Tag Archives: halo publishing

“Private Money Lending” An Important Guide to Investing in the 21st Century Low-Interest Rate Environment

June 7, 2017 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

Rarely is a book researched as thoroughly as Gustavo Gomez’s five-time award-winning book “Private Money Lending: Learn How to Consistently Generate a Passive Income Stream.”

Miami, FL (USA), June 7th, 2017 — Rarely is a book researched as thoroughly as Gustavo Gomez’s five-time award-winning book “Private Money Lending: Learn How to Consistently Generate a Passive Income Stream.” Gomez used this investing technique in his own life and was so pleased with the returns from this type of investment that he wanted to share his experience and knowledge with other investors interested in earning a significant and safe passive income stream. However, he wanted to craft a guide book that was authentic and accurate; therefore, he went back to college to earn a Ph.D. for the purpose of researching and writing this book.

“Writing the book has been a worthwhile and enriching experience,” said Gustavo Gomez. “I wanted to create a comprehensive and readable financial book that would provide the essential detailed information private mortgage investors would need to safely use this investment vehicle. Learning about this type of investment will help the retired, as well as the income investor, generate a consistent and generous return that could substantially enhance their retirement income.”

Gomez researched a variety of investment opportunities as well as closely studying the current and potential future financial climate. The reason for undertaking the study was twofold; for almost two decades, retirement portfolios have been devastated by economic boom and bust cycles, which is a key characteristic of today’s capitalist economies. It is quite possible that currently, another bust cycle could be unfolding despite the apparent bull market. Additionally, the adopted Federal Reserve policy of creating an artificially low-interest rate environment in an attempt to sustain the continued growth of the stock market and support of the current real estate recovery efforts has made it difficult for the income investor to safely generate a passive income stream to enjoy their retirement.

“People who are 60 or older don’t have enough time to wait for the return of their money should we experience another stock market crash,” said Gomez. “Therefore, I wanted to provide a step-by-step roadmap to help those who are retired or soon will be, to safely invest their disposable income in such a way as to provide consistent passive income for years to come.”

Gomez started lending money to private individuals and organizations more than 17 years ago and thus has become a private funding source for those who wouldn’t otherwise qualify for a conventional conforming loan. “I work primarily with those investing in commercial and investment properties,” said Gomez. This book is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to learn how to invest in private mortgages in a sound and safe manner. However, it is important to note that although there are numerous investment strategies in the arsenal of every investor, adding private mortgages to the investment mix can reduce volatility by adding a non-correlated component to the investor’s overall investment portfolio.

“Private Money Lending: Learn How to Consistently Generate a Passive Income Stream” has won many book awards, which include the 2016 Axiom Business Book Awards®. So far, for 2017, the book has won the International Book Awards® (IBA), the Independent Press Awards® (IPA), the Next-Generation Indie Book Awards® (NGIBA), and the National Indie Excellence® Awards (NIEA).

“Gustavo’s book is amazing,” said Lisa Michelle Umina, founder, and award-winning author and publisher of Halo Publishing International. “It is so thoroughly researched and surprisingly easy to read for a book on finance. Anyone interested in learning about alternative, safe ways to invest their money should pick up this book and learn from the experience and knowledge of Gustavo.”

In fact, Gustavo’s book is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to learn how to invest in private mortgages in a sound and secure manner. Moreover, this book is the only university research-based book in the market addressing this important investment topic. In fact, the seriousness of the undertaken research has been validated by the multiple awards the book has won to date.

“Private Money Lending: Learn How to Consistently Generate a Passive Income Stream” is now available at: Halo Publishing, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and other outlets in Hardcover for $31.95 and in paperback for $24.95.

