HonoringThoseWhoServed:Veterans&FamilyHonorsProvidesaFinalSaluteofGratitude
ByJusticeReid
Formanyveterans,theuniform maycomeoff,butthehonor,sacrifice,andcommitmenttoservice remainforever.Oneorganization dedicatedtoensuringthatveteransreceivetherespecttheyhave earnedisVeterans&Family Honors(V&FH).Throughtheir participationinmilitaryhonors ceremonies,thesededicatedvolunteersprovideafinalsaluteto honorablydischargedveteransand offercomforttogrievingfamilies. Theirworkreflectsadeepappreciationforthosewhoanswered thecalltoserveournation.
FoundedinMarch2003by veteranBillHuff,Veterans& FamilyHonorswasestablished afterherecognizedtheneedto ensureeveryveteranreceivedthe militaryhonorstheyhadearned throughfaithfulservice.What beganwithoneveteran'svision hasgrownintoanorganizationof dedicatedvolunteerswhocontinue thatmissionwithdignity,precision,andcompassion.
Theorganization'spurposeis simpleyetprofound:toprovide finalhonorsforeveryveteranwho servedournation.Whileevery lifedeservestobecelebrated, membersofVeterans&Family
Honorsbelievethosewhowore theuniformandstoodindefense ofAmerica'sfreedomsdeservea specialtribute.Althoughveterans makeuponlyaboutthreepercent ofthenation'spopulation,their sacrificeshaveprotectedthelibertiesenjoyedbyallAmericans.
Formanyvolunteers,serving onthehonorsteamisacontinuationofthecommitmenttheymade whilewearingtheuniform.One teammember,whoserved41 yearsinthemilitary,saidjoining Veterans&FamilyHonorsgave himtheopportunitytocontinue servinghisfellowveteransinone ofthemostmeaningfulwayspossible.
"Ourveteransearnedtheright tobehonored,"hesaid."Theyput theirlivesonthelinetoprotect ourfreedoms,andprovidingthat finalsaluteisonewaywecansay thankyou."
Atypicalmilitaryhonorsceremonyincludestheplayingof Taps,thefoldingoftheAmerican flag,andtheformalpresentation oftheflagtotheveteran'snextof kin.Familiesmayalsorequest additionalhonors,includinga "WalkThrough,"duringwhich membersstandbeforethecasket, offeraprayerforthefamily, thankGodfor theveteran'sservice, andrendera handsalute.
Another moving tributeis thefiringof
athree-volleysalute.Following theceremony,thespent shellcasingsarepresentedtothefamily asasymbolofDuty, Honor,andCountry. Formanyfamilies, thepresentationofthe Americanflagbecomesone ofthemostcherished momentsofthe service.The flagrepresents boththe nationtheir lovedone servedand alasting reminderof thatservice andsacrifice.Itoften becomesa treasuredfamily heirloompassed fromonegenerationtothe next.
Participatingin theseceremoniesis anemotionalexperienceforeveryvolunteer.Teammembersdescribeitas bothaprivilegeanda responsibilityto honorfellowveterans. Havingpersonallywitnessedthesacrifices madebythosewho served,theyunderstand theimportanceofensur-
ingeveryceremonyreflectsthe dignityeachveteran
Maintainingthatlevel ofexcellencerequiresongoingtraining.Everynewvolunteerreceivesinstruction beforeparticipatinginceremonies,andtheteamconducts quarterlyrefresher trainingtoensure militarystandardsandceremonialprecisionareconsistently upheld.
Although somehistoricalrecords havebeen lostoverthe years,the organizationhas conductedmore than150funeral honorsceremoniesannually since2021,serving veteranfamilies throughoutthe
Amongtheceremoniesthathaveleft alastingimpression arethosehonoring veteransofWorldWar II.Withfewmembers ofthe"Greatest Generation"stillliving, eachopportunityto honoroneofthese
heroescarriesspecialmeaning. Onevolunteerreflectedonhis ownfather,whoservedinthe ArmyAirCorpsduringWorld WarII,makingeachceremonyfor aWWIIveteranespeciallypersonal.
Familiesfrequentlyexpress heartfeltgratitudefortheprofessionalism,compassion,and respectshownthroughouteach ceremony.Thosewordsofappreciationreaffirmtheimportanceof theorganization'smissionand inspirevolunteerstocontinue serving.
Veterans&FamilyHonors welcomeshonorablydischarged veteranswhoareinterestedin joiningtheteam.Volunteersare askedtoproudlyrepresentthe militarybranchinwhichthey servedwhilehelpingensurethat everyveteranreceivesarespectful farewell.
Prospectivevolunteersare encouragedtoattendoneofthe organization'squarterlymeetings orobserveamilitaryhonorsceremonytolearnmoreabouttheprogram.
Asavolunteer-based501(c)(3) nonprofitorganization,Veterans& FamilyHonorsprovidesallservicesatnocosttofamilies. Donationsfromthecommunity helpoffsetexpensesincurredby volunteersandallowtheorganizationtocontinuefulfillingitsmission.Contributionsaretaxdeductibleandmaybegivento anymemberofthehonorsteamor
Derrick Usher, Sergeant, US Marine Corps
Editor’sCorner
JerryW.Porter CEO/Publisher POBox1292, Corinth,MS38835-1292
Cell:662-643-6842
Email:read.newsflash@gmail.com
I'll admit it—I enjoy ironing.
For many people, ironing is just another household chore. They dread dragging out the ironing board, filling the iron with water, and pressing out wrinkle after wrinkle. But for me, ironing has become much more than a chore. It has become therapy.
Some people think while walking. Others think while driving. I think while ironing.
As I slowly move the iron across a shirt or pair of pants, I find myself placing my problems before the Lord. One wrinkle at a time, He begins to iron out the wrinkles in my mind. Before I know it, what seemed overwhelming begins to look a little straighter.
Life, much like ironing, requires different settings for different situations.
The On/Off switch reminds me that there are times to get busy and times to rest. We can't solve every problem by constant-
“IroningOutMyProblems”
ly running. Sometimes we simply need to turn everything off and spend quiet time with God.
