FEBRUARY
Vol 19, No. 9 • February 2020
WRIGHT-DONNELL PG 9
News You Can Use
Upcoming African American History Banquet Celebrates the Contributions of Local African Americans and celebration," Richmond says. "As a By Angela Rogalski part of our ministry efforts in 2019, I The Second Annual African wanted to start this event where we American History Banquet will recognized the contributions of be held on Saturday, February African Americans locally and 8, 2020 at the UFCW Union have that highlighted by a banHall in West Point. Doors quet and a keynote speaker of open at 5:30 p.m. some renown. It was my idea; Orlando Richmond is my vision and I framed it senior pastor at Northside up and then appointed a Christian Church in committee that work West Point, Miss. with me to execute and also the it. founder and "We began director of the last year with annual a communityAfrican wide program American that's specifiHistory cally designed Banquet. to focus on Each year he the Golden tries to Triangle area. expand or Last year's improve upon program his ministry involved a and the church's keynote address by outreach and for the former Secretary of second year he is Agriculture, Mike Espy, doing it through the and included what we banquet. Bern Nadette Stanis call the Difference Maker "This is our second Award. It went to two people last year: annual African American History Banquet retired Judge Dorothy Colom and the principal of West Point Return Address: P.O. Box 1292 Corinth, MS 38835 High School. And this year we've continued that. We honor Dorothy Colom with this event, the first Difference POSTAL PATRON Maker. And you get a better sense of that with this year's see BANQUET pg 4
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Visual Learning for Black History Month With A Harriet Tubman Quilting Fundraiser By Angela Rogalski Mary Hearnton is a Corinth native and a member of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Corinth. Mrs. Hearnton recently led a visual learning fundraiser for the church's youth group. "The youth department in our church held a raffle to try and raise enough money to take our youth to Noah's Ark and Creation Museum in Williamstown, Kentucky," Hearnton says. "So, the quilting project was a fundraiser for the church." The fundraiser involved a series of Harriet Tubman quilts, which Hearnton explained in a program that was held about the quilts. "To a certain degree, the quilts were handmade, but we did use the sewing machine as well," she says, "We're modern-day quilters. These are teaching quilts more so than quilts that would be taken to the National Quilting Association Convention. We put on a program where I explained what each of the Underground Railroad symbols meant, and how they helped to navigate Harriet Tubman's way from as far as New Orleans to the Ohio River and other points north to freedom. And she also led
Mary Hearnton
over 300 slaves to freedom via the Underground Railroad, which wasn't really a railroad at all, of course. The Underground Railroad was a system by which people would display signs on quilts, on houses, in the mud, to tell her what services they had available to her and her efforts to help slaves get to the North. And many of these people who were agents, as they were called
in the Underground Railroad, were white people; many were Quakers, and many were freed blacks and sailors. So, there were many abolitionists who didn't believe that slavery was right." Hearnton says this secret code of symbols that people used during that time to communicate with Tubman on her journey was very special. And see HEARNTON pg 4
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February 2020
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
The Bible tells us in Ecclesiastes 3:3: To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven. And in a world of unrest, turmoil, and frankly, things that often just don't make sense, it's comforting to know that our Heavenly Father knew from the beginning that there would always be a reason for everything and a time for it to happen. Many years ago, 117 to be exact, W. E. B. Du Bois envisioned a way to help the ethnic struggles of African Americans after comprising a few social facts. Out of these facts "The Souls Of Black Folk" was written in 1903. How could a few social facts have the avalanche of possibilities that it did, beginning with the Civil Rights Act of 1964? Why, because it was the right season for change. As we enjoy another February from God; another Black History Month to reflect upon, it came to me that every season has had and still has reasons for profound change. As the winter winds of change began to roll down the mountaintops of society, a problem sprang up for a tired, young African American
The Four Seasons of Change woman who wanted to ride in the front of a Montgomery, Alabama bus after a long day at work. It was 1955 and Mrs. Rosa Parks' tired feet made her refuse to sit at the back of the bus. For everything there is a season and this was Mrs. Park's season to rest her tired and exhausted feet. She'd had enough and her soul was at peace with her decision to remain at the front of that bus. To continue the spiral of progress from W. E. B. Du Bois's vision, shots rang out at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tenn. as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s journey there to stage a sanitation workers' boycott became a prophecy that affected the entire world. Yet, it was the catalyst that propelled extensive change. The season was upon us and Dr. King did what he set out to do. Unfortunately, paying the ultimate price. The tragic helicopter crash of basketball icon, Kobe Bryant, his precious daughter, Gianna, and the other seven amazing souls that were aboard that flight brings another facet to the spectrum of truth offered in God's special timing.
Many may ask why Kobe? Why all of those people, from the youngest to the eldest; why did they have to die that day and in that way? But it is not for us to ask or to know….God's reasons are his own, His seasons exact and perfect. Kobe was an implement of change for the better, from his work with his own children, such as teaching Gianna to play basketball and spending true quality time with his family, to coaching tournaments for Mamba Sports Academy, where Gianna went to school, Kobe believed in family and young people. He brought his own dream to life and then helped to further other's dreams and aspirations. Being a part of the family, the community and daring to dream big was Kobe's gift to the world. Pow: Winter, Pow: Spring, Pow: Summer, Pow: Fall, as shots rang out that killed the dreamer, but not the dream a we proudly celebrate another Black History Month as Kobe Bryant's dream; Dr. King's dream; as Rosa Parks' dream; as W. E. B. Du Bois's dream lives on! Whoo! Whoo! Until Next Time! All Aboard!