* Halo Publishing – http://halopublishing.com/3f-h/gustavo-gomez.html

* Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/Private-Lending-Consistently-Generate-Passive/dp/1612443435/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1436895180&sr=8-1&keywords=9781612443430&pebp=1436895181725&perid=16708KKJ98V03X4PH7WG

* Barnes and Noble – https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/private-money-lending-learn-how-to-consistently-generate-a-passive-income-stream-gustavo-gomez/1121797093;jsessionid=C533DFA3E0ED3361F6E70DAC57C00690.prodny_store02-atgap05?ean=9781612443430

About Gustavo J. Gomez, Ph.D.:
Gustavo has been a successful entrepreneur, educator, healthcare consultant and businessman for the past thirty-five years. His educational background and business experience have made him exceptionally versatile, achieving numerous successes in both the healthcare and business fields. As a multiple-award-winning author possessing this academic versatility allows Gustavo the ability to research and write about healthcare, entrepreneurial, and business-related issues.

About Halo Publishing International:
Halo Publishing International is a self-publishing company that publishes adult fiction and non-fiction, children’s literature, self-help, spiritual, and faith-based books. We continually strive to help authors reach their publishing goals and provide many different services that help them do so. http://www.HaloPublishing.com

Press & Media Contact:
Lisa M. Umina, Publisher
Halo Publishing International
1100 NW Loop 410, Suite 700-176
San Antonio, TX 78213 – USA
+1 877-705-9647
contact@halopublishing.com
http://www.halopublishing.com

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Halo Publishing International Celebrates 15 Years of Service!

June 4, 2017 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

In the past fifteen years over 1,000 authors have successfully published and distributed their books into the hands of readers worldwide thanks to Lisa Michelle Umina and her exceptional team at Halo Publishing International.

San Antonio, TX (USA), June 3rd, 2017 — In the past fifteen years over 1,000 authors have successfully published and distributed their books into the hands of readers worldwide thanks to Lisa Michelle Umina and her exceptional team at Halo Publishing International.

“We are exceedingly proud of the accomplishments of our authors over the past 15 years,” said Umina, founder and publisher at Halo Publishing International. “I started the business out of my basement as an author looking for a vehicle to help publish and distribute my own children’s book Milo Finds His Best Friend. Thanks to front page coverage in the Sun Times, Northeast Ohio, I began receiving calls from writers interested in publishing their books and my business took off.”

Halo Publishing International publishes a variety of genres including children’s, self-help, spiritual, adult and young adult fiction and poetry. The team at Halo helps authors from manuscript to book in hand.

“We work closely with each author to help them build their individual author platform which goes beyond the layout and editing of the book,” explains Umina. “We also help with distribution in hardcover, paperback and e-book version, social media promotion, book launch and book signing events, creating book trailers and submitting their book for a variety of national, regional and genre awards.”

Halo has had the honor of publishing books for a wide range of authors, from up-and-coming, award-winning authors to famous writers and national speakers, such as:

* Gustavo Gomez, “Private Money Lending” 5-time book award winner
* Tererai Trent, Oprah Winfrey’s Favorite Guest, “Zandi Finds Ubuntu”
* JJ DiGeronimo, Award-winning author, “The Working Woman’s GPS”
* Darryl Turner, Author of the best-selling book, “Uncommon Sense”
* Denise Zarrella, News Anchor with WOIO, author of “Not Even The Sky Is The Limit”
* Lori DeMonia, Award-winner of the Temple Grandin Outstanding Literary Work of the Year
* Yolnette Belinda, Award-winner of the 2017 Mom’s Choice Award
* Todd Bierman, Award-winner of the Small Christian Publisher Award

“One of our first authors wrote Imagine…Amazing Me which was inspired by Libbi Chilia’s daughter Sami, who has a limb deficiency,” said Umina.” Libbi’s book has been an inspiration for parents and children around the world, helping to dispel any misconceptions about people with disabilities. It is authors like Libbi, who have an amazing story to share, that bring such joy and meaning to all of us at Halo Publishing.”

The Halo motto is “If There’s a Book in Your Head…It’s Time to Get it in Your Hands” and Lisa and her team go above and beyond to help make that happen. Recently Lisa worked one-on-one with first time published author, Laura Brewster, a young adult with autism. Laura had written a book about her beloved dog Genevieve and Lisa helped her refine the story, work with an illustrator and publish the book.

