The Community News Flash

ASuccess Story: Local mom turned struggles and setbacks into triumph

By Sabrina Bates

Chyritha Ratliff-Shinault, affectionately known as "Chee Chee" by her friends and family, has seen her share of life lessons. As a Certified Nursing Assistant for 30 years of her life, she had long dreamed of furthering her certification in the field of caregiving as a nurse. Her story is filled with highs and lows and eventually triumph, as she worked hard to be able to now "choose" to work two jobs.

It was not unusual to see this mom working three jobs over the last three decades to make ends meet. Chyritha said in high school, she aspired to be a physical therapist for the NBAor NFL.

"I wanted to make that big money and I love sports," she recalled. After getting married and having two children, life took her down a different path. In 1999, she went back to school at Itawamba Community College (ICC) to get her grade point average up to be able to pursue an RN degree. Her testing was one of many challenges in life. She missed the mark by two-tenths of a point. That was in 2000. Three years later, she lost her husband and father of her two kids. Not long after, her son Jazz was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome, a rare neurological disorder where the immune system attacks the nervous system. Jazz was only nine years old.

Caregiving: Self-care isn't selfish

By Sabrina Bates

Chyritha and her mother opted for a shared-custody situation to allow her mother to help get Jazz to and from treatments at LeBonheur Children's Medical Hospital in Memphis.

She had already been a CNA and said it was difficult to sit back and watch the medical professionals without interference.

"Watching your child suffer and there is nothing you can do about it is the worst feeling," Chyritha shared. She watched with an "eagle eye" as the team at LeBonheur had to break his immune system down and build it back. Jazz had to learn to walk and write again. He even had to learn to retrain his bladder as a result of the neurological damage. With the help of therapist Mike Bell, who provided aquatic therapy for Jazz at the pool in Corinth, he is now a happy, healthy 31-year-old and Staff Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps.

"With God, they saved my child. I will be forever grateful to all of them. When they released Jazz, they gave him a caterpillar that they had signed. He still has it today," Chyritha recalled.

In 2005, she went back to school to try to enhance her nursing certification once again. She was shooting for the Licensed Practical Nurse certification. Another test saw her miss it by only one point.

"I was devastated. But my two prayer warriors - my mom and my sister - kept reminding me that I was just delayed, not denied in God's plan," Chyritha shared. As her sons grew older and had their sights set on post-secondary education, she picked up three jobs to help them get through school. In the meantime, she was also taking classes at ICC to earn an associate's degree. Her hard work and determination paid off.

She and her two oldest sons graduated within one day of each other, all three earning their associate's degrees the same weekend. She

see SHINAULT on pg 4

This month's local spotlights seem to have a resounding theme as the people featured share a common bond. They are caregivers. From caring for local youth, the elderly and family members, these women take their generous spirit and pour into others daily. How is it that they manage to take care of themselves and others? They will say it takes a balance and meeting their own needs adequately to be in the best position to support others.

According to the AARP, there are approximately 470,000 unpaid caregivers in Mississippi. More than half of those caregivers are women. Information from the Centers for Disease Control shows that nearly one-third of those provide care for more than 20 hours each week. When looking at the number of people in the state who do fill the role of caregiving, 36 percent are taking care of a parent or parent-in-law.

Across the nation, there is an estimated 42 million people who are caring for someone over the age of 50.

To balance the demands of caregiving and care for oneself - the CDC notes, "self-care isn't selfish."

"To continue being a good caregiver, you need to take care of yourself. One way you can do that is to

make sure you have consistent breaks from your caregiving responsibilities. This is called respite. Short breaks can be a key part of maintaining your own health," the CDC notes.

Respite care allows a caregiver to take some much-needed time off. Some agencies can offer a break for caregivers, along with family and friends. Many Areas on Aging and Disability offer respite-care services, some at little to no cost.

For caregivers, it is recommended that they let their own doctors know they are fulfilling that role. Sometimes, anxiety and depression may be associated with the demands of caregiving. Doctors may even be able to "prescribe" respite care through Medicare's PACE program.

The CDC also notes the importance of caregivers not neglecting their own personal health, as nearly two out of five suffer from at least two chronic health conditions.

The Mississippi Family Caregiver Support Program works in partnership with the 10 Area Agencies on Aging and local community service providers to provide five basic services for family caregivers, including:

• Information to care-

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Chyritha Ratliff-Shinault

In the fast-paced and everchanging world we inhabit, it is easy to become ensnared in the web of modernity, where relentless demands and incessant pressures consume every ounce of our existence. However, amidst the whirlwind of responsibilities lies a profound truth: the significance of living a balanced life that harmonizes mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. Today, we delve into the essence of this elusive art and explore why it is a paramount pursuit for all individuals. We pride ourselves on having our vehicle tires balanced to ensure a smooth ride, yet we fail to focus on living a balanced life.

Mental equilibrium serves as the cornerstone upon which a fulfilling life is built. A sound mind is not merely the

Embracing the Art of Balance: The Crucial Importance of Living a Balanced Life

absence of mental disorders; rather, it embodies clarity, emotional resilience, and the ability to navigate life's challenges with grace. By embracing a balanced mental state, individuals unlock their true potential and uncover pathways to innovative solutions. Cultivating mindfulness and self-awareness empowers us to confront negative thoughts, paving the way for a more positive and fulfilling existence.

Physical health is the vessel that carries us through life's journey. Neglecting this aspect can lead to a myriad of preventable ailments, robbing us of vitality and energy. In contrast, embracing physical wellbeing through regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and ample rest endows us with a heightened sense of vitality and strength. Physical health is not merely an indulgence; it is a responsibility we owe to ourselves and those who care for us. When we prioritize our bodies, we are better equipped to embrace life's challenges with vigor and enthusiasm.

