Home page photo (above) – courtesy of the Greenville Historical Society.
Emancipation Day Celebration, June 19, 1900 – The Portal to Texas History.
Juneteenth is America’s second Independence Day — a celebration of liberation, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of equality. It marks June 19, 1865, the day when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that more than 250,000 enslaved Black Americans were finally free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Wikipedia National Museum of African American History and Culture
Friday, June 19, 2026
Juneteenth — short for June Nineteenth — commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Although President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, it could not be enforced in areas still under Confederate control. Texas, the westernmost Confederate state, became the final stronghold where slavery continued despite the law. National Museum of African American History and Culture
Freedom arrived only when Major General Gordon Granger and roughly 2,000 Union soldiers landed in Galveston Bay on June 19, 1865, issuing General Order No. 3, which declared that enslaved people were free and would henceforth enjoy equal personal and property rights. Britannica
That moment — long delayed, deeply emotional — became known as Juneteenth.
On December 31, 1862, Black Americans gathered in churches and homes for what became known as Freedom’s Eve, waiting for the Emancipation Proclamation to take effect at midnight. When the clock struck twelve, enslaved people in Confederate states were legally free — but not yet physically free. National Museum of African American History and Culture
Texas’ geographic isolation and minimal Union troop presence allowed slavery to continue long after it was outlawed. Plantation owners migrated there to avoid Union lines, bringing enslaved people with them. Freedom did not reach Texas until Union forces arrived in person to enforce the law. National Museum of African American History and Culture
When General Granger read General Order No. 3, celebrations erupted among newly freed Black Texans. The day became an annual tradition beginning in 1866, first centered around church gatherings, prayer, and community meals. Wikipedia
This iconic photograph shows Black elders in Austin celebrating Juneteenth in 1900 — one of the earliest known images of the holiday. It reflects dignity, pride, and the determination to honor freedom publicly. texashistory.unt.edu
Music has always been central to Juneteenth. Brass bands, parades, and dancing were common features of early celebrations. historynet.com
Images like this one show the first generations of Black families living in freedom — rebuilding their lives, communities, and futures. nbcnews.com
Houston’s Emancipation Park, purchased by formerly enslaved men in 1872, became one of the most important Juneteenth celebration sites in the country. britannica.com
Juneteenth is more than a historical anniversary — it is a living tradition that honors:
It acknowledges the painful truth that freedom was delayed for hundreds of thousands of people, even after it was promised.
Juneteenth celebrates the strength, creativity, and endurance of Black Americans who built communities, institutions, and culture in the face of oppression.
The day encourages Americans to confront the legacy of slavery, Reconstruction, segregation, and ongoing racial inequities.
Modern celebrations include parades, music, food festivals, storytelling, and educational events — echoing traditions that began more than 150 years ago. Britannica
In 2021, Juneteenth became a federal holiday, thanks in large part to the lifelong activism of Opal Lee, known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.” Britannica
Juneteenth is a reminder that freedom is not just declared — it must be delivered, protected, and lived. It invites all Americans to reflect on the past while celebrating progress and committing to a more just future.
It is a day of remembrance, but also a day of joy — a celebration of a people who survived, resisted, and ultimately triumphed.
We face similar challenges today. We must not let our freedoms and Democracy be taken away.
DEMIGODS is a sweeping metaphysical thriller that begins on the sun‑drenched coast of Monaco and spirals into a world where art, mysticism, and human evolution collide.
Hans Winters is no ordinary wanderer. Gifted with an uncanny mind, a body hardened by endless pilgrimage, and abilities he barely understands, he drifts across Europe winning just enough at casinos to survive — until the criminal underworld notices. When a seductive stranger named Monaco lures him into a trap, Hans discovers he is being hunted not for what he has done, but for what he is.
His only hope lies with Augustin Flamel, a world‑famous illusionist whose impossible stage acts – including making cars vanish into thin air – may not be illusions at all. Both men share a secret connection to the long‑lost Brotherhood of Helgen, the mysterious “Austrian Twentiers,” whose abstract art hides cosmic messages and whose experiments may have unlocked powers far beyond human limits.
As Hans is drawn into Flamel’s inner circle, he learns the truth: something alien, ancient, and transformative has taken root inside him – the same force that once touched the Brotherhood. A force that can heal, destroy, or even tear open the fabric of space.
But when Monaco is kidnapped by a ruthless mafia boss, Hans must choose between the woman he loves and the destiny he never asked for. His journey will lead him from glittering casinos to hidden estates, from mystical artworks to the threshold of other worlds.
