A NEW SCHOOL YEAR
Vol 19, No. 3 • August 2019
ROGERS...PG 8
News You Can Use
Outstanding senior looks forward to a fulfilling year she's known for, she said: "I'll play wherBy Lucy Weber ever they want me to." L'zareya Howard is looking A cheerleader since her sophoforward to a busy senior year at more year, Howard is a huge fan Corinth High School. of the sport and watching the Her school spirit shines Warriors play and says she through as she is a cheercan't wait for Homecoming. leader, member of the vol"I'm looking forward to leyball team, member of the cheering on the football team track team and manager of this season, all the way to the girls' basketball team. the championship. I She plans on adding more feel like they can do clubs to her school it," she said. involvement, doing well When track seain her classes as she son arrives, Howard decides on a college plans to add to her and staying active in relays and 100her church, all while meter and 200being a good big sister meter competitions to her two sisters and with a new event. one brother. "This year, the All that makes for coach wants to me one active year for the to try the hurdles. daughter of Felicia That's something Howard and the late I've wanted to try." Tarvis Damron. A shy person by "I'm excited, and I'm ready nature, Howard has for everything this year," the pushed herself in her 17-year-old said. high school career to This summer's practices got put herself out there her prepared for volleyball seato try new activities. son that starts Aug. 10 and cheerL'zareya Howard "I realized that I can leading camp got her ready for do anything I put my mind to and that if I football games. Howard usually plays left back in volleyball. But, in the school spirit try that I can actually do it. "My mom told me not to Return Address: P.O. Box 1292 Corinth, MS 38835 be scared that I could do anything, and since losing my dad she's always been there for me," Howard said. POSTAL PATRON With her mother's example to follow, Howard said she is see HOWARD pg 4
662-643-6842
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AAU coaches mentor their players long after basketball season ends academic scholarships to a By Lucy Weber variety of schools, such as Mississippi Players may call College, South Alabama, Allen Blackmon and Mississippi State Bobby Mayes "coach" University, Coahoma on the court but Community College, their reach Pearl River CC, extends Northeast CC and beyond basNorthwest CC. ketball. On the basketThe two ball court, it's all leaders of the business. "I'm the Mississippi bad guy, and Spartans AAU Bobby is the good basketball team in guy," Blackmon said Corinth make sure about their coaching to serve as mentors styles. to their current The season for players and the AAU, which involves a guys who have lot of traveling to touraged out of their naments in-state and 16U and 17U teams out-of-state, runs all year long. March to July. This "Off and on the season, the Spartans court, we tell them played in tournaments God is first, educathat included Atlanta, tion is second and Jackson and after that is family," Birmingham. Mayes said Blackmon, who said parents are an started the team 10 important part of the years ago. "Our main traveling squad, and "the focus is to teach life Allen Blackmon and Bobby Mayes kids' parents have been skills. We tell them great." we hold them Members of the two teams this year accountable for everything they do." came from throughout the area - Pontotoc, The two coaches continually press the Ripley, Corinth, Alcorn County, McNairy importance of how school prepares the County, Biggersville, Booneville, players on getting jobs and "anything you Okolong, Holly Springs, Ashland and New want to do in life," Blackmon said. "After Albany. basketball is over, you get a job and do "We pop up at every high school gym at normal things." least once a year," to scout for next seaThe lessons are paying off for the playson's teams and to check in with former ers. In the last two years, 10 graduating seniors received basketball, football and see COACHES pg 4
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August 2019
The Community News Flash
Editor’s Corner
Jerry W. Porter CEO/Publisher
PO Box 1292, Corinth, MS 38835-1292 Cell: 662-643-6842 Email: read.newsflash@gmail.com
I often hear people say that chivalry is dead. I often hear people say that common decency is rare these days, especially when it comes to young people. I think sometimes that these people are right. Just turn on the news. Many stories contain images or videos of people doing harm to each other. However, it does not have to be this way. Being nice is not hard to do. Being a decent and caring person does not take much effort. While entering a store one evening, I held the door open for a woman behind me, "Chivalry is not dead after all," she said. As we continued to walk in the store, she elaborated on the importance of basic etiquette. I inquired as to whether she had children. "I am the proud mother of two sons and one daughter," she replied. She went on to tell me that her children are grown, but she always
A Simple Act of Kindness stressed to them when they were younger the importance of being kind and polite to others. I often wonder how many parents raise their children with the same values. Several years ago there was a movement sweeping the nation called Simple Acts of Kindness through which people were asked to perform an act of kindness in some shape, form or fashion for a different person each day. It seems like this movement met its fate while trying to enter the subconscious of the newest generation. For us baby boomers, simple etiquette was taught and stressed around the home and the community while we were growing up. It seems the family structure has broken apart leaving gaping holes and voids in the basic fabric of etiquette. You may be wondering how we can fix this. Many years ago, we were given the solution to cure this ill-
ness of ignorance. The most awesome act of kindness was performed over two thousand years ago when Jesus gave His life for you and me. The Bible gives us many examples of knowledge in scripture. Ephesians 4:32 states, "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Is that so hard to do? If everyone followed that scripture, imagine the world we would live in. Luke 6:35 says, "But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for He is kind to the ungrateful and the evil." Do you have to "get even" with everyone who wrongs you? Do you have to hate anyone? In Matthew we are instructed to let our light our light shine for
The Community News Flash is published monthly by Porter Publishing, Inc., with all rights reserved – © 2001 Reproduction or use without permission of editorial on graphic contents in any manner is prohibited by law. This newspaper is designed to exhibit the positive by publishing only positive and uplifting personal profiles. The annual subscription rate is Twenty four dollars and forty eight cents ($26.00). Information is gathered from sources considered to be reliable and accurate. Thoughts expressed in letters to the editor and commentaries are those of the authors and not necessarily those of The Community News Flash staff. Equal Opportunity. It is policy of the newspaper. 1. To employ people on the basis of their qualification and with assurance of equal opportunity and treatment regardless of race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap. 2. To not knowingly accept any advertisement, which implies and preferences limitation or discrimination based on race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap.