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.
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February 2020
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The Community News Flash
NISSAN OF CORINTH 813 SOUTH PARKWAY & 72 East - Corinth, MS 38834 P.O. Box 791 - Corinth, MS 38835
FEBRUARY BIBLE TRIVIA
LP Spence, Salesperson (The LP stands for Low Prices) Cell: (662)603-7233 (662)286-6006 (888)286-6006 Fax (662)286-8228
1. Claudius Lysias (Acts 23:26)
1.
What noble prophet's sons were notorious for taking bribes?
2. Banaiah (2 Samuel 8:18)
2.
What tax collector climbed a tree to see Jesus?
3. Outside the Temple (Acts 21:30-
3.
Who kept Paul in prison, hoping Paul would try to bribe him for release?
4.
Who advised that the Egyptians be taxed 20 percent of their produce in order to prepare for famine?
Come see
January Answers
33) 4. Abner (1 Samuel 14:50) 5. Sisera (Judges 4:2) 6. Joshua (Exodus 17:10)
5.
Who taxed the Israelites in order to pay off Pul, the king of Assyria?
6.
Whom did Jesus send fishing in order to get money for taxes/
8. Joshua (5:14)
7.
Who warned the people of Israel that having a king would mean having
9. Jephthah (Judges 11:6)
taxation?
10. Irijah (Jeremiah 37:13)
8.
What figure did Jesus use as a contrast to the humble tax collector?
11. Goliath (1 Samuel 17:48-54)
9.
What did the hungry Esau give up to Jacob in exchange for food?
10. What was Judas given to betray Jesus?
7. Phichol (Genesis 21:22)
12. Benaiah (1 Kings 4:4) 13. Joab (2 Samuel 8:16) 14. Omri (1 Kings 16:16) 15. Jehu (2 Kings 9:1-11)
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
16. Rabshakeh (2 Kings 18:17-37)
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BANQUET...from page 1 honorees. One is Johnnie Harris, who is the assistant ladies basketball coach at Mississippi State. In 2018, she was honored as the National Assistant Women's Coach of the Year for obvious reasons, the great success of that program." Richmond says the second honoree is Travis Outlaw, a Starkville native who went directly into the NBA out of high school. "Mr. Outlaw is a philanthropist who has put a lot of money, time and effort into the Starkville/Oktibbeha community," he continues. "These are our two honorees this year. We have a third person, Willene Jefferson. She will be 90 years young this year and she is a tremendous community servant who has retained the energy of the Energizer Bunny and was honored in the past by the governor of Mississippi for her community service." Richmond says the keynote speaker for 2020 is Bern Nadette Stanis, an American actress and author, who is best-known for her work as Thelma, the role she played on the historic and iconic television show
The Community News Flash
"Good Times" during the 1970s. "She is the keynote speaker this year. Along with being an actress and author, she is also a very successful motivational speaker," Richmond says. "The theme for this year's event is "Investing Personal Success in Support of Others." And the celebration will be held at the Union Hall, which is a fairly large venue. The official name is the UFCW Union Hall, which stands for the United Food and Commercial Workers, that is the union." Richmond says tickets for the event are going fast, but there are some still available. "There are three levels of tickets," he adds, "$30, $25 and $20. And the tickets are available through one of our committee members, Dorothy Ryland. Just call or text at (662) 275-2474 or they can also call the church at (662) 494-5210." “If you hear the dogs, keep going. If you see the torches in the woods, keep going. If there's shouting after you, keep going. Don't ever stop. Keep going. If you want a taste of freedom, keep going.� -- Harriet Tubman
while this was also a terrific learning experience for the youth of the church, it was the idea of bringing history alive that was a real goal for Hearnton. "We tried very hard to actually bring Tubman's arduous journey to life," she adds. "And the importance of her mission." Hearnton adds that she made the templates, cut the designs out, chose the fabrics, and cut and pinned them down. "My husband cut all the background materials and then we passed it on to a young man who loves to sew. I can sew, but I am an impatient sewer, I don't like to take apart what's wrong," she laughs. "So, this young man is an amazing artisan, and he was the second part of the team. I would piece the quilts together and then pass them on to him, Amar Garner, and he would sew them together, so we would have the quilt top and then we would pass it on to another lady, Mrs. Patsy Huggins, who would do the final part of adding the batting and the back of the quilt. So, it was definitely a team effort." Hearnton says the three of them as a team could make one complete quilt in a
HEARNTON......... ..from page 1
February 2020
week's time. The raffle was completed recently, the winners' names drawn, and the fundraiser a success. "We raised almost $2,000," she adds. "And that was, we felt, very significant. It may not cover the entire cost, but it will make a big dent in what has to be paid. And the people who received quilts also got a DVD, which contained the history of Harriet Tubman, the Underground Railroad and an explanation of all the symbols used on the quilts. At the end we had a tribute to Harriet Tubman, with the youth singing songs that would be appropriate for the struggles that she endured."
Buckle Up and Pay Attention!
Distracted driving is bad driving
would like to send our condolences to the Bryant family, as well as the family of the other victims that were affected by this horrific tragedy.