“I am so very blessed to have the opportunity to work each day with a variety of amazing authors from around the world,” said Umina. “What sets Halo apart from other self-publishing houses is the fact that I am available to talk with the authors personally. I have years of experience as a publisher and can answer their questions and allay their fears, but I am also an award-winning author. I know what they are feeling. I have been in their shoes.”

What is next for Halo Publishing International? “We are continually working to build our team and marketing services so that we have the resources authors need to help them bring their book to the masses,” said Umina. “Some of our authors have been with us from the beginning and continue to write and publish more books and win awards and we want to help them celebrate and give them a platform so they can be heard.”

The e-book phenomenon is also a great vehicle for authors connecting with their readers. Electronic books can be downloaded in under a minute which helps facilitate the reader of today’s growing need to have what they want, when they want it; now.

To learn more about Halo Publishing, visit the website www.halopublishing.com or visit their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/halopublishing.

About Lisa Michelle. Umina:
Lisa Michelle Umina is an award-winning author with fifteen years of experience in the publishing industry. Lisa has expertise in marketing and digital printing, and she mentors writers all over the world. Lisa’s experience includes working with The Wall Street Journal and University Settlement, and founding Halo Publishing International and Hola Publishing which has offices in United States and Mexico. Her company has released over 1,000 titles. Lisa speaks regularly at schools and conferences and has given countless newspaper, radio, and television interviews.

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Christian Novel “The Yoke” Explores Deception, Faith, and Love

December 18, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

Barnabas Mitchell wasn’t always a Christian. In fact, he had a lot of doubts about his faith. As an attorney, faith in the facts and how to present them for the benefit of his clients took precedence in his life.

Carbondale, IL (USA), December 18th, 2016 — Barnabas Mitchell wasn’t always a Christian. In fact, he had a lot of doubts about his faith. As an attorney, faith in the facts and how to present them for the benefit of his clients took precedence in his life. However, all of that came into question when he met Stephanie Schultz.

“Writing this story has been a many year endeavor,” said author Darrell Dunham. “In fact, the original version that I wrote five years ago bears little resemblance to the finished product. As I spent time with the characters and chronicled Barnabas’ journey to turn his life over to God, the story took on a life of its own. Originally the book was based on some of my own experiences questioning my faith and making the decision to put my life in God’s hands. I wanted to create a story that others who are questioning their faith could relate to. In fact, many of the arguments for resisting God that Barnabas shares were direct quotes from my own discussions with others of faith.”

In “The Yoke” readers will be captivated by the story of Barnabas and his nemesis Bill Cushman, who appears to have everything going for him, but who is truly an evil entity with an agenda that will challenge and frustrate our main character. However, at the core, “The Yoke” is the love story of Barnabas and Stephanie and Barnabas and God.

The word “yoke” was originally associated with oxen or work animals and represented a connection between the animal and the farmer. In this book by Dunham, the yoke refers to a number of the relationships Barnabas has in his life; with Bill Cushman, with Stephanie and ultimately with God.

“I reference my favorite scripture as part of the epilogue,” said Dunham.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

“This is one unexpected ride,” said Lisa Umina, founder and publisher of Halo Publishing International. “If you were expecting a milquetoast story because of the fact that it is a Christmas novel, you are in for a surprise. Highly entertaining and so well written, I encourage those who are people of faith or who are questioning their faith and looking for a good story to pick up “The Yoke”.”

“The Yoke” is now available at Halo Publishing, Amazon. It is available in paperback for $15.95.

* Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/dp/1612445004/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481657302&sr=8-1&key

About Darrell Dunham:
Darrell Dunham practices law in southern Illinois. He has been a Christian for more than thirty-five years. He and his wife, Betsy, have five children and six grandchildren. He wrote this book because he believes that there should be more Christian literature written for the benefit of young adults who are looking for encouragement in their faith journey.