ness for a stranger you meet today. Whoo! Whoo! Until Next Time!! All Aboard!
every man and that our works glorify the Father. I strive every day to live my life accordance with the scripture. I fall short sometimes, we all do. However, I never do it intentionally, but I have noticed that some do. The saying goes, "Apples don't fall too far from the tree. Today I asked you to ask yourself, "What kind of fruit is on display when I am out on display and amongst people? Did your words and/or actions have a positive or negative impact on them? Do not let the bad fruit of your life be on display. Do a random act of kind-
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August 2019
AUGUST BIBLE TRIVIA
Welcome back to all area schools
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The Community News Flash
1. What gospel records the graves opening after Jesus' death on the cross? 2. Who said, "The hour is coming, in which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice"? 3. What people did Jesus refer to as "graves which appear not"? 4. According to Psalm 5, what is like an open sepulcher? 5. According to Jesus, the Pharisees built tombs for whom? 6. Who gave his rock-cut tomb as a burial place for Jesus? 7. Who infuriated Isaiah by building an elaborate tomb for himself? 8. What man who hanged himself was buried in his family tomb? 9. Whose burial at Hebron caused the grief of David? 10. According to the Law, when was a hanged man's body supposed to be buried? 11. What wicked queen did Jehu send his men to bury, though she had already been devoured by dogs? 12. Who erected a memorial pillar for himself during his own lifetime? 13. What king had his body cast at the city gate with stones heaped on it? 14. What two liars were buried by the early Christians? 15. According to Jeremiah, what king was destined to have the burial of a donkey? 16. What woman, according to Jesus, prepared him for burial? 17. Who brought myrrh and aloes for the burial of Jesus? 18. According to Revelation, whose bodies would lie in the streets for three and half days without burial? 19. What two epistles compare baptism with burial? 20. Who buried Stephen? Send in your answers to the following Bible Trivia Questions and take a chance at winning a complimentary bible from the Community News Flash. Random drawing will be held monthly
July Answers 1. Job (2:8) 2. Ninevah (Johan 3:8) 3. Jacob (Genesis 37:34) 4. Jeremiah (4:8) 5. Daniel (9:3) 6. Joel (1:8) 7. Ahab (I Kings 20:37-39) 8. Lamentations (2:10) 9. Ben-hadad(I Kings 20:31-32) 10. Job (16:15) 11. Tyre and Sidon (Matthew 11:21) 12. Tamar (2 Samuel 13:19) 13. Mordecai (Esther 4:1-3) 14. God (Job 42:6) 15. Reuben and Jacob (Genesis 37:29, 34)
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August 2019
The Community News Flash
HOWARD...from page 1 always there for her sisters, ages 16 and 14, and her 7-year-old brother. When her 16-year-old sister wanted to try out for a school squad, Howard encouraged her by showing her to never give up. "I feel like I helped her." This summer, Howard served as an intern working with children at her church, Freedom Fellowship, something she really
enjoyed. Her involvement in in the church youth group is important to her. "I feel like I can be more open with people my age." During her senior year, Howard said she will continue to look at different colleges to see where she wants to continue her education. Because her own time spent wearing braces, Howard said she wants to help people have the best teeth possible so she wants to become a dental hygienist.
Send Us Your Best School Selfies!!
The best photos will be posted to the internet to be judged by public for print in the September edition of the Community News Flash. Submit selfies to read.newflash@gmail.com or text photos to (662)643-6842 by Friday, August 30th.
News Flash Profile Pool “Everybody has a story to tell� The Community NewsFlash would like your input on the people, places and events that you would like to see featured in 2019. Please email your story idea to read.newsflash@gmail.com or text to 662-643-6842. All profiles must be positive in nature Name:_______________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________ Phone#: _____________________________________________ Nature of Profile: ______________________________________ _____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ Submitted by: _______________________ Phone#: ____________________________
COACHES....from page 1 players, Blackmon said. When the Spartans in their green-and-white uniforms aren't in season, Mayes and Blackmon stay in contact - checking grades, checking ACT scores and "making sure no one's having any discipline problems," Blackmon said. Even if a problem arises, the two coaches are there to talk a player through any issues. "We do give second chances," Mayes said. At least once a week, one or both coaches check in with every player to see how they're doing and to make sure everything is going right for their guys. They both downplay the time they commit to each young man - "a quick text doesn't take a lot of time," they said.
"We see so much potential in each player. We tell them we don't want you to walk away from a college education," Blackmon said. The dedication to players is returned "There was one kid, we bumped heads for five years and then he called a couple of months ago to say thank you," Blackmon said. Both coaches were standout basketball players themselves so they know how to recognize talent. Blackmon played at Provine High in Jackson and then at Northeast Community College. Mayes played his high school ball in Corinth and then at Northeast CC and Martin Methodist College in Pulaski, Tenn. Their love for the game keeps them committed to the Spartans. "A lot of kids don't get the opportunity to play AAU. We want to do
anything we can to help them," Blackmon said. The Boys & Girls Club in Corinth, where Mayes served as director of basketball, is generous to allow the team to practice in the gym for free. The Mississippi Spartans are always looking for sponsors to help with travel and other costs. "We are looking for people to donate or to help with fundraising," Mayes said, adding the non-profit 501(c)3 has an account at Regions Bank that will accept donations. "If someone wants to sponsor the team, we'll get T-shirts with their logo and we'll wear them," he said. To make a donation to sponsor the Mississippi Spartans please contact Allen Blackmon or Bobby Mayes at (662) 643-8072 or (662) 415-0387.