February 2020
Guard Your Social Security Number Social Security numbers were first issued to identify those who were getting benefits. Now it’s become a national ID number, and far too many people have access to it. Theft of Social Security numbers is big business. With that little number, plus your name and address, thieves can steal your identity and take your money or run up debt in your name. At the very least, it can mean spending untold hours straightening out the mess when your credit report has errors. With that number, someone can get medical services in your name, and at your expense, or refinance your mortgage and take the profits. For those who’ve put together a nice nest egg, it can mean losing everything you’ve worked for over the years. McAfee, a computer security company, put together a list of the Top 10 places where our Social Security numbers are most likely to be stolen. Starting with the riskiest places, they are: universities and colleges, banks and financial institutions, hospitals, state governments, local governments, federal governments, medical businesses that provide equipment or billing services, nonprofit organizations, technology companies, medical insurance and medical offices. While it’s often necessary to give your Social Security number to get services, cut your risk by being careful. Send for a free copy of your credit report every year to make sure it doesn’t have errors. Invest in a shredder, or share one with friends. Shred any mail (unless you need to file it away) that has your personal information on it. If you’re hunting for a job, don’t automatically put your Social Security number on the application. Those applications often end up in dumpsters behind the business. Instead, wait until they hire you and provide the number to the appropriate person in Human Resources. Write to Matilda Charles in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 328536475, or send e-mail to column reply@gmail.com.
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The Community News Flash
As the World Spins DEAR DR. DONOHUE: Will you please explain vertigo? I fell asleep in a chair one evening, and when I woke, I was slightly dizzy. The next morning when I woke up and sat up, I was extremely dizzy. Everything was going back and forth. When I tried to walk, I was bouncing off the walls. The room was moving. My doctor prescribed Dramamine. I still wake up dizzy, but not as bad as the first two nights. I am 69. — E.B. ANSWER: Vertigo is a hallucination that everything is moving. It’s not. What you describe fits the definition. Many causes of vertigo can be traced to the inner ear, which has two important functions: hearing and balance, the orientation of our body to the things around it. That function is handled by the vestibular system of the inner ear. Sometimes a viral infection of the ear can trigger vertigo. The only way to handle it is to take a medicine such as you’re taking and wait for the infection to clear in about three to six weeks. Or it can come about because tiny calcium particles in the inner ear have made their way to places where they shouldn’t be. This is benign positional vertigo. When affected people move their head or change position from lying or sitting to standing, the calcium particles activate the vestibular system abnormally, and profound dizziness strikes. When you woke up and sat up, you became dizzy. You changed positions. Calcium particles activated your vestibular system. A doctor easily can prove benign
body movements. He or she can coax those transplanted calcium specks back to their site of origin through another series of movements, called the Epley maneuvers. The medicine you mention often lessens symptoms. Antivert is another useful drug. So is scopolamine — in its oral form, not in its patch form. I made vertigo sound like an easy diagnosis and an easy treatment; it isn’t. Many other serious conditions have to be considered by the examining doctor. The booklet on vertigo discusses this common malady in detail. To obtain a copy, write to: Dr. Donohue — No. 801W, Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. Enclose a check or money order (no cash) for $4.75 U.S./$6 Can. with the recipient’s printed name and address. Please allow four weeks for delivery. *** DEAR DR. DONOHUE: My teenage daughter twists and pulls her hair when she reads, watches TV or studies. She has two small bald patches on her scalp. I cannot get her to stop doing this. Is this normal? — R.T. ANSWER: It’s not normal, but it’s pretty common. It’s trichotillomania (TRICK-oh-TILL-uh-MAY-neeuh). Some classify it as an obsessive compulsive disorder. The hair pulling quiets an inner anxiety. It’s almost an involuntary act. If you can’t get your daughter to stop, the family doctor can recommend a therapist for her. The therapist can explain to her why she does this and how she can curtail the urge. Sometimes, medicines are prescribed for a short period. She really does need attention. Constant hair pulling can damage the hair roots and lead to a permanent bald patch. *** 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.
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The Community News Flash
February 2020
MONEY
Credit Application Denied? Here’s What to Do Next
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(StatePoint) It’s no fun being denied anything, especially credit. Usually when someone is trying to get a line of credit, it’s for a big reason or major life milestone and having a credit application denied can feel like a real setback. But this rejection isn’t something to take personally. It’s more common than people realize and doesn’t spell doom for your financial future. In fact, credit denials can be a good opportunity to take proactive steps to improve your credit health long-term. How will I know I’ve been denied credit? If a lender denies your credit application, they will send you a letter called an “adverse action notice.” Don’t worry -- it sounds more menacing than it really is. This letter will explain why the lender denied your application and give you information about the credit reporting agency where they got your information. With the notice, you are entitled to get a free credit report from that agency within 60 days. While the credit reporting agency provides your information, the lender ultimately makes the decision on whether to grant credit or not. If you need more information specifically about your denial, it’s usually best to contact the lender directly. Why was I denied credit? There are many reasons a credit application could be denied and the reasons vary by lender, the types of credit requested and your personal credit history. The adverse action letter will list the reason or reasons why you were denied. Common causes include having a limited credit history, too many
recent inquiries and a high balance on current credit accounts. But every situation is different. If you are still unsure about the reason for the denial after reading the adverse action letter, you can call the lender to find out more. What should I do if I am denied credit? If you are denied credit, you don’t technically have to do anything. But that’s probably not your best option. It’s natural to feel bummed about being rejected, but you can use the denial as a motivator to make strides to improve your credit health. Your credit report acts like your financial resume, showing your history of what you’ve done with credit. Read it carefully to see if there are any areas where you could do better. Are your balances too high? Create a financial plan that includes paying them off as quickly as possible. Did you miss a payment recently? Set up automatic payment options on your monthly bills so you’re always on top of it. Don’t forget to check your report for inaccuracies, as they can occasionally play a role in a denial. If you’ve been denied credit, learn more and take that first, important step by getting your TransUnion credit report at transunion.com/deniedcredit. No financial plan is completed without setbacks, but don’t allow those setbacks to keep you from taking action. Whatever the cause of a credit application denial, there’s a solution. With perseverance and patience, you can achieve your financial goals.