Beyond the tangible, the realm of spirituality adds a

profound layer of meaning and purpose to our existence. Irrespective of religious beliefs, exploring spirituality entails connecting with our inner selves and the world around us. Embracing spiritual practices, such as meditation or spending time in nature, opens the door to profound insights, peace, and a sense of interconnectedness. Spirituality serves as an anchor during turbulent times, instilling hope and resilience that transcend the temporal.

The true essence of a balanced life lies in the seamless interplay of these three fundamental aspects. When mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing converge, a symphony of harmony is orchestrated in our lives. An individual who is grounded in this balance not only benefits personally but also radiates positivity to those around them, fostering healthier communities and enriching collective well-being.

Moreover, a balanced life protects against burnout and stress, which have become pervasive ailments in our hyper-connected world. By recognizing the importance of

balance, we safeguard ourselves from the detrimental consequences of an imbalanced lifestyle, ensuring our longevity and happiness.

As a society, we must encourage and support initiatives that promote a balanced lifestyle. Employers can embrace flexible working hours, allowing individuals to prioritize self-care and family time. Educational institutions can incorporate mindfulness and well-being programs into their curricula, nurturing the holistic development of students. Families can create nurturing environments that instill the values of balance and well-being from a young age.

In conclusion, the pursuit of

a balanced life is not a luxury but an indispensable journey that leads to holistic wellbeing and personal growth. Embracing mental, physical, and spiritual harmony allows us to navigate life's challenges with grace, embrace opportunities with zeal, and experience a profound sense of fulfillment. Let us recognize the importance of balance and take intentional steps toward weaving this tapestry of wellbeing into the fabric of our lives and society. Only then can we truly thrive and flourish in this remarkable journey called life.

Whoo! Whoo! Until next time! All aboard!

Stop by our new location at 712 S. Tate St., Corinth, Mississippi, or contact me, Jerry W. Porter, at (662) 643-6842, or visit us on Facebook to get more information on this ministry. If you wish to make a donation to this ministry, it would be greatly appreciated. Please use the Cash App at $SuitsYouToo or mail your donation to PO Box 1292, Corinth, MS 38835.

AUGUST BIBLE TRIVIA

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?

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)

718 S. Tate St., Corinth MS 38834

Self-Care Tips for Moms and Caretakers

(StatePoint) Carving out some “me time” is not just good for your mental health, physical wellness and confidence, as many moms know, it can actually make you a better parent. According to a survey of moms conducted by Hutchinson and Cassidy, those who had higher self-esteem had higher levels of perceived parenting confidence.

Here are three ways to practice self-care:

1. Get some rest: We live in a goal-oriented society where the value of rest and relaxation is not always emphasized. Whether it’s a spa day with your best friend or curling up with a good book at home, be sure your schedule includes adequate time to recharge your batteries.

2. Take care of your smile: One of the best ways to foster self-confidence is with a clean, healthy smile. In fact, a 2020 Cigna Dental Report found that smile satisfaction is one of the

CAREGIVING........

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givers about available services.

• Assistance to caregivers in gaining access to services.

• Individual counseling, the organization of support groups, caregiver training to assist the caregivers in making decisions and solving problems relating to their caregiving roles.

• Respite care to enable caregivers to be temporarily relieved from caregiving responsibilities.

• Supplemental services, on a limited basis, to complement the care provided by caregivers.

Call the Mississippi Access to to Care Center at 844-822-4622 or visit its website at www.mississippiaccesstocare.com to get access to support programs for caregivers.

One of the best ways to foster self-confidence is with a clean, healthy smile.

SHINAULT....from

said it was one of the proudest moments in her life.

"My sons taught me how to mow and I taught them how to cook and clean. I promised my grandad I would make sure they knew how to take care of themselves and teach them everything I knew," Chyritha said.

In the midst of it all, she moved into a position to take care of her grandmother after she suffered a series of ministrokes. She said she knew her grandmother wanted to remain at home and her dad felt the same. Chyritha spent her adult life taking care of people in nursing homes, so she didn't hesitate to help her dad and grandmother so she could remain at home. Her grandmother left her Earthly body in 2018.

Chyritha decided, once again, to go back to school to try to work towards her LPN license.

She took the ACTtest three times and scored an 18. Finally, she

scored a 19 on the test and enrolled in classes at ICC.

"The way you have to study for nursing tests is very different from any other test. You have to be on top of it. You have to apply this as if it was a real situation. You have someone's life in your hands as a nurse," Chyritha said.

After all of the knockdowns and starting over, Chyritha overcame every obstacle and barrier and is now a certified Licensed Practical Nurse. This was another moment of pride in her life. And although she doesn't have to work two or three jobs to keep a roof over her head, Chyritha jokes that her grandchildren will tell people she works two jobs to pay her bills and buy them things.

She has a job at a doctor's clinic and maintains her CNA certification at the nursing home she has been with for quite some time. She fills the role of nurse and aide and everything in between at the nursing home. She'll say that is where heart is, with her elderly people.

top three drivers of self confidence among U.S. adults. Give yourself the gift of innovative brushing technology. The iO Series 5 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush from Oral-B, for example, allows you to personalize your brushing experience with its five smart modes: daily clean, intense, whitening, sensitive and super sensitive. No ordinary toothbrush, this one is designed to help you brush smarter and more safely. To help protect gums, a smart pressure sensor displays a red light when you’re brushing too hard and a green light when you’re brushing just right, and its dentist-inspired round brush head cleans with micro-vibrations and oscillating action. Plus, a connected app tracks brushing behavior to ensure you’re targeting all six zones of your mouth, and a vibrating timer lets you know when you’ve brushed for the dentist-recommended 2 minutes.