August 2019
Don’t Rush to Claim Social Security If you take your Social Security benefits early, you’ll be reducing by a significant margin the total amount you could receive. The BMO Retirement Institute has produced a report, “Retirees Not Maximizing Social Security Retirement Benefits,” that outlines some of the facts: • For 60 percent of seniors, Social Security will provide the majority of income they’ll have during retirement. • If you take your benefits early, you’ll receive a reduced amount each month. For example, if you claim at age 62, you might receive $1,500. Wait until age 66 and that amount becomes $2,000. At age 70, it would calculate as $2,640. • If you claim early, that lesser amount stays with you for the rest of your life. (There is a 12-month period when you can pay back all the money you’ve received and start collecting again later, at a higher rate. But if you don’t act within that window of time, you can’t change your mind.) • If you’re married and die first, your spouse will receive a lesser amount each month if you’ve claimed early. While you’re living, your spouse will receive up to 50 percent of the benefit, which will be smaller because you’ve claimed early. • When it comes to asking for advice before collecting Social Security, 62 percent of seniors haven’t done that. • While it’s possible to receive Social Security at age 62, the qualifying age for Medicare is still age 65. You could be stuck trying to pay for expensive health insurance with a reduced Social Security check. Before you apply for Social Security, get advice. Call and ask that the numbers be run for you showing how much you’ll receive at age 62 as opposed to later. You’ll be surprised at the difference. Matilda Charles regrets that she cannot personally answer reader questions, but will incorporate them into her column whenever possible. Write to her in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, or send email to columnreply@gmail.com.
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The Community News Flash
More and More Children Getting Kidney Stones DEAR DR. DONOHUE: My very healthy, active, 6-year-old grandson was just diagnosed as having kidney stones. His pediatrician said it is mostly genetic, but no one else in the family has had kidney stones. A friend told us she heard that stones could be caused by drinking Gatorade. My grandson has drunk a lot of Gatorade. He does not eat processed meat, nor does he have much salt in his diet. From the Internet, I came up with the enclosed article, which linked Gatorade to kidney stones. I feel that someone needs to inform parents that too much Gatorade in children can adversely affect health. — G.S. ANSWER: An increase in children having kidney stones has been noticed. Some authorities have speculated that the increase in stones might be linked to children’s greater intake of salty foods like potato chips, french fries and other heavily salted snacks. The sodium in salt leads to a rise in the amount of calcium lost in the urine, and, therefore, an increase in kidneystone production. Eight ounces of Gatorade has 110 mg of sodium. New guidelines for daily sodium intake is 1,500 mg. To reach that limit by drinking Gatorade, one would have to drink 13 8-ounce cans or 9 12-ounce cans. Blaming the surge in the number of children on Gatorade seems iffy to me. Your grandson would be better off substituting some of his consumption of Gatorade with water. He needs to cut back on his consumption of salt from other foods too. Gatorade keeps him hydrated, but he can stay
hydrated with water. Dehydration is a proven cause of kidney stones. I welcome other readers’ opinions on this issue. The booklet on sodium, potassium and chloride — electrolytes — explains the role of these minerals on health. Readers can obtain a copy by writing: Dr. Donohue — No. 202W, Box 536475, Orlando, FL 328536475. Enclose a check or money order (no cash) for $4.75 U.S./$6 Canada with the recipient’s printed name and address. Please allow four weeks for delivery. *** DEAR DR. DONOHUE: Does it hurt you to exercise if you have a cold? I do it all the time, and I can’t see that it makes anything worse. I’ve been told not to do so. — B.R. ANSWER: If you’re coughing, sneezing or have a dripping nose, others are not going to appreciate exercising along with you. A general rule says if your symptoms are above the neck, it’s OK to exercise. Such symptoms would be a stuffy or runny nose, a scratchy throat and an occasional sneeze. If you have an elevated temperature, achy muscles or a persistent cough, don’t exercise. *** DEAR DR. DONOHUE: Since I was a young child, I was told not to use public restrooms because I could catch something. What are the chances of catching a disease from them? — F.N. ANSWER: Yours is a fear shared by many. If public restrooms were a source of infections, they would be closed. They’re not. As far as sexually transmitted diseases go, I have never seen any information that implicates them in passing such infections to others. *** Dr. Donohue regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but he will incorporate them in his column whenever possible. Readers may write him or request an order form of available health newsletters at P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. © 2012 North America Synd., Inc. All Rights Reserved
Patterson Memorial Chapel 125 South Franklin Street Corinth, MS 38834 662-286-2200 Office
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The Community News Flash
MONEY
New Ways to Save Money in Your Digital Life (StatePoint) We’ve all heard those time-tested ways to save money -- dine out less, sign up for rewards programs or switch off the lights when you leave the room. But in today’s digital world, there are some great ways to save that you may not have thought about. From swapping wireless carriers to installing smart home devices to shopping electronically, here are several new ideas to save cash on your digital lifestyle. Make Your Discount Work for You Today, around 50 million people take advantage of discounts from their employer or affiliated organization to save on talk, text and data plans. These deals are often so great that consumers never think to comparison shop to see if they could save more by switching. In fact, approximately 30 percent of wireless customers with discounts say they stay put because of their deals. Take another look at what’s out there -- you might just be surprised at what’s new. For example, T-Mobile recently announced it will match or beat eligible wireless discounts from other major carriers when you switch to their Magenta plan, which is packed with benefits like unlimited talk, text and data, a Netflix subscription, and mobile hotspot. T-Mobile’s Magenta plan also has taxes and fees included, so you’ll also save money each month there. The company promises that once you switch, it will match or beat the discount: up to $15 for one line or up to $30 for two or more lines. Plus, T-Mobile typically has spe-
(c) F8studio / stock.Adobe.com
cial offers on phones for those switching carriers. Learn more at www.T-Mobile.com. Make Your Home Smarter You used to save money by simply turning down your thermostat in winter and up in summer. Now you can make your home (and wallet) smart by using a smart thermostat, such as those from Nest, Ecobee, Honeywell or other home automation companies. These smart devices help you wring more savings from your thermostat than traditional temperature management. Some models come with sensors to place around your home to more finely tune your temperature, adapt to your routines, and allow you to control them from your phone, PC or tablet. You can even change settings while on-thego, so you don’t waste energy when your routine changes without warning. Shop Better Electronically First there were physical coupons. Then came online
coupons. Now there are couponing apps and web browser extensions to make it even easier to save. For instance, Ebates empowers you to earn as much as 40 percent cash back when shopping at over 2,500 stores -- including Kohl’s, Sephora, Old Navy, Walmart, Amazon, Gap and others -without having to keep track of points or fill out forms. When shopping through the mobile app or via a plug-in through your web browser, you automatically save. Stores pay Ebates a commission for sending you their way, and that money gets shared with you. Just don’t shop so much that you buy things you don’t need! Re-examining your daily routine can help you find new ways to save on just about every service or staple you use. Try these effective solutions to save more and spend less in today’s digital world.