The temperature setting teaches wisdom. Every fabric doesn't require the same amount of heat, and every problem doesn't require the same response. Some situations need a gentle touch, while others require courage, determination, and a little more heat. Wisdom is knowing the difference.
The steam control reminds us of God's refreshing presence. Steam softens stubborn wrinkles that heat alone cannot remove. Likewise, God's grace softens hearts that have become hardened by disappointment, hurt, and fear.
Every now and then we need a shot of steam. Life presents stubborn problems that refuse to move. Those are the moments when we need an extra measure of faith, prayer, and the power of the Holy Spirit.
Then there's the spray mist. Sometimes a little moisture is all that's needed to loosen difficult wrinkles. In life, that mist may come in the form of encouragement from a friend, a timely Scripture, a sermon, or a quiet whisper from God reminding us
that He is still in control.
One of my favorite settings is self-cleaning. Over time, minerals build up inside an iron and reduce its effectiveness. The same thing happens in our lives. Bitterness, pride, unforgiveness, worry, and negative thinking can clog our hearts. Every now and then we need God to perform a spiritual self-cleaning so we can function the way He intended.
I also appreciate the auto shut-off feature. If the iron is left unattended, it automatically turns itself off before it becomes dangerous. What a reminder that sometimes God lovingly shuts doors, delays plans, or stops us from going in the wrong direction. What we call disappointment may actually be divine protection.
The vertical steam setting allows us to remove wrinkles while garments are hanging. That's a lesson all by itself. Not every problem has to be laid out flat before God can fix it. Some situations can be handled while we're standing, walking, working, and living. God is fully capable of working on us while life continues around us.
One of the best ironing tips is to always start with the lowest
TheCommunityNewsFlashispublishedmonthlybyPorterPublishing,Inc.,withallrightsreserved–©2001 Reproductionorusewithoutpermissionofeditorialongraphiccontentsinanymannerisprohibitedbylaw. Thisnewspaperisdesignedtoexhibitthepositivebypublishingonlypositiveandupliftingpersonalprofiles. TheannualsubscriptionrateisTwentyfourdollarsandfortyeightcents($26.00).Informationisgathered fromsourcesconsideredtobereliableandaccurate.Thoughtsexpressedinletterstotheeditorandcommentaries arethoseoftheauthorsandnotnecessarilythoseofTheCommunityNewsFlashstaff. EqualOpportunity.Itispolicyofthenewspaper. 1.Toemploypeopleonthebasisoftheirqualificationandwithassuranceofequalopportunityandtreatment regardlessofrace,color,creed,sex,age,sexualorientation,religion,nationaloriginorhandicap. 2.Tonotknowinglyacceptanyadvertisement,whichimpliesandpreferenceslimitationordiscriminationbasedon race,color,creed,sex,age,sexualorientation,religion,nationaloriginorhandicap.
heat. If more heat is needed, you can always increase it. But once a garment is scorched, the damage is often permanent. That's good advice for life as well. Start gently with people. Use patience before anger. Use understanding before criticism. Once harsh words leave our mouths, they are difficult to take back.
As I iron, I often think about two people whose inventions changed this simple household task forever. Henry W. Seely patented the modern electric iron in 1882, making ironing safer and more practical. Ten years later, Sarah Boone, one of the
firstAfricanAmerican women to receive a U.S. patent, designed an improved folding ironing board that made ironing sleeves and fitted garments much easier. Their inventions remind us that even ordinary tasks can become extraordinary when someone is willing to improve them.
So the next time life hands you a few wrinkles, don't become discouraged.
Whoo! Whoo! Until next time!All aboard!
— Bruce Lee
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 $1SuitsYouToo or mail your donation to PO Box 1292, Corinth, MS 38835.
JULYBIBLETRIVIA
1. What two long-dead men were with Jesus when a shining cloud covered them?
2. What sign did God set in the clouds to indicate that he would never again flood the world?
3. Did the pillar of cloud in the wilderness lead the Israelites by day or by night?
4. What prophet saw a little cloud like a man's hand?
5. What epistle talks about a "cloud of witnesses?"
6.At what critical spot did the pillar of cloud separate the Egyptians from the Israelite?
7. What epistle mentions believers being caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord?
8.According to Jesus, what person will appear coming in glory on the cloud of heaven?
9. In Revelation, what two unfortunate men are raised by God and then taken to heaven in a cloud?
10. On what mountain did God appear in the form of a cloud?
11. What object of the Israelites was notable for having the cloud of God's glory upon it?
12. What king, seeing the cloud in temple, said that God had chosen to live in clouds and darkness?
13. What portable object did the cloud of God's glory appear over?
14. What epistle compares false teachers to clouds that bring no rain?
15.At what event did a cloud hide Jesus from the apostle's sight?
16.According to Zephaniah, what special day will be a day of clouds and blackness?
SendinyouranswerstothefollowingBibleTriviaQuestionsandtakeachanceatwinningacomplimentary biblefromtheCommunityNewsFlash.Randomdrawingwillbeheldmonthlyandcontestantcanonlywin twicewithina6monthperiod.
June Answers
1.Carmel(1Kings18:19)
2.Pisgah(Numbers22:24)
3.Nebo(Deuteronomy34:1-4)
4.Tabor(Judges4:6-15)
5.Ararat(Genesis8:4)
6.Harmon(Matthew17)
7.Gerizim(John4:20-21)
8.Horeb(Exodus3:1)
9.Moriah(2Chronicles3:1)
10.TheMountofOlives (Luke19:41)
11.Lebanon(Kings5:6-14)
12.Gilboa(1Samuel31:1-6)
13.Pisgah(Deuteronomy34:5-6)
14.Gilead(Genesis31:20-49)
15.Horeb(1Kings19:8)
16.MountHor(Numbers20:25-29)
17.Moriah(Genesis22:2)
18.Horeb(Exodus17:6)
19.TheMountofOlives (2Samuel15:30-32)
20.Zion
NewReportFindsMostAmericansDon’tKnowHowtoProtectBrainHealth
(StatePoint)Americans overwhelmingly saybrain health matters deeply asthey age, ranking it on par with —or even above — physical health.Yet despite this concern, most adults acknowledge theydo not know how toprotect or maintain their cognitive health, accordingto the 2026 “Alzheimer’sDisease Facts and Figures” report and a new nationwide survey released bytheAlzheimer’sAssociation.