3. Take care of your mind: So much of motherhood is ensuring everyone has what they need, and often, your own needs can fall by the wayside. There are many ways to take time to check in with yourself though. You could buy yourself a beautiful journal and jot thoughts down for a few minutes each evening or check out apps like Headspace, which can help get you started on a meditation practice. Even a 10 or 15 minute walk at lunchtime can be a powerful mood-booster and an opportunity to reflect. You might also consider taking up a hobby that offers the chance for self-expression, such as painting, poetry, music or crafting.

When it comes to parents and caretakers, the importance of self-care can’t be overstated. Kick-off new routines that boost your self-confidence and your well-being.

three sons, she would budget her income tax return each year to include money for summer sports camps and school supplies. Chyritha taught her children how to play sports and used to run track in her youth. Although she faced financial setbacks along the way, she said she doesn't regret how she raised her children.

"I love my elderly. I get life lessons, history and it's never boring. I love geriatrics and I'm not too proud for any of the work there," she shared.

Chyritha spends her free time with her six granddaughters and seven grandsons, who range in age from 15 years to one month old. In addition to her three sons,

she had two bonus sons she poured love into through the years. When one of her grandchildren was born with a cleft lip and no palette, she was able to help. She said now she can breathe easier financially and spoil her grandkids, something she really enjoys.

When she was raising her

"I kept going. I accomplished one of my dreams. I let God lead the way in my life. You have got to put the work in though; it doesn't just come to you. I've lived and I've learned. You have to change yourself to make things around you better. If it wasn't for God, I wouldn't be me. And if it wasn't for my boys, I wouldn't have gotten through it," Chyritha shared.

She praised her "village," family members in her life who helped her with taking care of her children and pushing her to not give up.

"Family is everything," she added.

The Shinault Family Jac'quezs, holding Jace, Kingston, Chee Chee holding Amir, Caleb and Quinchaine

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.

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.

Tips to Build a Stable, Sustainable Financial Future forYourFamily

right now. Astrong credit score can help you receive a better interest rate and loan terms when working with lenders, as well as provide a host of other long-term benefits.

Protect

Lastly, you should have a plan in place to eventually transfer the wealth you’ve built to family and loved ones.

(StatePoint) Building wealth is not as easy as it sounds. It can take time, discipline and a plan to keep those dollars protected. However, if done correctly, it can provide security for your family for years to come.

No matter where you are in your personal financial journey, there are steps you can take to help build a financially secure future. Although your approach should be personalized to your specific situation, Freddie Mac suggests building your plan on three main pillars: accumulate, preserve and protect what you’ve built.

Accumulate

The first, and one of the most challenging steps, is saving for your future while covering basic expenses. Establishing and working toward defined financial goals in the short-, mediumand long-term is a good place to start. Also, understanding your money mindset can help you identify opportunities to create healthier spending and saving habits.

Over time, it’s important for you to position yourself

to take advantage of opportunities to raise your income. Consider discussing a raise with your current employer, taking a job opportunity with higher pay or starting a side business to supplement your income. You should also begin to build an emergency fund, which will better position you to weather unexpected financial emergencies. In general, you should save enough in this fund to cover three to six months of your typical monthly expenses.

In addition, if you are financially prepared for it, purchasing a home can help you build wealth in ways that renting cannot.

Preserve

Once you’ve begun to accumulate wealth, the next step is preserving it. You can accomplish this by protecting and growing your money over time.

Managing your debts and expenses is paramount. Pay down debts in high-interest accounts and prioritize other expenses that require immediate attention.

Your credit score is a critical part of this equation, and the time to improve it is

CNBC reports that an estimated $68 trillion will be passed down from the baby boomer generation between 2019 and 2044. Having an estate plan can give you peace of mind that your assets will be allocated according to your wishes when the time comes.

In the meantime, you should also protect your assets from the unexpected. In addition to taking steps to safeguard your property from natural disasters, you should invest in a comprehensive renter or homeowner insurance policy. And always be mindful of the wide variety of scammers and hackers looking to access your resources.

Education has power. As you begin your journey, you can build your financial savviness with Freddie Mac CreditSmart Essentials, a suite of free education tools and information covering topics like how to buy a home or car, how to improve credit and how to build wealth. To learn more, visit creditsmart.freddiemac.com.

Building wealth doesn’t happen overnight. With consistency and commitment, and the right knowledge and mindset, you can create a stable future for you and your loved ones.

(c) Drazen Zigic / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Weight Loss Tips From a Woman Who Lost 50 Pounds

(StatePoint) Life is full of memorable events – both big and small. But sometimes, when you don’t feel your best, those moments can seem like a blur. With her upcoming wedding approaching, Audrey B. was determined to enjoy this special time in her life, but there was one thing standing in her way – her own selfconfidence.

“I no longer felt comfortable in my own skin,” says Audrey. “I knew I needed to focus on my health and wellness goals so that I could feel my best in time for my wedding.”

And that’s just what she did. By the time her big day rolled around, Audrey had lost 50 pounds. “I can honestly say I’m happier and healthier than ever before. And now I actually enjoy eating healthy and staying active,” explains Audrey, who found success using Nutrisystem.

If you have an upcoming event in your life or you’re simply looking to commit to a healthier lifestyle, these simple tips, which helped Audrey on

her weight loss journey, may help you too.

