Whether he’s in his Sunday best or in his blue and maroon racing suit, Dennis Lanier is ready for his favorite activities.
Lanier, a Starkville resident, serves at Kingdom in Glory Church in Maben, and he is also a well-known harness racer on tracks from here to Michigan. He knew he wanted to do both “since I was really young.”
Lanier has been busy serving as the assistant pastor, preaching, and leading people to Christ for about 12 years at the church. His wife, Rena Lanier, is the church’s lead pastor.
“You have to do the will of God” to be saved, Lanier said, adding that these days too many people have left the church. He calls that “the great fall away.”
“In these days and times, too many people want to stay home. You’ve got to want it (being saved) for yourself,” he said.
Lanier said he tells people, “once you come in and relieve the burden on their shoulders,” that they will find their way to salvation.“ You invite people to come like you are. You have to come to the Lord. I have been going to church all my life.
“If He’s chosen you, you can’t get away,” he said.
In July, Kingdom in Glory will lead a tent revival, and all are welcome to come, Lanier said.
Just like church, Lanier said that being around horses and running pacers around a track have been important aspects of his life. “I’ve been dealing with horses since I was 5 or 6.”
He is the owner of four horses, and three of them are harness racers able to run on racetracks that are anywhere from one-half to five-eighths to one mile in length. “My best horse, she’s bred real good.”
Over the years, he’s raced all over, including a lot of time in Chicago and Indiana. Recently, in June, he drove his sulky in races in Michigan.
Harness racing involves the driver sitting in a seat located between two wheels and “watching everybody on the track” while the horse gets up to speeds of 30 miles per hour, he said. “It’s built to go. You have to have a lot of training to do this.”
While training his horses keeps him busy, Lanier said he doesn’t take the reins as often in a race as he used to. But when he does, “I feel happy.”
Harness racing, a sport that elegantly marries tradition and athleticism, has been captivating audiences for centuries. From its roots in ancient chariot races to its refined modern form, where powerful Standardbred horses trot or pace around tracks pulling sleek sulkies, harness racing has developed a unique and passionate following. However, as we celebrate this rich heritage, we must also address the contemporary challenges facing the sport to ensure its future prosperity.
The origins of harness racing can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome, where chariot races were a staple of competitive and ceremonial life. Fast forward to the 17th and 18th centuries, and we find the sport evolving in Europe, particularly in France, where the French Trotter breed
Dennis Lanier
Jerry
W. Porter CEO/Publisher
PO Box 1292, Corinth, MS 38835-1292
Cell: 662-643-6842
Email: read.newsflash@gmail.com
The biblical tale of David and Goliath is a timeless metaphor for overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges. David, a young shepherd, defeats the giant warrior Goliath with nothing more than a slingshot and his unwavering faith. This story continues to resonate because it encapsulates the universal struggle against formidable obstacles. In our contemporary lives, we face our own Goliaths—those daunting challenges that test our resolve, ingenuity, and courage.
In the ancient narrative, David's victory wasn't just about physical strength; it was a triumph of intellect, strategy, and confidence. Today's Goliaths take many forms: the relentless demands of our careers, the pressures of societal expectations, the battle against mental health issues, and the pursuit of personal growth amidst constant change.
Facing Modern Goliaths: Conquering Daily Giants
These modern giants loom large, often making us feel small and ill-equipped. However, like David, we possess the tools and inner strength to prevail.
For many, the professional sphere is rife with goliaths. The competitive job market, the pressure to constantly perform and innovate, and the fear of obsolescence in an ever-evolving technological landscape can be overwhelming. The key to overcoming these professional goliaths lies in continuous learning, adaptability, and resilience. Just as David chose five smooth stones from a brook, we must equip ourselves with the skills and knowledge needed to stay relevant and effective.
Societal expectations represent another formidable Goliath. From a young age, we are bombarded with ideals of success, beauty, and happiness. Social media amplifies these pressures, presenting curated lives that seem perfect compared to our own. Conquering this Goliath requires a strong sense of self-worth and the courage to define our own paths. It means rejecting the one-size-fits-all narrative and embracing our unique journeys, much like David, who, rather than donning the cumbersome armor of Saul, opted for his own simple but effective sling and stones.
Mental health challenges are among the most pervasive and personal goliaths. Anxiety, depression, and
other mental health issues can feel like insurmountable giants that impede our progress and happiness. Overcoming these requires not only personal strength but also a support system and professional help. It's a battle that demands patience, persistence, and the willingness to seek and accept help—echoing David's reliance on his faith and support from those who believed in him.
Lastly, the pursuit of personal growth is a lifelong Goliath. Self-improvement requires us to confront our flaws, step out of our comfort zones, and strive for continuous improvement. This Goliath can be particularly challenging because it demands honesty, discipline, and the willingness to endure setbacks. Yet, it is through these trials that we, like David, find our true capabilities and strengths.
My personal Goliath is the challenge of balancing multiple roles and responsibilities. In a world that demands multitasking and constant availability, finding equilibrium between work, personal aspirations, and relationships can be daunting. This Goliath often manifests as the stress of unmet deadlines, the guilt of neglected relationships, and the anxiety of unfulfilled personal goals. To conquer this, I draw inspiration from David's story, reminding myself that success doesn't always require grand gestures. Sometimes, it's the small, consistent efforts—
like the smooth stones—that make the biggest difference. Prioritizing, setting realistic goals, and allowing myself grace in moments of failure are my chosen stones against this giant.
The story of David and Goliath endures because it speaks to the human spirit's resilience and capacity for triumph against all odds. Our modern Goliaths may not be literal giants, but they
are no less formidable. By channeling the spirit of David—embracing strategy, courage, and inner strength—we can face our giants, no matter how imposing they seem. Each of us has the potential to turn our personal slings into powerful tools for victory. Whoo! Whoo! Until next time! All aboard!
Suitcase Drive
The Suits You Too clothing ministry will be hosting a suitcase drive. We are looking for a small to medium-sized suitcase. The suitcases will be used to carry donated clothes. Contact Jerry W. Porter at (662) 643-6842 to pick up suitcase donations.
“I would gladly live out of a suitcase if it meant I could see the world.” Author unknown
“I
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.
JULY BIBLE TRIVIA
1. This reluctant prophet was thrown overboard in a storm.
2. This man of Tekoa was a simple laborer who had the audacity to confront the king's priest at his shrine.
3. This man prophesied against Nineveh.
4. This prophet was famous for his marriage to a prostitute.
5. This prophet predicted the outpouring of God's Spirit upon all people
6. This man wrote a brief book against Edom.
7. This sister of a Hebrew leader was herself a prophetess. For a time she was afflicted with leprosy.
8. The only female judge of Israel, this woman was considered a prophetess.
9. This apostle of Jesus recorded his visions of the world's end times.
10. This man, who traveled to Antioch with Paul, Silas, and Barnabas, was considered a prophet.
11. This prophet spoke of the need to purify temple worship after the return from exile in Babylon. He spoke of the coming of someone like the prophet Elijah.