Eighty-eight percent of U.S. adults say maintainingbrain health is veryimportant, and almost all adults ages 40and older surveyed (99%)sayit is at least as important as physicalhealth. However,only 9% saythey know“a lot” about how to maintain their brain health. More than twothirdssaythey worryabout their brain health and about developingAlzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
“Americans care deeply about their
Veterans.....from page 1
brainhealth and say that midlife is the key time tostart taking steps to supportit,”
said Heather M.Snyder,Ph.D., senior vice president of Medical andScientific Relations for theAlzheimer’sAssociation.
“But many don’t know where tostart and
maileddirectlytothe organization. TheVeterans&Family Honorsteamdemonstrates thatservicetoourcountry doesnotendwhenmilitary dutyiscomplete.Through everyfoldedflag,every noteofTaps,everyrifle volley,andeveryfinal salute,theypreservethe
legacyofAmerica'sveteranswhilebringingcomfort tothefamiliestheyleave behind.
Theircommitment remindsusthathonoring thosewhoservedisa responsibilitysharedbyall. Ifyouareanhonorably dischargedveteranlooking forameaningfulwayto
continueservingyourcountry,considerjoining Veterans&FamilyHonors andbecomepartofatraditionthatensuresnoveteran'ssacrificeiseverforgotten.
"Allgavesome,some gaveall—andeveryveteran deservesafinalsaluteof honorandgratitude."
are looking for clear guidance on actions they can take.”
The report comesas the impact of Alzheimer’s disease continuesto expand nationwide.An estimated 7.4million Americansage 65and olderarecurrently livingwith clinicalAlzheimer’s dementia. Total annual costs of caring for people living with dementia nationwide —excluding unpaidcare —are projected to reach $409 billion thisyear, an increase of $25 billion from2025.Since 2000, deaths from Alzheimer’s disease in the United States have increased134%.
Despite broadawareness that lifestyle behaviors influence brain health, the survey reveals a significant disconnect between belief and action —and between brainhealth anddementia risk.While 75% of respondents say lifestyle behaviors such as diet, physical activity and sleep are very important for maintaining brain health, only 46% say those same behaviorsare very important for reducingthe risk of Alzheimer’s disease and otherdementias.
Only50% reportgetting at least seven hours of sleep daily or most days, 39% say they eat a healthy,balanced dietregularly, 42% engage in mentally stimulating activities such as reading or puzzles, and just 34% report regular physical activity. Nearlyone-third say they exercise less than weeklyor not at all.
At the same time,Americans express strong interest in programs designed to support brain health. Seventy-three percent say they would consider participating in such programs, particularly those focused oncognitive exercises (57%), health monitoring (46%),nutrition(36%)and physical activity(26%).
Many adults viewmidlife — ages 35to
64 — as a critical window for protecting brain health. Nearly two in five (38%) believe people shouldbegin taking steps duringmidlife, and 46%sayformal brain health programsaremost appropriate during this stage.At the same time, about onethird viewbrain health as a lifelong priority.
Health care providers are seen astrusted sources of guidance,but conversations about brain health rarelyoccur. Eighty-six percent of adults would welcome these discussions during routine visits.Yetonly 14% report ever discussing how tomaintain brain health with their provider, and just 11% saythey have talked about reducing dementia risk.
“These findings highlight anopportunity to better integrate brain healthinto routine health care,” Snyder said. “People are motivated to protect their brainhealth, and actionable guidance can support those efforts.”
To addressthese gaps,theAlzheimer’s Associationis workingwith partners across communities, workplaces andhealth care systems to deliverresearch-backed resources and programs.These efforts are informed by the landmark U.S. POINTER study, which found that combining multiple healthy lifestyle habits canhelpprotect cognitive function.
Learn more atalz.org/facts.
“The takeawayfrom this report is clear: brain healthis a lifelong priority, not an issue limited to older age,” Snyder said. “By connecting individuals, communities, workplaces and health care, we canbuild a more equitable framework tosupport cognitive health and help reduce dementia risk for everyone.”
(c) Mariia Vitkovska / iStock
From left to right: Earl Bonner, Petty Officer Third Class, US Navy; Luther “Peanut” Rhodes
Staff Sergeant, US Marine Corps; Derrick Usher, Sergeant, US Marine Corps; Ricky Potter, Specialist, USArmy; Doug Hayhurst, Major General, USArmy
REAL ESTATE
ABeginner’sGuide toHomeLoans
(StatePoint)Buyingahomeis oneofthelargestpurchasesmost peoplewillmakeintheirlives,and takingoutahomeloanisacommon waytofinancethepurchase.This primeronhomeloansexplainsthe mortgagebasics,includingwhata mortgageis,typicaltypesofloans, andtheconceptofshoppingfora lender.
WhatisaMortgage?
Amortgageisaloanusedto purchaseahomeorotherrealestate. Thetermmortgagemayalsobe usedtoindicatetheamountof moneyyouborrow,withinterest,to purchaseyourhouse.Themortgage amountisusuallythepurchaseprice ofthehomeminusyourdownpayment.
Beforetakingoutamortgage, it’simportanttounderstandthe upfrontandongoingcostsofhomeownership,includingclosingcosts, propertytaxes,insurance,andmaintenance.Ifyoufallbehindonyour mortgagepaymentsandcan’t resolvethedelinquency,yourlender maybeginforeclosureproceedings, whichcouldresultinlosingyour home.
ChoosingaLoanTerm
Considertheloanterm,whichis thelengthoftimeitwilltakeyouto repayyourloan.Yourloantermwill affectyourinterestrate,monthly paymentandthetotalamountof
interestyouwillpayoverthelifeof theloan.
Long-termmortgages,suchas themostcommon30-yearterm,typicallyhave:
•Smallermonthlypayments thanshort-termmortgages,making yourmortgagemoreaffordable monthbymonth.