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“Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees” Encourages Readers to be Curious and Courageous

December 13, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

“Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees” encourages children to be curious about the different ways money can be made and grown.

Ft. Lauderdale, FL (USA), December 13th, 2016 — Before we can save money, we must first make money. “Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees” encourages children to be curious about the different ways money can be made and grown. The main character, Anthony, is interested in understanding where money is made and with the help of his teacher, uncovers a variety of ways money is made and used.

“How often have we said the phrase ‘money doesn’t grow on trees’ never fully appreciating how that might be viewed by impressionable, imaginative children?” asks author Tony Bland. “I wanted to create a book that would help young readers become curious about the opportunities for future income and be inspired to learn more.”

“Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees” is a book about the adventures of a little boy and his desire to learn about the world of finance. It is a story of family values, teacher involvement, and the impact of words on the mind of an impressionable child.

The colorful illustrations, provided by Chad Thompson, help bring to life the ways in which money is garnered and used in our everyday life. Anthony, the main character in the story, understands that money doesn’t grow on trees but is curious as to how money does grow. Together, he and his teacher consider all of the ways in which money is accumulated and used in our life.

“To take care of yourself financially, you have to monetize your intelligence and ideas,” said Bland. “This book is the first in a series that will explore the different ways people can make money. If they are curious, work hard and take advantage of the opportunities that are available, the possibilities for making money are endless.”

“This delightful tale will inspire parents to have important conversations about money with their children,” said Lisa Umina, founder and president of Halo Publishing. “It is a wonderful gift for parents and grandparents hoping to instill a respect for money in their children.”

“Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees” is now available at Barnes and Noble and Amazon, in hard cover for $18.95.

* Barnes and Noble – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/money-doesnt-grow-on-trees-tony-bland/1125195031?ean=9781612445137

* Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/Money-Doesnt-Grow-Trees-Bland/dp/1612445136/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1480348641&sr=8-2&keywords=Tony+bland

About Tony Bland:
Tony Bland was born and raised as the only son to parents who divorced when he was nine years old. He is now an executive in the financial services industry with an Undergraduate degree in Accounting from the University of Connecticut, and a Masters of Business Administration degree from the University of North Carolina. From an early age, he had a curiosity about business and sees the same curiosity in his twelve-year old son, Anthony.

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“Acorn Gert and BrotherBert” is a Delightful Tale of Uncovering Our Potential in Life

December 2, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

Meet Acorn Gert, a delightful, energetic acorn who loves her brother Bert and their life under a great oak tree. Gert and Bert are happy frolicking in the leaves until their friend, the wise owl, lets them in on a secret.

Cleveland, OH (USA), December 1st, 2016 — Meet Acorn Gert, a delightful, energetic acorn who loves her brother Bert and their life under a great oak tree. Gert and Bert are happy frolicking in the leaves until their friend, the wise owl, lets them in on a secret. They have more potential and will offer more in life than just two sweet little acorns playing in the dirt. “Acorn Gert and Brother Bert” remind us that, just like acorns, we all have seeds of potential, our God-given gifts that are meant to grow into something amazing.

“As the mother of eight wonderful children, each one uniquely their own, I wanted to create a children’s story that would celebrate the individual potential of each child and encourage readers to cherish and nurture their own unique value,” said author Elizabeth Duncan Stretar. “I am hoping parents will be able to use the message of Acorn Gert as a starting point for conversations about potential with their children.”

“Acorn Gert and Brother Bert” is told in rhyme, with a joyful rhythm that children will enjoy and ask to have read repeatedly. The colorful characters, drawn by illustrator Rosemarie Gillen help bring the story to life. At the end of the story Stretar has included additional information to help parents and educators use the story with intention to help discover the untapped talents of children.

“It is important that we talk about the seeds that have been planted in our children from a young age,” said Stretar. “My hope is that the characters will make the story memorable and the importance of discovering each child’s inner purpose becomes a regular conversation with parents and educators.”