August 2019
August 2019
The Community News Flash
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5 Signs it’s Time to Ask for a Raise
(StatePoint) For U.S. workers, living expenses continue to generally outpace pay increases, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In fact, a recent study by Randstad US and Apartment Guide found that 44 percent of employed Americans say their annual residential expenses (rent, mortgage, utilities, household maintenance, etc.) increase more than their salary does each year — and 37 percent of house, room and apartment renters claim the cost of their home is too high when compared to their income. This has resulted in long commutes, as well as a need to supplement expenses by taking on side gigs and seeking out roommates. “The general rule of thumb is to spend less than 30 percent of your gross income on rent. Depending on your income level, this might not be possible in some desirable urban neighborhoods without making other lifestyle sacrifices. Be realistic in your housing selection and your salary will go much further,” said Emily Williams, senior data analyst for Apartment Guide. On the other hand, if all this sounds familiar, it may be time to ask for a raise. Based on the research, here are five clear signs that it could be time to ask for a raise: 1. You can’t afford a home with your current income. Twenty-six percent of workers currently rent, but plan to purchase a home when they get a raise at work. 2. You have a long commute to save on living costs. Twenty-four percent say they live far from their jobs because they can’t afford to live nearby. 3. You have more than one job. Twentyeight percent say they have more than one job to supplement their living expenses.
4. You have multiple roommates. Twenty-one percent say they need more than one roommate to afford their current rent or mortgage. 5. You’re willing to relocate for a better opportunity. Fifty-six percent say they would move out of state for a better job opportunity. Of course, needing a raise and deserving a raise are two very different things. In fact, the experts at Randstad US don’t actually recommend that you use any of these points to make the case for a raise with your boss. Instead, focus on your achievements and the value you bring to your company. Here are a few tips to help you get a fair rate based on your level of experience: • Quantify your value. Think of “value” not only in terms of tasks completed or sales made but also things like effective management, team building and timeliness. • Know your worth. To learn more about your earning power, check out Randstad’s online salary center, available at randstadusa.com/salary. • Build (and present) your case. Don’t forget to share your vision on how you’ll continue contributing to the company’s future success. “When it comes to salary negotiation, you need a strategy. Prepare ahead, think through tough questions your boss may have for you, and, most importantly, come with a number that you’re happy to walk away with,” said Jodi Chavez, group president of Randstad Professionals, Life Sciences and Tatum.
2006 Robertson Dr., Corinth, MS 38834 Registration Info.
I VO f you TE d the , yo on’t u r co ight lose mp lai to n
Because of new registration guidelines, we as a people need to assure that everything is in order so that when that day comes to vote, we will be prepared! Listed below are the new requirements for eligibility for registration: Requirements: In order to Register and Vote, a person must: • be a United States citizen; • be 18 years old by December 31 of the year in which you file this form (note: you must be 18 years old by the date of the general, primary or other election in which you want to vote); • live at your present address for at least 30 days before an election; • not be in jail or on parole for a felony conviction and; • not claim the right to vote elsewhere. • Have valid ID (identification) photo - can be a state ID card, permit, or a driver’s license. PLEASE GO TO YOUR LOCAL CIRCUIT CLERK’S OFFICE OR LOCAL MUNICIPAL COURT TO REGISTER TO VOTE. YOU MUST BE REGISTERED TO VOTE BY OCTOBER 8TH, 2019!
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August 2019
The Community News Flash
Thank Rogers for keeping the school buses running in Corinth By Lucy Weber Parents in Corinth trust Nate Rogers with their prized passengers. As the transportation director for the Corinth School Districts, Rogers oversees all the buses taking students to the city's elementary, middle and high schools, in addition to being in charge of the vans and other vehicles in the district. Rogers, who has worked for the district for 17 years, also serves as the mechanic for all district vehicles and drives a bus route. All of those duties make bus safety a top concern for Rogers. About 85 percent of the students in the district ride buses to school. "We have drivers talk to students about bus safety and teach them safety rules," he said. "We do safety evacuation drills." Because the district started the year short-handed with bus drivers due to retirements and deaths, Rogers said he's driving a regular route now. He's driven routes before and served to fill in as needed when drivers are out. This year, the route he's taking allows Rogers to drive by his own house and pick up his youngest son who is a freshman in high school. Bus drivers become more than the person behind the wheel. Drivers, some who have driven their routes for years, become like part of the family, Rogers said. "A bus driver knows a lot and sees a lot that parents don't. You get to know a lot of the kids."