•Highermortgagerates,meaningyou’llpaymoreininterestover thelifeoftheloan.
Short-termmortgages,which typicallycomeintheformof10,15 or20years,generallyhave:
•Lowerinterestratesthanlongtermmortgages,meaningyou’llpay lessinterestoverthelifeoftheloan.
•Highermonthlypaymentsthan long-termmortgages.
DecidingonaLoanType
Therearetwobasictypesof mortgages:
Fixed-ratemortgages(FRM) lockinoneinterestrateforthelife oftheloan.Thismeansyourmonthlymortgagepaymentwillremain thesamefortheentireloanterm.
Adjustable-ratemortgages (ARM)haveaninterestratethat willchangeoverthelifeoftheloan, andratestypicallystartofflower thanthoseofafixed-ratemortgage. Afteraninitialholdperiod,ranging fromsixmonthsto10years,your interestratewillchangebasedon marketconditions.
FindingaLender
Onceyoudeterminewhich mortgagebestfitsyourfinancialsituationandgoals,it’stimetoshop foralender.Yourlenderisan importantpartofyourhomebuying team,andwillhelpguideyou throughtherestofthemortgage process.
Youcanobtainestimatesfrom manytypesoflenders,including loanofficersatbanksandcredit unions,mortgagebrokersandnonbanklenders.Differentlenderswill offerdifferenttermsandinterest ratesandchargedifferentfees. That’swhyit’simportanttoexplore youroptions.FreddieMacresearch showsthatgettingjustoneadditionalratequotecouldsavehomebuyers anaverageof$1,500overthelifeof theloan,andgettingfivemore quotessavedanaverageofabout $3,000.
Becausemortgagerateschange frequently,besuretocompareloans onthesamedaytoaccuratelyjudge loanestimates.It’salsobesttodo yourmortgageshoppingswiftly,as multiplecreditinquiriesoutsidea 45-dayperiodcouldloweryour creditscore.
CrunchingtheNumbers
FreddieMac’spersonalized toolsandresourcesincludealoan termcalculatorforexploring whetherashort-termorlong-term mortgagemaybebetterforyou;a loantypecalculatorforunderstandingwhetherafixed-oradjustableratemortgagebettermeetsyour needs;andaloancomparisoncalculatortohelpyoudeterminethedifferencesbetweenmultipleloanestimates.Toaccessthesecalculators, alongwithotherfreeresourcesand information,visit https://myhome.freddiemac.com. Amortgageisalong-termcommitmentandalegallybindingcontract.Beforeborrowing,besureto understandtheinsandoutsofhow homeloanswork,andyourfinancial responsibilitiesintheyearsahead.
MEDSYNC
Coordinatesallof yourmedications intoone monthlypickup
PLAZAPACKS
Prescriptionsare refilledonceamonth ineasyopenpouches withclearlyprinted instructions
Forquestionsortoenrollinoneofthese services,pleasecallustoday
(c) dragana991 / iStock via Getty Images Plus
How Business Owners Balance Business and Personal Finance
(StatePoint) For successful businessowners, managing wealthextends far beyond balance sheets —it requires carefully orchestratinggrowth, balancing businessand personal financialpriorities, and thoughtfullyconsidering business successionplanning andlegacy.
PNC’s “Business OwnerWealth Insights Report” is the product of a partnership with leading market research firm, Ipsos, ona nationwide survey of business owners. Its findings center on four themes: connectivity between business and private banking, balancing business and personal growth, familydynamics and governance,andphilanthropy and legacy.
“Asbusiness owners juggle growth, personalfinancial priorities,succession planning and legacy, the needfor a truly integrated approach has never been clearer,” said DonHeberle, head of PNC Private Bank. “This report shines a light on how prepared businessowners are for navigating the complex intersections of business and personalwealthand the keys for unlocking strongeroutcomes for families, businesses and communities.”
Connectivity Between Business and Private Banking
For most business owners surveyed(67%), business and personalfinances are managed separately.
Respondents believe there are potential risks associated with combining business andpersonal finances, with 83% saying that separating the two reducesthe potentialfor conflicts of interest. Still, 89% saythey are interested in receivingadvice thatconsiders both their business and
personalneeds, and 88% of respondents say they value having a dedicated advisor whounderstands both.
Business and personal goals are reviewed atsimilar intervals, with the majoritysaying they revisit their business goals(80%) and personal finance goals(75%) at least quarterly.
The Balance BetweenBusiness and Personal Growth
There is importance among businessowners in finding the right balance between growing the business and achieving personalfinancial goals.
Most owners(91%) agree that achieving both personal
and professionalgrowth is equally important, but thatsuccessdoes not come without barriers, which include:
• Personal time andresources (53%)
• Financialconstraints ormarketconditions (44%)
• Choosing between business reinvestment andpersonaluse of the business’profits (35%)
Family Dynamicsand Business Governance
Most survey respondents (92%) agreed that it is important to have a formalgovernance structure for their business. Separately, 84% said succession and exit planning is critical to the continuityof their business.Yet, only 63% said they have a formal exit or succession plan.
Among those without a formalplan, top barriersidentified include lack of a clear successor (25%),family conflictin succession (15%), andlack of time (19%).
Philanthropy and Legacy
Philanthropy plays a meaningful role inlegacy planning.Two-thirds of respondents view philanthropy as part of their legacy, and 81% structure investment strategiesto support charitable goals. Nearly80% donate financially, and manyinvolve family members — either actively (43%) or in future plans(26%).
“Today’sbusiness owners are shapinglegacy across generations,” Heberle said. “When businessand personal strategiesare aligned,they are betterpositioned to create lasting impact.”