700 Taylor Street
2020 The past is a ghost, the future a dream. All we ever have is now.
Patterson Memorial Chapel 125 South Franklin Street Corinth, MS 38834 662-286-2200 Office
February 2020
The Community News Flash
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5 Tips to Help Older Adults Be Healthier in 2020 (StatePoint) For many, the new year is about establishing goals for the year ahead. But where should you start? As we age, an increasing number of us link our emotional and physical well-being to our overall health. After all, you can’t do the things you’d like if you aren’t healthy. With that in mind, Cigna and its Medicare Advantage (MA) fitness partner, the Silver&Fit Healthy Aging and Exercise Program, share these five tips to help older adults get fitter and stronger and be less stressed and happier in 2020: 1. Hit the gym. Exercise is a proven way to help you get fitter and stronger, improve balance, lose weight, reduce blood pressure, improve cardiovascular health, manage pain and even be more social. Many gyms offer such options as free weights, machines, pools, classes, private instructors and other amenities that can inspire you to try new things. Prefer working out with others? Group classes can help you discover a new exercise, stick to a schedule and find exercise buddies. If you’re new to exercise, remember that slow and steady is the way to build good habits, avoid injury and achieve health goals. It’s always a good idea to consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program. Can’t afford a gym membership? You may be surprised to learn that many MA plans offer exercise programs at top fitness centers and YMCAs for no extra cost. Check your plan for details. 2. Nourish your body. For optimal health, nourish your
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body with healthy, energizing foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, fish and healthy oils, such as olive oil and sesame oil. Limit pre-packaged, processed foods. Set an achievable goal. Try cutting out one unhealthy food each month, such as sugary soft drinks or chips. Your body will love you for it! Also, stay hydrated, especially when exercising. At the same time, eliminate unhealthy habits, such as smoking or drinking alcohol in excess. With an MA plan, you may be able to get help with smoking cessation products or alcohol counseling at no extra cost.
3. Stress less. Stress can be toxic and debilitating. Develop a “PLAN” to deal with it. According to Cigna’s Dr. Stuart L. Lustig, this includes identifying a Period of time to unwind, a Location to de-stress, an Activity to enjoy and the Name of someone with whom you can talk. Yoga, tai chi and meditation may help you cope with stress, as well as going for walks, listening to music, comedy or audio books -- or even coloring. If you’re experiencing extreme stress, talk to your doctor. Remember, the mind and body are connected, and stress takes its toll on physical health. 4. Get social. According to a 2018 Cigna survey, loneliness in America has reached epidemic levels. Nearly half of Americans report sometimes or always feeling alone (46 percent) or left out (47 percent). Loneliness has been shown to negatively impact physical and mental health. Alleviate loneliness by taking one proactive step each week. For example, call or get coffee with friends or family, join a club or volunteer. You can also connect with other active adults on social media. Check out the inspirational health and fitness posts on the @SilverandFit Facebook page and join in the conversations. 5. Practice gratitude. Happiness comes with thankfulness. Think about people and things you feel grateful for, and start a gratitude journal. By doing your best to incorporate these five tips into your life, you’ll kick-start your journey toward a healthier 2020.