Stretar aims help parents nurture their children’s potential and help them grow to become all they were meant to be. To that end, “Acorn Gert and Brother Bert” is meant to be tool to stimulate fun, meaningful conversation between adults and children. It is the first in a series of delightful children’s stories featuring the main acorn characters. In the next edition Acorn Gert – Gets a Brand New Skirt, which will highlight the simple pleasures of playing dress-up and igniting imaginative paly in the lives of children.

“I have so enjoyed working with Elizabeth on this project,” said Lisa Umina, founder and president of Halo Publishing International. “Acorn Gert and Brother Bert is such an important book for parents to read to their children. It is never too soon to encourage our youth to be the best they can be.”

“Acorn Gert and Brother Bert” is now available at Barnes and Noble and Amazon, in paperback for $12.95 and e-book version for $6.95.

* Barnes and Noble – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/acorn-gert-and-brother-bert-elizabeth-duncan-stretar/1125157561?ean=9781612445038
* Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/Acorn-Brother-Elizabeth-Duncan-Stretar/dp/1612445039/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1479839105&sr=8-1&keywords=Elizabeth+Duncan+Stretar

About Elizabeth Duncan Stretar:
Elizabeth Duncan Stretar, graduate of Fuller Theological Seminary, is a wife, mother of eight and grandmother of sixteen (by mid-2017). She is also a flight attendant who writes on the fly and blogs on a wide range of topics. The author spent the majority of her professional career in the non-profit sector working primarily with teenage mothers through YoungLives; an outreach program of Young Life. She was the first YoungLives National Director responsible for laying the groundwork for the teen mom initiative that today, reaches teen moms world-wide. In 2008, she and husband Frank co-founded the non-profit organization LeaderWithin. “Acorn Gert and Brother Bert” is her first published book. Proceeds from this book will be used to support the ongoing work of LeaderWithin, which exists to help others discover more of who they are, where they are and what they can become. www.leaderwithin.org. www.betsystretar.com

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“Mindfulness of Nature” a Dose of Encouragement and Beauty Support Positive Mental Health

December 2, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

In the first in a series of books supporting the benefits of affirmation, author Jo Ann Petrucci Andrews offers a collection of beautiful landscape images combined with words of positive support.

Foster, RI (USA), December 1st, 2016 — In the first in a series of books supporting the benefits of affirmation, author Jo Ann Petrucci Andrews offers a collection of beautiful landscape images combined with words of positive support. “Mindfulness of Nature” uses the alphabet as a foundation for presenting encouraging words to help readers focus on the positive rather than the negative in life.

“Sometimes we just need to be reminded that no matter how dark our day is or how negative a relationship may be, there is a ray of positivity if we look for it,” said author Jo Ann Petrucci Andrews. “I wanted to create a book that would help readers remember their strengths, their value and the parts of their life for which they should be most thankful.”

“Mindfulness of Nature” statements of affirmation from A to Z can be used as a daily reminder, an as-needed dose of positivity or even as a family activity to promote a habit of thinking on the bright side of life. Each beautiful image was taken by the author depicting some of her favorite restful spots from the woodlands of New England to the beaches of Mexico.

“I wanted to combine the beauty of nature with encouraging words to help the reader be in the moment,” said Andrews. “There is a gift to be had by focusing on the positive in our life right this moment rather than bemoaning what might have been or worrying about the “what ifs” of the future. Being in the moment is a great way to change the direction of our thoughts which can help us as we view life, relationships, work and every aspect of our day.”

“I keep a copy of Jo Ann’s book within easy reach,” said Lisa Umina, founder and president of Halo Publishing International. “I thoroughly enjoyed the positive messages during the first read through and now I flip through at random and pick a page to help focus my mind during the day. It is a great way to remind me of the blessings in my life.”

Andrews is working on a series of books to follow “Mindfulness of Nature” based on her professional counseling sessions that will inspire, motivate and encourage readers to live in the moment and surround themselves with positive thoughts, positive people and positive experiences.

