KINDNESS DIARIES Acts of Kindness Making Comeback

Posted on April 4, 2017 by Brian Alan Burhoe

Acts of Kindness making a Comeback…

Spirit bears acts of kindness

Trending Netflix Show, The Kindness Diaries, Surely Confirms that Kindness is Making a Comeback!

“Former broker Leon Logothetis travels the world with only a vintage motorbike and the kindness of strangers, which he pays back in unexpected and life changing ways.”

 

KINDNESS DIARIES Acts of Kindness Making Comeback

Is Kindness Making a Comeback?

In his wonderful book THE KINDNESS DIARIES: One Man’s Quest to Ignite Good Will and Transform Lives Around the World, author Leon Logothetis writes, just a few pages in:

“…and then I saw him.  He was sitting by an over-packed grocery cart with a dirty baseball cap on his head, torn jeans, and a grime-stained face.  But in his hands, the homeless man held a sign that stopped me dead in my tracks…

“It said, KINDNESS IS THE BEST MEDICINE.”

And so began Leon’s journey of the soul of “connecting with people through the language of kindness.”

It’s a purely heartfelt journey.  Dangerous.  Frightening.  Exciting.  Fulfilling.  Moments of human connection that celebrates us at our best.  In this book, Leon takes us into unknown places in our world, sometimes ordinary, sometimes squalid, and introduces us to men, women and children worth knowing.

It’s a journey that touches the heart.

And now the book’s been adapted to Netflix.

“KINDNESS DIARIES Now on Netflix!”

The news about the video adaptation came out through PR Newswire in February: “Leon Logothetis, global adventurer, motivational speaker, philanthropist, author and host of National Geographic’s hit series ‘Amazing Adventures of a Nobody,’ announces the streaming version of his best-selling book THE KINDNESS DIARIES on Netflix.”

The press release continued, “In this 13-part series, Logothetis lives his mission of giving back to those who gave of themselves — be prepared to be truly awed and inspired.”

Who is Leon Logothetis and why does he have a Netflix show? What is his story and why is it significant?

Logothetis had it all — prestigious job, money, a home, a beautiful girlfriend and a friendly dog. But he traded it all in to live his dreams.

His inner rebel, the part of him that yearns to follow his dreams, once again wanted to feel the magic of the human experience by connecting with people through the language of kindness. This is what prompted him to travel the world relying solely on the kindness and generosity of strangers. And now, he is giving back.

“I have always had a passion for interacting with people,” explained Logothetis.

“I love the camaraderie of making new friends and helping those that are deserving, and I treasure the adventure of travel.”

On the video version, you can watch Leon’s travels around the world on his yellow motorbike Kindness One.

He relies entirely on the kindness of strangers and give back to unsuspecting good Samaritans along the way.

During the trip, Leon discovers that being ‘seen’ is the most powerful gift people can give others.

The show is about sharing compassion and empathy with others. It’s about smiling at the world and seeing what happens when the world smiles right back at you.

During his six-month global adventure, Leon traveled to 20 countries with no food or pre-planned accommodations.

Leon discovered that people are so open to helping those in need; all one must do is open their heart.

For example, in Pittsburgh, he met a homeless man named Tony who had nothing but a bag of clothes. He took Leon in, fed him, gave him a place to stay and protected him through the night. The experience will forever live in Leon’s heart. If a man with nothing could give so much from his heart how could he ever repay him? You’ll have to watch the show to find out!

“We hear about all the negative things happening out there,” said Leon
“But there is so much kindness out there as well that we don’t ever hear about.”

The Kindness Diaries Netflix series “proves that the magic of kindness is what makes the world go around and that kindness never goes out of style. It demonstrates that true wealth is in our hearts, not in our wallets.”

The Kindness Diaries Netflix series shows you how Leon gave back to those who have little or nothing and have made sacrifices to help a neighbor, friend or the community.

The Kindness Diaries not only lends support and hope to those that are deserving and in need, but it also gives them back something far more valuable — that feel-good disposition and rewarding self-esteem. The series will lift your spirits and bring you hope — maybe even inspire you to perform small acts of kindness that may literally change someone’s life.

About Leon Logothetis:

Leon Logothetis is no stranger to wild journeys and outrageous globe-trotting exploits. Once a broker at a prestigious firm in London, Logothetis boldly quit his job one day after discovering his thirst for exploration had become too much to contain.
On his first journey, as host of the hit National Geographic series “Amazing Adventures of a Nobody,” Logothetis had to beg, borrow, and charm his way across the United States, England, and the European continent while traveling on only $5 a day.

Since then, Logothetis has become a world-renowned travel expert and TV host, featured in the New York Times, London Times, Wall Street Journal, Budget Travel, Psychology Today, The Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, LA Times, and others.

His books, AMAZING ADVENTURES OF A NOBODY, as well as THE KINDNESS DIARIES, his short E-book THE MOJO DIARIES: How a Dangerous and Hilarious Journey Changed Everything and his newest book, LIVE, LOVE, EXPLORE: Discover the Way of the Traveler a Roadmap to the Life You Were Meant to Live (Reader’s Digest, December 2016), are available now. For more information visit: www.leonlogothetis.com.

IS Kindness making a Comeback?

It never left, of course.

The real point is that our mass media have concentrated on the darkness and the madness of the world.  TV News thrives on it.  Somewhere in there (I’m not sure when) our news outlets even began adding Music to it’s coverages.  Deep, throbbing musical scores — just as they go to commercial — playing against the overheated collages of destruction, flashing police lights and crowds of panicked civilians running away in terror.

This has gone on for so long that we’ve almost forgotten everything else.

So Leon Logothetis’ books and videos almost surprise us with their  heartwarming stories and images.  Even though they are so fundamentally Human.

“Live Free, Mon Ami!” – Brian Alan Burhoe

 

Did you like this video & book review?

lone-wolf-story

IF SO, YOU’LL LOVE WOLFBLOOD — MY MOST POPULAR ANIMAL STORY:

“I JUST READ WOLFBLOOD AGAIN FOR GOOD MEASURE.  ONE FOR ANY WOLF LOVER.  ENJOYED IT BUT WISH IT WAS A FULL LENGTH NOVEL.” – Gina Chronowicz @ginachron

“GREAT SHORT STORY!  DOES REMIND ME OF CALL OF THE WILD, WHITE FANG…” – Evelyn @evelyn_m_k

WOLFBLOOD, a Rousing Northlands Tale of Love and Hard Choices in the Jack London Tradition, FREE TO READ ==>  WOLFBLOOD: A Wild Wolf, A Half-Wild Husky & A Wily Old Trapper

 

SOURCE: Leon Logothetis & PRNewswire

Title: KINDNESS DIARIES Acts of Kindness Making Comeback

Acts of kindness, book review, Kindness Diaries, Kindness Diaries Netflix, kindness making comeback.  Kindness of strangers, kindness quotes, Leon Logothetis, life changing, yellow motorbike.

DID YOU LIKE THIS POST?  IF SO, PLEASE TELL YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS.

Link to this post!
Posted in Book*Reviews, New Spirituality | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on KINDNESS DIARIES Acts of Kindness Making Comeback

Breaking News DC Eagle Cam Reveals Two Baby Eaglets

Posted on March 29, 2017 by Brian Alan Burhoe

Eagle Cam Shows Baby Eagles…

 

Eagle cam

Breaking News!  DC Eagle Cam Reveals Two Baby Eaglets

BREAKING NEWS UPDATE: “The Eaglets Have Landed!  A day after its sibling hatched, a second eaglet in the National Arboretum’s eagle nest began breaking free of its shell.”  – American Eagle Foundation.

And so it began.  Great news.  Great for a number of reasons.

Only decades ago, the American Bald Eagle was an Endangered Species.  If not for the passionate work of people like American wildlife artist Charles Livingston Bull, the majestic bird would have disappeared from the continental US.