12. This man of Moresheth was a contemporary of Isaiah. He spoke of the need to walk humbly with God.
13. This prophet, who posed much of his book in the form of questions and answers, concluded that "the just shall live by faith."
14. Active during Josiah's reign, this prophet spoke about judgment and the coming "day of the Lord."
15. This unlucky prophet delivered an unfavorable message to King Ahab.
16. This false prophet wore a yoke, which Jeremiah broke.
17. This traveling companion of Paul was considered a prophet.
18. Active at the time of the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem, this prophet is associated with Zechariah.
19. This prophet, who lived in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile, had visions of a flying scroll and a gold lampstand.
20.This man is spoken of as being his brother's prophet. He is also famous for having constructed a golden calf.
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 and contestant can only win twice within a 6 month period.
June Answers
1. Elisha (1-2 Kings)
2. Nathan (2 Samuel, 1 Kings)
3. Daniel
4. Jeremiah
5. Saul (1 Samuel 10:1-13)
6. Elijah (1-2 Kings)
7. Ezekiel
8. Isaiah
9. John The Baptist
10. Agabus (Acts 11:27-28; 21:10-11)
11. Jesus
12. Huldah (2 Kings 22)
13. The daughters of Philip (Acts 21:8-9)
14. Anna (Luke 2:36-38)
15. Samuel
16. Balaam (Numbers 22-24)
17. Abraham (Genesis 20:1-7)
18. Moses (Deuteronomy 18:15)
19. Gad (2 Samuel 24:10-14)
20. Ahijah (1 Kings 11:29-40)
Young girl shows her love of the bible Young shows her love of the bible
Emani Lewis has an impressive ability to quote Bible scriptures effortlessly, demonstrating a deep knowledge and understanding of the text. This skill is especially admirable for a young girl. Her ability to quote scriptures showcases her dedication and commitment to her faith.
How to Erase Negative Self-Talk and Feel Better
(StatePoint) It’s been four years since the collective trauma of the pandemic created widespread grief, anxiety and isolation, but the psychological wounds of this period have not fully healed.
The American Psychological Association reports continued elevated rates of anxiety and depression among Americans, and mental health experts say
that negative self-talk plays a large role in these conditions and other psychological issues. The good news?
Individuals can work on subtracting a harmful inner monologue from the equation.
“Simple tools can help people break the cycle of negative self-talk and find some inner peace,” says Elizabeth Scott, PhD, a well-
ness coach, health educator and author of “8 Keys to Stress Management.”
That’s why Pilot Corporation of America (Pilot Pen) is supporting the Erase Self-Negativity Initiative in partnership with key mental health and wellness experts, including Dr. Scott, and with guidance from America’s largest grassroots mental health organization, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
As part of the initiative, Dr. Scott and NAMI have created a guided exercise to help individuals begin their journey toward erasing the disempowering influence that negative self-talk has on their lives. The exercises include writing down the negative beliefs one holds about themself and then destroying or erasing the
writing, a practice that has been found by research to be helpful in minimizing those beliefs.
“Simply externalizing these negative thoughts empowers us to rewrite our narrative and opens the door to giving ourselves more grace,” says Dr. Scott.
Dr. Scott stresses that similar to maintaining physical health, consistency is key with mental health. This is why every April 10 will be recognized as National Erase Self-Negativity Day and the initiative will use the 10th of each month, as a day to start or revisit the writing exercise and reflect on personal progress.
Here’s what’s needed to get started:
1. A quiet, restful location,
2. A desire to create change
3. Paper
4. A FriXion erasable pen, which offers more than just the ability to write and erase completely; but also symbolizes the power individuals have to change things and write more positivity into their story.
The Erase Self-Negativity Worksheet can be found by visiting eraseselfnegativity. com. For additional resources to understand how common, and treatable mental health issues can be, visit nami.org.
“While we can’t control the negative messages we might receive from the outside world, we can work on what we tell ourselves. With just a few minutes of quiet time, we can harness the transformative power of writing in a way that will challenge the damaging assumptions we hold about ourselves and foster more self-compassion,” says Dr. Scott.
emerged. The Scandinavian countries also played a pivotal role, nurturing breeds like the Norwegian Coldblood Trotter. By the 19th century, harness racing had crossed the Atlantic, gaining immense popularity in North America with the development of the Standardbred horse. This breed, capable of trotting or pacing a mile within a set time, revolutionized the sport.
The establishment of the Grand Circuit in 1871 was a watershed moment, professionalizing the sport and introducing standardized rules and substantial purses. This period also saw significant advancements in training methods and racing equipment, laying the foundation for modern harness racing. Today, major events like the Hambletonian in the United States, the Elitloppet in Sweden, and the Prix d'Amérique in France are testament to the sport's enduring appeal and global reach.
However, as harness racing looks to the future, it faces several pressing challenges. One of the most significant is maintaining and growing its fan base in an era dominated by digital entertainment and instant gratification. Younger generations are less familiar with the sport, and without targeted efforts to engage them, harness racing risks fading into obscurity.
Another critical issue is the welfare of the horses. While strides have been made in ensuring the health and safety of these magnificent animals, public concern over animal welfare remains high. Transparency in training methods, improved veterinary care, and stringent regulations are essential to address these concerns and preserve the sport's integrity
Moreover, the economic landscape of harness racing is changing. The sport relies heavily on betting revenues, which have been under pressure from the rise of online gambling and other forms of sports betting. To remain viable, the harness racing industry must innovate, possibly by enhancing the live race day experience, integrating advanced technologies, and creating engaging online content.
The potential for growth in international markets offers a ray of hope. Countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Canada already have established harness racing traditions, and emerging markets could provide new opportunities for expansion. Strategic partnerships and international collaborations can help tap into these markets, ensuring the sport's global presence continues to flourish.
Harness racing is a sport steeped in history, showcasing the remarkable bond between horse and human. Its survival and growth depend on addressing contemporary challenges with the same vigor and innovation that have characterized its past. By engaging new audiences, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, and adapting to the evolving economic landscape, harness racing can continue to thrive and enchant fans for generations to come.
As we celebrate the storied past of harness racing, let us also commit to a future where this noble sport continues to evolve and captivate. By honoring its traditions while embracing change, harness racing can navigate the complexities of the modern world and remain a beloved spectacle for years to come.