With the new school year, kindergarten students may start off unsure or scared of riding a bus, he said. "It's always a blast after a couple of weeks to see the little kids relax and enjoy riding the bus." For some children, being on the bus is a big part of their day. "We have three routes that are an hour long," he said. Rogers grew up watching his dad work on things and then started helping him. "It's a simple thing to me. It's instilled in me. I have always been able to disassemble motors or anything and put them back together." Keeping 30 buses running takes time. "It takes one to two days to check out a bus and diagnose a problem. During the season, we get at least one, maybe two, in and diagnose problems." Rogers' day starts at 5 a.m. at the shop and can end as late as 7:30 or 9:30-10 p.m. With the calendar that Corinth schools follow, there's not really a down time for the transportation department. Now that the new school term has started, the buses will start running more as the department handles all the transportation for athletic and extra-curricular activities. Rogers is proud of his department and his employees. "It takes a special person to drive a school bus. They have to be certified with a proper license, a proper heart and a proper mind. You need special people to understand children." Nate Rogers
Walking to the Bus Stop • If an adult does not walk you to your bus, walk in groups with other children if you can. There is safety in numbers. Groups are easier for drivers to see. • If you must walk in the street, walk single file, face traffic and stay as close to the edge of the road as you can. Waiting at the Bus Stop • Make sure you stand at least 10 feet (5 giant steps) from the road while waiting for the bus so you are away from traffic. • If your bus stop is on a corner of another person's property, be courteous and never leave litter behind. Getting On and Off the Bus • ALWAYS cross in front of the bus, NEVER behind. Make sure that you are at least 10 feet (five giant steps) ahead of the bus before crossing. When crossing in front of the bus, you should be able to maintain eye
contact with the driver. • Do not cross a street until the bus has come to a COMPLETE stop, the RED stop lights will be on and the driver will signal when it is safe to cross. NOT all drivers stop for school bus lights so always look to the right and left to make sure all traffic has come to a complete stop before stepping into the roadway. Always cross in front of the bus at a distance so you can see the driver and the driver can see you. • If you drop something, NEVER pick it up. Instead, tell the driver and follow the driver’s instructions. • Make sure when exiting the bus on the trip home you look to the right before stepping off the bus. Impatient drivers may try to pass the bus on the right. Again make sure to cross in front of the bus and maintain eye contact with driver.
August 2019
The Community News Flash
9
How To Talk To Your Children About "Sexting"
(NAPSI)-Talking to children about relationships has always been a challenge for parents, but in recent years it has become even more so. Not only are children becoming sexually active at younger ages,
but today's technology--computers, cell phones, etc.--tends to make youngsters feel more independent and grown up. In this environment, the questions young people have about appropriate
behavior are increasingly complicated. One common issue is "sexting," which is defined as the act of sending sexually explicit messages or photos electronically, primarily between cell phones. This can be a form of abuse. According to the Family Violence Prevention Fund (FVPF), teens and young women are especially vulnerable to relationship violence. Approximately one in three adolescent girls in the U.S. is a victim of physical, emotional or verbal abuse from a dating partner. Females ages 16 to 24 experience the highest rates of rape and sexual assault, and people ages 18 and 19 experience the highest rates of stalking. To help parents, coaches, teachers, mentors and others talk to children about healthy, loving, respectful relationships, the FVPF, with national support from Macy's, has developed RESPECT! Tools, a collection of tips, information and conversation starters. These resources include: • 10 quick tips for parents on how to talk to your kids about healthy relationships; • A guide for parents on how to talk to a
child of any age about the importance of respect in healthy relationships; • 10 "Dinner Table Topics" using everyday examples to talk about the importance of respect in relationships; • A quiz for teens to help them determine whether or not they or their friends are in healthy relationships; and • A list of warning signs that a child may be in an unhealthy relationship. "As a mom, it's important to me that we teach children about building respectful and healthy relationships," said singer and RESPECT! Campaign spokesperson Christina Aguilera. "We all have the power to give respect and help create a world free from violence and abuse." The Family Violence Prevention Fund works to end violence against women and children around the world, because every person has the right to live free of violence. For more information, visit www.GiveRespect.org or www.EndAbuse.org. Today's technology plays a key role in young people's relationships--and parents need to understand what it all means.
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The Community News Flash
5 Reasons Kids Should Play Outside More
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(StatePoint) Whether it’s dance lessons, computer projects, art class or yoga, kids these days are busy bees. And while such activities are enriching and fun, experts say that many kids aren’t spending enough time doing something much simpler and every bit as important as structured programming: playing outdoors. “Finding time for the kids to play outside can be such a challenge for parents,” says Keri Wilmot, a pediatric occupational therapist and an expert contributor to TheGeniusofPlay.org. “As a parent I worry about ‘stranger danger’ or whether my kids will be able to navigate social issues on their own. Without spontaneity, playtime has lost some of it’s fun.” Outdoor play is necessary for healthy child development, according to The Genius of Play. The initiative, whose mission is to raise awareness about the importance of play and help parents make play a critical part of raising their kids, is sharing five benefits of
unstructured outdoor playtime: • Physical Development: Research has shown that physically active kids tend to be leaner and healthier, while an inactive childhood can lead to a sedentary (and likely unhealthy) lifestyle in adulthood. Furthermore, physical play builds gross and fine motor skills necessary for success in school and beyond. Hanging from the monkey bars, for instance, helps kids develop the hand muscles needed to grip a pencil. • Risk-Taking: Through outdoor play, children are given the opportunity to step outside their comfort zones and try new things. While taking risks won’t always lead to success on the first try, moments like a first bike ride without training wheels, or the first trip down the big slide in the playground, are critical for building the confidence and resilience needed to pursue a future career, start a business, or handle life’s many challenges. • Social Skills: Childhood games played outdoors can help build
social skills and teach kids to follow directions. From games as simple as tag, to those with more complicated rules, like “Kick the Can,” “Capture the Flag,” and sports like soccer and basketball, communication, teamwork and other important social skills are developed during outdoor play. • Problem Solving: Children’s imaginations are often stimulated by the world around them. Being outside widens their horizons and can encourage kids to tap into their creativity in order to come up with solutions to challenges, such as learning how to build a sandcastle or figuring out how to climb up a jungle gym. • Reducing Stress: So much outdoor play involves physical activity, thrilling moments and a sense of freedom, all of which can boost endorphins, helping to lower stress levels and reduce anxiety and depression. Interestingly, simply touching dirt when creating mud pies or digging for worms can be beneficial. According to a Bristol University study, certain types of “friendly” bacteria in soil have been found to activate the group of neurons that produce serotonin, which contributes to a feeling of well-being and happiness. So, don’t be afraid to let your kids get a bit dirty out there! For play ideas, expert advice and other play resources, visit TheGeniusOfPlay.org. Playtime is essential for children. To promote health, happiness and confidence, be sure some of it is spent outdoors.