“Mindfulness of Nature” is available from:
* Halo Publishing – http://halopublishing.com/1a-c/jo-ann-petrucci-andrews.html
* Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/Mindfulness-Nature-Jo-Ann-Andrews/dp/1612445128/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1479315461&sr=8-3&keywords=andrews+halo+publishing
* Barnes and Noble – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-mindfulness-of-nature-jo-ann-petrucci-andrews/1125149851?ean=2940156965397

Purchase your copy as an e-book for $7.99 or hardcover for $15.95.

About Jo Ann Petrucci Andrews:
Dr. Jo-Ann Petrucci Andrews is a marriage and family therapist who helps children and their families recover from grief and loss. She is a licensed mental health counselor, and she holds a Doctor of Education degree. Jo-Ann specializes in trauma-focused treatment for a wide range of issues, including bereavement, divorce, adoption and foster care, autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, co-parenting, and mood disorders. She currently lives on a farm in New England with her husband, children, and animals.

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“Racing the Flame” Combines Faith and Adventure in this Western Children/Young Adult Novel

December 2, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

If you have ever dreamed of being a cowboy/cowgirl on a Montana ranch, “Racing the Flame” will transport you out west and take you for the ride of your life.

Jordan, MT (USA), December 1st, 2016 — If you have ever dreamed of being a cowboy/cowgirl on a Montana ranch, “Racing the Flame” will transport you out west and take you for the ride of your life. Set during a drought-stricken summer in Montana on a cattle ranch, readers will meet the Landers family, a tightknit Christian family who have their faith in God in the forefront of their lives. When tragedy strikes, in the form of a raging fire that is eating up thousands of acres of prairie land, their faith is put to the test.

“I wrote this story based on a real life experience we had on our horse ranch,” said author Lisa Phipps. “Just like Jay’s father, my husband was out with the other ranchers fighting the fire day and night. I wanted to create a story that featured our ranch life and the realities we experience while also depicting a family unit that is based on their love for each other and their love and trust in God.”

Even before the fire strikes, the older Landers’ children, Jay and his sister Katy, are introduced to readers as hard working, responsible teens who love their family and enjoy the unique life of herding cattle, riding horses and working in the barn. Readers gain a true understanding of ranch life and how different it is from the typical teen life of walking the mall and hanging out at the local burger joint.

“Lisa has created a wholesome, entertaining story that will capture readers of all ages,” said Lisa Umina, founder and President of Halo Publishing International. “The Landers family is a wonderful example of how family life can be if we live as God wants us to; understanding that relationships are far more important than materials things.”

“Racing the Flame” is beautifully illustrated on the cover and throughout the book by Katie Busch. Katie has a passion for art, especially pencil and clay, but all media are fun for her. She lives in northeastern Montana with her husband and their dog, chickens, and emus. This is her first book to illustrate, however Lisa Phipps and Katie are continuing to collaborate on a series of picture books that will be coming out soon.

“Racing the Flame” is available from Halo Publishing as well as Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Get your copy in paperback for $11.95 or as a e-book for $3.99.

About Lisa Phipps:
Lisa Phipps grew up in west-central Minnesota. She earned her degree in elementary education at the University of Minnesota, Morris and moved to Montana to begin her teaching career in a one-room schoolhouse. She is a runner, a writer, and a Sunday school teacher, but her favorite thing to do is ride horses with her husband and their three children on their Montana cattle ranch.

Entertainment

“The Girl Who Tried to Catch the Moon” Inspires Young Readers to Pursue Their Dreams

August 27, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

First time author, Ashby Bland, brilliantly captures the idea of working toward a goal with a simple, yet profound voice.

Ft. Lauderdale, FL (USA), August 27th, 2016 — You’ve heard the quote “if at first you don’t succeed, try-try again.” The main character in this new children’s picture, “The Girl Who Tried to Catch the Moon” brings the idea of being persistent to life. First time author, Ashby Bland, brilliantly captures the idea of working toward a goal with a simple, yet profound voice.