Use Portion Control. Did you know that over the last few decades, portion sizes in restaurants and at dinner tables have grown? That means oftentimes you’re eating more

than you need to, which can hinder your weight loss efforts. With Nutrisystem, meals are perfectly portioned and set you up for success so that you’re not overindulging. Add Veggies to Every Meal. The key to losing weight and keeping it

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off is to replace high-calorie, lowfiber foods with low-calorie, highfiber foods like vegetables. Highfiber foods can help you feel full faster so it’s important to add them to every meal. Vegetables are great for snacking too. For example, try grabbing a bowl of carrots or slices of bell pepper instead of potato chips.

Drink More Water. Water has so many benefits, from increasing energy and relieving fatigue to boosting your immune system and of course, promoting weight loss. Water can help you feel full and potentially eat less. In fact, sometimes a glass of water is enough to curb what you thought was hunger. If you have a hard time reaching your water intake goal, you can use an app, like Nutrisystem’s NuMi, to send you reminders and track what you consume.

Get Moving. Akey part of living a healthier lifestyle is making sure you move more. One of the most

simple and effective exercises that can be done anywhere is jumping rope. It’s not only a solid cardiovascular workout, it’s great for challenging your coordination and stamina. No matter what exercise you choose, moving your body for 30 minutes per day can have great benefits. You can even break that 30 minutes into three 10-minute sessions to make it less daunting.

If you have a transformation story like Audrey, visit story.nutrisystem.com to share your journey with Nutrisystem for a chance to win a share of $50,000. For more great tips and other success stories, visit leaf.nutrisystem.com.

There is no better than time now to focus on your health and wellness goals and boost your overall confidence. For Audrey, she admits to feeling more self-assured than ever before as a result of prioritizing her health, “I now have confidence that I didn’t even know was possible.”

For questions or to enroll in one of these services, please call us today

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, Ephesians 3:20

"We've gone Mobile"

ALove Story - Mother-daughterbond strengthened during difficult times

By Sabrina Bates

Chamara Vaughn describes Feb. 9, 2014, as just a normal day for her and her mother, Vernita Patton. The pair was attending church services when her mom complained of some pain in her arm. Vernita asked the congregation to pray for her. Not long after, Vernita became unresponsive and an ambulance was called to rush her to the hospital.

Vernita had suffered a hemorrhagic stroke, which causes bleeding on the brain. Chamara said that type of stroke can be very deadly and in her mother's situation, everything happened so quickly. Vernita was put into a medical coma and had a trach inserted as well as other surgeries. After 30 days, the medical team brought her out of the coma and she was in a state of full body paralysis. The doctors said the state of paralysis could last a while, but there was no way to know how long it would last.

"The doctors told me she could be like this for a very long time. But they told me that she was aware and could hear us," Chamara recalled. It was three months later when her mother pulled the trach out and not longer after, she started humming.

Vernita had spent her life singing. There was some damage to her vocal cords, but eventually her voice came back to her.

Within eight months, Vernita gained some mobility and was able to get around with a wheelchair. Although her words still get a bit jumbled sometimes, and one side of her body is weaker than the other, Vernita pulled through all of the dismal diagnoses. Nine years later, she lives with her daughter and continues her weekly visits with her church family, as well as her biological family.

Chamara and Vernita spent their lives taking care of others through the family business, Vernita's Love and Care, LLC. Fast-forward to 2023, and all that Vernita had taught her daughter about taking care of others has come into play in their own personal lives.

"I don't have children, but Mom was my baby. She is a miracle in itself and she taught me everything I know about home health and hospice. She took care of me my whole life so I knew I was going to take care of her, without question," Chamara said. When Vernita was released, Chamara set up a hospital

bed in her spare bedroom and has been her daily caregiver since.

"It hasn't always been easy. It's labor intensive. But I still have my mom and not everyone can say that. Mom loved taking care of people and thank God I did know how to take care of her," Chamara shared.

She said the daily routines consist of bathing her mom and helping her get dressed. Vernita likes to get out and about. Chamara has a flexible, parttime job that requires her to travel some. It's during those times that her siblings step in and take mom away for the weekend to spend time with family members.

Initially, Chamara took on the bulk of the responsibilities. As a caregiver of a family member, people can sometimes neglect themselves. Eventually, Chamara found some balance, a support system and some time for herself. She said she enjoys listening to Mel Robbins, an internationally-known, inspirational life coach who shares a five-second rule of life. Chamara said she lives by that and her strength in God helps see her through.

"God won't put more on you than you can handle. You have to believe you have a

purpose. Find that support system to help you and don't be afraid to ask for help. You can be the best person to take care of someone else if you take care of yourself too," Chamara said. She added that sometimes giving too much can cause a sense of depression and mental health is a priority. She shares resources in her social media page that she feels might help other caregivers in similar situations.

Once she found that healthy balance, she said she and her mother are both happier as a result. Vernita still enjoys her CourtTVand talk-show programs. Her favorite restaurant is Cracker Barrel. She still enjoys getting out and about, but Chamara said it is sometimes challenging to find places that are truly wheelchair accessible. She has found she examines places based on their accessibility, especially in the cases of emergencies. She uses a lightweight wheelchair for travel, while there is a more comfortable, wider chair at home for Vernita. The pharmacy even offers "pill packs" for those

who take daily medication. The packs are separated by day and time, making it easy to transport and manage, something she recommends for all caregivers.

Vernita's church family at Ekklesia Ministries in Corinth, picks her up from the house to take her to and from services and all church activities. Chamara praised the love shown to her family by Pastor Jorja Farris and church members.

While Vernita is still able to experience her simple joys in life, Chamara has learned to appreciate her own simple joys as well. She enjoys trips to the nail salon and local hangouts. Some may find her in the park, soaking up the sounds of nature.