August 2019
August 2019
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The Community News Flash
NEWS FLASH
Kids Zone
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August 2019
The Community News Flash
Green Tomatoes -- The Fruit of the Vegetable Patch
Every year, my small vegetable garden produces far more tomatoes than I can possibly use. As the season wanes, an abundance of green tomatoes forlornly hang on the vine looking for enough sun to turn them into red jewels. I've begun searching for unique ways to use green tomatoes as a vegetable and as a fruit in my recipes. Scientifically, tomatoes are classified as a fruit, but since they don't contain the sweet flavor of most fruits and are typically used in savory dishes, they're legally classified as a vegetable. Tomatoes are low in calories and a good source of vitamins C, A and K. They are also a very
good source of molybdenum, potassium, manganese, dietary fiber, chromium and vitamin B1. In addition, tomatoes contain lycopene, which has antioxidant and cancer-preventing properties. My recipe for Green Tomato and Orange Relish uses green tomatoes like a pickled vegetable. It freezes well, and makes a delicious change from traditional cranberry relish for holiday meals. The spices and flavors of my Green Tomato Spice Cake act as a showcase for the tomato's fruit-like qualities. Whether you decide to use your abundance of green tomatoes like a vegetable or a fruit, you can't go wrong with these wonderful recipes! GREEN TOMATO AND ORANGE RELISH 4 medium green tomatoes 1 large purple or Vidalia onion 1 cup orange marmalade
2 cups dark brown sugar 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes 1. Core the bottom of the green tomato and cut them into quarters. Peel the onion and cut it into quarters. Using a food processor, pulse the green tomato and onion 8 to 10 times, until the pieces become small ("pickle-relish" size). Do not puree. 2. Using a 4-quart, heavybottomed pot, put in all the
ingredients at once. Cook over low heat for 15 minutes, stirring until blended and the sugar begins to dissolve. 3. Turn the heat to medium and cook for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The relish should be syrupy and slightly thick. If it does not seem to have thickened enough, cook the relish 10 minutes more. 4. Cool for 2 hours, and then put the relish in an air-tight container and refrigerate it. The rel-
ish can be refrigerated for two weeks. You also can place the cooled relish into plastic ziplock storage bags and freeze for up to 6 months. Makes 5 cups of relish. GREEN TOMATO SPICE CAKE 1 box spice cake mix 1 1/4 cups water 1/3 cup vegetable oil 3 eggs 2 tablespoons light brown sugar 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped 1 cup raisins (or dried cranberries, craisins or currants) 1 1/2 cups diced green tomatoes 1 large, peeled and diced, Granny Smith apple (about 3/4 to 1 cup) 3/4 cup powdered sugar 1 cup sweetened coconut,
toasted, optional Whipped cream, optional 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. In mixing bowl, lightly beat the water, vegetable oil, eggs, and brown sugar until combined, about 2 minutes. Stir in the spice cake mix and flour, and mix until smooth. Stir in the vanilla, pecans or walnuts, raisins, tomatoes and apples. Blend well. 3. Spoon the batter into greased and floured 9-by-13inch baking pan. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a wooden pick or cake tester inserted in center comes out clean. Loosen the cake from the sides of the pan with a knife or spatula. Cool for 30 minutes. 4. Using a fine-mesh strainer or a sifter, sprinkle the top with powdered sugar. When serving, top each slice with a tablespoon of coconut and/or whipped cream, if desired.
August 2019
The Community News Flash
By Samantha Weaver
• Don’t throw away your old colander; give it to the kids to use in the sandbox or bathtub. • “To hurry along stubborn ice patches when defrosting a freezer, fill a bulb syringe with hot water and squirt the ice to melt it.” — W.J. in California • “To eliminate static cling when wearing stockings, rub legs lightly with a fabric-softener sheet.” — V.T. in Delaware • For a better grip on baby during bathtime, grab a pair of cotton gloves from the nail-care section of the drugstore. They are very lightweight, and can double as a washcloth. They also dry quickly when clipped to the shower curtain with a clothespin. • “Remove rust from a car bumper with cola and foil. Crumble up a piece of aluminum foil and dip it in a plain cola, like Coke. Rub out the rust.” — O.P. in Virginia • “When using a recipe card, put it into a plastic bag and seal the bag. This way, no splatters or mess from your hands can damage the card. You can feel free to handle it, and it can go back into the recipe box clean as a whistle.” — T.D. in Washington • When making stuffed peppers, try placing the peppers in a muffin tin. They are stable and stand upright with ease. Simply place each pepper in a well and bake. Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, c/o King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475 or e-mail JoAnn at heresatip@yahoo.com.
• It was famed 20th-century Canadian-American economist John Kenneth Galbraith who made the following sage observation: “It is a far, far better thing to have a firm anchor in nonsense than to put out on the troubled sea of thought.” • In Switzerland, it’s considered to be bad luck to tell anyone your baby’s name before he or she is born. • It’s been estimated that, around the world, 16 million tons of rain fall every second. • Do you ever yawn just because you saw someone else do it? It seems that humans are the only animals so affected. • If you’ve spent a great deal of time in the Scottish highlands, you might be familiar with the term “sgiomlaireachd.” Evidently, the habit of dropping in at mealtimes is common enough there to require a word to describe it. • Statisticians claim that the more money a man makes, the more likely he is to cheat on his spouse. • Mascara was invented by a chemist named T.L. Williams, who founded the cosmetics company Maybelline. The original eyelash enhancer was composed of coal dust and Vaseline. • Before the iconic reclining armchair was dubbed “La-Z-Boy,” the names “Sit-N-Snooze,” “Slack Back” and “Comfort Carrier” were considered. • The first jugglers who were recorded in the history books were Egyptian. They also were women. • Deaf people who suffer from Tourette’s syndrome swear in sign language. • Those who study such things say that automatic teller machines are three times more likely to be robbed between 6 and 9 p.m. than at any other time of day.
