisneyPlus 

Hashtag: #DisneyPlus

 

ABOUT DISNEY+ 

Disney+ is the dedicated streaming home for movies and shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic, along with The Simpsons and much more. In select international markets, it also includes the general entertainment content brand, Star. The flagship direct-to-consumer streaming service from The Walt Disney Company, Disney+ offers an ever-growing collection of exclusive originals, including feature-length films, documentaries, live-action and animated series, and short-form content. With unprecedented access to Disney’s long history of incredible film and television entertainment, Disney+ is also the exclusive streaming home for the newest releases from The Walt Disney Studios. Disney+ is available as a standalone streaming service, as part of the Disney Bundle in the U.S. that gives subscribers access to Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, or as part of Combo+ in Latin America with Star+, the standalone general entertainment and sports streaming service in the region. For more, visit disneyplus.com, or find the Disney+ app on most mobile and connected TV devices.

The Trench - No Megalodons Were Harmed in the Making of MEG-2

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

No Megalodons Were Harmed in the Making of This Movie

 

West Palm Beach, FL, June 26, 2023 —Steve Alten’s preoccupation with prehistoric sea creatures opened up an underwater world of creative possibilities for the New York Times bestselling author, spawning his legendary MEG series and the 2018 blockbuster movie, THE MEG. And now, fans of frightening shark tales have another reason to celebrate: the big screen sequel, MEG-2: The Trench, hits theaters in August, and moviegoers won’t believe the array of aquatic horrors that surface this time around. 

 

“Anything could be down there. We simply have no idea,” Alten said in a recent interview, referring to the Marianna Trench where his prehistoric marine life muses lurk.

 

Coinciding with the buzz surrounding the movie release is Alten’s announcement of his seven-volume collector’s edition set, appropriately titled MEG: Legacy. Each (faux) leather-bound book contains one of the six (soon-to-be seven) MEG novels, plus one of the six comics that make up MEG: The Graphic Novel. The prequel, MEG: Origins, has been woven into the first book to create a new 25^th anniversary edition. Other features and bonuses include two never-before-released MEG: Angel of Death novellas, new MEG artwork, photos and commentary from the author. 

 

“MEG: Legacy is my gift to my most dedicated readers, the ‘MEGheads,’” Alten said. “Only 5,000 sets are being printed, and they won’t be sold in stores or on Amazon — only on my website, SteveAlten.com.”

 

Fans can pre-order each book individually, or pre-order the entire seven-volume set. Part of the proceeds from MEG: Legacy are being donated to support an innovative cancer protocol. Alten himself was recently diagnosed with kidney cancer and is undergoing treatment.

 

About the Author

Steve Alten is the bestselling author of 18 thrillers, including the MEG series. His first novel, MEG, published in 1997, launched the free teen reading program, Adopt-an-Author, and was adapted for the big screen and hit No. 1 at the box office in August of 2018. The sequel, MEG-2: The TRENCH, debuts in movie theaters this August.

 

 

MEG: Legacy, from A&M Publishing, is available only at www.stevealten.com.

 

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Five Tips for Moms Returning to Work After Maternity Leave

Going back into the workplace after having a baby can be a daunting prospect. Your life has changed completely and yet you are expected to go back to your old normal. If you are nervous about returning to work, these tips can help.

Be Honest

Most workplaces want their staff to be happy – after all, happy staff are more productive. When you meet with your boss prior to returning to work, tell them how you feel. Be honest about any concerns you have about slotting back into the team or nerves relating to leaving your baby. There may not be anything they can do to help, but if they are aware, you may benefit from their support and understanding.

Plan Quality Time

When you return to work after spending all day every day with your baby, it can feel as though your job is stealing quality family time. Try to plan ways to make the most of the time you do get to spend together. This doesn’t always mean endless baby groups or trips to the park; it could be something as simple as putting up a paddling pool and splashing in the garden. What matters is that you realise you can still have fun and make precious memories.

Organisation is Key

Being prepared takes on a whole new meaning when you have children, especially when you return to work. A family calendar can be a useful way to know who needs to be where and when and stops you forgetting important birthdays, appointments, and events. Keep a list in your phone of things you need to do that you can refer to easily – include things you need to buy at the supermarket (no one wants to run out of nappies!) and any tasks such as paying bills. Preparing for the next day before you go to sleep is also beneficial, so pack bags with lunches and other necessities for you and baby, lay out clothes ready for the morning and check the calendar so you know exactly what your day entails.