(c) mavo / iStock via Getty Images Plus
SharingHopeOneMessageataTime
Dr.B.UsesFaith,Education,andEncouragementtoChangeLives
ByJerryW.Porter CommunityNewsFlash
Therearepeoplewhoeducateminds,andthereare peoplewhoinspirehearts.Dr.B.hasbeenblessedtodo both.
educatororsharingdailywordsof encouragementonsocialmedia,Dr. B.hasmadeitherlife'smissionto remindpeoplethathopeisnever lostandthatGodisalwaysfaithful.
shehasdevotedherselftoeducation,beginninghercareerin1999 afterearningher bachelor's degreein education. Since then, she has continued heracademic journey,earning amaster'sdegree, anEducational Specialistdegree,and aDoctorofEducation. Today,sheservesas theFoundingDeanof theCollegeof Educationand AssistantProvostat ColumbiaSouthern University.
impressivecredentialsis awomanwhosegreatest passionisencouragingothers.
Dr.B.haswalkedthroughseasonsofdisappointment,divorce,singleparenthood,financialstruggles, andthechallengesofraisingasondiagnosedwith AutismSpectrumDisorder.Yetthrougheverytrial,she saysGodremainedfaithful.
forhelpingpeople,"Dr. B.says."Evenasachild, Iwantedeveryonetofeelincluded.Ineverlikedseeing peoplestruggle."
Herministryofencouragementwasn'tbornina churchbuilding—itgrewoutoflife'severydayexperiences.
"ThereweremomentswhenIdidn'tknowhow thingswouldworkout,"sherecalls."ButGodalways
Thoseexperiencesnowshapethemessagesshe shareseachdaywithfollowersaroundtheworld. Hergoalissimple:toencouragepeopletokeep trustingGod,evenwhenlifebecomesdifficult. "IfGodbroughtmethroughmystruggles,"she says,"Hecanbringothersthroughtheirs." Prayerisatthecenterofeverythingshedoes. "WhenI'mhappy,Ipray.WhenI'mhurting,I pray.Prayerissimplymyconversationwithmy
Throughsocialmedia,Dr.B.'sministryhasexpandedfarbeyondher localcommunity.Everydayshe receivesmessagesfrompeople seekingencouragementfor brokenrelationships,fami-
mayneverknowabout,"shesays."Akindword,alisteningear,orasimpleactofcompassioncancompletelychangesomeone'sday—andperhapseventheirlife."
Lookingahead,Dr.B.planstoexpandherministry throughapodcast,abook,andamentoringprogram thatwillallowhertoreachevenmorepeoplewithmessagesoffaithandhope.
Asourconversationcametoaclose,IaskedDr.B. whatonemessageshewouldleavewithourreaders. Withouthesitation,shesmiledandsaidthefollowing:
"Keepgoing.Keepbelieving.Keepgrowing.Trust Godwiththeprocess,evenwhenyoucan'tseetheoutcome.ThesameGodwhocarriedyouthroughyesterdayisalreadypreparingyoufortomorrow."
Jerry'sFinalThought
Inaworldwherebadnewsoftendominatesthe headlines,itisrefreshingtomeetsomeonewhosemissionissimplytoencourageothers.Dr.B.remindsus thateducationshapesthemind,butencouragement strengthensthesoul.Sometimesthegreatestgiftwe cangivesomeoneisn'tmoneyorpossessions—it's hope.
Andhope,whenshared,hasawayofmultiplying.
Dr.B.whyshecontinues sharinghopeeveryday.
Shebelievesourworld desperatelyneedsencouragement.
"Everypersonyoumeet iscarryingsomethingyou
Dr. Freda Barnett-Braddock
Front-Line Heroes: Mitzi King —ASmile That Brightens the Day
TheCommunityNewsFlash SpotlightsOutstandingCustomer Service
ByJerryW.Porter
Everycommunityhaspeoplewho quietlymakelifealittlebetter.They greetuswithasmile,answerourquestionswithpatience,andtreatuswith kindnessevenonourbusiestdays.Their namesmaynotalwaysmaketheheadlines,buttheirdedicationleavesalast-
ingimpressiononeveryonetheyserve.
TheCommunityNewsFlashis proudtointroduceFront-LineHeroes,a newfeaturerecognizingindividuals whosecommitmenttooutstandingcustomerservicemakesourcommunitya betterplace.Ourfirstspotlightshines onMitziKing,CustomerService Representative/CashieratAlcorn CountyElectric(ACEPower).
Fornearlyfourdecades,Mitzihas beenservingcustomerswithprofession-
alism,compassion,andagenuinelove forpeople.Ofher39yearsincustomer service,18havebeenwithACEPower, whereshehasbecomeafamiliarand welcomingfaceatthedrive-thruwindow.
"Ilovegettingtoknownewpeople," Mitzisaid."Ilovetoworkdirectlywith people,andIlovetomakepeople smile."
Eachmorningbeginsbeforethe doorsopenasshepreparesherworkstation,processesovernightpayments,and getseverythingreadyforanotherbusy day.Oncethegreenlightscomeon, everycustomerisgreetedwithacheerful"GoodMorning"or"Good Afternoon"followedby,"HowcanI helpyou?"Throughoutthedayshe acceptspayments,answersquestions, andevenassistsfellowcashiersduring busytimestokeepcustomerwaittimes asshortaspossible.
ToMitzi,excellentcustomerservice issimple:"Customers'needscomefirst. Makingsurethecustomersarehappy withtheirvisit."
Herbrightpersonalityhasearned
heraspecialnicknamefrommanycustomers—"Sunshine."Sheenjoyswearingbrightclothingandsaysshehopes everycustomerreceives"abrightblast andasmile"whentheypulluptoher window.
Oneoftheprinciplesshelivesbyis listeningbeforespeaking.
"Firstcome,firstserved,nomatter whoitis,"shesaid."Takeyourtime witheachcustomerandmakesurethey knowyouvaluethemandtheirtime. Listentothecustomerfirst."
Whenaskedhowshestayspositive duringchallengingdays,Mitzicredits herfaith.
"IalwaystreatothersthewayI wouldwanttobetreated.Iremember whoIserve—God—andwhatHehas doneformeandwhatHewouldloveto doforothers."
Hermessagetoeverycustomeris heartfeltandsimple:
"Youareimportant!Youareloved!" Andwhenaskedwhatshehopes peopleremembermostaboutherservice,heranswerreflectsbothherheart andherworkplace: "ACEPowercaresaboutmeasa customerandasaperson."