"The best way to describe it is when you're on an airplane and they tell you if something happens, put the oxygen mask on yourself first; then try to help others. You can't light a candle at both ends; you'll burn yourself out. Don't neglect yourself. If you have doctor's appointments, go to them. Take care of you so you can be the best version of yourself to take care of someone else. Remember that you are not just a caregiver; you are human and you deserve care and love as well," Chamara said.

"Put love into yourself. I want and need love too," she added.

"Let us help you relieve some stress”

Chamara Vaughn

Confidence Club helps build and mold the youth of today forthe future of tomorrow

By Sabrina Bates

"We have the tools and resources to help our youth. They are not only our future; they are our today."

Those are the words of Sharice Wallace - the founder of Confidence Club. The Confidence Club is a local organization who desires to aid our youth into transformation of the best versions of themselves. Wallace said she was prompted to establish a program to engage, enrich and guide our striving youth after speaking to passionate parents regarding issues our children face on a daily basis.

Her initial vision was to hold weekly meetings exclusive to girls for a duration of two to three months at the local library. The training would consist of building the young ladies' character, by the way of improving good mannerisms, teaching life skills and strengthening their gifts and talents. Essentially, the main objective was to teach the soft skill of confidence because it's imperative for the healthy development of every child.

Aformal crowning ceremony would symbolize the completion of the confidence training program.

Wallace recalls this was her trajectory of how the program would be implemented, but not God's idea. When the boys also showed up for the sessions, everything had to be reconstructed, which was

a blessing in disguise. This was nearly a year ago.

"Thanks to a great village anchor in our community, we had the privilege of utilizing her beautiful studio filled with mirrors. It was the perfect place to carry out confidence-boosting exercises," Wallace shared.

"The idea was for the children to look at themselves in the mirror and give themselves words of affirmation. I wanted them to see they were more than just a conqueror. Some of them didn't want to look at themselves in the mirror though," Wallace shared. She realized that the end goal may change as they all started laying a foundation, one brick at a time. The group of about 10 children, from ages 7 to 16, have evolved since they became a member of the Confidence Club. Wallace said some started with the program, but it isn't for everybody.

"Every child is unique and intelligent in their own way. Therefore, the Confidence Club may not be beneficial for all, but we would like to be of service for those who genuinely

desire the confidence apprenticeship," she

Wallace said some of those beginning foundations were very basic in naturelearning how to respect themselves and

"People are going to treat you how you treat yourself," she noted. Another message was how to walk into a room with confidence and how to compliment others. The group even learned how to pray. They started with one word prayers that grew into conversations with God.

Another session centered on focus exercises. Wallace explained every child needs tailored discipline and other other trusted individuals to help parents to construct a well-trained child. The Bible confirms the training of a child is essential for their success. She said the group gets outside and when they are inside, there is an emphasis on reading. She said she considers herself "old school," therefore the children are out helping with gardens and getting fresh air. Wallace emphasizes how sometimes we don't let children just be kids; they're involved in adult situations they don't need to be in and can't just be kids.

The Confidence Club has organized a lemonade stand, a garage sale and participates in history lessons, such as learning about the Easom School. She said they enjoyed the parade put on by the organization trying to keep the school's history alive.

They are rewarded for their efforts and hard work. The money they've earned has helped offset small trips, such as a movie night to see "Sing 2," which has a confidence theme. The Confidence Club members have visited the aquatic center and splash pad.

"These children were hand-picked by God," Wallace said. She added that some of the parents have come to her almost in tears to talk about how much confidence their children have gained since being a part of the volunteer organization.

"I hear people say all of the time that there are no opportunities for our youth. That just isn't true. There are opportunities everywhere that children can be a part of. We just need to be serious about getting them there. We've got to take the opportunity to reach out to them," Wallace said.

She said there was a time when she took a break from the Club, "but the Lord said 'keep going. This wasn't your plan, but my plan.'"

"Children wrestle with demons too," she added.

Wallace said the group members treat each other like siblings and they have become great helpers, looking out for one another.

"Iron sharpens iron," she noted. She continues to watch them evolve and build even more confidence and character.

On a personal level, Wallace and her husband, Demetrius, just expanded their family to include a five-month-old. Although the couple has two daughters of their own, the recent fostering of a son has added a piece of Heaven. She said her husband lights up as they already share that father-son bond.

"This was definitely of God. God's fingerprints were seen in various ways during the process. I've always had a desire in my heart to adopt since I was in junior high," Wallace shared.

The desire became more and more intense in the last few years, but the loss of their/her father, Terry Calhoun, confirmed more than she ever could have imagined.

"When God said it was time, I opened up my computer and He walked me through the application," she added. Aspeaker from online training was from Dayton, Ohio, the location of their/her father's memorial service. While in orientation, the couple was required to read about different stories and one of the characters shared the same name as her husband. There were more than she could say. The signs were almost overwhelming.

"It takes so much fasting, discernment, discovery and connecting with God. We have our own confidence children - Demetria and Kameya Wallace - we are obligated and responsible for focusing on their needs first. Charity starts at home. Your first ministry is to tend to your household," Wallace said. While trying to balance her own flesh and blood, another gift from God and a group of children who look to her for confidence, Wallace said God helps get her through whatever she is facing.

Her personal goal is to become a transformational speaker for the "minuses and the masses." She wants to travel to prisons and spread the message of fulfilling one's destiny in life.

While Wallace gives glory to God in her daily life, she also credited her family and their strength and everlasting faith in her.

"The world will tell you that you can't do something, but my family always supported me," she said. She acknowledged her late father; her mother, Sharon Calhoun and sister, Shaterian Calhoun.

Wallace also credits the instrumental work of the volunteers, mothers and fathers of the Confidence Club, who help make the impact of the program successful in the lives of local children. Stay tuned for the next season of Wallace's life and the children who are inspired by the Confidence Club.

