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August 2025
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LIGHTS, CAMERA, NOSTALGIA MOVIES THEN AND NOW
National Cinema Day falls in August, which makes it as good a time as any to talk about movies. We didn’t go to the movies often when I was a kid, but I still remember the first one I saw in a theater. It was “Popeye” with Robin Williams. “Return of the Jedi” came not long after. I don’t remember getting much from the plots at the time, but I do remember the feeling of excitement watching a movie on the big screen. It was more than the movie itself. It was the ambiance, the popcorn, and the way everything felt just a little larger than life. The theater was great, but we didn’t need tickets to get a movie fix at my house. Most of the time, we watched them from the comfort of our living room. My parents were huge fans of musicals, so I grew up on “Guys and Dolls,” “Singin’ in the Rain,” and more Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers than any kid probably needed. There were also plenty of John Wayne westerns (I think I’ve seen them all), World War II epics, and the occasional sci-fi creature feature thrown in for variety. “The Blob” stands out, not for the special effects but because it was so far from anything else we watched. Today’s movie experience looks a little different. I’ve got a screen in my pocket and movies available whenever I want to watch one. When I do watch something, it’s usually alone and on my iPad. I think the last movie I saw in
the theater was “Top Gun: Maverick,” which I’ll admit was fun. Not exactly realistic, but entertaining. I like the theaters with food service and reserved seats. The recliners are great. But something about people on their phones kills the magic a little. You can’t fully escape when the glow of someone else’s screen is lighting up the row.
“Today’s movie experience looks a little different. I’ve got a screen in my pocket and movies available whenever I want to watch one.”
I still love movies, especially science fiction. I like the world-building, the questions it raises, and how it forces you to think about society differently. Now, with all the streaming services available, you can find almost anything you want to watch at any time. The tradeoff, though, is that you have to dig through a dozen streaming services to find what you’re looking for. I’ve also had more chances to see live musicals in recent years — “Les Misérables,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Wicked,” “Mary Poppins.” Watching those stories unfold on stage adds something that even the best movies can’t quite match. It brings things full circle for me. Musicals played a big part in my childhood, and now I get to see them with a new perspective. I still make it out to the movie theater occasionally, but most of my movie time happens at home. The popcorn is cheaper, the seats are better, and nobody’s blocking my view. I don’t even have to shush anyone … unless the dog starts barking at the screen. It’s not quite the same as sitting in a darkened theater watching “Return of the Jedi” for the first time, but the feeling’s still there. A good story, a little escape, and the rare joy of finding something worth watching without having to scroll for 45 minutes. That’s movie magic in the modern age.
-Aaron Miller
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SCROLL SMART A Parent’s Guide to Helping Kids Navigate Social Media Social media is a huge part of growing up today. From sharing pictures to keeping up with friends and family, it’s become a daily routine for many kids. But it also comes with serious risks. Here’s how to help your kids use social media wisely. How old should they be? The American Academy of Pediatrics advises children to be at least 13 before opening a social media account. But that is not an absolute: Some kids may be ready at 13, others not until 16. Research has identified serious negative effects on children under 13, such as not enough sleep, poor body image, and cyberbullying. Start the conversation on your terms. Before your child opens their first account, ensure they know social media isn’t just likes and filters — it’s a public space where people share their lives and opinions. Help them understand the permanence of what they post. Even if something “disappears,” screenshots and digital footprints last forever. Chat about privacy. Privacy settings are your child’s first defense, but they are not perfect. Explain why it’s important to protect personal information. Ensure they never share things like their school name, home address, or phone number online — even with people they think they know. And never become “friends” with anyone they don’t know in person. Remind them that kindness counts. The internet can be a harsh place, but it doesn’t have to be. Teach your kids to treat others with kindness online, just like they would in person. If they wouldn’t say it face-to-face, they shouldn’t post it. It’s also important to talk about how what they post today could impact them in the future, from college applications to job opportunities. Be a good role model. If you constantly scroll or overshare, kids will think that’s normal. Show them what balanced, thoughtful social media use looks like. Put the phone down. Enjoy time offline.
When your head hits the pillow, are you counting sheep but not catching any z’s? It’s time to hit snooze on nights of tossing and turning and wake up refreshed with a better sleep routine! Getting the proper amount of rest every night is crucial to living a healthy life and can even help prevent mental health issues like depression and anxiety. A sweet slumber starts with the proper routine. Here’s the dreamy plan to wake up feeling your best. Bedtime Boundaries Consistency and bedtime boundaries can help your body and mind get into a regular rhythm to reach REM sleep. Try to go to bed around the same time every night to train yourself to get sleepy regularly. It doesn’t matter what time you choose as long as you stick as close to your sleep schedule as possible. You should also select a time before bed when you consistently turn off your phone, computer, and other devices. The blue light from electronics makes your mind think it’s daytime and can distract you from dreaming. Relax, Rewind, Rest You can use many tools to help relax and unwind from the day and prevent intrusive thoughts and tension from keeping you up at night. Listening to gentle music before entering the bedroom can put you in a sleepy state of mind. Journaling or writing a to-do list before it’s time to nod off can remove lingering stresses or racing thoughts. Try meditation or yoga to ease your muscles, focus your mind, and eliminate anxious feelings. Dine Right, Sleep Tight Though a late-night snack or a delayed dinner might seem harmless, it can make drifting off difficult. Your digestive system takes time and energy to break down food, which can keep you awake if you eat too late. Eat light, healthy suppers so your stomach can take a snooze with you, and avoid eating anything several hours before you plan to hit the hay. Prep for Your Best Rest Yet Pillow Talk
Keep the conversation going. Social media is always evolving, and so are its challenges. Let your child know they can come to you if something makes them uncomfortable or if they’re unsure about what to do. Being smart on social media is a life skill. With the right guidance, kids can enjoy everything it offers, without falling into the pitfalls. A frank conversation now can make a big difference later.