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February 2020
The Community News Flash
Valentine's Day Fun Facts 1. Valentine's Day is the second most popular day of the year for sending cards. Christmas is the first most popular.. 2. Worldwide, over 50 million roses are given for Valentine's Day each year. 3. About 1 billion Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged each year. 4. Approximately 27 percent of those who buy flowers on Valentine's Day are women. Only 73% are men. 5. The origin of Valentine’s Day is traced back to the ancient Roman celebration of Lupercalia which was held on February 15. This day honored the gods Lupercus and Faunus, as well as the legendary founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus. 6. Cupid is said to be the symbol of valentines. Cupid is the son of Venus. Venus is the Roman god of love and beauty. 7. The heart is associated with Valentine’s Day as it is considered the source of all human emotions. 8. Red rose is a favorite flower of Venus. For this reason red rose is also the symbol of Valentine’s Day. All over the world, over 50 million roses are given for Valentine’s Day each year. 9. The symbol of the ribbon, which often adorns modern-day Valentines, is rooted in the Middle Ages. When knights competed in tournaments, their sweethearts often gave them ribbons for good luck. 10. Girls of medieval times ate bizarre foods on St. Valentine's Day to make them dream of their future husband. 11. In order of popularity, Valentine's Day cards are given to teachers, children, mothers, wives, sweethearts and pets. 12. Richard Cadbury invented the first Valentines Day candy box in the late 1800s. 13. 220,000 is the average number of wedding proposals on Valentine's Day each year. 14. The name Valentine is derived from a Latin word meaning valor. 15. California produces 60 percent of American roses, but the vast number sold on Valentine's Day in the United States are imported, mostly from South America. Approximately 110 million roses, the majority red, will be sold and delivered within a three-day time period. 16’ In 1537, England's King Henry VII
officially declared Feb. 14 the holiday of St. Valentine's Day. 17. More than 35 million heart-shaped boxes of chocolate will be sold for Valentine's Day. 18. Lace is often used on Valentine decorations. The word “lace” comes from the Latin laques, meaning “to snare or net,” as in to catch a person’s heart. 19. On average, men spend double the amount of money on Valentine`s Day gifts than women spend. The average amount a man spends is $130. 20. In Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet it is said that they lived in Verona Italy. Every year thousands of Valentine’s Day cards at sent to Verona addressed to Juliet. 21. 60% of America’s red roses are grown in the state of California 22. At least 9 million people buy their pets a gift on Valentine`s Day. 23. In the United States, 64 percent of men do not make plans in advance for a romantic Valentine's Day with their sweethearts. 24. In Wales, wooden love spoons were carved and given as gifts on Valentine’s Day. Hearts, keys and keyholes were favorite Valentine decorations on the wooden spoons. These symbols meant the heart would be unlocked for love. 25. In Victorian times it was considered bad luck to sign a Valentine's Day card. 26. Valentine's Day and Mother's Day are the biggest holidays for giving flowers. 27. One single perfect red rose framed with baby's breath is referred to by some florists as a "signature rose," and is the preferred choice for many for giving on Valentine's Day, anniversary, or birthday. 28. The oldest known Valentine’s Day card is on display at the British Museum in London. It’s dates back to the 1400’s. 29. By the middle of the eighteenth century, it was common for friends and lovers to exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes. 30. Pope Gelasius declared February 14, St. Valentine’s Day around 498 A.D.
Where there is no vision, there is no hope
Black History Month
2006 Robertson Dr., Corinth, MS 38834
February 2020
The Community News Flash
HISTORY MAKER!!!
9
Erika Wright-Donnell
First year coach, Erika Wright-Donnell took over her old junior high school, 6th-8th basketball team with great fanfare and expectation. Erika went on to lead the Ramer lady Eagles to win the McNairy County Jr. High County Tournament on Monday, January 27th. After the great win Erika was able to reflect on some other winning years. According to Erika, "The team won the championship in 2000, 2002, and 2003 and I played on the championship teams in 2002 & 2003 which was the last time Ramer Jr. High won the County championship. Finally 2020, Erika was able to bring the gold back home to Ramer as the head coach. Erika made history by becoming the First African American lady to coach at her school alma mater, Ramer Jr. High school to win the 2020 championship.
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February 2020
The Community News Flash
3 Tips for Greater Financial Health and Happiness in 2020
Millsautos.com 1403 Hwy 72 West Corinth, MS 38835 (662)286-0223 (c) Ridofranz / iStock via Getty Images Plus
(StatePoint) What tops most New Year’s resolutions lists? You guessed it. Greater health and happiness. But what most Americans don’t consider is that financial health can be equally, if not more important to overall happiness than other resolutions, such as starting a new diet or joining a gym. While saving money is one of the top five New Year’s resolutions, it is also in the top five for most commonly failed. So how can savers commit to a more financially sound future and stick to it? Here are some top tips for achieving greater financial happiness. • Embrace uncertainty. When it comes to markets, the only known is the unknown. And many experts believe that 2020 could be a particularly unpredictable year. In fact, research from Lincoln Financial Group shows that 76 percent of investors feel the upcoming presidential election will affect the market. Taking steps to protect your finances and retirement plan can help you feel less anxious and more empowered in uncertain times. • Protect your income. Lincoln Financial’s research also shows that eighty-two percent of pre-retirees are rightfully concerned about what will happen to their investments if the market drops. For this reason, many advisors suggest diversifying your portfolio to include
an annuity with optional income benefits. “An annuity can provide a source of lifetime income that’s protected from market losses, and a better ability to create a retirement budget -- all of which can make for a less stressful and happier overall retirement,” says John Kennedy, who leads sales for retirement solutions at Lincoln Financial. • Build a new relationship… with a financial professional that is. A trusted financial professional will look at your financial situation holistically to help you determine whether you are on track or need to rebalance your accounts, help you employ tax-saving strategies, answer your toughest questions and help you strengthen your own financial know-how. Most importantly, building a relationship with a financial professional means bringing more predictability to your future in an unpredictable market. Setting goals? Take the retirement questionnaire at LFG.com to find out what you need to do to reach your goals. As you head into the new year, be sure to factor financial health and happiness into the new-year-new-you equation. With a few smart strategies, you can feel more confident about a financially sound future and retirement, come what may.