Know Your Limits

After having a child, you undergo physical and emotional changes. What you previously enjoyed and thrived on may no longer excite you and a commute that was previously chillout time can feel like wasted hours. If you find your current job, workplace or shift pattern doesn’t fit in with family life, don’t be disheartened. Remote working is increasingly popular, so this could be an option for you depending on your sector and, if there is no alternative, there are other jobs out there.

Talk About Your Needs with a Parent Coach

If you are struggling, a parenting coach may be able to help you adjust to this next phase in your life. Parent coaching can increase your confidence and help you see more clearly what is needed for you and your family and parent coaching from a reputable company such as The People Practice Group will be tailored to your needs. Coaching parent and family groups is their expertise and can benefit all areas of your life.

It is normal to feel overwhelmed, reluctant, excited or any other emotion about returning to work after maternity leave. Be gentle with yourself and remember, you and your baby are the priority.

Danger Is Rising - The Flood - A Review

 

https://youtu.be/xx5sYS0pHJg

The Flood is a 2023

Directed by Brandon Slagle (Arena Wars; Attack of the Unknown; The Dawn; Crossbreed; House of Manson; Dead Sea) from a screenplay written by Chad Law and Josh Ridgway. Produced by Daemon Hillin.

The movie stars Casper Van Dien (The Most Dangerous Game; Assailant; Dead Water; Alpha Wolf; Starship Troopers), Nicky Whelan (Maneater; Tragedy Girls), Louis Mandylor, Devanny Pinn, Randy Wayne, Kim DeLonghi, Ryan Francis, Mike Ferguson, Eoin O’Brien and Randall J. Bacon.

Cast and characters:
Casper Van Dien … Russell Cody
Nicky Whelan … Sheriff Jo Newman
Louis Mandylor … Rafe Calderon
Devanny Pinn … Sommer Edward
Randy Wayne … Dale Elkins
Kim DeLonghi … Eva Carter
Ryan Francis … Jay Stamper
Mike Ferguson … Floyd McGraw
Eoin O’Brien … ‘Big Jim’ Pruett
Randall J. Bacon … Jonathan ‘Jox’ Apone
Bear Williams … Angelo Cooper
Alex Farnham … Nate Hudson
Kelly B. Jones … Newscaster
Jonathan Samson … Deputy Markus Pine
Alexander Winters … Deputy Whitlock
John Garrett Mahlmeister … Clarence Edward
Luis Nava … Omar Vasquez

This morning I watched The Flood staring Casper Van Dien From Starship Troopers. 

Casper (Mad Heidi) plays one of 5 convicts being transported but have to stop due to a dangerous storm. They end up in a jail run by a woman. Some of Casper’s “old friends” are planning a jailbreak which he knows nothing about. That’s not the movie…what is the movie?  Well that would be the huge crocodiles who have entered the storm drains and are waiting inside the jail as the waters rise making these huge dinosaurs hard to see. 

I love horror movies. Was it scary? No! It was fun though. I found myself rooting for the alligators when it came to some of these convicts. 

What I loved:

The camera angles. The sounds of the beasts as they came up on our characters. The opening credits. Yeah….boys! Good job! I loved the way they introduced our convicts!  A pretty kick ass lead female I also loved the death rolls! It was everything I enjoy in my movies. 

5 Benefits of Reading Books That Teach Important Life Lessons For Children

Reading to your children is a great way to build a bond and open communication. It also helps kids develop essential life skills they will use.

Fiction books open a new world to children, encouraging their imaginations while developing their language skills. Parents can even encourage discussion about the story to help children connect the book with their experiences.

It's Fun

Reading is one of the most engaging activities for children. They are often engrossed in the story and can become so immersed that they forget about everything else around them.

Reading also allows them to learn about things that they don't know. For example, they might come across words they have never heard before and be able to look them up in the dictionary. This helps improve their vocabulary and comprehension skills.

It can also open the door to their imaginations. When kids can imagine themselves in the places they read about, they're more likely to dream bigger and act creatively, which will benefit them. Books like Doctorooare beautiful examples of teaching kids about sharing and patience.

It's Interactive

Reading to children provides an essential introduction to the beauty of language and literacy within a safe space. It teaches them that stories are a powerful tool for achieving lifelong success.