What’s on Your Plate?
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has been trying to help us eat healthier for a very long time.
Back in 1943, we had “The Basic Seven” — seven categories of food we needed to eat on a daily basis. Serving sizes weren’t included.
In 1956, the USDA switched to “The Basic Four,” and in 1979 to the “Hassle-Free Guide to a Better Diet.”
It added a new food category with fats, sweets and alcohol. In 1984, we got the “Food Wheel: A Pattern for Daily Food Choices.” This one included serving sizes.
Eight years later, in 1992, the “Food Guide Pyramid” came along with those tiny pictures of food. In 2005 we got the MyPyramid Food Guidance System, which was supposed to be a simplified pyramid.
Now, in an effort to keep us all eating correctly, we have “MyPlate.”
The icon is cute: a plate divided into four unequal sections, with a fork on the left and a circle above the plate for “Dairy.”
All this work, and I still didn’t know how much the USDA intends for me to eat.
On the website [www.choosemyplate.gov] I clicked on the Get a Personalized Plan link and entered my age, weight, height and level of exercise. It came back with a diet plan for me, including information such as “Make at least half your grains whole grains,” “Vary your veggies” and “Focus on fruit” with specific tips on how to do that.
While the “Plate” is a bit silly, as was the Pyramid, the information behind it is solid. Check the USDA website and see what it has to say.
You know, of course, that an entrepreneur somewhere is busily creating MyPlate plates with the appropriate sections all outlined for us.
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.
Macular
Degeneration
Progress Can be Slowed
DEAR DR. DONOHUE: I have the dry type of macular degeneration. I take PreserVision with lutein tablets twice a day. I hear lutein is very good for my eyes, and I would like to take more than the 10 mg a day that I get in my tablets. I don’t know how much is safe. My doctor said he didn’t know. Will macular degeneration leave me completely blind? How long will it be before I cannot see anymore? — C.B.
ANSWER: The macula is a small, round area in the center of the retina, the layer at the back of the eye that transmits incoming images to the brain so we can see. The macula is essential for clear, central vision, the kind needed to read, to drive and to recognize faces. Off-to-the-side vision remains. You won’t go completely blind.
Furthermore, dry macular degeneration most often advances gradually. It’s the more common variety, accounting for 90 percent of cases. It can stay at its present level for years, even for life. Wet macular degeneration comes about from the growth of blood vessels beneath the retina. Those vessels are fragile and leak fluid. It tends to advance more rapidly. Currently no cure exists for dry macular degeneration. A combination of vitamin C, vitamin E, beta carotene (or vitamin A), zinc and copper appears to slow moderate macular degeneration’s progression to a more advanced stage. Your PreserVision is one such preparation.
Lutein is a plant product that might
aid in delaying the advance of dry macular degeneration. At this very moment, a large study is taking place to ascertain the place of lutein in the treatment of this common eye condition. The amount of lutein being tested in the study is 10 mg a day. Lutein appears to be a very safe substance, but I would stick with the 10 mg dose until the present study defines lutein’s place and its optimum dose.
The booklet on macular degeneration explains this prevalent eye problem in great detail. Readers can obtain a copy by writing: Dr. Donohue — No. 701W, 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: Please tell me about post-traumatic stress disorder. I think someone in my family suffers from it. — A.F. ANSWER: Having faced an event that threatened life or caused serious injury is the basis for post-traumatic stress disorder. The event keeps resurfacing in the mind with a clarity that imparts terror and helplessness, and sometimes guilt. The remembrance can happen during the day or in dreams.
An affected person stays in the alert mode at all times. He or she loses interest in life, neglects those around him or her, suffers from fragmented sleep, often erupts in outbursts of anger and is usually quite depressed. Soldiers, firemen, policemen and those who suffered a sexual or physical attack are people who most often develop PTSD. With the combination of talk treatment and medicines, these people can usually regain their equilibrium and resume a normal life.
***
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.
For the love of truth
By Francine Papadimitrakis
The Greek word for truth is "alethia," which literally means to “unforget.”
Like the gray clouds that conceal the sun, the truth is often the same.
We have many sayings and terms about truth: true love, truth be told, true colors, the truth shall set you free, speaking your truth, and many more.
As children, we were taught not to lie. Stories like Pinocchio were created to help our developing minds understand a complex virtue. The truth is that the truth is simple, but its effects, its outcomes, and its web are complex.
Consider a wife asking her husband if her new dress looks good on her. He understands that she feels a little insecure about her weight gain. He knows and loves his sensitive wife. To be “brutally honest," the dress is not flattering on her. The question one might ask is, should he tell her the truth with compassion? The heart has many paths that lead to love;
compassion is one of them.
There is a biblical story where an angel tells Abraham that he and his wife Sarah will have a son. Sarah laughed at the thought: “After I am worn out and my husband is so old, now I will have this pleasure.”
Abraham asked the angel why his wife was laughing in the other room. Abraham called out to his wife and asked her the same question. She denied laughing, and the angel simply replied, “You did laugh.”
The angel repeated what Sarah had said but intentionally left out the part about Abraham being too old to father a child.
One might ask why the angel did such a thing—perhaps not to insult Abraham but to prevent conflict between husband and wife.
The truth is like a measuring ruler; it is straight and linear. So what’s the truth about truth? The truth can be painful. Truth and honesty are indeed virtues. Truth is the foundation of all healthy relationships. Truth can be objective and subjective, such as opinions vs. facts. Truth is complex, and the opposite of truth is to intend to deceive.
As a writer, I am called to share my thoughts about this subject matter, and my thoughts are this: truth is important, but we must not forget to seek it, tell it, and live it with compassion.
As temperatures rise, it's crucial to stay safe in the summer heat. Remember to stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, take breaks in the shade, and avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours. Protect yourself and stay cool!
Two brothers' team and they don't miss a BEAT
Photographed: Tim Wade, Fannie Keith, Roddey Wade, and Brenda Clark
Local community members honor the BEAT owners Tim and Roddey Wade for their open hearted contribution to the community.
13 Things Homeowners Should Know to Stay Safe at Home
(StatePoint) Did you know that adhering to proper building safety codes and standards can prevent thousands of accidents each year and save homeowners significant repair costs?
Proper knowledge of building codes and the importance of permits and inspections can help homeowners avoid costly mistakes and ensure their projects are safe and compliant.
Building Safety Month shines a spotlight on the essential role of modern building codes and standards in ensuring public safety. This campaign, led by the International Code Council, brings together insights from leading experts in building safety, including code officials, building inspectors and residential building specialists.