MitziKingremindsusthatexceptionalcustomerserviceisn'tjustabout processingpaymentsoransweringquestions.It'sabouttreatingeveryperson withdignity,respect,kindness,and compassion.Throughhersmile,herlisteningear,andherservant'sheart,she trulyrepresentswhatitmeanstobea Front-LineHero.
TheCommunityNewsFlashsalutes MitziKingforheryearsoffaithful serviceandforremindingusthatone smile,onekindword,andonecaring heartcanbrightenanentirecommunity.
Herdedicationhasnotgoneunnoticed.Onegratefulcustomerwasso impressedbyherkindnessthatthey wrotealettertoACEPowerpraising herservice.Theletterwasplacedinher employeefile,servingasalasting reminderthatevensmallactsofkindnesscanmakeabigdifference. Afteryearsofservingthepublic, Mitzihaslearnedoneimportantlesson: "Peoplewanttobeheardandwantto knowthatyouarelistening."
Suits You Too: More Than Just Clothing
Suits You Too Men’s Clothing Ministry is here to help men step into life’s important moments with confidence and dignity.
Whether it’s a job interview, wedding, funeral, or special occasion, we provide the attire you need for a fresh start. We don’t just offer clothing—we offer a hand up.
For more information, contact Jerry W. Porter at (662) 643-6842 or visit 712 S. Tate St., Corinth, MS 38834.
HowtoMoveonaBudgetThisSummer:5PackingTipsforBigSavings
(StatePoint)Summer ispeakmovingseason— andpeakpricingseason, too.Infact,nearlyhalf ofallU.S.movestake placebetweenMemorial DayandLaborDay weekendseachyear, accordingtoU-Haul, and,withgaspriceson therise,costsareexpectedtoreachnewheights.
Whetheryou’vejust beguntobrowse,ora brand-newsetofkeys arejinglinginyour pocket,thesesimple stepscanhelpyousave moneyonmoving,withoutsacrificingyoursanity.
1.Getaheadstarton savings.Timeismoney whenitcomestomoving,soaimtobegin planningaminimumof sixtoeightweeksbefore thebigday.Setatimelineforkeystagesofthe moveandthoroughly researchvendorsfor
movingservices,truck rentalsandflexible, short-termstorageunits tocomparequotes.By investingyourtimeup front,youcanavoidthe expensivemisstepsthat comefromlast-minute decisions.
2.Declutterstrategically.Movingcompanies chargebyweightand volume,soavoidpackingoutdatedorunwanteditemsthatdon’t belonginyournext chapter.Forbulkyfurniturepiecesyouplanto leavebehind,consider contactinglocalthrift storesorcharitiesto exploredonation options.Manyorganizationsofferfreepickup forin-demanditemslike couchesanddining tables,savingyouthe costoftransportordisposal.
3.Packlikeapro. Poorlypackedboxescan
leadtocostlyreplacementswhenitemsshift duringtransitordeteriorateinstorage.Saveon materialcostsbycollectinglarge,sturdyboxes fromliquorstores,grocerystoreproduce departmentsandonline no-buygroups—but avoidreusingdeflated bubblewraporlimpbox filler.Instead,minimize movementbyfilling boxescompletelyand stuffingemptyspaces withhigh-qualitycushioning,likeDuckBrand SmallBubble CushioningWrap.
4.Spendwhereit counts.Usingoldor poor-qualitypacking tapecanhaveexpensive consequences,especially forboxesthatmaysitin storageforweeksor months.Ensurethatyour belongingsareprotected fromseepingwater,bugs andotherdebrisbyfully
sealingboxseamswith premiumpackingtape, likeDuckBrandEZ StartPackingTape. Designedwith Frustration-Freetechnology,thetapealways unrollssmoothly,easily andquietly.Plus,the adhesivebondstrengthensovertimeforalonglastingsealthatyoucan trust.
5.Headoffhidden costs.Whetheryou’re hiringprofessional moversorhandlingthe driveyourself,keepan eyeoutforthefineprint soyou’renotblindsided byunexpectedcharges. Tostart,readcancellationandrescheduling policiesthoroughlyto findhiddenfees.And, beforepurchasingadd-
onprotectionforyour belongings,don’tforget tocheckyourcreditcard benefitsalongwithyour homeowner’sorrenter’s insurancepolicyfor movinginsurancethat youmayunknowingly bepayingfor. Formoretipsand affordablemovingsolutions,visit DuckBrand.com. Fromthestressof finalizingfinancialsto thelogisticsofsettling in,puttingdownroots candrainbothyourwalletandyourwellbeing. Withasmartstrategy however,yourmovecan beeasyandaffordable.
NEWSFLASHKidsZone
Quick,HealthyMealIdeasforBusyFamilies
(StatePoint)What if memorable home-cooked meals didn’t have to take hours to prepare to be healthy and wholesome? By getting smart about howyoustock your pantry, you can speed upfood prepwhile still serving up flavor in every bite.
Streamliningyour spice rackwhile eliminatingthe needtomeasure, mix or buymultiple ingredients, is the lineup of Signature Seasoning Blends by McCormick. Eachseasoning blend combines expertlybalanced herbs, spices, andseasonings in one convenient mixthat delivers a complete flavor profile.
“Whether you’re super busy or just want to simplify meal prep, blends provide a one-stepsolution to bringing layered, chef-inspired flavor to everydayproteins,vegetables andgrains,” says Giovanna DiLegge, vice president of marketing, U.S. Consumer, McCormick.
Bursting withbright, crisp flavors,this three-step recipe for OrzoPasta Salad combinesthe savory notes of McCormick Garlic &Olive Oil Seasoning Blend with zesty lemon juice and vibrant seasonal vegetables.
Ingredients:
1/4 cupof orzo pasta
1 poundfreshasparagus, trimmedand thinly slicedon a diagonal into 1-inchpieces
1 cupfrozengreen peas
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium lemon, zested andjuiced (about 1 teaspoon zest plus3 tablespoons juice)
4 teaspoons McCormick Garlic & Olive Oil Seasoning
8 small radishes, trimmedand thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Bring a medium saucepot of salted water toa boil on high heat.Add asparagus; cook for 2 minutes. Remove asparagus using a slottedspoonand immediately transfer to an ice bathto cool. Let it stand 5minutes. Drainwell and set aside.