“I want young readers to have the confidence to go for their dreams,” said Ashby Bland, author and recently enrolled freshman at Columbia University. “Too many are quick to tell people they can’t do something; this book was written to encourage readers to set their goals and then persistently work towards achieving them.”

Ms. Bland first penned “The Girl Who Tried to Catch” the Moon when she was just four years old. Over the years she would stumble upon the story and make little refinements but the message always stayed the same. “You can do anything you put your mind to,” said Bland.

People discouraged Ms. Bland from applying to Columbia University, number four on the list of most difficult universities to get into according to the 2016 Hardest to Get survey which ranks 1,349 colleges based on acceptance rates. However, she had a goal of attending college there and set her sights on being accepted. She begins her freshman year this fall where she is studying Creating Writing.

Ms. Bland has been writing short stories, poems and novels since her early childhood and hopes that her first book, “The Girl Who Tried to Catch the Moon” is the start of a series of stories about girls and boys who try different things in their life.

“I know that young readers will be captivated by the colorful illustrations that accompany this inspiring tale,” said Lisa Umina, founder and publisher of Halo Publishing International. “Ashby has written a wonderful story that will help children see that, even if a dream seems impossible, like catching the moon, if you try hard enough you just might be successful.”

“I am excited to see this story come to life and be available for children all over,” said Bland. “I hope young readers are encouraged by this story of having a dream, working hard, overcoming obstacles, and problem solving to eventually see your dream become a reality.”

Certainly for Ms. Bland, this delightful story is a testament to her persistence, problem solving skills and ultimate success.

“The Girl Who Tried to Catch the Moon” is available in hard cover for $18.95 through:
Halo Publishing – http://halopublishing.com/1a-c/ashby-bland.html#the-girl-who-tried-to-catch-the-moon

Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Who-Tried-Catch-Moon/dp/1612444962/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1471880957&sr=8-1&keywords=9781612444963

Barnes and Noble – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-girl-who-tried-to-catch-the-moon-ashby-bland/1124420099?ean=9781612444963

About Ashby Bland:
Ashby Bland is an eighteen year old writer and artist from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. She is currently a freshman at Columbia University in the City of New York. In the future, Ashby will continue to create thought-provoking works of art and literature.

Entertainment

Newly Released Dagah: The Great Fish is a Whale of a Tale!

August 26, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

Author Victoria McCarty Pens a Heartfelt Children’s Story of Faith and Trust.

Baltimore, MD (USA), August 26th, 2016 — We are familiar with the story of Jonah, a Bible story of epic proportions told of a man who is swallowed whole by a whale. But have we ever considered the story from the whale’s point of view? “Dagah: The Great Fish” is just that, the tale of a great whale who was called upon by God to participate in a mission far greater than he could have imagined.

“When my friend Inky asked the question – what did the whale think – it inspired me to create a colorful children’s book that would explore the relationship the fish had with God and how he came to swallow Jonah,” said author Victoria McCarty. “The question was asked jokingly but Inky really helped me delve into the story further and imagine what it would be like to be asked to do something far outside our comfort zone. “Dagah: The Great Fish” explores that experience. How do we respond when we are asked to do something we are sure we cannot.

In the story “Dagah: The Great Fish”, the main character is swimming along happily when he hears a voice that asks him to leave the comforts of home, food, and shelter and travel into the cold, dark waters of the unknown. Through a strong faith and trust in God, Dagah travels into a variety of interesting places and plays a major role in the story of Jonah, a simple man that God is also used for far greater good.

“Dagah: The Great Fish” is Victoria’s own experience in being asked to do something out of the norm. Prior to this story, Victoria has enjoyed writing but it was a very private endeavor. However, with “Dagah: The Great Fish” she felt called upon to create a story of faith and share it with the world.