Building safety professionals are lifelong learners, constantly adapting to new codes and building materials. Similarly, homeowners must continue to stay informed about their properties to ensure longevity and safety.
Here’s what the Code Council wishes homeowners knew about maintaining and improving their homes safely and effectively:
1. Embrace Building Safety Professionals: Building safety professionals are valuable allies and can assist in ensuring that contractors perform their work correctly. This oversight protects you from potential safety hazards and financial losses, offering peace of mind throughout home improvement projects.
2. Understand the Reasons Behind Permits: Permits are not just logistic hurdles; they are safeguards that, if obtained and followed correctly, can prevent potentially deadly situations. For instance, installing a water heater without the proper permit could lead to dangerous gas leaks.
3. Know When to Obtain a Permit: Not all home improvements require permits. For instance, replacing windows without altering structural elements typically doesn’t need one. Understanding these nuances can save you time and money while ensuring compliance with local regulations.
4. Get Proper Approval: Insurance companies will require that the work done on your home is inspected and approved. For example, if you install a wood stove without proper inspection and it causes a fire, your insurance may deny the claim. So, always ensure that any home repairs or installations are permitted and inspected to avoid financial loss.
5. Verify Contractor Credentials: Before hiring a contractor, verify their credentials. Doing your due diligence helps ensure you hire a reliable professional and avoid future problems.
6. Be Prepared: DIY home improvement projects can be rewarding, but they require thorough preparation. Without the right knowledge and tools, you might end up causing more harm than good. To ensure the safety and quality of a project, it's often best to leave complex projects to professionals. However, if you do choose to DIY, consider working with your local building department
to ensure you meet building safety codes and standards.
7. Consider Future Homeowners: Think long term. While future buyers may have different needs, ensuring that your home improvements meet current building codes will make the property more appealing and valuable.
8. Prevent Heating Health Hazards: Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious risk with improper home heating. For instance, a homeowner using a wood stove without proper ventilation may experience dangerous carbon monoxide levels. Installing carbon monoxide detectors and ensuring proper ventilation are critical.
9. Be Radon Aware: Radon, a naturally occurring gas, can be more dangerous than many homeowners realize. Historic homes, in particular, may have elevated levels. Installing a radon detector, similar to a smoke detector, can help monitor and mitigate this risk, protecting your family from potential cancer-causing exposure.
10. Protect Your Water Supply: Proper water supply maintenance is crucial. Implementing backflow prevention for irrigation systems and ensuring downspouts are correctly installed can prevent water damage and contamination, protecting your home and its occupants.
11. Perform Maintenance Checks: Regular inspections of home utilities can prevent significant issues. Checking for leaks and rust and ensuring efficient operation can extend the lifespan of appliances and prevent unexpected breakdowns.
12. Separate Garage Living Spaces: Converting a garage into a living space requires planning. Proper separation of fire-rated materials is necessary to prevent potential fire hazards and ensure compliance with safety codes, especially if the garage still stores vehicles or equipment.
13. Know Your Home’s Utilities: Understanding your home’s utility systems is essential for effective management and safety. For example, knowing whether your home has a gas line and how to shut it off can prevent dangerous situations during home repairs or emergencies.
Building safety is a shared responsibility between professionals and homeowners. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure your home remains valuable, functional and safe.
“Before you can break out of prison, you must realize you are locked up.” – Anonymous
Denial
Unlikemost other illnesses, substance use disorders are almost always marked by denial. It is not uncommon for people who have had several DUIs (or DWIs, depending on where you live) to deny that they are a threat to public safety or that they have a problem with alcohol. Most social drinkers underestimate their drinking, but alcoholics (or those with alcohol use disorder, the current preferred label for the disorder) often take this to a whole new level. Even after repeated arrests, hospitalizations, and near-death experiences, people under the grip of substance abuse often deny there is a problem. Working with substance abusers in my day job, I am no longer surprised when I hear people say that fentanyl is their drug of choice: heroin was no longer getting them high, they report, and besides, fentanyl is cheaper. Many of these people have almost died several times, only coming back to life because someone with Narcan was near enough to revive them. The difficult thing about overcoming denial is that some part of our brain is tricking us, convincing us there isn’t really a problem. And all of us probably suffer from some form of denial. When someone criticizes us, and we automatically reject the criticism, it's usually a sign of denial. When we find that someone else’s behavior or attitude really bothers us, it’s usually a sign of denial in that it points to something in our own selves that we don’t like. As the old saying goes, “Denial is more than just a river in Egypt.” It’s a pervasive feature of our consciousness, often caused by unconscious forces that we are unaware of.
–Christopher Simon
Congratulations Class of 2024
(c) PeopleImages / iStock via Getty Images Plus
Artists eager to see her inspirations come alive in paintings
By Lucy Weber
Tetra Tyes says there is a special thrill when she begins to paint.
“When I pick up a paintbrush, I feel a sense of excitement and anticipation.
As soon as I’m done sketching out a piece, I am filled with eagerness to get started painting because I’m anxious to see the vision in my mind come to life,” said the Corinth native, who now lives and creates her art in Oxford.
“I paint four to five days out of the week, and on the days I’m not painting, I usually spend sketching out my next piece. My philosophy behind creating art is that everything can be an inspiration if you look close enough.”
A 2014 graduate of Corinth High School, Tyes’s interest in art started at a young age. “I’ve had a passion for art for as long as I can remember.
However, only recently did I decide to pursue a career as an artist.”
She attended the University of Mississippi, majoring in psychology, but also took art classes. After falling in love with Oxford, Tyes said she decided to stay in town after graduation.
“I definitely think my background in psychology is expressed in my work,” Tyes said. “Some of my pieces do include an abstract element that illustrates the various ideas I have related to human behavior and human nature in society.”
Tyes creates custom paintings and sketches on commission. She creates custom, original pieces for festivals and art galleries.
“My favorite subjects to sketch and paint include portraits and scenes from everyday life. Over the past year, I have mainly completed commissioned pieces, but I am excited to create more original pieces to showcase at galleries,” Tyes said.
For this artist, creating her works of art is not work at all.
“When I paint, I feel a sense of peace and calmness. I feel a sense of accomplishment when I finish a piece. I spend a lot of time staring at a piece once I’ve finished to ensure I have added every intended detail.”
One of her most recently completed canvases is her favorite piece of art, called “Joe’s Barbershop.”
“I created this piece to sell at an upcoming event— the Vision and Purpose Unveiled Art and Music Show in New Albany on July 13. The scene illustrat-
art. I like to photograph anything that I find captivating, which can be as simple as a gorgeous sunset or a perfectly lit street at night.”