2.While asparagus cools, add orzoto boiling water. Cookaccording to package directions until al dente, addingpeas duringthe last 2 minutesof cooking. Rinse under cool water. Drain completely
3.Whiskolive oil, lemon zest and juice, andGarlic & Olive Oil Seasoningin a medium bowl.Addorzo and peas, asparagus and radish, tossing to coat well. Optional: Sprinkle with crumbledfeta for an extra savory twist. Serve immediately at room temperature, or coverand refrigerate and serve chilled.
Additional Signature Seasonings include Chili Garlic, Caramelized Onion and Chimichurri,each designed to deliver complex flavor with one simple addition. For more information andrecipes,visit https://mccormick.com.
Like most busy families, youwant to put quick, wholesome meals on the table without compromising on flavor. With the right seasoning blendsanda well-stocked pantry, you cancreate a wide range of delicious dishes in 30 minutes or less—each one full of bold, satisfying taste.
EverythingYouNeedtoKnow AboutGenericMedicines
(StatePoint)Atatimewhenmanybasiclivingexpensesarerising,genericmedicinesplaya criticalroleinexpandingaccesstosafe,effective andaffordabletreatments,helpingpatientsavoid difficulttradeoffsbetweentheirhealthandother basicneeds.
Infact,genericdrugsaccountforover90% ofallU.S.prescriptions,savingpatientsandthe U.S.healthcaresystemhundredsofbillionsannually,accordingtotheAssociationforAccessible Medicines.
Despitetheirprevalence,patientsoftenhave questionsabouthowgenericmedicinesworkand howtheydifferfromcompoundedmedicines.
Amneal,aU.S.basedglobalbiopharmaceuticalcompanyfocusedonexpandingaccessto high-qualitymedicines,isprovidinganswersto commonlyaskedquestions:
Dothemedicationsadvertisedontelevision as“generics”workaswellasbrand-namemedicines?Sometimesapatientwillseeanadvertisementonlineorgetatelehealthprescriptionfora “generic”thatturnsouttobeacompounded medication.
Genericsareequivalentversionsofbrandnamemedicines,whichmeansthatthegeneric medicineshavethesameactiveingredients, dosages,strengths,routesofadministration,conditionsofuseandlabeling.Oftenthetelevision advertisementsarecompoundedor“pharmacymade”medications.Unlikeacompoundedmedicine,anFDA-approvedgenericmustdemonstrate bioequivalence,thisensurestheproduct’sidentity,strength,qualityandpurity.Theserigorous standardsmeanthatgenericmedicineworksin thesamewayandprovidesthesameclinicalbenefitasthebrand-namemedicine.Putsimply, patientscanexpectthesamesafetyandeffectivenessfromFDA-approvedgenericsmedicineas theywouldfromtheirbrand-namecounterparts.
Whattypesofmedicineshavegenericequivalents?Genericequivalentsencompassawide
rangeofmedicationsmadepossiblebycontinued innovationandinvestmentincomplexdrug developmentandmanufacturing.
ThenumberofU.S.facilitiesmanufacturing genericmedicinesdeclinedby27%since2013. Bycontrast,Amnealcontinuestoinvestinits NewYork,NewJerseyandKentucky-basedmanufacturinganddistributioncapacitytodelivera reliablesupplyofcomplexoralsolids,injectables,ophthalmics,liquids,topicals,softgels, inhalationproductsandtransdermalsacrossa broadrangeoftherapeuticcategories.Theconsistentsupplyofcomplexandhighbarriergeneric medicinesthataremoredifficulttomanufacture, yetstillmoreaffordable,iscriticalforpatients andproviders.
“AtAmneal,we’refocusedonexpanding accesstoessentialmedicinesbytakingoncomplexproductsothersmaynot,becauseeverydose matters.Themanufacturingengineofourgenerics—oraffordablemedicinesaswecallthem— isbuiltforreliabilityandtrust,deliveringhighqualitymedicineswhenandwherepatientsneed themmostandhelpingcreateamoresustainable healthcaresystem,”saysChiragPatel,Amneal’s co-founderandco-chiefexecutiveofficer.
Aregenericmedicinessafe?FDA-approved genericscangivedoctorsandpatientconfidence thattheyhaveundergonestrictregulatoryreview andongoingqualityoversight.Patientscanalso reduceexposuretopotentialcounterfeitorunsafe productsbylookingforthe“FDAApproved” label,whichcanbeverifiedusingtrusted resourcessuchasFDA.govandDailyMed,and bywatchingforthesepossiblesigns:
•Doesthemedicineorpackaginglookdifferentthanwhatyounormallyreceive?
•Haveyouexperiencedaneworunusual sideeffectafterusingthemedicine?
•Didyoubuythemedicinefromanonline pharmacy?
(c) PeopleImages / iStock via Getty Images Plus
America’sFirst-TimeHomeBuyers FeelReady.TheFactsSayOtherwise
(StatePoint)Anewhomebuying quizrevealsastarkdisconnect:most aspiringfirst-timebuyersbelieve they’rereadytobuyahome,butfundamentalknowledgegapssuggestotherwise.
Consideratypicalwould-bebuyer. She’ssavedforyears,trackslistings daily,knowsherpreferredneighborhoods,andhasconsumedendless checklistsandvideosaboutbuyinga home.Shefeelsprepared.
Thenshetakesa12-question homebuyingquizandgetsonlythree answersright.
Herexperienceisfarfromunique. ArecentWellsFargosurveyconducted byIpsosfoundthatnearly70%of prospectivefirst-timehomebuyers believetheyunderstandtheprocess. Yetroughlythree-quarterscouldn’t correctlyanswerevenhalfthequestions.Outofmorethan2,000respondents,onlyoneansweredall12correctly.