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WHY FITNESS FANS ARE FLOCKING TO BONE BROTH
The latest viral fitness trend comes from an ancient source: a nutrient-rich broth as old as time. Bone broth — a soup typically produced by boiling chicken, turkey, or beef bones for 12–14 hours — is gaining attention on social media as a “bonus food” that aids recovery after workouts and delivers abundant proteins and electrolytes. Endurance athletes have long guzzled bone broth at aid stations during long- distance competitions to deliver the necessary sodium and energy boost. Now, the tasty brew is appearing on more supermarket and grocery-store shelves as professional athletes, weekend warriors, and health-conscious workout devotees learn about its benefits. What are the benefits? While typical chicken or beef stock might simmer for a couple of hours, the animal bones used in bone broth must be simmered in water for 12–48 hours to extract all the bones’ nutrients. Nutritionists claim that bone broth can be a high-value addition to the diets of athletes and casual exercisers alike. People who work out hard need electrolytes to replace those lost in sweat, and this brew has plenty of them, including calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium. Bone broth also contains collagen, a protein that helps keep tendons and ligaments strong. A Drexel University nutritionist interviewed by Outside magazine calls it “Nature’s Gatorade.”
Of course, health-food fads can explode and flame out with dizzying speed. With that in mind, here are a few things to consider before gulping down bone broth.
Is it just another fad? While it has many supporters
among nutritionists and dietitians, the benefits of bone broth have not been
proven in peer-reviewed research. Adherents must use it consistently to reap its full benefits. Bone broth also lacks adequate protein to meet a
person’s total needs. Plus, it may contain heavy metals leached from animal bones and can interfere with some medications, such as blood thinners.
Nevertheless, humans have consumed bone broth since ancient times, and it’s still a staple in many cultures. Consumers should check with their doctors before adding it to their diets. As food fads go, this one may have some promise.
Barbecue Chicken French Bread Pizza
Inspired by FromValeriesKitchen.com
Ingredients
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces • 1 tsp Lawry’s Seasoned Salt • Fresh ground pepper, to taste • 1/4 cup plus 3 tbsp barbecue sauce, divided
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce • 1 loaf French bread
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 425 F. Line baking sheet with foil. 2. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sauté chicken with seasoned salt and pepper. 3. Reduce heat to medium and add 3 tbsp barbecue sauce. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, remove skillet from heat, and set aside. 4. In a small bowl, combine remaining barbecue sauce and marinara sauce. 5. Cut French bread in half and place on prepared baking sheet. Coat with the sauce mixture, top with chicken and red onions, then add shredded cheeses. 6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until cheese is melted. 7. Remove from oven and top with chopped cilantro. Allow to sit for about 5 minutes before serving!
TAKE A BREAK
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214.292.4225 www.AaronMillerLaw.com 1400 Preston Road, Suite 118 Plano, Texas 75093
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1
The Movie Reel of Memory
2
Helping Kids Stay Safe in the Social Media World
Your Guide to Dreamy Sleep Habits
3
Fuel Like a Pro: Why Athletes Love Bone Broth
Barbecue Chicken French Bread Pizza
4
Host the Perfect Late-Summer Bash Before Fall Rolls In
Your Guide to the Ultimate End-of-Summer Party
Feature a Curated Playlist Music sets the tone for any gathering. Create a playlist that starts with mellow tunes during dinner and transitions to more upbeat tracks as the evening progresses. This progression keeps the energy lively and encourages dancing or sing-alongs — the best way to entertain guests. Arrange Themed Decor Choose a theme to tie your party together. A tropical luau, garden party, or rustic picnic theme can guide your decorations, attire suggestions, and menu choices. Incorporate elements like themed tableware, centerpieces, and signage to reinforce the vibe you’re opting for. Choose Engaging Activities Plan interactive games or activities to entertain guests. Popular lawn games like cornhole, bocce ball, or a ring toss are crowd-pleasers. Or, you can get creative and set up a photo booth with fun props — those always promise a fun time. Remember, hosting a late-summer party is a great way to celebrate the last few months of the season. With thoughtful planning, your party will be a hit!
As summer winds down, there’s still time to host a memorable late-summer gathering that captures the season’s warmth and joy. Here’s how to plan an unforgettable party any guest would enjoy! Embrace the Golden Hour Schedule your party in the late afternoon so your guests can enjoy the sunset and cooler evening temperatures. Enhance the party vibe with lanterns, string lights, or candles to create a cozy atmosphere as daylight fades. Serve Refreshing Beverages Set up a self-serve drink station featuring a variety of options to cater to all guests. Include a signature cocktail, such as a fruit-infused sangria or a sparkling mocktail, citrus-infused water, and sodas and juices. This approach keeps guests hydrated and adds a festive touch. Pick a Seasonal Menu Opt for a menu that highlights all things summer. Grilled vegetables, fresh salads, and light proteins like chicken or fish are great choices. For dessert, try a build-your-own ice cream sundae bar or fruit skewers with yogurt dip.
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