To commission Tyes for an original, custom painting, she can be found on Facebook under tetra tyes, on Instagram under Avid Culture, and online under msha.ke/avidculture. “Many people have reached out to me for commissioned work through word of mouth after seeing a piece I have completed for someone else. For commissioned work, I mainly specialize in portraits and landscapes/ cityscapes. However, many of my original pieces are somewhat abstract,” Tyes said.
ed shows an image of an older barbershop with two men outside casually going about their day. I consider this my favorite piece because of the intricate details it includes as well as the idea being expressed of beauty being found in simplicity.”
To inspire her creativity, Tyes said she looks to her diverse interests in music, TV, photography, and other aspects of culture, which are expressed in my pieces through subject matter, color palette, and creative choices. For example, I love recreating portraits of my favorite music artists and photographs I come across that I find interesting. She also likes to include creative elements like graffiti and splatter paint, which, in my opinion, epitomize the culture. Her photography is definitely part of her artistic life. “I do view my photography as another medium of
where everyone seems to know each other. Her early life in Corinth is reflected in her art, which shows scenes of everyday life.
“Simple, yet beautiful,” she said.
“I had an idyllic childhood growing up in Corinth. I spent my summers playing outside all day with my younger sister and friends in the neighborhood, where we enjoyed
water balloon fights and sleepovers,” she said. “My autumns and winters were consumed by cheering on the Warriors at football games and basketball games with my classmates.”
Tyes tries to visit Corinth as much as possible. Her parents, grandmother, aunts, uncles, and cousins still live in town, so she gets back about once a month and during holidays.
Tyes said she appreciates growing up in a small town
Tetra Tyes
A wall to honor fallen officers is being built in McNairy County
By Lucy Weber
Fallen law enforcement officers in Tennessee will always be remembered at a memorial that is now under construction in the Robert K. Lee Justice Center in Selmer.
The Tennessee Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation, Inc., founded in 2023, will oversee the building and maintenance of a permanent memorial dedicated to remembering law enforcement officers, both state and local, who have died in the line of duty.
McNairy County Sheriff Guy Buck has led the way for the local community to honor the fallen heroes of Tennessee. “I visited the State Memorial for fallen officers in Nashville and discovered that it only included approximately 400 officers who had lost their lives in the line of duty in Tennessee. Doing some research, we discovered that there were 742 officers to date and felt this was a great disservice to those officers who were committed by that wall.
“We presented the idea to the county commissioners to get approval to locate the memorial on the property at the Robert K. Lee Justice Center as a potential tourism draw for the county. We have a completed design and are still in the fundraising process at this time.”
The 40-foot granite wall will have seven panels listing the name, rank, agency, and date of sacrifice for each officer. The centerpiece of the wall will be a black granite piece approximately six feet tall. Once complete, the
names of officers who lost their lives in the past year will be added to the wall annually.
“Obviously, anyone who makes the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty needs to be honored. We believe this memorial will not only do that but also give friends and family a place to visit and see that their loved one is being properly honored,” Buck said.
A groundbreaking for the wall was held in May. Buck called it a huge success, with crowds of people coming out for the ceremony and a Jeep show to raise money for the foundation.
The anticipated completion date for the memorial wall is May 2025.
In the state of Tennessee, there have been 742 officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice on the job. Included in that statewide number are five officers in McNairy County and one officer from the Selmer Police Department.
The non-profit Foundation board is made up of local citizens from McNairy County: president Steve Browder, a retired lieutenant colonel from the Tennessee Highway Patrol; vice president Kelcey Hutcherson; secretary Sherry Kiser; treasurer Erica Moore; and reporter Chris Whiten.
The board members represent family members of officers, community leaders, and retired law enforcement personnel.
Construction of the wall and its maintenance will be
Suits You Too Mobile
completely funded by private and corporate donations. The Foundation has sold T-shirts and commemorative coins at various local and area locations to add to its coffers. Locations for upcoming sites selling these items can be found on the Tennessee Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation page on Facebook.
The fund-raising effort for the wall will continue as long as needed. Individuals and businesses that want to donate can mail their checks, made out to the Tennessee Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation, to P.O. Box 1003, Selmer, TN 38375, or give via PayPal at tnlemfinc2023@gmail.com.
Community citizen receives honor
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What Parents Need to Know about Climate Change and Children’s Health
(StatePoint) Excessive heat. Emerging diseases. Severe storms and off-season illnesses. The environmental hazards associated with climate change threaten the physical and mental health of children and families — and can be a source of anxiety.
It’s not just speculation. Communities are already impacted by such climate change effects as heat illness from dangerous temperatures, asthma hospitalizations from earlier and more severe pollen seasons, and trauma from severe wildfires and storms.
“When we talk with parents about what’s good for their kids, part of our job is connecting the dots between our changing climate and their children’s health,” said Dr. Samantha Ahdoot, a pediatrician.
2024. The AAP is recommending steps not only for communities and policy makers, but for families. Here are a few suggestions:
climate solutions.
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”
John 13:34 NIV
The Love Commandment
We are commanded to love one another in various places in the Bible, and at first glance this might seem strange. Isn’t love a feeling of the heart that comes when it will and goes away just as mysteriously. This is often true of romantic love, but the kind of love that we are commanded to have is more of the practical type of caring for others, and this we can be ordered to do. Many people have essentially made it their career to love others. Teachers and health professionals must love their students and patients to do their job well. And of course, the kind of love appropriate to every profession differs. Doctors and nurses must care for and have the best interest of their patients in mind in everything they do but should maintain a certain professional distance to do their job. Likewise with teachers, coaches, and mentors: they should have the best interests of their students, athletes, and mentees always in mind but must maintain a certain distance in order to give constructive criticism effectively and to not play favorites.
–Christopher Simon
“All children need exercise, nutritious food and stable communities to thrive. But climate change poses new challenges for our patients, from struggling to breathe due to wildfire smoke to flooded homes from extreme rainfall events to extreme heat. When we talk about the need to heal the planet, we are also talking about protecting our children’s ability to grow up in a safe, healthy world.”
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which has long recognized the impact of climate change on children, recently announced a new strategic initiative on environmental health and disaster readiness as a priority outlined by its Board of Directors for
• Help your community adopt climate solutions. The AAP recommends a transition away from fossil fuels and toward clean, renewable energy like wind, solar and geothermal. Join forces with a local group to help bring clean energy to your school, town, state or even country. The AAP also recommends that communities incorporate healthy transportation systems, including public transit and walkable, bikeable pathways that allow children to be outdoors and active. Families can get involved at the local level to help create safe routes to walk and bike where you live.