DEMIGODS is a novel of cosmic possibility, human longing, and the terrifying price of transcendence – a story that asks what happens when ordinary men brush against the infinite.
Koos Verkaik is the author of more than 70 books from children’s fantasy, scfi, mythology and now metaphysical. Learn more about Koos at his website: KoosVerkaik.com
NOW MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER — EXPERIENCE WHAT LIFE UNDER A REPRESSIVE DICTATORSHIP FEELS LIKE.
As Iran once again dominates global headlines, this true story pulls you inside the fear, brutality, and impossible choices ordinary people face under authoritarian rule.
A young American soldier discovers the truth about a regime built on terror — and risks everything for love.
Doug Roberts, a former anti‑war activist drafted into the U.S. Army, arrives in Tehran expecting routine duty. Instead, he’s assigned to a classified message center where he uncovers evidence of deep corruption and the iron grip of SAVAK, one of the most feared secret police forces of the modern era.
He doesn’t need documents to confirm the danger — he sees it in real time as his Iranian girlfriend and her mother become targets of SAVAK’s escalating repression. When Doug himself is marked for surveillance and intimidation, he realizes he has only one choice:
Act — or watch the people he loves disappear forever.
What follows is a daring, high‑stakes plan to smuggle them out of Iran before SAVAK closes in. Every step could mean arrest, torture, or death. Every decision could cost him his life.
This is a gripping romantic thriller about courage, freedom, and the extraordinary lengths one man will go to protect the people he loves. Inspired by true events.
Hillary Clinton, former Secretary of State and presidential candidate, argues that a growing segment of the MAGA movement has embraced cruelty as a political strategy and is actively rejecting empathy as a civic and moral virtue.
She connects this trend to recent events in Minnesota, where federal agents killed two young people and political leaders quickly framed them as terrorists.
Clinton highlights how certain Christian nationalist influencers now portray empathy as dangerous or even sinful, reshaping religious rhetoric to justify authoritarian impulses. She warns that this anti‑empathy ideology fuels polarization, dehumanization, and the erosion of democratic norms.
Clinton calls for a renewed commitment to compassion – both within faith communities and in public life – as essential to resisting extremism and strengthening democracy.
Read the full story in The Atlantic.
Halloween is more than costumes and candy—it’s a centuries-old celebration rooted in ancient rituals, spiritual beliefs, and cultural evolution. This blog post explores its origins and highlights books and movies that capture its eerie magic.
Halloween, celebrated every October 31st, traces its roots to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. Over 2,000 years ago, the Celts marked the end of summer and the beginning of the dark winter with Samhain, believing that on this night, the boundary between the living and the dead blurred. Spirits were thought to roam the earth, and people lit bonfires and wore costumes to ward them off Rosetta Stone History.
In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1st as All Saints’ Day, incorporating some Samhain traditions. The night before became All Hallows’ Eve, eventually shortened to Halloween. Over time, the holiday evolved into a community-centered celebration with trick-or-treating, jack-o’-lanterns, and spooky storytelling History.
Whether you’re curious about Halloween’s history or craving a chilling read, these books offer both insight and spine-tingling entertainment:
Halloween wouldn’t be complete without a few cinematic scares. These films have become staples of the season:
Halloween is more than just a night of costumes and candy—it’s a celebration of mystery, imagination, and the thin veil between worlds. It invites us to confront our fears, honor the past, and revel in the macabre. Whether you’re reading about its origins, watching a horror flick, or diving into a spooky novel, Halloween offers a unique lens into our cultural fascination with the unknown.
So light a candle, carve a pumpkin, and let the spirits of Halloween guide your night.
Sources: Rosetta Stone History istruestory.com
Books offer a level of personalization that few other gifts can match. When selecting a book, you’re making a thoughtful choice based on the recipient’s interests, passions, and current life journey. Whether it’s a gripping novel for a fiction enthusiast, a cookbook for a culinary explorer, or a motivational guide for someone seeking inspiration, a well-chosen book shows that you care.
Personalization can be taken a step further with a handwritten note inside the cover, sharing why you selected the book or what you hope the recipient will gain from it. This touch transforms a simple gift into a cherished keepsake.
Books are gateways to knowledge. Giving a book means giving access to new worlds, ideas, and perspectives. Non-fiction books provide practical skills, historical insights, and scientific understanding, while literary works enhance cultural awareness and empathy.