Today, the Bald Eagle is making a triumphant comeback.  Bolstered by a number of breeding pairs resettled from Canada.  Especially from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, where the big birds have always been protected.  The iconic raptor is again sailing the blue skies as a free creature.

It’s been absolutely amazing watching one eagle’s nest on the now-famous DC Eagle Cam.

It began with one egg beginning to open!  “Breaking” News…

“Since New Years Eve millions of viewers have tuned into the DC Eagle Cam (dceaglecam.org) to watch two live‑streaming, high-definition cameras featuring the wild nest of Bald Eagles Mr. President & The First Lady.

Eagle cam“For the past month and more, these parents have been faithfully incubating two eggs in their nest.  The nest is at the top of a Tulip Poplar tree in the U.S. National Arboretum, right inside the Nation’s Capitol.

“Their devoted attention and dedicated efforts finally began to pay off this morning.  One of the soon-to-be-eaglets has now begun the hatching process!

“During incubation, an eaglet develops an “egg-tooth” on the tip of its upper beak, which is used to crack holes in its eggshell from the inside. The first hole made in the shell is called a pip.”

American Eagle Foundation (AEF) volunteer camera operators first witnessed this first small crack on the egg around 9:58 a.m. EDT, March 28.

“As of now, the crack appears to be less than the size of a dime. It could take anywhere from 12‑48 hours for an eaglet to fully emerge, or hatch, from its shell.

“This is a very special time in the nest,” says AEF Founder & President Al Cecere. “To witness the up‑close process of an eaglet breaking through its shell is wonderfully heartwarming. We hope both eaglets hatch this week and show signs of good health.”

This first egg was laid on February 19. The second was laid on February 23 and cam viewers are hopeful that it will also begin to hatch in a few days. The average incubation period for an eagle egg is 35 days.

These will have been the fourth and fifth eaglets raised by these parents at this idyllic location. In the AEF’s educational chatroom (where viewers can create an account and talk to experienced moderators and other “chatters”) this eaglet will be tentatively referred to as “DC4.” If and when its sibling hatches, it will tentatively be called “DC5.”

In several weeks, the general public will have the opportunity to help come up with official names for these eaglets.

Conclusion: Fascinating, isn’t it?  It’s not only fun, there’s a fundamental feeling of belonging to all of Nature, watching this nesting eagle pair and their eaglets.  Egg-citing, eh?

“Live Free, Mon Ami!” – Brian Alan Burhoe

 

Did you enjoy this wildlife post?

lone-wolf-story

IF SO, YOU’LL LOVE “WOLFBLOOD” — MY MOST POPULAR ANIMAL STORY:

“I JUST READ WOLFBLOOD AGAIN FOR GOOD MEASURE.  ONE FOR ANY WOLF LOVER.  ENJOYED IT BUT WISH IT WAS A FULL LENGTH NOVEL.” – Gina Chronowicz @ginachron

“GREAT SHORT STORY!  DOES REMIND ME OF CALL OF THE WILD, WHITE FANG…” – Evelyn @evelyn_m_k

WOLFBLOOD, a thrilling Northwoods adventure in the Jack London Tradition, FREE TO READ ==>  WOLFBLOOD: A Wild Wolf, A Half-Wild Husky & A Wily Old Trapper

 

ABOUT THE D.C. EAGLE CAM PROJECT:

In 2015, the American Eagle Foundation (AEF) staff traveled to D.C. to install state-of-the-art cameras, infrared lighting, and other related equipment in-and-around the nest tree.  All with the help of volunteers and experienced tree arborists and climbers.

This past year, the AEF added microphones near the nest to further enhance the viewing experience.  And a team of arborists and eagle experts affixed natural tree limbs beneath the nest to provide added support.

The USDA’s U.S. National Arboretum ran a half-mile of fiber optic cable to the cameras’ ground control station, which connects the cameras and microphones to the Internet.

The entire Eagle Cam system is powered by a large mobile solar array (containing several deep cycle batteries) that was designed and built by students and staff from Alfred State College, SUNY College of Technology.

And was partially funded by the Department of Energy and Environment. USNA has implemented a backup generator that will kick-on if prolonged inclement weather causes the solar array to provide insufficient power to the system.

In 2016, APEX Electric Inc. (Kenmore, Washington) traveled to D.C. to assist the AEF in successfully installing audio equipment in and around the tree.

The AEF uses Piksel to stream the video images to viewers around the world, and AEF volunteers are trained and coordinated to pan, tilt and zoom the cams, as well as educate the public via LIVE chats while viewers watch the eagles via the cams on the Internet.  Learn more at http://www.eagles.org.

SOURCE: American Eagle Foundation, PR Newswire & Civilized Bears.

Keywords: American bald eagles, American Eagle Foundation, Charles Livingston Bull, DC eagle cam, eagle eggs, eaglets hatch, endangered species, wilderness, wildlife

DID YOU LIKE THIS POST?  IF SO, PLEASE TELL YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS.

Link to this post!
Posted in An Earth Spirit | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Breaking News DC Eagle Cam Reveals Two Baby Eaglets

You Can Go To Front Lines Of War On African Poachers

Posted on March 27, 2017 by Brian Alan Burhoe

African Poachers Strike Again!

But they’re meeting resistance.

Now You Can Go To Front Lines Of War On African Poachers!

 

African Poachers

 

“Over and Above Africa Brings Global Supporters to the Front Lines of the Fight to End Poaching of Endangered Animals”

The War against international organized African Poachers of wild animals has been escalating.  Greedy poachers are ramping up their slaughter of every creature from black bears, bighorn sheep and sharks here in North America.  And tigers, lions, elephants and rhinos in India and Africa.

It’s a heartrending war — watching these beautiful, magnificent animals driven to the edge of extinction to cater to the needs of a few wealthy, selfish, ignorant humans.

You Can Go To Front Lines Of War On African Poachers.

But read on, mon ami.  Here is Good News!

“New Non-Profit Group’s Campaigns Focus on Country’s $14 Billion Poaching Trade.”

LOS ANGELES, March 27, 2017  — Over and Above Africa is a new non-profit group is on a mission to bring a global community to the front line of the fight.  It’s a fight to protect Africa’s most endangered animals.

The Company wasfounded by acclaimed award-winning movie producer Kerry David (Agent Cody Banks, My Date with Drew and Like Dandelion Dust).  And “aims to make the plight of endangered animals in Africa personal for individuals around the planet.  And remove the current disconnect between donation and visible action on the ground where it counts,” explained Kerry David.

“Our concept is very simple: Members pay a five dollars monthly subscription fee. These funds are pooled to finance highly targeted. And vetted anti African Poachers initiatives that we know to be effective.

“Every initiative which receives our support is closely followed by us.  Our filmmakers, drone operators and photographers document the outcome. And then transmit directly to our members to SEE and EXPERIENCE the clear impact their contributions have on the poaching crisis. We call it ‘Affordable Philanthropy,'” she concluded.

Although not officially launched yet, Over and Above Africa has received such strong support they have already funded their first initiative – “Boots for Rangers” video.

War On African Poachers“Poaching is a complicated problem that isn’t going away. It can however be stopped. And for that to happen, there has to be a point where we collectively stand up and say no more.

“Over and Above Africa is a way that anyone can play a part in stopping African Poachers,” added Executive Director, Jennifer Pfister. “All for the price of a cup of coffee.”

Leading figures from the worlds of conservation and technology oversee their Advisory Board.  They include Dereck & Beverly Joubert, Emmy-winning filmmakers and Explorers-in-Residence at National Geographic. As well as Steve Galster, Founder of Freeland and A.R.R.E.S.T, Alan Feldstein, Founder, Infinite Safari Adventures & The Cheetah Conservation Trust, and technology luminary, Jon Epstein of Sentient Technologies.

“Over and Above Africa’s innovative new platform is introducing an entirely new source of funding to the wildlife trafficking crisis in Africa.

It’s a very exciting prospect for us in the field and extremely timely,” said Advisory Board Member, Intelligence Expert, Founder of Wildleaks and Elephant Action League, Andrea Crosta.