Sharice Wallace

Kids Have Questions About TheirBodies, Now You Have Answers

(StatePoint) Children have a lot of questions about the way the world works and parents hope to have straightforward answers. But when it comes to questions regarding the body, parents and kids alike can find these conversations awkward, uncomfortable and embarrassing. Experts say that destigmatizing a child’s curiosity about their body will not only help them take better care of their health, it may even spark their interest in science.

“Kids have so many questions about their bodies, some practical, some pure curiosity. Sadly, society sometimes chastises children for even asking these questions. By better understanding their bodies though, they can adopt good habits that stay with them for life, and learn about physics and biology in a fun way,” says David L. Hu, Ph.D., a professor at Georgia Institute of Technology and author of “The PWord: AManual for Mammals.”

Dr. Hu, an award-winning scientist, animal expert and author, wrote “The PWord” for his 10-year old son, who like many children his age, is eager to learn more about his body. While previous books dealing with this topic are written with teenagers in mind, Dr. Hu believes it’s important for younger kids to enter puberty already having all the facts about their biology. His book, meant for ages 712, introduces the penis as an organ that unites all biologically male mammals. It’s meant to serve as a gender-neutral, definitive resource about the penis for kids, providing tools kids need to recognize and name their body parts,

understand when something might be wrong and practice good hygiene.

If you’re a parent of a curious kid, or a parent of a child who hasn’t yet voiced their questions, Dr. Hu offers the following tips:

1. Try not to shy away from these conversations or make your child feel ashamed for asking a question about their body. Keep in mind that many children will turn to the internet for answers if you aren’t open to answering their questions, where they may encounter false information or inappropriate content. Instead, acknowledge their

curiosity by answering their questions as best you can, and by pointing them to trustworthy resources.

2. Don’t wait until your child reaches puberty. If you start talking to kids about their bodies when they are young, you’ll normalize and desensitize the subject, and the act of talking about it. Helping a child feel comfortable in their own skin before things start to change, will set the stage for less stress during puberty.

3. Help kids understand that their body is natural and normal. In “The PWord,” Dr. Hu intentionally presents colorful, engaging images and facts about different mammals around the globe alongside information about human bodies, including how animals use their penises to pee, mark their territory and reproduce. “Comparative biology makes learning fun and amusing, lightens the mood around a serious subject, helps young kids understand their place in nature, and offers insights into the role of their penis or vagina outside the role of sex,” says Dr. Hu. Avaluable resource for parents, librarians, educators and of course, kids, more information about “The PWord” can be found by visiting sciencenaturally.com/product-page/the-p-word-a-manualfor-mammals.

“My hope is that kids realize that every question they have, no matter how embarrassing it is, can be addressed by the tools of science. They should be proud of being curious about their own bodies,” Dr. Hu.

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, Aand K. They are also a very

Green Tomatoes -- The Fruit of the Vegetable Patch

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.

THE FURNITURE SOURCE– where quality meets affordability, and value is our guarantee.

• 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.

By Samantha Weaver

• 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.

Vegan Curious? Here’s How to Get Started

(StatePoint) Following a vegan diet doesn’t just reduce one’s impact on the environment, it’s associated with a range of health benefits, making it no surprise that a plant-based food movement is on the rise.

“With more than 100,000 internet searches per month for ‘vegan recipes’and ‘vegetarian recipes,’it’s clear there is high demand for plantbased meals,” says Chef Fred Scarpulla, chief culinary officer at Amy’s Kitchen, an organic and vegetarian food company.

Arecent national survey commissioned by Amy’s Kitchen and conducted by Atomik Research finds that 52% of Americans are vegancurious, and men are even more inquisitive, with nearly 3 in 5 revealing an interest in cutting out animal products.

Every individual may have their own unique reasons, but the survey revealed Americans’most common motivators for purchasing or eating plant-based foods were their health (55%), a desire to protect the environment (34%) and a preferred taste of plant-based ingredients (28%). No matter why you’re considering a vegan lifestyle, actually adopting one is not always easy. In fact, 72% of parents in households with dietary restrictions say finding prepared foods that meet their family’s needs is very or extremely challenging.

“Cutting down on meat and incorporating more plant-based foods into your diet doesn’t have to be complicated or restrictive,” says Chef Fred.

Whether you’re transitioning to a vegan diet, incorporating meatless Mondays into your routine or simply curious about meatless cooking, Chef Fred offers the following tips to help you get started:

• Don’t restrict yourself: While going vegan may sound like it’s all about cutting foods out, it’s actually an opportunity to explore new flavors and ingredients you may not have tried before, and to indulge in vegan-friendly cuisines from around the world, such as Indian food and Thai food. Plus, these days, vegan alternatives to a number of favorite comfort foods, like enchiladas, pizza and even mac and cheese, abound.

• Keep it simple: As you build your repertoire of go-to vegan meals, take a mental inventory of your family’s favorite dishes. Many of them may already be vegan, or able to made vegan with a few tweaks. Also, be sure to check out online resources offering vegan meal plans, which can help ensure your overall diet is balanced, satisfying and delicious.

• Look for shortcuts: Creating meals from scratch is not always possible for busy families. In fact, 56% of Americans want shortcuts to plant-based meals. Luckily, there are a growing number of convenient vegan meal options available. Amy’s Kitchen, for example, is founded on the principle that everyone should be able to enjoy a delicious, convenient meal, even those with dietary restrictions, which is why they don’t use meat, peanuts, fish, shellfish or eggs in any of their recipes, and why they offer gluten-free and kosher options.