• Let kids know that their voices and advocacy can be powerful. Kids may be inspired to know that some of our most effective and powerful climate advocates today are children and youth. Support their engagement in local, state and national
• Reduce your own energy consumption and waste. Walking, biking, taking public transit, carpooling, and adopting a more plant-forward diet are all ways to help promote health for kids and the planet.
• Show them you care. Let kids know that their adult caregivers—parents and pediatricians included—are committed to climate action solutions that protect their health and their world.
More information is available at HealthyChildren.org.
“What is healthy for the planet is also healthy for children,” Dr. Ahdoot said. “Pediatricians and parents share the same goal—to protect children’s health today, and ensure that they have a healthy future in adulthood.
Protecting our planet helps preserve a healthy world that can provide all children the nutrition, play, and community stability that they need to thrive.”
(c) PeopleImages / iStock via Getty Images Plus
NEWS FLASH Kids Zone
Naturally Sweet
My sister, Marcia, loves to garden. She generously shares her plants with me. Recently, she gave me a stevia plant as a gift. I use the leaves of this naturally sweet herb to sweeten a variety of drinks. It's also available commercially in a granular form like sugar. Stevia is a not-so-new sweetener that recently made its way into the U.S. market. Although Stevia has been sold in the U.S. for many years as a dietary supplement, it was not regulated by the Food and Drug
Administration. Now that the FDA has declared its active ingredient -- rebaudioside A -- as "generally accepted as safe," it is showing up in products like tabletop sweetener packets. PureVia (from PepsiCo and a subsidiary of Merisant, Whole Earth Sweeteners) and Truvia (from Coca-Cola and Cargill), along with some flavored waters and lower-calorie soda and fruit drinks, now contain stevia. Leaves from the stevia plant are steeped in water and then processed into crystalline form. These crystals create a sweet taste in the mouth, but are calorie-free when digested. As a sweetener, stevia's extract is 250 to 300 times sweeter than sugar. This means only a very tiny amount is need-
ed to add sweetness to a food or beverage.
As with any sweetener, there are challenges to using stevia in food products. Stevia is naturally bitter, but tastes sweet after some delay. Although it is temperature and acid stable, the
lenge is the price. Currently, it is expensive to use stevia or its active ingredient in foods. Products containing this naturally derived sweetener may be out of many consumers' price range.
Like other sugar substitutes, consumers need to watch for any warnings or concerns with stevia. It has been classified as safe, but it doesn't hurt to try it out slowly to see what effect it has on individual taste and digestion.
natural bitterness and intense sweetness are challenges the food industry will have to overcome. Consumers will need to taste stevia and decide for themselves how well they like it.
Another possible chal-
This recipe for Fruit Sorbet uses stevia instead of sugar to sweeten the dessert.
FRUIT SORBET
You'll need an ice cream machine for this delicious recipe. You can use any fruit juice blend concentrate of your choice instead of raspberry. This recipe also
Enjoy the great outdoors in relative isolation
works well if you substitute one (12.3 ounce) box of silken tofu for the yogurt, along with 1 cup of milk or soymilk.
2 cups plain low-fat yogurt
1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup unsweetened raspberry juice blend concentrate, thawed
1 tablespoon orange juice concentrate
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 teaspoon stevia sugar substitute
1 banana (optional) Blend all ingredients together in a blender until smooth. Pour into the container of an ice-cream machine, and process according to directions. Makes 4 servings.
• Clean baby-food jars can be filled with small snacks like Cheerios and doled out in the car during longer trips. They hold just enough for a quick snack.
• “If you pull all the way into your garage, tack some carpet scraps to the wall that you pull in toward. It will protect the wall’s paint, and it will protect your car’s bumper if you accidentally rub the wall.” — U.F. in North Carolina
• For dance recitals, make sure to get a recording of the music to be used. You also can videotape the practice performance and have the student watch it, pointing out the great parts and the parts that need work. — A Reader, via email
• To stop runs in hose or tights, paint the bottom of the run with clear nail polish. Let dry and repeat. Do this while wearing them, and gently unstick from the skin. It works better when the hose or tights are stretched as they will be worn, and you don’t risk attaching the run side to the other side of the tights.
• “I somehow lost one of a pair of socks that had non-slip gripper dots on the bottoms of the feet. I gave the odd sock to my mom, and she uses it as a jar or bottle opener. The gripper dots help her get a hold of the lid to unscrew it.” — R.J. in Ohio
• To freshen a lunchbox, dampen a paper towel with plain vinegar and stick it inside the lunchbox. Leave overnight.
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 19th-century German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer who made the following sage observation: “There is no absurdity so palpable but that it may be firmly planted in the human head if you only begin to inculcate it before the age of five, by constantly repeating it with an air of great solemnity.”
• Those who study such things say that half of all money spent on food in the United States is spent in restaurants.
• If, like me, you are constantly finding excess wire hangers in your closets, you probably won’t be surprised to learn that more than 2.7 billion of them were imported in 2010 alone.
• You might be surprised to learn that beer brewers in Australia are on the cutting edge of alternative energy production. They have created a “beer battery” — the world’s first, they claim — in which electricity is generated by bacteria consuming the waste that is created by the brewing process.
• Companies today sometimes seem to go too far in advertising their products, but consider Richard Chesebrough, who invented the petroleum jelly Vaseline in 1872. In order to market his new creation as a salve for cuts and burns, he traveled around New York state demonstrating the efficacy of the product by burning his skin with acid, then applying Vaseline to the injury. A display of his past burns that had been healed with Vaseline would, in theory, convince people to buy the product.
• If you’re looking to brighten up your living space with some greenery, you might want to consider getting a bonsai tree. They live longer than any other houseplant.
***
Thought for the Day: “Hollywood is a place where they’ll pay you a thousand dollars for a kiss and fifty cents for your soul.” — Marilyn Monroe
How to Avoid Hefty Smartphone Repair Costs
(StatePoint) From listening to music to watching movies, connecting with family to counting steps, Americans say in a new study that they depend on their smartphones like never before. And they are putting their money where their mouth is. The amount of money they spent on screen repairs surged to $8.3 billion in 2023, nearly tripling the amount spent in 2018 ($3.4 billion).
In its latest Mobile Mythconceptions Survey, Allstate Protection Plans found that despite the rising amount spent on smartphone repair, Americans are actually damaging their devices less frequently. In the past 12 months, 78 million Americans reported damaging a device compared to 87 million during a comparable period in 2020.
Cost Conscious Consumers
Last year, the three most frequent accidents and malfunctions reported were: damaged screens (67%), Wi-Fi or connectivity issues (28%) and touchscreen problems (24%).