“Over and Above Africa has aligned itself with exemplary NGO’s both as beneficiaries. And as advisors on the ground in Africa to ensure its allocated funds support effective, complementary and proven anti-poaching initiatives.  When used in conjunction with each other, they strike a forceful blow to poaching and wildlife trafficking,” stated Advisory Board member, Assemblywoman, Autumn Burke.

For more information or to become a member, please visit  – www.Overandaboaveafrica.com

Company Contacts:

  • Kerry David, Founder & CEO – Kerry@OverAndAboveAfrica.com
  • Jennifer Pfister, Executive Director – Jennifer@OverAndAboveAfrica.com
  • Media Contact: Jennifer Andros – 152014@email4pr.com – Tel. 562-522-3721

Conclusion: I’ve witnessed the results of poaching right here in our Nova Scotia backwoods.

Black bears slaughtered for their gall bladders.  Tiny fawn legs tossed beside the roads like unwanted pieces of kindling.  Beavers just disappearing.

In Africa, it’s become full-out warfare.  A War on our fellow creatures — all for millions of dollars.  We’ve rightly supported wars over the years to protect our sacred Freedom.  Certainly we can afford a few dollars to protect our sacred Mother Earth.

– Brian Alan Burhoe

Did you like this posting?

lone-wolf-story

IF SO, YOU’LL LOVE “WOLFBLOOD” — MY MOST POPULAR ANIMAL STORY:

“I JUST READ WOLFBLOOD AGAIN FOR GOOD MEASURE.  ONE FOR ANY WOLF LOVER.  ENJOYED IT BUT WISH IT WAS A FULL LENGTH NOVEL.” – Gina Chronowicz @ginachron

“GREAT SHORT STORY!  DOES REMIND ME OF CALL OF THE WILD, WHITE FANG…” – Evelyn @evelyn_m_k

WOLFBLOOD, a stirring Northcountry saga in the Jack London Tradition, FREE TO READ ==>  WOLFBLOOD: A Wild Wolf, A Half-Wild Husky & A Wily Old Trapper

 

SOURCE: Over And Above Africa, Newswire & Civilized Bears
Title: You Can Go To Front Lines Of War On African Poachers.

Keywords: bears, black bears, elephants, endangered animals, Dereck & Beverly Joubert, Elephant Action League, Kerry David, lions.  Over and Above Africa, poaching trade, Wildleaks, wildlife trafficking

DO YOU AGREE WITH THIS AFRICAN POECHERS POST?  SHARE WITH YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS! 

Link to this post!
Posted in Otherkind | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on You Can Go To Front Lines Of War On African Poachers

Justin Trudeau Visits and Champions Rooftop Greenhouse

Posted on March 25, 2017 by Brian Alan Burhoe

Justin Time…

Justin Trudeau Visits and Champions Rooftop Greenhouse

 

Justin

“Lufa Farms’ successful example of commercial-scale urban agriculture prompts visit by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau”

An avid outdoorsman, Justin Trudeau has always spoken of his love of Nature, our wilderness and the need to become Green.

He made news with his support of the Accord de Paris.  The historic Paris Accord: the international agreement within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) that was our last chance to control greenhouse gases emissions (If it’s not already too late!).

He’s been questioned lately for his support of tar sands development.  In an age of green technology and solar energy, this looks out of step, Justin.  His basic support of the environment seems to be uncertain.

But Justin’s visit to a city-based greenhouse is a good sign, eh?

“With the completion of its 3rd high-tech greenhouse, and its symbiosis with local farmers, Lufa Farms has grown into a compelling role model for sustainable urban agriculture.”

A good sign and good news…

MONTREAL, March 24, 2017 – Urban agriculture pioneer Lufa Farms has just finished a third highly automated greenhouse in the Montreal borough of Anjou. The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau was there to see it in full production.

The new 63,000 square foot rooftop greenhouse is a milestone in polyculture efficiency and produces over 40 varieties of urban-grown greens and vegetables, all year round.

Lufa Farms’ six years of rapid growth and its successes in rooftop greenhouse design, cooperation with local sustainability-focused farmers, and appeal to thousands of Montreal consumers, make it one of the most successful large-scale urban agriculture models in the world, demonstrating how to sustainably feed entire cities.

Justin and babyOur Canadian Prime Minister was given a full tour of the new production facility by Lufa Farms founders Mohamed Hage and Lauren Rathmell.

Justin witnessed first-hand the innovative complexity of the rooftop greenhouse, and even took time to harvest a basket of fresh greens for himself and his family.

When Justin “discovered” a baby in the cabbage patch, he even joked “Lufa Farms grows veggies — and other little ones — on Montreal rooftops all year.”

The new rooftop greenhouse is a marvel in automation.

It was designed by Dutch greenhouse innovators at KUBO, outfitted by Belgian greenhouse automation experts, Hortiplan, and includes advanced horticultural lighting systems from GE.

The construction of the new greenhouse was supported by Quebec financial partners Fonds de solidarité FTQ and La Financière agricole du Québec.

From one rooftop greenhouse to a new paradigm in urban agriculture…

Lufa Farms began operating the world’s first commercial-scale rooftop greenhouse in 2011. It was built with the goal of using sustainable irrigation, energy and growing systems for cultivation of pesticide-free produce. The first greenhouse, with 8 employees, produced more than 25 varieties of vegetables and delivered them, weekly, to a few hundred Montreal customers.

The second Lufa Farms’ rooftop greenhouse began operation in 2013. With it, the company introduced an online marketplace so that consumers could select and buy fresh Lufa Farms produce together with responsible produce, meat, dairy, bread, and more provided by hundreds of local farmers and foodmakers.

The result is that consumers receive the freshest sustainably-grown goods, local farmers get a viable outlet for their products, and the city benefits from optimized land, water, and energy use.

A disruptive rethink of food production and distribution

The most recent greenhouse caps six years of steady growth and innovation. The Lufa Farms team now consists of more than 140 employees, grows over 70 different vegetable varieties, and delivers more than 10,000 food baskets every week of the year.

“We began this venture because of our passion for rooftop farming. We didn’t start out as farmers and I’d never even grown a tomato before,” says Lauren Rathmell, Co-Founder and Greenhouse Director of Lufa Farms. “But we did what made sense to us as technologists and problem solvers…

“Today, we understand that successful urban agriculture requires not only advanced greenhouse technology, but also direct-to-client distribution, and working together with local, sustainable farmers and food artisans. The sum of all the parts, working together, is greater than the whole.”

The future of Lufa Farms

Founded in 2009 by Mohamed Hage, Lauren Rathmell, Kurt Lynn, and Yahya Badran, Lufa Farms now has a combined urban growing space of 138,000 square feet. The company plans to continue the expansion of its urban farm projects in Quebec urban centres, and also in select New England locations in the U.S.

For more information about Lufa Farms click here.

To Read A Popular In-depth Article On Justin Trudeau, His Politics & His Personal Life, Go To Justin and Sophie Trudeau – Canada’s Fairy Tale Romance

 

Is Justin Trudeau truly Green?

He’s been getting mixed reviews lately.  But we stay hopeful.  Justin has promised to pick up where Canada’s greenest Prime Minister, Conservative Brian Mulroney, left off.

Mr Mulroney’s successes in battling climate change are his biggest legacy to Canada and to the world.  Justin has to step wider than he is to fill those footprints.