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February 2020
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The Community News Flash
NEWS FLASH
Kids Zone
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February 2020
The Community News Flash
Take a Peach to the Beach
Antioxidants are substances that protect the body by eliminating free radicals, which cause cell damage and can contribute to aging. The sun brings out free radicals in the skin and antioxidants protect skin cells by counteracting free-radical activity — so take a peach to the beach! Peaches are a good source of fiber and vitamin A and C. Fresh, high quality peaches are sweet tasting and low in calories, as well as saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium, and high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, vitamin A, niacin and potassium. Since one medium peach is only about 37 calories, they’re also an excellent snack or guilt-free dessert. There are more than 200 varieties of peaches, which are some-
times referred to as “stone” fruit due to their pits. Cling or clingstone peaches have a pit to which the flesh “clings.” Freestone peaches have a pit from which the flesh is easily pulled away, with a juicy, soft flesh that is easily separated from the pit. There is no taste difference between freestone and clingstone peaches. Some popular types of white peaches are the Sugar May, Scarlet Pearl, Southern Pearl and White Lady. The key differences between white and yellow peaches are their appearance and taste. The white peach has a pearl, pink-blushed skin, white flesh and pink seed. White peaches are less acidic, resulting in a delicately sweet, juicy flavor containing essences of honey and vanilla finishing with a clean sweetness. White peaches are best eaten out of hand, as like most peaches they don’t improve with cooking. The best way to choose a peach, whether white or yellow, is by the
feel and smell of the fruit, not the color. Look for peaches that are somewhat firm yet yield lightly to pressure when applied. When you can smell the sweetness of a peach, then you know that fruit is ready to eat. Peaches are sensitive and should be handled with care and stored in a single layer, as they bruise easily. If unripe, store them
in a paper bag. If ripe, they may be stored in the refrigerator for a week, depending on the degree of ripeness. For full succulence, bring them to room temperature and then enjoy both the flavor and aroma. Avoid picking peaches that are extremely small, hard, soft or have wrinkled skin at the stem end. Peaches that have a green background are picked in an unripe
stage and will not ripen well. If you’re fortunate enough to have more peaches than you can eat, you can freeze them for future use. Peel and slice the fruit and mix with one tablespoon each of lemon juice and sugar. Place them into a sealable storage bags and freeze for future use. Peaches are available throughout the year. California supplies the product from May to October, peaking in July. Washington peaches are available from July to September, while Chile supplies it the rest of the year. Here are some fun facts about peaches: • These “Persian apples” actually had their beginning in China, but were developed in Persia and went from there to Europe and then to America with the colonists. • The nectarine and the peach are so similar that there is only one gene that separates the two to make them distinct. The nectarine has one recessive
gene — the one with the fuzz. • “You’re a real peach” originated from the tradition of giving a peach to your beloved friends. • Most peaches are cultivated by grafting different combinations of rootstocks onto scions. The recipe for Peaches and Cream Pops is a cool way to enjoy this fantastic fruit on a hot summer day. PEACHES & CREAM POPS 1/2 cup peeled, chopped fresh peaches 1/3 cup peeled, pureed fresh peaches 2/3 cup nonfat vanilla yogurt 2 tablespoons honey Puree 1/3 cup of the peaches in a blender or food processor until smooth. Using a small bowl, mix together the peach puree, yogurt, honey and remaining 1/2 cup of peaches. Spoon the peach mixture into 4 ice cream-pop molds and insert the handle. Freeze for at least 4 hours. Makes 4 servings.
February 2020
• If you want less rise in your cake, try using eggs straight from the refrigerator. This is especially good for sheet cakes that will be cut to stack. • Lay a salmon filet across the back of an overturned bowl. It will reveal any bones, because they pop up. Then you can remove the bones with a pair of tweezers. • “I love bakery baguettes for bread, but it goes hard before I can use it all. Now, when it is too hard to use, I chop it up and toss it in the food processor to make fresh breadcrumbs. I have a large, freezer-safe, zipper bag in the freezer to keep them in. Now I enjoy bakery bread guilt-free!” — E.D. in Oregon • Give tough meat cuts a cold one: That is, marinate them in beer. Add a can of beer to a high-sided pan, then lay your meat cuts in it and let them sit for 15 minutes on each side. • When rolling meatballs, give both hands a quick shot of cooking spray before you get started. The ground meat does not stick so much, and it’s easier to get uniform sizes and shapes. • If you’re working on a project and need to hold a nail in place until you drive it in, consider a dab of PlayDoh. It works very well on horizontal projects, and it can be used briefly to hold up small wall-hanging nails as well. 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.
The Community News Flash
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February 2020
The Community News Flash
14
Holiday Experiences
J. Moffett Walker, Retired Counselor & Author This past holiday season, my husband Tommy, and I went to Gary, Indiana, the city where we spent most of our lives 30 years. While there we attended three churches: Koinonia, the one we belonged to while living there, St. Timothy a non-demo national, the one my son and his family belong to and Bethlehem United Methodist, the church Lydia Moffett Hawkins, my sister belongs to. Lydia was Mr. E. S, Bishops secretary for some time at Easom High School. All services reminded us the real reason for the season. However, while there, Tommy's sister, Doris Walker Johnson, 87, fell and broke her hip, and she had a stroke. She lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota along with his brother, Edward Walker and his wife, Naomi. Our son, Dr. Roland Walker and his wife, Dr. Chantal Walker, insisted that we drive to Minneapolis to see the sick and other family members. Traveling there by car was quite pleasant. The weather was clear and the roads were too. Although snow and ice were on the side of the road,
the sun was shinning. The snow and ice were seen in the trees, rocks and fields. I wish to discuss the beauty I saw traveling through Wisconsin. I watched the snow and ice on the cedar trees for hundred of miles. Many of the trees were turned in the same direction. Other trees were in the area too, but the leaves had fallen off those and I did not recognize those. Also, Wisconsin has great large rock formations. I could not imagine how they developed. It appeared as if man had worked on those formations for years, but it all was nature's work. Actually, those hills, valleys, and country sides one has to see for self to get the full value of nature's work. This writer cannot describe its beauty adequately as it appeared to me. Also that was the first time I saw highways named after letter of the alphabet such as "Highway D," "Highway N" and "Highway C." We arrived in Minnesota on New Year's Day, the date of our travel there at about 2:20 P. M. and went straight of Fairview Hospital where Doris was hospitalized. She had been moved from the Intensive Care Unit to a regular large beautiful room, but she was still a very sick person. We hope she recognized us. Roland, a doctor knew how to get her to answer a few questions with "YES and "NO." The next day after we returned back to Gary, we were told she spoke a few words. That tells us God is good and his blessings were bestored on us. As of today, she is still holding on. Let us all continue to assist others as we go from day to day hopefully we all have a worthwhile New Year.