The brand, which works with farmers using organic and regenerative farming practices to lessen its impact on the planet, has an expanding vegan menu that includes snacks, breakfast, lunch and dinner options, making it easy to ensure your diet aligns with your values and your desire to eat healthfully.

• Get creative: To reduce prep work, follow recipes that start with already prepared vegan foods. Visit amys.com/eating-well/recipes to access Amy’s Kitchen’s library of healthy vegan recipes.

“Whether you choose to go fully vegan or simply want to incorporate more plants into your diet, rely on solutions that make it easy, convenient and delicious,” says Chef Fred.

Sangria Spritzer

Even if you never leave home,you can “travel”to Spain with your taste buds to savor the flavors of a traditional drink in an untraditional way. A glass of this is guaranteed to cool you off,even during the hottest heat wave of the summer!

1 3/4 cups unsweetened grape juice

1/4 cup unsweetened orange juice

3 tablespoon lemon juice

3 tablespoons lime juice

1 3/4 cups diet ginger ale

In a large pitcher,combine grape juice,orange juice,lemon juice and lime juice. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Just before serving,stir in diet ginger ale. Pour into tall glasses with ice. Serves 4 (full cup each).

• Each serving equals:84 calories, 0g fat,1g protein,20g carb.,23mg sodium,0g fiber; Diabetic Exchanges:1 Fruit

Asian Noodles

Peanut butter isn’t just for kids’ lunchboxes anymore! It adds protein and flavor to family meals from breakfast to dinner.

12 ounces fettuccine

1 package (10 ounces)

shredded carrots

1 package (6 ounces)

snow peas

1/2 cup peanut butter

1/2 cup low-fat ginger vinaigrette

1. In saucepot,cook fettuccine as label directs,adding carrots and snow peas during last 2 minutes of cooking. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water; drain fettuccine mixture.

2. In same saucepot,blend peanut butter,vinaigrette and reserved cooking water. Add fettuccine mixture; toss well. Serves 4.

For thousands of triple-tested recipes,visit our Web site at www.goodhousekeeping.com/recipe finder/.

Light Sesame Noodles

The orange vinaigrette is made with Asian sesame oil for delectable flavor.

1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated angel-hair pasta

2 cups packaged shredded carrots

2 teaspoons vegetable oil

12 ounces skinless,boneless chicken breasts or tenders, thinly sliced

2 garlic cloves,crushed with garlic press

1 medium orange

3 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar

3 tablespoons soy sauce

1 teaspoon sugar

2 teaspoons Asian sesame oil

1 teaspoon grated,peeled fresh ginger

1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper (cayenne)

4 large radishes,each cut in half and thinly sliced

2 green onions,thinly sliced diagonally

2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

1. In large saucepot,prepare pasta in boiling water as label directs but do not add salt. Place shredded carrots in colander; drain pasta over carrots to soften them slightly. Transfer mixture to large bowl and set aside.

2. In nonstick 12-inch skillet,heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot. Add sliced chicken and garlic; cook 4 to 5 minutes,stirring constantly,until chicken loses its pink color throughout. Transfer chicken to bowl with pasta.

3. To prepare vinaigrette,from orange,grate 1 teaspoon peel and squeeze 1/4 cup juice. In small bowl, with wire whisk or fork,mix orange peel,orange juice,vinegar,soy sauce, sugar,sesame oil,ginger and ground red pepper until combined.

4. Toss pasta mixture in bowl with vinaigrette,radish slices and green onions; sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve warm or refrigerate until ready to serve. Serves 4.

• Each serving:About 415 calories, 30g protein,51g carbohydrates,10g total fat (2g saturated),121mg cholesterol,1,170mg sodium.

For thousands of triple-tested recipes,visit our Web site at www.goodhousekeeping.com/recipe finder/.

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 ©2010KiFSdI

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.

Insights to Help You Find YourDream Job

for positions directly on the site. Asalary search function, along with career advice and tips, make it an invaluable one-stop site for job seekers.

How Small Businesses Can Manage Cashflow to Thrive in 2023

(StatePoint) With one in four U.S. adults currently job seeking, it’s a competitive market, but experts say that finding your dream job is within reach if you use smart strategies.

“Awell-executed job search that combines powerful search tools and the right mindset will connect you with companies that value their employees and set them up to thrive,” says Kristin Kelley, chief marketing officer of CareerBuilder.

As you get your job search under way, consider these five tips and insights from CareerBuilder:

1. Define your dream job: Research shows that the goals and desires of job seekers vary by industry. However, whether you’re an administrative assistant, a retail worker or a software developer, it’s important to define what matters to you in a job, as doing so will help you narrow your search. This means nailing down details like your salary requirements, while also considering intangible factors, such as whether the work will allow you to make an impact and whether the company’s values and culture align with yours.

2. Build a better resume: Aresume is often the first point of connection between you and your next job, yet knowing its importance can make it feel daunting to create. To make a great impression with a minimal amount of effort, check out online tools like CareerBuilder’s “Create Resume” feature. The platform allows you to create multiple variations of your resume that call out specific areas of expertise as they may relate to particular roles. The site has already outlined the most important fields for you to fill in, making it easy to authentically highlight a mix of hard and soft skills that will get you noticed by top employers.

3. Streamline your search: Work smart, not hard. Rather than apply for jobs individually, turn to a job search platform that will make your profile and resume available to thousands of employers. In the case of CareerBuilder, you don’t actually need to register for an account to search through its millions of job listings. Search for jobs using filters like degree requirement, keywords, industry and mileage radius, then apply

4. Prepare for interviews: Preparing answers to common interview questions and even practicing with a spouse or friend beforehand can help you feel competent and confident when the real interview rolls around. For behavioral questions, CareerBuilder recommends using the STAR method, in which you describe the Situation, Task, Action and Result to explain how you would act in specific work situations.