– Brian Alan Burhoe

Did you like this Canadian post?

lone-wolf-story

IF SO, YOU’LL LOVE “WOLFBLOOD” — MY MOST POPULAR ANIMAL YARN:

“I JUST READ WOLFBLOOD AGAIN FOR GOOD MEASURE.  ONE FOR ANY WOLF LOVER.  ENJOYED IT BUT WISH IT WAS A FULL LENGTH NOVEL.” – Gina Chronowicz @ginachron

“GREAT SHORT STORY!  DOES REMIND ME OF CALL OF THE WILD, WHITE FANG…” – Evelyn @evelyn_m_k

WOLFBLOOD, a heartwarming Northlands tale in the Jack London Tradition, FREE TO READ ==>  WOLFBLOOD: A Wild Wolf, A Half-Wild Husky & A Wily Old Trapper

 

SOURCE: LUFA FARMS & PR Newswire

Title: Justin Trudeau Visits and Champions Rooftop Greenhouse

Keywords: Brian Mulroney, greenest Prime Minister, green technology, Justin Trudeau, local farmers, Lufa Farms, organic gardening, rooftop farming, rooftop greenhouse, solar energy, sustainable urban agriculture, urban agriculture, urban farm

DID YOU LIKE THIS JUSTIN POST?  IF SO, PLEASE TELL YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS.

Link to this post!
Posted in An Earth Spirit | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Justin Trudeau Visits and Champions Rooftop Greenhouse

Stephen King – THE DEAD ZONE Audiobook Narrated by James Franco

Posted on March 19, 2017 by Brian Alan Burhoe

Stephen King…

James Franco Narrates Stephen King’s THE DEAD ZONE — Available For The First Time As An Audiobook

 

Stephen King

 

Books.  Audiobooks.  Ebooks.

Still love real books made of real paper.

Over the years I’ve tried the new alternatives.  At first, I mixed audiobooks in with my rock n roll cassettes to play in the car.  And when our daughter gave me my Kindle, I went crazy downloading the classics and indie fiction.

I still carry my Kindle around with me — its cloth case is wearing out.  But now I mostly load those Free Samples of the latest releases or books I’ve missed.  Dozens of ’em at a time.  And if I want to read a complete one, I download the Indie ebook — or search Amazon and Abebooks to track down the best deal on a real live paperback or hardcover.

Audiobooks, however, have fallen by the wayside.  But I’m a Stephen King fan from the beginning and like the idea of listening to the THE DEAD ZONE some free afternoon instead of my usual Classic Rock fix.  Although I have one of those multi-media music centres (another gift from our daughter), I’ve got a feeling this audiobook won’t be available on a cassette.  Gotta figure this one out, eh?

But, yes, this is good news…

NEW YORK, March 18, 2017 — Academy Award nominee James Franco will narrate the audio edition of THE DEAD ZONE by bestselling author Stephen King. Simon & Schuster Audio will publish the King classic, which has never been available as an audiobook, on April 25th, 2017.

This isn’t the first time the author and actor have collaborated.  Franco recently starred as Jake Epping in Hulu’s 2016 miniseries 11.22.63, based on King’s novel of the same name.

“James is a terrific actor,” said King. “I knew that he would perfectly capture the vibe and voice of THE DEAD ZONE.”

Franco added, “I’ve been a fan of Stephen King’s work for a while now. He’s one of the most pleasurable authors to read or listen to. He just guides you along so well. Even though we’re from different generations all his influences and things he references and subjects he’s interested in seem to be all the things I’m interested in.”

Set in the fictional Maine town of Castle Rock, THE DEAD ZONE was made into a 1983 film starring Christopher Walken and Martin Sheen. The story follows Johnny Smith who awakens from a five-year coma to discover that he can see people’s futures and pasts when he touches them.

While many consider his talent a gift, Johnny feels cursed. When he encounters a ruthlessly ambitious and amoral man who promises a terrifying fate for all humanity, Johnny must find a way to prevent a harrowing predestination from becoming reality.

“We’re thrilled to fill this black hole in Stephen King’s audiobook universe,” said Chris Lynch, President & Publisher of Simon & Schuster Audio. “James Franco’s narration is simply superb.”

ABOUT SIMON & SCHUSTER AUDIO: Simon & Schuster Audio is a leading publisher of general interest audiobooks including bestselling fiction, nonfiction, business/finance, self-improvement, inspiration, language learning programs, original audiobook productions, and children’s titles. In addition to a list that includes such unparalleled authors as Mary Higgins Clark, Vince Flynn, Ernest Hemingway, Stephen King, Michael Lewis, and David McCullough. Simon & Schuster Audio has produced audiobooks that have won eight Grammy Awards and earned forty-one Grammy nominations since 1989. For more information about Simon & Schuster Audio, visit our website at www.audio.simonandschuster.com.

Simon & Schuster, a part of CBS Corporation, is a global leader in the field of general interest publishing, dedicated to providing the best in fiction and nonfiction for consumers of all ages, across all printed, electronic, and audio formats. Its divisions include Simon & Schuster Adult Publishing, Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing, Simon & Schuster Audio, Simon & Schuster Digital, and international companies in Australia, Canada, India, and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit our website at www.simonandschuster.com

Conclusion: As I’ve written elsewhere, “There are exceptions, of course — Stephen King and Terry Pratchett, just two — but I believe that the great writers of our Boomer Generation have been our singer-songwriters.”  SEE Life & Works of Brian Alan Burhoe – All About Us & More

To me, Stephen King is that important in our Boomer generation’s culture, life and times.

– Brian Alan Burhoe

Did you like this audio book review?

lone-wolf-story

IF SO, YOU’LL LOVE “WOLFBLOOD” — MY MOST POPULAR ANIMAL STORY:

“I JUST READ WOLFBLOOD AGAIN FOR GOOD MEASURE.  ONE FOR ANY WOLF LOVER.  ENJOYED IT BUT WISH IT WAS A FULL LENGTH NOVEL.” – Gina Chronowicz @ginachron

“GREAT SHORT STORY!  DOES REMIND ME OF CALL OF THE WILD, WHITE FANG…” – Evelyn @evelyn_m_k

WOLFBLOOD, an exciting Northcountry drama in the Jack London Tradition, FREE TO READ ==>  WOLFBLOOD: A Wild Wolf, A Half-Wild Husky & A Wily Old Trapper

 

 

SOURCE:  Simon & Schuster Audio & PR Newswire

Title: Stephen King’s THE DEAD ZONE Audiobook Narrated by James Franco

Keywords: 2017, audio, audiobook review, book review, Dead Zone, Dead Zone audiobook, It Stephen King, James Franco, joyland, revival, Stephen King, Stephen King author, Stephen King books, Stephen King movie

DID YOU LIKE THIS POSTING?  IF SO, PLEASE TELL YOUR FRIENDS!

Link to this post!
Posted in Book*Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Stephen King – THE DEAD ZONE Audiobook Narrated by James Franco

Wimpy Kid Movie Diary: New Wimpy Kid Book by Jeff Kinney

Posted on March 18, 2017 by Brian Alan Burhoe

Wimpy Kid.

The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary: The Next Chapter — Jeff Kinney’s Wild Trip Through Making the Film

Wimpy Kid“Written and illustrated with original cartoons by Jeff Kinney with exclusive set photos from the upcoming 20th Century Fox film.”

 

I’ve always been a sucker for How-They-Were-Made books.  Books about the making of some of my fave TV shows and movies.

From Stephen E Whitfield & Gene Roddenberry’s THE MAKING OF STAR TREK, first published in 1968 (and still treasured), through Sherwood Schwartz’s INSIDE GILLIGAN’S ISLAND, to Irving Brecher’s recent THE WICKED WIT OF THE WEST [1], the creators of some of our most popular Hollywood productions have taken us into their creative souls.

And now bestselling author Jeff Kinney has written The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary: The Next Chapter.  Even if you’ve never read any of his Wimpy Kid books, here’s a fascinating look behind — not only the making of the movie — but a look at Kinney’s own creative process.  And with lots of his original drawings and cartoons.

This is good news…

NEW YORK, March 15, 2017  — Amulet Books, an imprint of ABRAMS, announced the publication of The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary: The Next Chapter, an original, behind-the-scenes look at the making of the movie, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul.

The story, featuring exclusive set photos, storyboards, and original cartoons by Jeff Kinney, will be published on May 9th just in time for the release of the 20th Century Fox movie.