Overnight Beef Stew
Chocolate Mayo Snack Cake Just one bite, and you’ll see why we call this cake a “little slice of heaven.” 1 1/2 cups cake flour Sugar substitute to equal 3/4 cup sugar, suitable for baking 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 3/4 cup fat-free mayonnaise 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce 1/2 cup water 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 cup fat-free whipped topping 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Spray an 8-by-8-inch cake pan with butterflavored cooking spray. 2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar substitute, cocoa, baking powder and baking soda. Add mayonnaise, applesauce, water and vanilla extract. Mix well to combine. Spread batter into prepared cake pan. 3. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Place cake pan on a wire rack and allow to cool completely. Evenly spread whipped topping over cooled cake and sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over top. Freezes well. Serves 8. • Each serving equals: 163 calories, 3g fat, 3g protein, 31g carb., 394mg sodium, 1g fiber; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 1/2 Starch, 1/2 Fat.
This hearty beef-and-vegetable medley will be waiting for you at home after a long day away — all you have to do before serving is thicken the cooking broth. For a stress-free morning, prep the ingredients the night before. 3 large celery stalks, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices 1 large onion, cut into 16 wedges 1 bag (16 ounces) peeled baby carrots 2 tablespoons ground coriander 1 tablespoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper 4 pounds boneless beef chuck for stew, cut into 2-inch pieces 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) stewed tomatoes 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1. Mix celery, onion and carrots in bottom of 5 1/2- to 6 1/2-quart slow-cooker pot. In large bowl, combine coriander, ginger, salt, nutmeg, thyme and pepper; add beef and toss to coat well. Transfer beef mixture to pot with vegetables. Pour stewed tomatoes over beef. It’s not necessary to stir. 2. Cover pot with lid and cook on low setting as manufacturer directs, 8 to 10 hours or until beef is forktender. 3. When beef is tender and ready to serve, strain stew over 3-quart saucepan; return beef and vegetables to slow-cooker pot. Skim and discard fat from liquid in saucepan. Heat liquid in saucepan to boiling over high heat. Meanwhile, in cup, with fork, mix flour with 1/4 cup water until smooth. Gradually whisk flour mixture into liquid; heat to boiling. Boil 1 minute, until gravy thickens slightly, stirring occasionally. Pour gravy over beef and vegetables in pot. Serves 12. • Each serving: About 400 calories, 13g total fat (5g saturated), 91mg cholesterol, 425mg sodium, 12g total carbohydrate, 3g dietary fiber, 39g protein. For thousands of triple-tested recipes, visit our website at www.goodhousekeeping.com/recipefinder/.
1. POP CULTURE: Who coined the phrase “flower power”? 2. SCIENCE: What is another name for beta carotene? 3. LANGUAGE: What does the title “mahatma” literally mean? 4. LITERATURE: Who wrote “The Color Purple”? 5. HISTORY: Who defeated Napoleon at Waterloo? 6. GEOGRAPHY: The Hawaiian islands are a part of what larger group of Pacific islands? 7. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: Who was the private citizen who was filming President Kennedy’s motorcade with a home-movie camera when Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas? 8. TELEVISION: What was the name of the German commandant in “Hogan’s Heroes”? 9. COMICS: In the comic strip “Hi and Lois,” what is the name of the couple’s youngest daughter? 10. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Which president was sometimes called “the rail splitter”? Answers 1. Beat poet Allen Ginsberg 2. Vitamin A 3. Great soul 4. Alice Walker 5. Duke of Wellington 6. Polynesia 7. Abraham Zapruder 8. Col. Wilhelm Klink 9. Trixie 10. Abraham Lincoln
1. Who holds the record for the highest career batting average by a switch-hitter? 2. Name the two players who hold the major-league record for getting at least one hit on Opening Day for 14 consecutive seasons. 3. In the 2009 season, Tennessee’s Chris Johnson became the sixth player in NFL history to rush for at least 2,000 yards in a season. Name three of the first five. 4. In the past eight years (2003-10), how many of the current Big East men’s basketball teams reached the NCAA Final Four? 5. Name the last two goalies before Philadelphia’s Michael Leighton in 2010 to have three shutouts in one NHL playoff series. 6. How many consecutive gold medals did Norway’s Sonja Henie win in Olympic women’s figure skating? 7. In 2010, golfer Arjun Atwal became the first Monday qualifier in 24 years to win on the PGA Tour. Who was the previous golfer to do it? Answers 1. Frankie Frisch batted .316 in his 19-year major-league career. 2. Frank Thomas and Will Clark. 3. O.J. Simpson (1973), Eric Dickerson (‘84), Barry Sanders (‘97), Terrell Davis (‘98) and Jamal Lewis (2003). 4. Seven — Marquette (2003), Syracuse (‘03), UConn (‘04, ‘09), Louisville (‘05), Georgetown (‘07), Villanova (‘09) and West Virginia (‘10). 5. Tampa Bay’s Nikolai Khabibulin and Toronto’s Ed Belfour, both in 2004. 6. Three — 1928, ‘32 and ‘36. 7. Fred Wadsworth, at the 1986 Southern Open.