Consider gifting a history buff a detailed biography of a historical figure they admire or a tech-savvy friend the latest book on emerging digital trends. The knowledge gained from books has the potential to enrich lives long after the holiday season has passed.
In a world of constant digital stimulation, books offer a refreshing escape. Fictional worlds crafted by talented authors allow readers to travel to distant lands, experience thrilling adventures, or solve complex mysteries—all from the comfort of home.
During the often-hectic holiday season, receiving a captivating novel or an engrossing memoir can be a welcome respite. Books offer a chance to unplug, relax, and immerse oneself in a compelling story.
Reading has been shown to have numerous mental health benefits. Studies suggest that reading can reduce stress, improve mood, and even combat symptoms of depression. Engaging with well-written stories fosters empathy, helping readers understand and relate to different emotions and perspectives.
Self-help books, mindfulness guides, and poetry collections can be particularly beneficial for mental wellness. Gifting a book that supports well-being sends a powerful message of care and compassion.
Books can also strengthen personal connections. Choosing a book based on a shared interest can create an opportunity for bonding and deeper conversations. Consider selecting a title that you and the recipient can read together or discuss later.
Book clubs have long been a popular way to connect with others through shared reading experiences. Gifting a book with the suggestion of reading it together can create a shared adventure and spark meaningful discussions.
Books fuel creativity and spark the imagination, particularly for children and young adults. Storybooks, fantasy novels, and even artistic how-to guides can inspire new ideas and creative expression.
For children, books play a crucial role in cognitive development, language skills, and imaginative play. A beautifully illustrated picture book or an engaging young-adult novel can leave a lasting impact and foster a lifelong love of reading.
In a time when sustainability is more important than ever, books are a relatively eco-friendly gift option. Many books are printed on recycled paper, and second-hand bookstores provide an opportunity to gift pre-loved books with history and character.
E-books and audiobooks are also excellent alternatives for environmentally conscious gift-givers. These digital formats reduce the need for physical materials while still providing the same enriching experience.
Buying books from independent bookstores or directly from authors supports local economies and the literary community. Many small bookstores offer personalized recommendations, gift-wrapping services, and community events that add to the joy of book-giving.
Additionally, gifting books by emerging authors or from diverse perspectives helps promote underrepresented voices in literature, making your gift both meaningful and socially impactful.
Unlike many holiday gifts that may lose their appeal over time, books have lasting value. A treasured novel, a beloved memoir, or an informative guide can be revisited and enjoyed for years.
Books often become personal treasures passed down through generations, creating a legacy of shared stories and knowledge. Their enduring nature makes them a gift that keeps on giving.
Books come in a wide range of prices, making them an accessible gift for virtually any budget. From affordable paperbacks and used books to special editions and collector’s items, there’s an option for every giver.
Many libraries also offer book sales, where high-quality books can be purchased at a fraction of their retail price, making thoughtful gift-giving both affordable and rewarding.
This holiday season, consider giving a book—a gift that transcends time, trends, and material limitations. Books inspire, educate, entertain, and connect us to new worlds and each other. They’re a deeply personal, thoughtful, and enduring way to show love and appreciation.
Whether it’s a classic novel, a gripping thriller, a heartwarming memoir, or an inspiring guide, the right book can change lives. In a season defined by giving, few gifts are as meaningful or impactful as a carefully chosen book.
This article was generated by ChatGPT and edited to fit the format of the site.
Book publishing trends are constantly evolving as technology, consumer preferences, and market forces influence the industry. Based on the web search results from Bing, some of the latest book publishing trends for 2024 are:
Source: Conversation with Bing, 1/11/2024
(1) The Top 10 Publishing Trends for 2024 – Written Word Media.
(2) Book Trends 2024: The 5 Top Genres, Trends, and Changes – BOOK RIOT.
(3) The New Era Of Brand Building: Why Published Books Are The Tool Of ….
(4) Book Trends to Look for in Publishing in 2024 | Blurb Blog.
Also available on Amazon in Kindle and print versions
We interviewed Paul Gonnella, fondly referred to as Coach G, regarding his new book, PAID, about the scheme that has ripped off thousands of college football and men’s basketball players for years.
PAID is available on Amazon and the Kindle and in fine bookstores everywhere.
1. What inspired you to write PAID?
After abruptly resigning and retiring from college football in 2020, after almost 2 decades of service, I felt it was my duty, to be honest, to watch out for those who have no power or voice.