Fans of the bestselling Diary of a Wimpy Kid series will hit the road with author and illustrator Jeff Kinney and get an exclusive look at the making of the film, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul.

Wimpy KidReaders of The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary: The Next Chapter will find out what it takes to film a flock of seagulls invading a minivan, a robo pig, and an animatronic three-year-old, and discover everything that goes into making a feature film.

The movie is based on the blockbuster ninth book in Jeff Kinney’s record-breaking Wimpy Kid series, which had the biggest U.S. first printing of any book in 2014 and was an immediate #1 bestseller in all English-language territories around the world. The first three Wimpy Kid films have grossed $225 million worldwide.

Throughout The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary: The Next Chapter, Kinney offers his hallmark, sidesplitting, and insightful take on the movie-making process and demystifies it for young readers. The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary: The Next Chapter is the perfect gift for fans of the series and the films!

“ABRAMS, along with our publishing partners around the world, are thrilled that Jeff has written a new movie diary. This first-hand account of the movie-making process through Jeff Kinney’s eyes will delight moviegoers of all ages along with the millions of readers and fans of the worldwide bestselling Diary of a Wimpy Kid book series,” says Michael Jacobs, president and CEO of ABRAMS.

Amulet also announced that on March 15th, for a limited time only, as a special bonus for fans and collectors, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul will come with a free half-jacket that unfolds into an official movie poster.

Jeff Kinney’s work has been widely praised for its ability to turn reluctant readers on to books. Published in 2007, the first Diary of a Wimpy Kid book was an instant bestseller, and just a year later, more than 100,000 copies were in print in the United States alone.

“When Charlie Kochman [Jeff’s editor at ABRAMS] brought the first Diary of a Wimpy Kid manuscript to our publications board more than ten years ago, we knew that it was special, that it could grow into a series and that it would resonate with kids, with reluctant readers and with parents, teachers, and librarians,” says Michael Jacobs, president and CEO of ABRAMS.

“What we couldn’t imagine was the impact the books would make on kids and reading around the world, or that the series would spend more consecutive weeks on the New York Times—and other bestseller lists everywhere—than any other kids’ book series . . . ever. Ten years of LOL, indeed—and counting!”

The 10th anniversary celebration will continue in force throughout the year with author appearances, another major motion film release, exciting new publications, and a global tour still in store. This spring brings the anticipated May 19 release of the fourth Diary of a Wimpy Kid movie, The Long Haul, from 20th Century Fox, as well as the publication of The Wimpy Kid Movie Diary: The Next Chapter, on sale May 9. As the only official tie-in publication to the film, this exclusive edition features a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the movie and original essays and illustrations by Jeff Kinney.

“Ten years in, I’m having a blast. I’m as excited and energized about these books as I’ve ever been, and I think The Getaway is going to be one of the best Wimpy Kid books,” says Kinney. “I’m very grateful to all of the readers who have stuck with me over the years, and to the ones who are just starting the series.”

“Famed for laugh-out-loud humor through words and cartoons, the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books follow Greg Heffley as he records the trials and triumphs of middle…”  For more information, interviews, or images, please visit: Wimpy Kid.

Conclusion: this book may be written for “kids” but I’m planning on getting a copy.  Can’t help myself.

UPDATE: April 27, 2017:

Author and creator Jeff Kinney today revealed the cover of the eagerly anticipated 12th book in the internationally bestselling Diary of a Wimpy Kid series.

The unveiling of Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Getaway took place at New York City’s famous Carnegie Hall in front of schoolchildren from throughout the city, broadcast live for fans around the world watching the livestream on the Wimpy Kid YouTube channel.

The cover’s bold blue background features a humorous illustration of the Heffley family in flight, and promises another hilarious adventure for Kinney’s millions of fans when the book releases simultaneously in the United States and worldwide in 21 countries on November 7, 2017.

– Brian Alan Burhoe

Did you like this book review?

lone-wolf-story

IF SO, YOU’LL LOVE “WOLFBLOOD” — MY MOST POPULAR ANIMAL STORY:

“I JUST READ WOLFBLOOD AGAIN FOR GOOD MEASURE.  ONE FOR ANY WOLF LOVER.  ENJOYED IT BUT WISH IT WAS A FULL LENGTH NOVEL.” – Gina Chronowicz @ginachron

“GREAT SHORT STORY!  DOES REMIND ME OF CALL OF THE WILD, WHITE FANG…” – Evelyn @evelyn_m_k

WOLFBLOOD, a Northcountry adventure in the Jack London Tradition, FREE TO READ ==>  WOLFBLOOD: A Wild Wolf, A Half-Wild Husky & A Wily Old Trapper

 

[1] Who is Irving Brecher?  Irv, who passed away in his 90’s in 2008, was an integral part of Hollywood’s history.  As a writer, he began by punching up the comedy scenes in the 1939 Wizard of Oz film.  Made his reputation by writing the screenplays for two Marx Brothers movies (At The Circus and Go West), becoming a lifelong friend of Groucho Marx.  And Irv created early television sitcoms such as The Life of Riley.

Wrote the movie scripts for Yolanda and the Thief (with Fred Astaire) and Bye Bye Birdy (with Dick Van Dyke).  And was still going strong into the new millennium with projects like his 2004 video documentary On Your Marx, Get Set, Go!  His book THE WICKED WIT OF THE WEST, as told to Hank Rosenfeld, is a riot.

SOURCE: ABRAMS, PRNewswire & Civilized Bears

Title: Wimpy Kid Movie Diary: New Wimpy Kid Book by Jeff Kinney

Keywords: book review, cast of diary of a wimpy kid, Diary Wimpy Kid, Jeff Kinney, Hard Luck, Long Haul, movie diary, New Wimpy Kid Book, Who is Irving Brecher, Wimpy Kid movie, Wimpy Kid Movie Diary, Wimpy Kid The Getaway

DID YOU LIKE THIS WIMPY KID POST?  PLEASE TELL YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS. THANKS!

Link to this post!
Posted in Book*Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Wimpy Kid Movie Diary: New Wimpy Kid Book by Jeff Kinney

Military War Dogs: Celebrating National K9 Veterans Day

Posted on March 12, 2017 by Brian Alan Burhoe

War Dogs…

National K9 Veterans Day Honours America’s Military Dogs.  Our War Dogs

War dogs

 

American Humane Celebrating the Holiday by Opening Nominations for Annual American Humane Medal of Courage Awards.

“Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.” – Ronald Reagan

It was a hundred years ago when it all began.  The battle to protect our Freedom fought on a Worldwide scale…

A hundred years ago, our American, British and Canadian soldiers began fighting side by side against those forces that would steal our Freedom from us.

And with those soldiers — trained, faithful, willing Dogs.  The Canadians, learning quickly from their German enemies, soon had their own trained military dogs.  First as mascots, then messengers, then used to find wounded soldiers on the mangled, muddy battlefields of the Great War, our canines went to war.

In Flanders fields of World War One.  Over the beaches of Normandy in WWII, through the Netherlands and into Germany.  Korea.  Afghanistan.  Iraq…

And now, on this month, comes the announcement of a special celebration of National K9 Veterans Day.

Service members have relied on canine comrades since the beginning of organized warfare.  But it wasn’t until March 13, 1942, when the United States Army began training dogs for the newly established War Dog Program.  Or “K-9 Corps” that they became a critical part of the armed forces.

To commemorate the original launch of the K-9 Corps program, on March 13 we celebrate National K9 Veterans Day.

An annual tribute to honor the service and sacrifice that these dogs have made for their country.

National K9 Veterans Day pays tribute to military dogs and countless other canines serving our nation.  From police dogs, to border patrol dogs, and so many more.

American Humane is the country’s first national humane organization.  It’s worked to support the U.S. Military and our human and animal warriors for more than 100 years.  And is proud to recognize the heroic contributions of these brave service animals on National K9 Veterans Day.  And every day.