When Americans do damage their phones, repair costs remain a significant concern for many. In fact, 49% of Americans would not repair a damaged smartphone that still functions due to the high costs involved. This could be in part due to sticker shock and misconceptions around the cost of smartphone ownership. The survey found that the average cost for repairs and replacements is now $302, yet 47% of Americans think repairs cost $150 or less. The top reason given by respondents who have damaged a smartphone for avoiding or
delaying repairs was the cost, with 39% saying they could not afford it.
The Race to Repair
Smartphones have taken center stage, with 45% of smartphone owners spending five or more hours a day glued to their screens and the overwhelming majority saying their phone has completely replaced their digital camera. So it’s no surprise that despite cost concerns, many American smartphone owners don’t delay when dealing with damage, with 27% saying they would initiate screen repairs within a day due to the importance of their phones in everyday life. When it comes to broken buttons, 36% say they would wait a day or less to repair their phone, 30% for damaged speakers, 29% for broken microphones and 22% for broken cameras.
The good news? With a high-quality case, you can help prevent damage, and with a protection plan in place, you can avoid hefty out-of-pocket costs when mishaps do occur. For information on plans, which cover repair costs on everything from battery failure and cracked screens to liquid damage and touchscreen failure, and which are available to both individuals and families, visit AllstateProtectionPlans.com.
Since the introduction of the smartphone, Americans have spent $149 billion on repairs and replacements. By taking a few precautionary measures, smartphone ownership can be a much more affordable prospect.
Baked Banana Pudding
This easy-to-put-together dessert will please kids of all ages.
1. Preheat oven to 325 F. Spray 8-by-12-inch baking dish with butter-flavored cooking spray. Evenly arrange 12 graham cracker squares in baking dish, then 1 1/2 cups banana slices over top.
2. In large saucepan, combine pudding mixes, milk powder and water. Cook over medium heat until mixture thickens and starts to boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Spoon half of hot mixture evenly over bananas. Arrange 10 graham cracker squares evenly over hot pudding and remaining 1 1/2 cups banana slices over top. Spoon remaining hot pudding over bananas.
3. In large bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer on HIGH until soft peaks form. Add Splenda and remaining 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Continue beating on HIGH until stiff peaks form. Spread meringue evenly over top, sealing to edges. Crush remaining 2 graham cracker squares into fine crumbs; sprinkle evenly over meringue.
4. Bake 25 minutes or until meringue is golden. Place baking dish on wire rack; let set for 30 minutes. Refrigerate at least 1 hour. Cut into 8 servings.
1/2 cup peach jam, substitute apricot jam or preserves
Arugula, for garnish
1. In cup, stir curry powder, brown sugar, olive oil, salt, cinnamon, pepper and garlic.
2. With hands, rub both sides of pork chops with curry mixture.
3. Brush cut side of peach halves and 1 side of chops with some jam. Place peaches, brushed side down, and chops, brushed side up, on grill over medium heat; cook 5 minutes.
4. Turn chops and peaches over and brush grilled side of chops with some jam; cook 5 minutes longer. Remove peaches from grill when browned and place on platter. Turn chops and brush with remaining jam; cook 2 to 3 minutes longer, until chops are browned on the outside and still slightly pink on the inside. Place chops on platter with peaches; garnish with arugula. Serves 4.
• Each serving: About 475 calories, 24g total fat (8g saturated), 58mg cholesterol, 325mg sodium, 42g total carbs, 23g protein.
For thousands of triple-tested recipes, visit our website at www.goodhousekeeping.com/recipefinder/.
1. LANGUAGE: What would a group of eggs be called, collectively?
2. FOOD & DRINK: What is the characteristic flavor of the herb anise?
3. SCIENCE: What does the Linnaean System refer to?
4. HISTORY: When did the Ottoman Empire give way to a modern republic in Turkey?
5. LITERATURE: The term “Big Brother” comes from which futuristic novel?
6. ANCIENT WORLD: How is the ancient Greek Thucydides best known?
7. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: Where would a satrap once have ruled?
8. GEOGRAPHY: Into which body of water does the Volga River flow?
9. POETRY: Who wrote the collection of poetry and prose called “The Map of Love”?
10. INVENTIONS: Who invented the modern aerosol spray can?
Answers
1. A clutch
2. Licorice
3. The classification of all living things
4. 1920s
5. “1984”
6. As a historian
7. Persia
8. Caspian Sea
9. Dylan Thomas
10. Norwegian engineer Erik Rotheim
1. In 2010, Kirk Gibson became the 7th former MVP to manage in the major leagues. Name three of the other six baseball skippers.
2. Since 1900, name the lone player who won a league home run title with a batting average under .210.
3. Ohio State’s Archie Griffin holds the NCAA Division I record for most consecutive games of at least 100 yards rushing. How many?
4. In 2008-09, Ray Allen set a Boston Celtic franchise mark for highest free throw percentage in a season (95.2). Who had held the record?
5. In 2010-11, Jonathan Quick became the third Los Angeles Kings goalie to have three consecutive 20win seasons. Name either of the first two to do it.
6. How many Olympic medals did swimmer (and later actor) Johnny Weissmuller win?
7. Who was the last golfer before Louis Oosthuizen in 2010 to capture his first major title (British Open) on the St. Andrews course?
Answers
1. Don Baylor, Ken Boyer, Frank Robinson,
2.
3.
4.
Pete Rose, Joe Torre and Maury Wills.
Dave Kingman of the New York Mets led the N.L. with 37 home runs while batting .204 in 1982.
His streak was 31 games (197375).
Bill Sharman hit 93.2 percent of his free throws in 1958-59.
5. Rogie Vachon (six seasons, 197278) and Kelly Hrudey (three seasons, 1989-92).
6. Six — five gold and one bronze while competing in the 1924 and 1928 Olympics.
7. Tony Lema, in 1964.
(c) Zbynek Pospisil / iStock via Getty Images Plus
Running a Local Race? How to Keep Your Feet Healthy
(StatePoint) Whether you’re a novice jogger embarking on a couch-to-5K program or a marathoner serious about racking up finishers’ medals, it’s critical you take great care of your feet.
“Running is an amazing form of cardiovascular exercise, but because it’s a high-impact sport that involves repeated trauma to the feet, everyone from long-distance runners to casual joggers is at risk for developing painful and debilitating foot conditions,” says Bryce A. Paschold, DPM, FACFAS, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and a Fellow Member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS).