February 2020
The Community News Flash
15
30 Surprising Facts In Black Music History 1. Prince reportedly sent Weird Al Yankovic a telegram back in 1986, commanding the comedian to avoid eye contact with him during the entirety of the American Music Awards show. 2. Though little was known about eating disorders in his heyday, Louis Armstrong showed signs of bulimia. He binged and purged with the help of laxatives; he was often pictured with his laxative of choice, Swiss Kriss, and recommended it to his friends with the catchphrase "Satch says: Leave it all behind ya!" 3. As a teen, Gil Scott-Heron wrote a number of short detective stories in the vein of Agatha Christie. 4. Snoop Dogg reportedly sold weed to Cameron Diaz back when the two attended Long Beach Polytechnic High School. 5. Lil Wayne's debut album The Block Is Hot, released when the rapper was only 17 years old, is nearly profanity-free because of his mother's wishes. 6. Nas almost had Jesus in a headlock on the cover for his 1994 album Illmatic. 7. B.B. King named every guitar he owned Lucille after an incident at one of his performances. Two men had a physical altercation over a woman named Lucille; during the scuffle, they knocked over a barrel of kerosene that heated the venue and subsequently set the venue on fire. All persons inside were evacuated, but King ran back into the burning building to rescue his $30 Gibson guitar. The guitar thus became known as Lucille, as a reminder to
King never to run into burning buildings or fight over women.Share On Copy 8. At the height of McCarthyism in the '50s, Lena Horne was blacklisted as a Communist over her participation in the Civil Rights Movement and her friendships with fellow activists Paul Robeson and W.E.B. DuBois. 9. Getting fired from Office Depot inspired Janelle Monae to write "Letting Go," the song that would reach the ears of OutKast's Big Boi and launch her career. 10. When a drunken emcee announced The Sledge Sisters as "Sister Sledge" on stage, the quartet rolled with it and went on to use the error professionally. 11. James Brown's famous dance moves were coded directions for his stage band; every hand movement meant Brown had noticed a bum note or had seen a pair of unshined shoes. 12. Jimi Hendrix often switched up the frequently misheard lyrics to "Purple Haze" in his live performances; he swapped out "kiss the sky" for "hold the sky" during a Seattle rainstorm, and for "kiss this guy" during another performance as he pointed to drummer Mitch Mitchell. 13. Using a modified board with elevated squares, Ray Charles frequently played chess with friends and band members. In 2002, Charles faced off against (and lost to) chess grandmaster Larry Evans.
14. Chuck Berry supplemented his musician's income by working as a trained beautician. 15. Billie Holiday was inspired to write "God Bless the Child" after she and her mother had an argument over money. 16. Marvin Gaye once shaved his head in protest of boxer Rubin "Hurricane" Carter's wrongful murder conviction. 17. In The Last Days of Left Eye, Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes of TLC voiced her objection to the glorification of revenge-cheating in the group's hit single "Creep." Left Eye threatened to wear pieces of black tape over her mouth during the filming of the music video, but she let her resentment creep away. 18. Stevie Wonder led the campaign to have Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday designated as a national holiday. 19. Mary J. Blige's debut album title What's the 411? was a shout-out to her former job as a directory assistance operator. 20. Despite his lyrics to "In Da Club" and "P.I.M.P.," 50 Cent abstains from alcohol and drugs, citing a "bad experience" with alcohol and an outsider's view of what drugs can do to a person. 21. Remember that video of a fresh-faced Nicki Minaj acting out a monologue? Before her rap career blew up, Nicki Minaj pursued acting and was cast in the off-Broadway play In Case You Forget. 22. Gloria Gaynor won the first and only Grammy for Best Disco Recording with "I Will
Survive"; the recording academy discontinued the category after disco fell out of public favor. 23. UPenn graduate John Legend turned down admission offers from Harvard and Georgetown at the tender age of 16. 24. Aretha Franklin's fear of flying kept her from attending her Rock And Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony. 25. In spite of his fame and wealth, Ludacris drove his '93 Acura Legend for over a decade, racking up over 244,000 miles on the vehicle. 26. Biggie Smalls learned that another rapper had trademarked the name "Biggy Smalls" years earlier, so he changed his moniker to The Notorious B.I.G. 27. When presented with the instrumentals for eventual hits "Are You That Somebody?" and "Try Again," Aaliyah initially didn't like them, but recorded the songs. 28. Ol' Dirty Bastard once saved a 4-year-old girl who was trapped under a car that hit her; Dirty and his friends lifted the car off the girl, who was then rushed to the hospital for her injuries. 29. Smokey Robinson got his stage name from his childhood nickname Smokey Joe, a "cowboy" nickname bestowed upon him by his uncle. 30. Miles Davis performed with his back to the audience; it made it easier for him to give his band signals.
The Community News Flash
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February 2020