With the support of internationally renowned philanthropist and veterans’ advocate Lois Pope, the organization champions efforts to support military heroes at both ends of the leash.  This is done through its Lois Pope LIFE Center for Military Affairs.

The center helps reunite retired military dogs with their former handlers.  Provides veterans struggling with Post-Traumatic Stress with lifesaving service dogs.  Arranges free veterinary care for retired four-legged service members.  And it drives legislation that supports military dogs and their human counterparts.

In 2016, American Humane successfully lobbied for a provision to the 2016 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

That provision would ensure that military dogs are returned to American soil after their retirements. Prior to the passage of the 2016 NDAA, military working dogs were not guaranteed retirement on the home front.  And some were retired overseas.  Which made them civilians and rendered them ineligible for transportation home on military aircraft.

American Humane also works to honor retired military dogs who demonstrate exceptional valor in serving our country. The annual American Humane Lois Pope LIFE K-9 Medal of Courage awards are the nation’s highest honor for military dogs.  The awards are given out each July on Capitol Hill.

American Humane is currently seeking nominations of retired military dogs.  Those who have worked overseas for the American Humane Lois Pope LIFE K-9 Medal of Courage awards. Please direct inquiries and nominations to at 202-677-4220 or TaraL@AmericanHumane.org.

war dogs

About American Humane:

“American Humane is the country’s first national humane organization.  It was founded in 1877. They began working with the American military in 1916.  That year the U.S. Secretary of War requested they help rescue wounded war horses on the battlefields of World War I Europe.

“Following World War II, American Humane helped pioneer the use of animal-assisted therapy to aid returning veterans. Today the organization works to help active-duty members of the military, military families, and military animals. For more information, please visit www.AmericanHumane.org.”

A Personal Note:

I grew up with War Veterans.  I learned early to appreciate and admire these guys.  Not that they glorified war.  I’ll never forget what one old vet told me: “The best thing to do with war is not have it.  But if you do, get it over with quick.  Damned politicians don’t do neither.”

Whether you agree with the necessity of war or not, the one thing we can do is honour and never forget those who went — including our dogs.

 

Get the dog DNA test that brings humans and their dogs closer together

Embark Vet eGIFT CARDS are Great Gifts for all the Dog Lovers in Your Life. The PAWFECT PRESENT for Birthdays, Gotcha Days, Christmas & everything in between. CLICK HERE NOW!

 

==>> For a personal look at war, see Out of My Father’s Shaving Box – Dad’s War, Algonquin Regiment & the Liberation of Holland

 

Did you like this dog post?

lone-wolf-story

IF SO, YOU’LL LOVE “WOLFBLOOD” — MY MOST POPULAR ANIMAL STORY:

“I JUST READ WOLFBLOOD AGAIN FOR GOOD MEASURE.  ONE FOR ANY WOLF LOVER.  ENJOYED IT BUT WISH IT WAS A FULL LENGTH NOVEL.” – Gina Chronowicz @ginachron

“GREAT SHORT STORY!  DOES REMIND ME OF CALL OF THE WILD, WHITE FANG…” – Evelyn @evelyn_m_k

WOLFBLOOD, a Northcountry yarn in the Jack London Tradition, FREE TO READ ==> CLICK HERE  WOLFBLOOD: A Wild Wolf, A Half-Wild Husky & A Wily Old Trapper

 

SOURCE: American Humane, PR Newswire & Civilized Bears.

UPDATE: April 27, 2024.

See D Day 80 – Netherlands 80 – Liberation of Holland 80 Years Ago.

Military War Dogs: Celebrating National K9 Veterans Day.

Animal-assisted therapy, K9, K-9 Corps, military dogs breeds, dogs in war, National K9 Veterans Day.  Service dogs, working canines, working dogs and war dogs.

DID YOU LIKE THIS WAR DOGS POST?  PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS! 

Link to this post!
Posted in An Earth Spirit, Otherkind | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Military War Dogs: Celebrating National K9 Veterans Day

HEROIC DOGS: First Paw Of Courage Awards for Working Canines

Posted on March 10, 2017 by Brian Alan Burhoe

Heroic Dogs Awards…

 

Heroic dogs

The American Kennel Club Announces First Set Of AKC “Paw Of Courage” Heroic Dogs Awards!

We love our heroic dogs.

As a young Boomer, I never missed Lassie and Rin-Tin-Tin — always to our rescue.

And real life companions, from Pal — a neighbour’s Golden who adopted me long ago — to our howling husky, King.  As well as our big German Shepherd (“Gentle Giant”) family protector, Mocha.

Elsewhere, I’ve written about Canadian Mounted Police dogs from the early-day huskies and wolfdogs to modern heroic canines like Jocko and Tracer.

A new award heroic dogs has been established to recognize the valour and love of humankind’s closest companion.  Making me wonder — Do we deserve their unfailing love?

The American Kennel Club (AKC®) isthe world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs.  It’s honored to announce the first set of 2017 AKC Paw of Courage awards to recognize the working canines that put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe.

“Our heroic dogs award specifically recognizes those who are serving or have served their departments honorably.”

“These selfless canines prove their devotion time and time again,” said AKC Vice President Gina DiNardo. “They demonstrate loyalty, valor and honor in their careers.  And each of these dogs has made a substantial sacrifice in the line of duty. It’s with great esteem that we honor these working dogs with the AKC Paw of Courage as an indication of our appreciation.”

Any working dog is eligible to receive the AKC Paw of Courage.  The award is not specific to purebred dogs. To nominate a dog for the next set of Paw of Courage awards, go to the AKC website below.

Recipients of the award, or their human partner, will receive a 2017 AKC Paw of Courage medal along with a certificate. In addition, the recipients will receive a photo and profile on akc.org.

The first set of 2017 AKC Paw of Courage Heroic dogs recipients are:

K9 Bruno of Anaheim Police Department, CA

K9 Bruno, a seven-year-old German Shepherd Dog, served with the Anaheim Police Department for six years at the time of his injury. He was given an AKC Humane Fund Award for Canine Excellence (ACE) by the American Kennel Club in 2014 after being shot while assisting the SWAT team with a search.

The bullet went through Bruno’s lower jaw and lodged in his chest.  It was only about an inch from his heart. After the incident, Bruno retired from his K9 duties and lived at home with his partner, Officer R.J. Young. About two years later, K9 Bruno succumbed to complications from his initial injury.

Bruno was one of two dogs who trained to become part of the SWAT team. He graduated first in his class from the K9 academy.  And he also won first place overall in narcotics during his first ever K9 competition. Bruno was credited with finding millions of dollars’ worth of narcotics and narcotic-related money.

He was always full of energy and was well known around the department for disrupting briefings by chewing on his red toy. K9 Bruno was a cherished officer, partner and family companion and will be missed dearly by Officer Young and the Anaheim Police Department.  As well as every one of the many lives he has touched.

K9 Mattis of the Alpharetta Police Department, GA

K9 Mattis, a three-year-old German Shepherd Dog, serves with the Alpharetta Police Department. In October of 2016, while handler, Officer Mark Tappan and K9 Mattis were in a foot pursuit.  The suspect leapt off a 30-foot retaining wall and Mattis followed without hesitation, leading to his surrender. Mattis was checked for obvious injuries and was quickly on his way to respond to the next call with Officer Tappan.

They were able to track down and apprehend the second suspect shortly before Mattis collapsed from internal injuries from the earlier fall. He was rushed to the emergency vet where he was treated for a lacerated liver and a contusion of his right lung.

Mattis has since made a full recovery and returned to active duty. In his short time with the department, Mattis has contributed to over 100 arrests and has assisted in removing countless amounts of narcotics from the streets. Additionally, he has performed several demonstrations for church groups, schools and various other community groups, often surrounded by the children of the community.

Officer Tappan describes K9 Mattis as a very special blend of tenacious working dog and friendly family pet. Mattis’ lack of hesitation jumping off the wall demonstrates his dedication and loyalty to his work. The sacrifice Mattis made that day to protect his community is truly appreciated by Officer Tappan, the Alpharetta Police Department and the community he serves.