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The Community News Flash
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August 2019
THE TIME TO PLAN IS NOW
J. Moffett Walker, Retired Counselor & Author Well, what an enjoyable July Homecoming! I must say the committees/ organization planned well this time around. All the activities were well attended. However, the Fiesta, Friday, July 5, 2019, which began at 9:00 p. m. was well attended. Now we must move forward in the last summer month. Yes, we still have to deal with the hot weather and plenty of rain. Moreover, parents and grandparents with school-age children, Pre-K to 12th grade, need to make preparations now. Don't forget the school clothing. Last year's clothing is usually too small for this year. And, if not, it is usually worn and torn after a year's
use. Besides, many schools have uniforms. First year parents must remember all children must have certain medical shots/vaccinations. This is significant to help keep from spreading diseases and to keep the children healthy. Also, parents, get the needed school supplies. No need to wait until a few days before school starts to experience long, long lines. Anyone who does not know what supplies are needed, call the school. Some schools require computers while other schools provide them. In addition, some parents take a vacation in August. If that's you, enjoy the trip. Just know when school starts so the child can be there the first day. No responsible parent wants his or her child to start off behind the other students. Finally, as we move through August, the community must be ready for the opening of school. It's the time when children will be walking to school and sometimes children forget to look to the right and left before crossing the street. Besides, busses will be in the area also. STOP, drivers, when that STOP SIGN says so! It's safety for the children and drivers of vehicles too. I am wishing Corinth and surrounding communities a productive school year.
1. U.S. STATES: Which state is known as “The Pine Tree” state? 2. MATH: What is the decimal equivalent of one-eighth? 3. LANGUAGE: What is the meaning of the French term “canard”? 4. HISTORY: In what year did President Jimmy Carter pardon 10,000 Vietnam War draft resisters? 5. NATURAL WORLD: What are the seeds of castor bean plants used to produce? 6. LITERATURE: Who wrote the novel “Barry Lyndon”? 7. MOVIES: What major film star placed third in the 1950 Mr. Universe contest? 8. FOOD & DRINK: What is the traditional liquor used in making a Tom Collins drink? 9. TELEVISION: What is the address of the award-winning kids’ show “Sesame Street”? 10. DISCOVERIES: Who is credited with discovering quarks in 1963? Answers 1. Maine 2. 0.125 3. A false or misleading story 4. 1977 5. Ricin, a toxic poison 6. William Thackeray 7. Sean Connery 8. Gin 9. 123 Sesame Street 10. Murray Gell-Mann
Buckle Up and Pay Attention!
Distracted driving is bad driving
1. Which 2nd baseman had more Gold Gloves during his major-league career: Roberto Alomar or Ryne Sandberg? 2. Two players have won the MVP and the Rookie of the Year awards in the same season. One was Fred Lynn of Boston in 1975. Who was the other player? 3. The Oakland Raiders set the NFL mark for most consecutive seasons of losing 11 or more games. How many seasons has it been? 4. In 2009, Syracuse’s Jim Boeheim became the fourth Division-I basketball coach to win at least 800 games at one school. Name the other three. 5. Name the last NHL team before Buffalo in 2009-10 to be undefeated in the regular season (30-0) in games in which it led after two periods. 6. Which Asian country has played in the men’s World Cup the most times? 7. Who holds the series lead in the famed Yale-Harvard Regatta, the oldest U.S. intercollegiate competition (145 years). Answers 1. Alomar had 10; Sandberg had nine. 2. Seattle’s Ichiro Suzuki, in 2001. 3. Seven consecutive seasons entering 2010. 4. Dean Smith (North Carolina), Adolph Rupp (Kentucky) and Jim Phelan (Mount St. Mary’s). 5. The Chicago Blackhawks in 1994-95 (19-0). 6. South Korea has made eight appearances at the soccer event. 7. Harvard, 91-54.
August 2019
The Community News Flash
AUTOMOTIVE
LIVING
8 Great Ways to Combat Boredom
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(StatePoint) While we all get bored from time to time, it’s important to know that chronic boredom may be bad for health, as experts have found it can be associated with depression, anxiety and even bad habits like smoking and overeating. July is Anti-Boredom Month, and the perfect opportunity to explore new hobbies and interests, while giving yourself the tools to combat boredom now and in the future. Check out these eight ideas to try this month, and beyond. • Test a new recipe: Think outside the culinary box. Look for a recipe from a style of cuisine you haven’t tried before. Or, attempt a cooking feat for the first time, such as making pasta from scratch. • Learn to play a song: With today’s digital instruments, such as Casio Keyboards CT-X700, you
can learn to play your favorite song in an afternoon, no matter what your experience level is. Its lesson system displays proper fingering and notation, and a six-track recorder makes it easy to capture your creation. • Host a book club: Pick a book you’ve been meaning to read and invite friends to join you in reading and discussing it. This can turn into a monthly tradition, with a different host each selecting the book each meeting. • Host a gaming tournament: Invite friends over for a gaming tournament -- just be sure you have the best possible visuals with your home theater. With projector options that sense ambient brightness in the room and adjust accordingly – like the LampFree XJF210WN from Casio’s Advanced Series line -you can make a day of it,
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with stunning visuals in any lighting conditions. • Express yourself: Pick up a pen, set a timer and just start writing. Don’t overthink it. When the timer buzzes, you may find you have the opening of a novel, a poem or song lyrics. Writing prompts, available online, can help you get started. • Make math fun: Learning math shouldn’t be a bore. Use a scientific calculator to play online math games or invent your own. For example, the fx-991EX scientific calculator’s high-resolution LCD screen allows for more information for applications like spreadsheets and 4X4 matrix calculations. • Jump-start a pick-up game: You don’t need to join a formal team or have lots of equipment to enjoy athletic competition. Call a few buddies and head to a local field for a pick-up game of soccer or twohand touch football for some on the fly sportsmanship. • Explore nature: Make more of your next nature walk, using new tools, such as the PRG600YB-2, a timepiece that includes a direction sensor for compass readings, pressure sensor for altimeter and barometer readings and a thermo sensor for temperature. Its solar power technology means fewer battery changes and its water resistance up to 100 meters means you can safely venture into unchartered waters. When boredom sets in, remember, there are abundant ways to combat it at home, in your backyard and beyond.