To help you identify signs of some of the more common foot issues associated with running so you can get proper treatment before the condition keeps you from the activity you love, the foot and ankle surgeon members of ACFAS are offering the following insights:
• Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is perhaps the most common complaint from runners. Presenting as heel pain, it’s caused by inflammation of the ligament that holds up the arch. At the first sign of heel pain, Dr. Paschold advises runners to stretch the calf, wear sturdier shoes and use arch supports. In some cases, icing and anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, are helpful. Should pain continue, visit a foot and ankle surgeon, who might recommend custom orthotics, injections and physical ther-
apy.
• Neuromas: A neuroma is a pinched nerve between the toes that can cause pain, numbness and a burning sensation in the ball of the foot. Overly flexible shoes are often the cause, and padding, orthotics or injections are usually effective treatments.
• Tendonitis: Runners can be sidelined with tendonitis if they ignore the warning signs of this overuse condition. There are several forms of tendonitis that affect the Achilles and other areas, and all are treated with rest, icing, strengthening, stretching and anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes with orthotics and physical therapy. Because overzealous training is usually the cause, especially among beginners, it’s important to ramp up mileage and speed gradually. A running coach can tailor your training plan to your current fitness level.
• Broken bones: Don’t assume that because you’re able to run, your foot is not fractured. Signs of a stress fracture can include pain, swelling, redness and possibly bruising. If a fracture is suspected, remember to practice RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation). You should also see a foot and ankle surgeon for an X-ray and proper diagnosis.
Don’t Toss Those Old Sneakers. Do This Instead
Remember that like with other overuse injuries, stress fractures are often brought on by trying to do too much too soon. A general rule of thumb is to increase mileage by no more than 10 percent week to week.
• Lisfranc injuries: One misstep can lead to a sprain, fracture or dislocation of the Lisfranc joint. Consider wearing a headlamp in low lighting for surer footing. It is also a good idea to incorporate exercises into your regimen that will keep ankles and feet mobile and strong.
“While completing a marathon or even longer distance race may seem like the ultimate goal, it’s wise for new runners to start with shorter races first. This conservative approach will keep your feet in good shape so you’re able to run pain-free for years to come,” says Dr. Paschold. “And of course, it’s vital to listen to your body and seek care from a foot and ankle surgeon whenever a foot problem is suspected.”
For more information on foot care or to find a foot and ankle surgeon near you, visit FootHealthFacts.org, the patient education website of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
(StatePoint) What if there was a way to reduce waste, create economic opportunities and improve global health?
Thanks to social enterprise Sneaker Impact, and its partners like Rack Room Shoes, now there is. Here’s how it works:
Anyone can recycle their gently used sneakers at any Rack Room Shoes location by simply dropping them into the collection boxes found in each store. The sneakers are then shipped to Sneaker Impact’s headquarters in Miami, Florida, where they are sorted for distribution.
• International Distribution: Usable sneakers are shipped to small businesses in developing countries. Local merchants revive and resell the sneakers, providing affordable footwear to children and adults in those communities. This initiative empowers local businesses and promotes sustainability by keeping sneakers out of landfills.
• Shoe Recycling: Sneakers that are not suitable for international distribution are delivered to a recycling facility in Florida. There, they are converted into energy that benefits Broward County and surrounding areas. Moreover, Sneaker Impact has been working on
finding an alternative, circular economy solution for all footwear deemed end of life.
Since its inception, Rack Room Shoes has collected an average of nearly 600 pairs of usable sneakers each month. The retailer aims to raise awareness about the program and increase sneaker collections to create a lasting social and environmental impact.
In addition to the partnership with Rack Room Shoes, Sneaker Impact donates $1,000 per month to Shoes That Fit, a national nonprofit organization that provides shoes to students in need in an effort to help them focus on their studies.
Visit your local Rack Room Shoes store to find a recycling co-branded box and aid in reducing waste and supporting communities. To learn more about Rack Room Shoes Gives sustainability efforts visit https://www.rackroomshoes. com/responsibility/gives.
Whether you have kids with rapidly growing feet, or you walk and run often, you likely go through lots of pairs of sneakers. Thankfully, now there’s a great alternative to tossing them that benefits both people and the planet.
Road Tripping This Summer? Keep These Tips in Mind
(StatePoint) Whether you’re day tripping with family, taking a week-long vacation with pals, or doing a cross-country solo drive, summer road trips of all kinds can be long and exhausting. The good news? There are plenty of ways to improve the experience.
Great Snacks
Road trip snacks are non-negotiable! They make car rides of any length brighter and keep drivers and passengers happy and fueled for the miles ahead.
It’s best to have a mix of snack options that are easy to eat in the car or at roadside stops. Carrot sticks, pretzels and nuts make great savory choices. For an easy, on-the-go, fruity and juicy snack, try Black Forest Gummy Bears and Gummy Worms. Now juicier, Black Forest Gummy Bears and Gummy Worms are made in six delicious fruity flavors making them a great road trip snack. Crafted with care, they are made with real fruit juice, as well as colors and flavors from real sources.
Before hitting the road, find Black Forest at a nearby retailer by visiting blackforestusa.com.
Refreshing Breaks
Making great time shouldn’t come at the expense of you or your traveling companions’ comfort. Beyond typical bathroom breaks and pit stops, consider visiting points of interest along the route. Ideally, these detours shouldn’t add too much additional mileage to your odometer or time on the road, but instead, be designed to break up the trip in manageable chunks. From a natural landmark to a beautiful view, the experiences will emotionally and physically rejuvenate your party for the next leg of the
journey.
Games and Music
Entertainment can help the miles pass more quickly. If you’re driving alone, prep a great playlist or download some audiobooks or podcasts in advance of the trip so you aren’t distracted by flipping through your device while driving. Try giving each hour of the journey a different theme – such as songs of a specific genre or from a particular decade, or by letting passengers take turns being the DJ. You can also pass the time playing classic road trip games like “I Spy” and “Twenty Questions.” Keep passengers in the backseat occupied, particularly little ones, by supplying them with portable versions of their favorite board games.
Sustainable Tweaks
It’s easy to reduce your impact on the environment on road trips, and doing so will make you and your travel companions feel better and more energized about your journey!
Try turning off the AC and feeling the fresh breeze from open windows to reduce your fuel use. When it comes to hydration, bring your own reusable water bottles and refill them at rest station water fountains. You can also select snacks wisely. Black Forest Gummy Bears and Gummy Worms, for example, are now available in store drop-off recycle-ready packaging. Help protect the planet by participating in the Store Drop Off program, conveniently located at retail stores along your route. With delicious snacks, and fun games and detours, a road trip doesn’t just have to be a means to an end, it can also be a relaxing and fun part of your vacation.