5. Check the terms: A dream job is only a dream job if the terms of employment suit you. Before signing a contract, check such details as compensation, start date, the company’s leave policy, professional development opportunities, perks and benefits, as well as items that could impact you in the future, like nondisclosure agreements. If you plan to negotiate, decide whether you’ll take the job if the employer doesn’t modify the contract. Stay courteous and professional throughout the process.

For more career advice, or to register and search for jobs, visit careerbuilder.com/jobs.

Landing a dream job can be a labor intensive process. However, leaning on new tools and tech to do some of the groundwork for you can help ensure you start your new position with purpose and energy.

(StatePoint) Intelligent cashflow management is the essential fuel of startups and digital businesses, particularly in a challenging economy. According to experts, it can mean the difference between surviving, thriving and failure.

“Poor cashflow management will kill your business. In fact, it’s killed some of the biggest businesses in the world. No matter how fast you’re growing, you could be destined for the startup graveyard if your outgoings exceed your revenues,” says Dominic Wells, serial entrepreneur and CEO and founder of Onfolio Holdings, a leading online conglomerate that acquires and manages a diversified portfolio of online business holdings.

To help startups and digital businesses not only survive a downturn, but remain profitable while accelerating growth, Wells is sharing some top actionable insights for the current moment:

1. Know that capital is harder to secure. While during periods of low interest rates, it was possible to burn through capital, that’s no longer the case. “Don’t assume you can just raise more money. Investors are avoiding businesses that aren’t already cashflow positive,” says Wells.

2. Change your priorities. Founders must review spending line items and identify the areas generating the greatest returns. Double down on those. Cut or reduce your spending elsewhere.

3. Focus on short-term growth. Certainty beats speculation right now and investors are choosing businesses that will generate near-term certainty with monthly recurring revenue over those with potential long-term growth.

4. Make profitability your number one goal. Aim to be profitable enough to pay yourself a decent salary, cover business overheads and keep cash in reserve. If you’re looking for a buyer or investor, have solid numbers to show them. In Onfolio’s case, the investment criteria are established businesses generating annual profits over $500,000 in sectors and niches with high-growth potential. Without the metrics to support why you deserve funding, investors and buyers aren’t lurking around the next corner, ready to leap out with a check.

“It’s not easy to execute, but your goal is simple. Keep asking yourself, ‘are we profitable?’If the answer is no, do everything you can to get there quickly,” says Wells.

5. Become more financially secure. At a time when many operations are cutting costs, making your service indispensable to customers so that they stay with you, or even spend more money, can help make you more financially secure. It’s time to deploy strategies and technology that generate more revenue from your current customers. For example, if you’re a website owner without a subscription upsell, now is the time to implement one.

For more tips and insights and to learn more about digital company acquisition, visit onfolio.com.

“New challenges arise for small business owners and digital companies during downturns,” says Wells. “Being savvy about the current climate can mean not just your survival, but your continued success.”

(c) ArLawKa AungTun / iStock via Getty Images Plus

(c) amanalang / iStock via Getty Images Plus

September 4, 2023

5 Ways to Live YourBest Travel Life This Summer

plans, visit tmobile.com/cell-phoneplans.

(Statepoint) Summer travel is heating up despite packed airports, crowded destinations and rising prices. In fact, 80% of Americans are planning to travel as much or more than they did last summer, according to a new Harris Poll survey from TMobile.

No matter where you’re going, here’s how to watch your wallet while making the most of your adventures.

Plan Ahead: With international travel restrictions lifted, global bookings have surged by over 200% compared to last year, according to AAA. And some of the most popular destinations searched for on Google Flights for this summer are London, Cancun, Paris and Rome. If you’re planning to travel internationally and need a passport, estimated processing times are 11 to 13 weeks instead of the usual 8 to 10 due to an uptick in applications and demand. So, get going!

Be Flexible: If you can avoid traveling during peak summer travel season from mid-June through August, try booking during the “shoulder season,” which is the time just before and after. For this summer, travel experts recommend booking travel in September to reduce cost.

Stay Connected: Reliable wireless when traveling is no longer a luxury, but an absolute necessity, with 95% of American travelers in the T-Mobile survey saying it’s a travel essential.

Some phone plans — like the new Go5G Plus from T-Mobile — give customers built-in travel benefits and coverage that works the minute you arrive. With free in-flight Wi-Fi and free high-speed data in more than 215 countries – the journey is seamless from start to finish and all included in the price of your monthly plan. To learn more about T-Mobile's travel benefits and their new Go5G

Pack Smart: An estimated 2.2 million bags were lost or mishandled on U.S. airlines in 2022, an increase from 1.4 million in 2021, according to the 2022 Air Travel Consumer Report. If you’re nervous about checking your luggage, place an Apple AirTag in your bag or luggage to know where it is at all times. Some bags, like TMobile's limited edition Un-carrier On, even come packed with the tech you need to ensure a smooth trip, including a power bank and smart tag device.

Use Points: According to T-Mobile’s Harris Poll survey, nearly half (47%) of summer travelers used miles, points or rewards to book their summer travel this year and nearly two-thirds of all travelers (66%) rely on discounts and deals when booking travel accommodations. Certain credit cards give you points or miles to use for future travel when you sign up. If you’re a TMobile customer, you can save up to 40% on select hotels and car rentals by booking through T-Mobile TRAVELfrom Priceline. Most bookings come with free, flexible cancellations so you can plan with peace of mind.

Americans are eager to travel this summer, and with a little planning, nothing should get in the way of some muchdeserved R&R.

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