Young children accustomed to expressing themselves with tantrums and gestures must learn that their words are the best communication method. This book teaches them they are still lovable even when they make mistakes.

This interactive book allows kids to follow through their day and see how their choices shape their days and lives into what they will become. It also demonstrates that sharing is an essential social skill. Kids also learn the difference between "book" language, which differs from speech and everyday conversation, as they answer carefully crafted questions about the storyline.

It Strengthens Brain Connections

Reading books that teach essential life lessons to children helps children learn more about themselves, other people, and the world. It also helps kids develop empathy for others and allows them to explore sensitive subjects such as death, divorce, and racism through stories.

Reading also increases a child's vocabulary. Though they might not realize it, children unconsciously absorb the words they read, which improves their writing skills as well.

Reading also stimulates a child's imagination. As a result, they are more likely to dream bigger and think creatively in their daily lives. Moreover, when they read regularly, they learn how to concentrate. They may squirm at first, but eventually, they will become accustomed to sitting quietly and listening for the book's duration.

It Builds Attention

Parents often hear that reading to kids helps them learn to read, but it does much more than that. This reports that children who read regularly develop better language skills and communication abilities.

Books also encourage creativity that isn't always possible with watching TV or movies. They allow kids to explore their imaginations while learning about dinosaurs, airplanes, or other exciting topics.

Children surrounded by books can focus more easily on schoolwork, which is critical for their success at all levels. They grow into adults who love reading for fun, business, or knowledge. The ability to focus is also vital to a good night's sleep.

It's Good for the Whole Family

Reading books out loud to children is more than just a fun family activity. It can also help them learn valuable life lessons.

Children who are read have much larger vocabularies than children who are not. They also develop specialized jargon when they begin to read about their interests, which gives them an intellectual edge at school.

They can also develop a vivid imagination, which is essential for creativity and emotional well-being. Having a solid family reading tradition helps children to feel loved and cared for and can teach them about the importance of commitment.

Many adults recall the traditions of sharing a book at bedtime with their parents or siblings fondly. Try creating your family book tradition, such as reading a beloved poem or counting kisses before bedtime.

Calling All Horror Fans - Aged Released Tomorrow June 15th - REVIEW 5* A MUST SEE

 

Highly anticipated horror-thriller AGED, written and directed by Anubys Lopez (THOSE WHO CALL), will be released June 15 on digital platforms.

After taking a temporary job as a caregiver, a young woman realizes her employer and the house have a dangerous, dark past.

Morgan Boss-Maltais, Carla Kidd, Dave McClain, Bria D'Aguanno, Adonis Ringo, Kelly Kidd, Lisa Alavi, and Kristin Henderson star.



 

On VOD (Amazon Prime, Tubi) June 15

Review

I just finished Aged and have to tell you that I had to turn the light on in my bedroom. There hasn’t been a movie that made me look over my shoulder in the darkening bedroom in a long time. 

A young woman takes the job of a caregiver to a wheelchair bound woman but when she starts waking with bruises on her arms and starts hallucinating she realizes there is more to this job and nothing is what it seems.

I loved the use of shadows, music and angles. The shots in the house and the porch made me uncomfortable yet wish I lived there. I wanted to run yet move in! Cinematography was amazing and the acting was on point. Morgan as Veronica was the perfect trusting ingenue. Her vulnerability forces us to care about her as an actress and as the character. Carla Kidd as the wheelchair bound antagonist made me feel sorry for her one moment and hate her the next. She was perfect. 

Definitely an icky creep factor and one jump scare that I didn’t expect. This is a must see!

Trailer:

 

A Father’s Love - What Makes A Year?

HBO DOCUMENTARY FILMS’ OSCAR NOMINATED SHORT HOW DO YOU MEASURE A YEAR? DEBUTS JUNE 14

• Oscar®-nominated HBO Documentary short HOW DO YOU MEASURE A YEAR?, from longtime HBO collaborator Jay Rosenblatt (HBO’s Oscar®-nominated “When We Were Bullies,” “Phantom Limb,” “The Darkness of Day,” “Human Remains”), debuts WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14 (9:00 p.m. ET/PT) on HBO and will be available to stream on Max, in celebration of Father’s Day.