5 Basic Things Everyone Should Know About Their Car
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(StatePoint) Driving can be expensive if you lack basic car-care knowledge or proper insurance. Regular maintenance can prevent costly breakdowns and extend your car’s life, and the right coverage can protect your wallet in the event of an accident. Here are five need-toknow basics: 1. Know car insurance basics. Before getting behind the wheel, know these terms: • Liability. Every state requires you to carry liability insurance, which covers injuries to others or damage to others’ property. You may hear it referred to as Property Damage (PD for short) or Bodily Injury (BI for short). • Collision vs. comprehensive. Collision pays for repairs to your car if you hit another vehicle or crash into an object. Comprehensive covers other incidents. For example, hitting a deer, hailstorm damage, vandalization or theft. • Deductible. This is the amount you’ll pay outof-pocket for repairs before insurance kicks in.
• Endorsement. Sometimes referred to as a “rider,” an endorsement refers to a change or addition to existing coverage. For example, Erie Insurance has an endorsement called ERIE Rate Lock which customers can add to policies so their rates will increase only if they change their policy, drivers, vehicles or their address, even if they file a claim. “Car insurance can be complicated, so we don’t expect drivers to know everything, but we do recommend understanding a few basics,” says Jon Bloom, vice president, personal auto, Erie Insurance. “Working with an insurance agent can help you get the right coverage for you, based on your car and budget.” 2. Read the owner’s manual. Learn the car’s bells and whistles and how often to rotate tires, check belts and hoses and change the oil. Check dashboard warning lights. Red typically indicates your car may be unsafe to drive. Yellow or orange usually means you should get it checked but it’s not
urgent. Green generally indicates a feature is working. 3. Check tires monthly. Proper tire pressure promotes good gas mileage and can extend tire life. Reference the sticker found inside the driver’s door for the recommended pressure. Don’t over inflate. Consider learning how to change a tire, a handy skill when assistance isn’t available. 4. Get regular oil changes. Some companies, like GM and Ford, equip vehicles with oil monitors so owners know when to change oil. If you don’t have this feature, reference your owner’s manual. Most manufacturers recommend changing oil between 5,000 and 7,500 miles, while synthetic oils are likely good for 10,000 to 15,000 miles. 5. Master the jumpstart. Usually a car battery needs to be replaced every five years. While a dead battery is never convenient, it’s easy to jump start a car. Attach one red clamp to the positive terminal of the dead battery. The other red clamp goes on the positive terminal of the live battery. The black clamp attaches to the negative terminal of the live battery. The final clamp goes onto an unpainted metal surface on the dead car’s engine block to prevent hazardous sparking. Turn on the live car. Allow the dead car to run for at least a half hour to charge. Always doublecheck your owner’s manual to be sure your vehicle doesn’t require special jump-starting procedures. By knowing the basics, you can hit the road with confidence.
August 2019
The Community News Flash
16
How to Make the Most of Your Camping Trip
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(StatePoint) The long days make summer an ideal time of year for a camping expedition. Before packing up, consider the following ways to make the most of your trip.
• Stargaze: Urban and suburban living can interfere with your stargazing potential. Take advantage of your remote location, away from clusters of light pollution to see the stars at their most
vibrant. Check the weather in advance and try to pick a weekend with a good chance of clear skies. You may also want to bring along a telescope to help you pick out constellations, falling stars, planets and more. Remember, campsites are often densely forested, so before night falls, scope out a clearing where you can set up shop for optimal nighttime viewing. • Use tech support: Get equipped with technology that can support your outdoor adventure even when you are offline or out-of-range of mobile device radio wave transmissions. For example, Casio’s WSD-F30 Pro Trek Smart Outdoor Watch features a compass, as well as offline map usage capability, helping you navigate the trail. Map data downloading is handled through MapBox, a supplier of map data for countries world-
wide. Featuring apps that support hiking, fishing, cycling and more, this water-resistant, durable watch will be a useful tool, no matter what activities your camping trip includes. • Think in extremes: When preparing to spend time outdoors in summer, you may not think much about strategies for staying warm, but many locations can get quite chilly at night. Since the bulk of the time you’ll be spending in your sleeping bag and tent is after the sun’s gone down and temperatures take a nose dive, it’s important to ensure these items are designed to keep you comfortable in the chilliest temperatures you expect to encounter. Likewise, you will probably do most of your hiking, kayaking and other active pastimes during the hotter parts of the day. Be sure you pack equipment and clothing for both of these
extremes. • Get there early: Some sites have a first-come, first-served policy, making an early arrival a necessity. However, even if you reserve a site in advance, you’ll still want to make good time and get there before sunset. This can help ensure you get a good lay of the land so that you can pitch your tent on level ground that’s free of extraneous debris which will make sleeping uncomfortable. It’s also a good way to ensure you get all your items unpacked and organized so you know where everything is. Finally, if you only have a couple nights to camp, you don’t want to miss even one spectacular sunset stuck in traffic. With a few strategies and tools, you can make your next foray into the great outdoors your greatest one yet.