K9 Jardo of the Boise Police Department, ID

K9 Jardo was a six-year-old Belgian Malinois of the Boise Police Department in Idaho when he was shot in the line of duty while confronting an armed suspect.

Jardo was rushed to WestVet Animal Emergency and Specialty Center with at least one gunshot wound to the chest. He underwent surgery and two dogs, both pets of staff members at WestVet, donated blood to Jardo, giving him a life-saving transfusion. The surgery and transfusion were successful and Jardo was expected to make a full recovery. However, about a week later, he succumbed to his injuries.

K9 Jardo was trained to track and apprehend dangerous criminals, find evidence relating to crimes and locate street drugs. He successfully apprehended a dangerous gang member in his very first week on patrol. When he was not on duty, Jardo enjoyed playing with his dog friends.  And swimming in the canal by his house.

K9 Jardo made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty to protect his community. He will be missed dearly by his handler, Officer Shane Williams.  As well as the entire Boise Police Department and each person he has touched throughout his life.

K9 Peydro of the Woodland Police Department, CA

K9 Peydro is a three-year-old German Shepherd Dog, handled by Officer Juan Barrera. He served the Woodland Police Department honorably for a little over a year. In May of 2016, Peydro was struck by a vehicle while he and Officer Barrera were in pursuit of a wanted man.

K9 Peydro was immediately transported to a veterinary hospital.  After a successful surgery and blood transfusion, he made a full recovery.  But he was medically retired in October of 2016. The suspect involved in the incident later turned himself in to the Woodland Police Department.

Peydro was a dual purpose police K9 trained in narcotics, apprehension, and article searching. He weighs about 80 pounds, but Officer Barrera and his family are convinced that he thinks he’s a lap dog. When he’s not on duty, he loves to cuddle up on the couch and balance toys on his nose.

Peydro’s sacrifice in the line of duty was an indication of his courage and commitment to his community. He is now enjoying his retired life with his family.

Heroic dogs!  Whether we humans deserve it or not, these guys have certainly given their all for us, eh?  Bless ’em!

 

 

Get the dog DNA test that brings humans and their dogs closer together

Embark Vet eGIFT CARDS are Great Gifts for all the Dog Lovers in Your Life. The PAWFECT PRESENT for Birthdays, Gotcha Days, Christmas & everything in between. CLICK HERE NOW!

 

HEROIC DOGS: First Paw Of Courage Awards for Working Canines

Did you like this post?

lone-wolf-story

IF SO, YOU’LL LOVE “WOLFBLOOD” — MY MOST POPULAR ANIMAL STORY:

“I JUST READ WOLFBLOOD AGAIN FOR GOOD MEASURE.  ONE FOR ANY WOLF LOVER.  ENJOYED IT BUT WISH IT WAS A FULL LENGTH NOVEL.” – Gina Chronowicz @ginachron

“GREAT SHORT STORY!  DOES REMIND ME OF CALL OF THE WILD, WHITE FANG…” – Evelyn @evelyn_m_k

WOLFBLOOD, a Northwestern yarn in the Jack London Tradition, FREE TO READ ==> CLICK HERE  WOLFBLOOD: A Wild Wolf, A Half-Wild Husky & A Wily Old Trapper

 

Heroic Dogs: About the American Kennel Club:

Founded in 1884, the American Kennel Club is a not-for-profit organization. It maintains the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world.  And oversees the sport of purebred dogs in the United States. The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function.

Along with its more than 5,000 licensed and member clubs and its affiliated organizations, the AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion.  Advances canine health and well-being.  Works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership. More than 22,000 competitions for AKC-registered purebred dogs are held under AKC rules and regulations each year. Elements include conformation, agility, obedience, rally, tracking, herding, lure coursing, coonhound events, hunt tests, field and earthdog tests.

Affiliate AKC organizations include the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Reunite and the AKC Museum of the Dog. For more information, visit www.akc.org.

“Become a fan of the American Kennel Club on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter @AKCDogLovers.”

SOURCE:  American Kennel Club, PR Newswire & Civilized Bears

Title: HEROIC DOGS: First Paw Of Courage Awards for Working Canines

Keywords: Brian Alan Burhoe, Bruno, dogs, Jardo, hero dog awards, heroic dogs, k9, Mattis, Paw Of Courage Awards, Peydro, police dogs, working canines.

DID YOU LIKE THIS HEROIC DOGS POST?  IF SO, PLEASE TELL YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS.

Link to this post!
Posted in Otherkind | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on HEROIC DOGS: First Paw Of Courage Awards for Working Canines

WHAT HO Best of Wodehouse, Jeeves, Blandings & Uncle Fred

Posted on March 8, 2017 by Brian Alan Burhoe

P G Wodehouse…

WHAT HO!  Celebrating The Very Best of P G Wodehouse & My New Friends on Goodreads

P G Wodehouse

One Hundred Years Ago: In 1917, Methuen & Co of London published THE MAN WITH TWO LEFT FEET, a collection of short stories by P G Wodehouse.  One of the stories, “Extricating Young Gussie,” introduced two characters to the Book World for the first time — Bertie Wooster and his valet Jeeves…

 

Goodreads has got to be the Ultimate Home for Bookworms.

Created “to help people find and share books they love,” Goodreads has become a kind of library and a kind of gathering of friends.  And every friend there has a deep love of books.  And many of those friends share that love in their own words.

I know I’ve discovered many books there.  Some I’d never heard of.  Some were familiar — but I’d never really dipped into those particular pages.

While I’ve never had the time to accept a Reading Challenge, and often go days without getting logged in, I still follow members’ Bookshelves and Recommendations.

I welcome “Be my friend on Goodreads” emails, always hit the ACCEPT button — and spend some time checking out my new friend’s MY BOOKS.

I’ve thrilled at winning books through the popular GoodReads Giveaways.  Especially those Advanced Reading Editions.  And putting on heartfelt Book Reviews of my favourites of those — as well as some of my Discoveries and Longtime Faves: SEE Brian Alan Burhoe’s Book Reviews – Writers, Artists & Stories

It was on Goodreads that I discovered (Re-discovered, actually) Pelham Grenville “Plum” Wodehouse and his comic stories.  I had only read a few stories of his over the years, usually in humour anthologies, and hadn’t really been captured by Plum’s world.  But lists of Goodreads comic fiction again and again included Wodehouse near the top.  And Jeeves.  And writers like Douglas Adams and Terry Pratchett loved him…

So after a while I decided to check him out again.

Hooked!

And here’s my latest book review.  It’s my latest read by P G.

 

WHAT HO! THE BEST OF P G WODEHOUSE – A Book Review

With no more works from Terry Pratchett — and my collection-completing copy of John Mortimer’s RUMPOLE AND THE PENGE BUNGALOW MURDERS sitting smug and comfortable on my bookshelves, I’ve welcomed and cheered my late-in-life discovery of Plum Wodehouse.

On the back cover of WHAT HO! THE BEST OF P G WODEHOUSE, you’ll read this little quote by Sebastian Faulks: “P G Wodehouse wrote the best English comic novels of the century.”

I’m not quite ready to agree wholeheartedly with Mr Faulks.  Not yet.   But with each Jeeves book, each Blandings trove, I’m getting there.

In his Intro to WHAT HO, Stephen Fry tells us: “In my teenage years the writings of P G Wodehouse awoke me to the possibilities of language…”

Maybe that’s it.  Perhaps I discovered Plum too late.  Perhaps Jeeves and Lord Emsworth of Blandings, Ukridge and Uncle Fred will never completely overwhelm my deep affection for my personal hero Horace Rumpole, that proud, that defiant Old Bailey Hack.  But they’re trying.

After all, I’ve always been attracted to the older English writers.  Maybe my boyhood spent in Yorkshire…

WHAT HO is a glorious collection of short stories, letters, articles, notes about writing, and extracts from novels & autobiographies.  What a read!