2. What are the most important, relevant issue(s)?
The most important relevant issues are:
3. What and how do you think will change with the publication of PAID?
I am hoping it starts a conversation that eventually will lead to change at the foundational level of revenue-making sports.
4. How will sports change as we know it if there are changes?
The sports of FBS college football/men’s basketball will be a better product for public consumption. Not much else will change in terms of the game. The changes I suggest in the book will dissolve the system of the mess it is in right now.
5. Are you thinking about writing a sequel to PAID or a second book?
I have not determined if I will write another book as of yet.
6. Is there anything you would like to add to this interview?
The only way change will occur is if the past players, current players, future players, all their family and friends, and the fans join together to create change. This movement will take a village to create change due to the amount of money and power the schemers have.
Outer Banks Publishing Group author Annette Creswell was recently awarded the Literary Titan Book Award for her novel, The Lodgers. Here is the email from the organization.
Author Annette Creswell We are proud to present you with our Literary Titan Book Award. Your book was recently reviewed through our Book Review Service, with that service your book is entered into our Literary Book Award competition. Your book deserves extraordinary praise and we are proud to acknowledge your hard work, dedication, and writing talent. Start telling the world that you’re an award winning author, because we will be!
The Literary Titan Book Awards are awarded to books that have astounded and amazed us with unique writing styles, vivid worlds, complex characters, and original ideas. These books deserve extraordinary praise and we are proud to acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and imagination of these talented authors.
The Literary Titan is an organization of professional editors, writers, and professors that have a passion for the written word. We review fiction and non-fiction books in many different genres, as well as conduct author interviews, and recognize talented authors with our Literary Book Award. We are privileged to work with so many creative authors around the globe.
Annette Creswell is also the author of The Dark Before the Dawn.
If you vote for Trump and his MAGA GOP members you may indirectly start World War III.
If Trump and his MAGA GOP take control of our Congress, they will cut off support for Ukraine. They already cut support on the advice of Trump when the Congress was ready to approve the spending bill with support for Ukraine.
What will happen next?
said Larry Jacobs, director of the Center for the Study of Politics and Governance at the University of Minnesota. “This is supposed to be the party of conservative principles, of tradition, of respect for customs and rules that make society governable.
“The idea that the law does not apply to Republicans is something that has now become part of the mainstream of the Republican party. We see it in terms of the approach to elections. We see it in terms of the treatment of immigrants. Some of the actions with regard to abortion may approach that level. The Republican party appears to consider the law and the constitution to be optional and to have lost legitimacy.”
From The Guardian
Republicans’ lawless leaders at odds with midterm law and order message | Republicans | The Guardian
If you vote Republican you are supporting:
– 19 GOP red states have pending laws suppressing voter’s ability to vote. Historically, dictators and Fascists have suppressed votes to stay in power.
– The GOP has come out in support of QAnon, The Oath Keepers and the Proud Boys
– You may lose a loved one, a relative or a friend in a train crash, a bridge collapse or a plane crash as Republicans strip funds from President Biden’s infrastructure bill.
– The Texas abortion ban if left to stand will be passed in several other GOP states. Idaho will pass an anti-abortion law based on the Texas law. 16 states have “trigger” abortion ban laws.
by the US Supreme Court.
https://cnn.it/3RaW1zm
https://nyti.ms/3IcANNo
With the recent Supreme Court banning EPA authority from polluters
https://bit.ly/3IfQ1Bf
on Gun Purchases – will never get passed.
Watch Jimmy Kimmel’s emotional plea to improve gun purchase background checks
https://cnn.it/3AnRweO
– will never go up leaving 18 states still paying $7.25 an hour.
– the last thing America needs are conservative leaders, especially some Republicans who want to keep America from progressing. The last thing America needs is backward-thinking leaders in the 21st Century.
– Republicans have turned to cheating to stay in power or to get back into power…and nothing is getting done by them for the American people.
The enforcement or advocacy of strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom.
and everything America stands for: Truth, Justice and Liberty for all? Look what is happening in Ukraine.
*Of course, not all Republicans are like those described above. Here is a list of those who should stay in office.
House of Representatives – those who voted to impeach the former president
Senate – The Republicans who voted to convict the former president after impeachment:
YOUR VOTE COUNTS. It’s a lie to think otherwise.
Paid for by Jake Stone for American Democracy
VOTE like your freedom depended on it…because it does.
Books of the NY Times