• Synopsis: For 17 years, filmmaker Jay Rosenblatt filmed his daughter Ella on her birthday in the same spot, asking her the same questions. In just 29 minutes, we watch her grow from a toddler to a young woman with all the beautiful and sometimes awkward stages in between. Each phase is captured fleetingly but makes an indelible mark. Her responses to her father’s questions are just a backdrop for a deeper story of parental love, acceptance, and ultimately, independence.  

• Credits: Locomotion Films presents a film by Jay Rosenblatt; featuring, Ella Rosenblatt; producer, director, editor, Jay Rosenblatt; cinematography, Thomas Logoreci, Jay Rosenblatt.

Well This Looks Horrifying! Flood! Coming in July!

 

TITLE:  THE FLOOD
IN THEATERS: July 14, 2023
ON DIGITAL AND ON DEMAND: July 14, 2023
DIRECTOR:  Brandon Slagle
WRITERS: Chad Law, Josh Ridgway
CAST: Casper Van Dien, Nicky Whelan, Louis Mandylor 
SYNOPSIS:  A horde of giant hungry alligators is unleashed on a group of in-transit prisoners and their guards after a massive hurricane floods Louisiana.  
RUN TIME: 91 Minutes
RATING: R
GENRE: Action, Thriller
DISTRIBUTOR: Saban Films

My Day With Toddlers

6:30 – 7:00 a.m. • Wakes up, diaper change, sippy with milk (warmed 40 seconds in the microwave) and vitamin, take pacifier. He will usually hand it over when you offer the sippy. The pacifier needs to go away until nap so he doesn’t see it.
• Channel 13 – SESAME STREET
8:00 – 9:00 a.m • Breakfast can be: cheerios, banana or eggs with cheese and bread or anything else you want to make. I usually have a sippy with water out for him at all times.
• Brush his teeth. His tooth brush and paste are in the blue bin on the counter. He doesn’t love his teeth brushed. Let him do it himself and then take over.
9:00 a.m. • Channel 31 – THE WIGGLES – This will give you a half hour of peace. Believe me!
9:30 a.m. • Jesse’s clothes are hanging in his closet.
• His socks are in the bottom drawer of his crib dresser.
• Shoes are not needed unless he is going out.
• Offer a snack, it can be cheese sticks or ham, cheese crackers, Finger Foods in the pantry on the 4th shelf in the pantry
10:30 or 11:00 a.m. • Lunch can be – Ham, mac and cheese (try to put some mixed veggies in it from the freezer), bread, chicken fingers, fries, or anything else you feel like making.
• Jesse will probably bring his sippy to you for milk.
11:45 - 1:00 pm • Nap time – Jesse needs his pacifier and his blue blanket.
• He will lie on the couch with a pillow and you can keep the TV on. He is not used to sleeping with quiet.
• If you lie down with him he will fall asleep faster. If you leave the couch just put a pillow next to him so he doesn’t roll off.
• If you want you can move him to his crib but he sleeps longer on the couch.
2:00 – 3:30 • Don’t let him sleep longer than 2 hours or bed time will be difficult.
• He will sleep anywhere from 1- 2.5 hours if left to his own devices
When he wakes from his nap • Offer a sippy with milk. TAKE PACIFER. He will usually hand it to you when you hand him the sippy.
• You can again offer some kind of small snack.
4:30 – 5:30 • Sometime around this time is a good time for dinner. Dinner can be anything you make but what he mostly likes is, mac and cheese, chicken cutlets, fries, chicken fingers, meatloaf, ham, and try if possible to get some veggies in there.
7:00 – 7:30 • Around this time is a good time for PJ’s it lets him know that bedtime is around the corner. PJ’s are in the third drawer of his crib. Face wash, hand wash and brush teeth if possible. Jesse gets a bath every fourth day because of his eczema. If giving a bath he needs to be moisturized big time The TV and the kitchen light can be on. This lets him know that bedtime is fast approaching
8:00 –8:30 pm • There are no toys taken from the toy chest after 8:00 pm
• BEDTIME
• Jesse listens to music when going to sleep. The CD player in his room just needs to be turned on. He might do this himself for you.
• The lamp on the bookshelf should be on and the overhead light off.
• He will of course need his blanket and pacifier.
• When you leave the room just flip the switch of the camera towards the wall to turn it on. It is all set to go.
• The monitor for the camera is in the dining room on the table. You can put it on the half wall or floor so that you can go about your business while keeping an eye on Jesse. PARTY!