And being me, my fave story in this collection is a rare exception from his usual lighthearted farce, gentle satire and musical-comedy story lines.  “Lord Emsworth and the Girl Friend” is heart-felt sentimental comedy, a Chaplinesque story of Clarence, ninth Earl of Emsworth, and a little Fresh Air Child from London named Gladys, whom he discovers locked in a garden shed for stealing food from the tea tent.  Sentimental comedy requires moments of sadness, tragedy and even brief heroics, ingredients not often found in Plum’s writings.

Yes, my fave Plum story so far.  Although “Uncle Fred Flits By” and “The Mixer” (in THE MAN WITH TWO LEFT FEET) are tied for second spot.

Some say WHAT HO! THE BEST OF P G WODEHOUSE isn’t the best introduction to the master’s work.  I say, “Well, my dear old thing! Pack your spare dickey and toothbrush and prepare for a civilized journey to a world of innocent mirth.”

Time for laughter!

Fave Quote: “He resembled . . . in his general demeanour one of those unfortunate gentlemen in railway station waiting-rooms who, having injudiciously consented at four-thirty to hold a baby for a strange woman, look at the clock and see that it is now six-fifteen and no relief in sight.” – P G Wodehouse

“Live Free, Mon Ami!”  SEE: The Life & Works of Brian Alan Burhoe

 

And — Cheers to My Present & Future Friends on Goodreads!   Join Me Now!  Just CLICK Here…

Brian Burhoe's book recommendations, liked quotes, book clubs, book trivia, book lists (read shelf)
 

 

Title: WHAT HO Best of Wodehouse, Jeeves, Blandings & Uncle Fred

Bertie Wooster, best of Wodehouse, book review, friend on goodreads, Horace Rumpole, Jeeves, John Mortimer, P G Wodehouse, Rumpole of the Bailey, Terry Pratchett, Uncle Fred, PG Wodehouse, jeeves and wooster, jeeves and wooster season 2, p. g. wodehouse, pg wodehouse, pg wodehouse quotes.

DID YOU LIKE THIS P G WODEHOUSE POST?  PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS! 

Link to this post!
Posted in Book*Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on WHAT HO Best of Wodehouse, Jeeves, Blandings & Uncle Fred

Listen To The Young Voices on World Wildlife Day

Posted on March 3, 2017 by Brian Alan Burhoe

When is World Wildlife Day…

It’s World Wildlife Day and the IFAW Urges Us To “Listen to the Young Voices!”

World Wildlife Day

Listen To The Young Voices on World Wildlife Day

This is true: those of us who love animals and care for them have been doing so since childhood.

It does seem that most children love animals.  This seems to be almost universal.  Some folks outgrow this impulse, of course.  As adults, we have too much to else to tackle.

But we may know older folks who will blurt out “I love animals more than people!”  Or “Animals are more loyal and loving than people.”  And Doris Day, who said “I’ve never met an animal I didn’t like, and I can’t say the same thing about people.”  At first we may have been surprised by the sentiment.  As we grow older, well, we start to agree — maybe…

But it remains our children who speak up the most.  It’s our children who can remind us the most of our own once-upon-a-time connection with all living things.

So when the call came this year to “Listen To The Young Voices” we cheered — and cheered big time.

Listen…

WASHINGTON, March 3, 2017 — Amidst the sixth mass extinction, wildlife conservation has never been more paramount.  And World Wildlife Day!

“Tackling wildlife trade and empowering youth on World Wildlife Day.”

The UN World Wildlife Day, which takes place globally on the third of March each year, provides an opportunity to emphasize the importance of protecting wild animals and plants.

wildlife sanctuary tiger cubThis year, International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) and the Secretariat of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) partnered to end rampant illegal wildlife trade and encourage active youth involvement in wildlife protection.

The 2017 theme “Listen to the Young Voices” highlights the critical role youth have to ensure long-term wildlife conservation. Last September, IFAW hosted the inaugural Youth Forum for People and Wildlife in South Africa.

Thirty-four delegates, ages 18 to 25, shared individual animal rescue and species conservation ideas among themselves and member nations at CITES CoP17. Inspired by their experience, the group has since formed a global network, Youth for Wildlife Conservation (Y4WC), which officially launches today, on World Wildlife Day 2017.

“Today we are reminded to listen to young voices and harness their energy and creativity for lasting wildlife protection. I am proud of our next generation of conservation leaders especially those at Youth for Wildlife Conservation.

“They are bringing together their expertise in diverse fields such as research, genetics, law and animal rescue, united by their willingness to collaborate, learn from each other and take action in their local communities,” said Azzedine Downes, IFAW President and CEO.

“Our generation has not yet succeeded in securing the future of many wild animals and plants.  We need a World Wildlife Day.”

“Meeting this challenge will now be shared with the next generation. World Wildlife Day 2017 gives us the opportunity to inspire young people around the world to actively engage in wildlife conservation efforts. I encourage youth around the world to take a personal interest in wildlife conservation and to help fight wildlife crimes,” said John E. Scanlon, CITES Secretary-General.

Today’s World Wildlife Day event at the UN headquarters in New York, led by the President of the UN General Assembly, provides a platform for youth to voice their dedication to conservation and animal welfare with a specific focus on illicit wildlife trade.

“We are extremely diverse in just about every way. Yet, despite our differences, when we met in South Africa at the Youth Forum, we realized we all share a common goal and a passionate commitment to wildlife conservation. We demonstrate that today’s youth, engaged in conservation efforts worldwide cannot, and will not, stay idle,” said Josephine Crouch, Y4WC Steering Committee member.

Related facts:

  • The Earth is experiencing the worst species die-off since dinosaurs went extinct
  • Individuals under 30 comprise more than 50% of the world’s population
  • Youth Forum delegates hailed from 25 countries and were chosen from a pool of more than 1,000
  • Interactive map detailing World Wildlife Day 2017 events around the world
  • The first UN World Wildlife Day was celebrated on March 3, 2014

About IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare) and World Wildlife Day.

Founded in 1969, IFAW rescues and protects animals around the world. With projects in more than 40 countries, IFAW rescues individual animals, works to prevent cruelty to animals, and advocates for the protection of wildlife and habitats. For more information, visit www.ifaw.org. Follow us on social @action4ifaw and Facebook/IFAW.

It’s time, mon ami, to listen to the voices of the children.  Even our own voices, because we were children once — and we still remember…

“Live Free, Mes Amis!” – CIVILIZED BEARS! Visit Us at Our Bears’ Den Now

 

lone-wolf-story

Did you like this Wildlife Post?

IF SO, YOU’LL LOVE “WOLFBLOOD” — MY MOST POPULAR ANIMAL STORY:

“I JUST READ WOLFBLOOD AGAIN FOR GOOD MEASURE. ONE FOR ANY WOLF LOVER. ENJOYED IT BUT WISH IT WAS A FULL LENGTH NOVEL.” – Gina Chronowicz @ginachron

“THIS WAS A GREAT SHORT STORY. MORE PLEASE!” Make It Beautiful @Create4Ever

WOLFBLOOD, a Northwestern yarn in the Jack London Tradition, FREE TO READ ==> CLICK HERE  WOLFBLOOD: A Wild Wolf, A Half-Wild Husky & A Wily Old Trapper

 

SOURCE: International Fund for Animal Welfare & PR Newswire

Title: Listen To The Young Voices on World Wildlife Day

Keywords: Jack London, Listen to Young Voices, prevent cruelty to animals, sixth mass extinction, wildlife, wildlife crimes, World Wildlife Day, World Wildlife Day 2017, wolves, Youth for Wildlife Conservation

Event hashtags include: #WWD2017, #ListenToYoungVoices, #DoOneThingToday, #Youth4Wildlife

DID YOU LIKE THIS WORLD WILDLIFE DAY POST?  PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS!

Link to this post!
Posted in An Earth Spirit, Bearkind, Otherkind | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Listen To The Young Voices on World Wildlife Day