“My hope is that “Dagah: The Great Fish” will resonate with young readers,” said McCarty. “Children have all experienced times when teachers, parents and other adults in their life have asked them to do something they felt was too difficult. Hopefully “Dagah: The Great Fish” will teach them that through faith and trust in God, who is always at their side offering support and comfort, they can accomplish great things.”

“Not only is this a wonderful children’s story,” said Lisa Umina, founder and publisher of Halo Publishing International, “but it is also a tale that will inspire parents to seek out more information about Jonah and other stories in the Bible that focus on God’s love and the importance of trusting in Him.”

Victoria’s story is accompanied by the beautiful art of her sister, Sarah Holtsberg, who is currently attending college. Her drawings bring the story of Dagah to life.

“Dagah: The Great Fish” is available through Halo Publishing as well as Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

About Victoria McCarty:
Victoria McCarty is an art teacher, writer and active participant in children’s ministry in rural Carroll County, Maryland. She resides with her husband, dog, and cat focusing on church activities and creating studio artwork. Sharing God’s word in creative ways is one of Victoria’s passions. “Dagah: The Great Fish” is her first published work.

Entertainment

Author Rebeca Gómez Galindo Combines Romance and Suspense with a Coming of Age Story

March 25, 2016 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

Ximena Villarreal is the only daughter of the wealthiest banker in Mexico City. Her life seems perfect, her future planned. Existence inside her family’s protective bubble isn’t exciting but it is safe.

San Antonio, TX (USA), March 25th, 2016 — Ximena Villarreal is the only daughter of the wealthiest banker in Mexico City. Her life seems perfect, her future planned. Existence inside her family’s protective bubble isn’t exciting but it is safe. Until the night the bubble shatters and she gets kidnapped. Alejandro Montalban, Ximena’s alienated cousin and the family’s black sheep, throws himself in the quest to rescue her.

“This book is a labor of love,” said author Rebeca Gómez Galindo. “The male lead in the book is inspired by my cousin Alejandro Moreno who lived an amazing life, albeit far too short. This story is a tribute to him and a way for people to remember the great hero that he was.”

In the book Alejandro is there to guide our heroine through a myriad of adventures and experiences as she struggles in the process of growing into an inspirational young woman. Readers have liken the book to a “Romeo and Juliet meets revenge story.” A must-read for the new adult reader, 18-30, however, Kidnapped Innocence is a page turner for readers of all adult ages.

“Rebeca’s story grabs the reader from the first chapter, immersing you in the life of Ximena, and wanting you to know what happens next,” said Lisa Umina, president and publisher of Halo Publishing. “Will Alejandro be able to save Ximena from the kidnappers, or do the fates have something else in store? Trust me; you’ll want to read on to learn their fate.”

Rebeca has been creating stories since grade school and continues to delight readers through a variety of publications. Her first book, a collection of short stories entitled Habitantes de mi Tiempo was published in Spanish. Each story features a character with careers that normally do not have a voice; miners, maids, immigrants. Rebeca weaves colorful stories about each character shedding light on their value.

Meet with the author in person at the book launch party scheduled for April, 28, 2016. The event will take place at UNAM San Antonio from 6:30PM to 9PM at the terrace. 600 Hemisfair Plaza Way, San Antonio, TX 78205

Kidnapped Innocence is available in paperback from Amazon and retails for $12.95.

Paperback: 214 pages
Publisher: Halo Publishing International (March 3, 2016)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1612444415
ISBN-13: 978-1612444413
Product Dimensions: 5 x 0.4 x 8.5 inches

About Rebeca Gómez Galindo:
Rebeca Gómez Galindo was born and raised in México City. She moved to San Antonio, Texas in 2004. She was awarded permanent residency via an Extraordinary Ability in the Arts Visa classification. Her work has been published in México, Spain and the United States. She’s the former vice-president of the Society of Hispanic and Latino Writers of San Antonio. Her book “Habitantes de mi Tiempo” was featured at the Salon du Livre in Paris, France, 2009.