Theresultspointtoatroubling confidencegapwheremistakescanbe especiallycostly.Buyingahomeisa long-termfinancialcommitmentthat shapesahousehold’sfuturefor decades.Overestimatingknowledge increasestheriskofdelays,higher costs,andunnecessaryfinancialstrain.
ThequizwasconductedMarch 5–13,2026,testingfoundationalcon-
ceptsaffectingaffordabilityandcompetitiveness,suchaswhentoapplyfor amortgage,howclosingcostswork, downpaymentstrategies,andstructuringoffers.Thefindingssuggestmany first-timebuyerslackunderstandingof themostconsequentialsteps.
Only25%knewthecorrecttiming toapplyforamortgage,anerrorthat canderailtransactionsbeforethehome searchbegins.Nearly90%misunderstoodclosingcosts,leavingbuyers vulnerabletolarge,last-minute expensesthatcouldreachtensofthousandsofdollars.Morethan75% believedalargerdownpaymentis alwaysbetter,overlookingstrategies thatcouldpreservesavingsorimprove financialflexibility.
Evenmorestriking,88%were unclearabouttheveryfirststepsinthe process.Fourinfivewouldmakeseriousoffermistakes,includingrevealing theirmaximumpre-approvalamount tosellers—instantlyweakeningtheir negotiatingposition.Formanyrespondents,realizingtheyhadtheprocess backward—housefirst,financing later—servedasawake-upcall.
“Theseresultsshouldbeawakeupcallforeveryoneintheindustry,” saidRulonWashington,Customer GrowthSegmentsexecutiveatWells FargoHomeLending.“We’reseeing confident,motivatedbuyersentering
oneofthemostsignificantfinancial decisionsoftheirliveswithcritical blindspots.”
Wherebuyersgetinformationmay explainthedisconnect.Mostreliedon friends,family,realestatewebsites, andsearchengines.Onlyaboutonethirdconsultedlendersorfinancial professionals,theexpertsbestpositionedtoprovidepersonalizedguidance.
Youngerbuyerswereespecially likelytoturntosocialmediainfluencers,viralvideosandAItools,while olderbuyersleanedonbanksandadvisors.Theriskisn’tcuriosity,it’soversimplification.Short-formcontent oftenstripsawaycrucialnuance, glossingoverdifferencesincreditprofiles,debtlevels,localmarkets,and long-termtrade-offs.
Thesegapshaverealconsequences,andthecostisn’tjustmeasuredindollars,it'smeasuredinfinancialstress,missedopportunitiesand dreamsdeferred.
Misunderstandingclosingcosts cancausedealstocollapse.Poortimingonmortgageapplicationscanpush buyersoutofcompetitivemarkets. Misjudgingdown-paymentstrategies candrainemergencysavingsorlock borrowersintoavoidablecostsforthe lifeofaloan.Smallmistakescancompoundintoyearsofpreventablefinancialstress.
Thereis,however,abrightspot. Nearlytwo-thirdsofquiz-takerssaid theexperiencemadethemfeelmore informedormoreawareofwhatthey needtolearn.Manysaiditprompted themtoslowdown,seekprofessional guidance,orresetexpectations—shorttermpausespreventinglong-term regret.
TheWellsFargoHomeLending Quizisavailableonline.Visitthe WellsFargoMortgageLearningand EducationCentertolearnmore.
Asthe2026homebuyingseason accelerates,thetakeawayisclear:confidencealoneisn'tenough. Knowledge—andknowingyourblind spots—maybethemostvaluabledown paymentofall.
HowtoCreateaBusinessSuccession Plan:AGuidetoGettingStarted
(StatePoint)Formanybusinessowners,successionplanningisoftenpushedasideby day-to-daydemands.Buthavingaclearplanforwhathappenstoyourbusinessonce you’rereadytostepbackis oneofthemostimportantways toprotectwhatyou’vebuilt.
PNC’sBusinessOwner WealthInsightsReportshows thatnearly70%ofowners agreeplanningforthefutureis important,but1in3havenot yetformalizedtheirsuccession plan.Oneofthebiggestbarriers:itsperceivedcomplexity.
StartWithAlignment,Not Mechanics
Themosteffectivesuccessionplansstartwithclarityon outcomes–notmechanics.
Startbyclarifyingyourpriorities,includingfinancial goals,businessdirection,and stakeholderexpectations.This alignmentwillguidekeydecisions,fromchoosingasuccessortostructuringthetransition.
JimBenedict,headof BusinessOwnerSolutions, PNCPrivateBank,said:“We tellclientsto‘beginwiththe endinmind.’Howwouldthey liketheirfamilywealthand businesstobestructured?What
dotheywanttoaccomplish? What’simportanttothem? Onceweknowtheanswersto thosequestions,wecanlookat successionmethodsandwealth structures.”
IdentifyandDevelop FutureLeadership
Thenextstepisdeterminingwhocouldeventuallylead thebusiness.
Potentialsuccessorsmay includefamilymembers,partners,employeesoroutside buyers.
Eachoptionbringsdistinct considerations,including whetherthesuccessorhasthe skillstolead,howthetransfer willbestructured,andwhat levelofinvolvementthecurrentownerwillretain.
CreateaTransition Timeline
Aphasedtransitionover severalyearsallowsfor:
•deliberateleadership developmentandmentoring;
•gradualtransferofresponsibilitiesandrelationships;
•reducedoperationaldisruption;and •greaterflexibilityinstructuringownershiptransfer.
GetaRealisticBusiness Valuation
Aprofessionalvaluation providesaclearerpictureof financialhealthandhelps guideretirement,tax,andother transitiondecisions.
Italsogivesanownera reliablevaluetoincorporate intopersonalfinancialplanning andaframeworktoevaluate whetherunsolicitedoffersare credibleandworthpursuing.
CommunicatethePlan
Oneofthemostoverlooked aspectsofsuccessionplanning iscommunication.
Businessessuccessfully navigatingsuccessiontendto focusonthreeareas:
•Clarity:definingroles, expectations,andthefuture leadershipstructure.
•Alignment:ensuringkey stakeholdersshareacommon understandingofdirection.
•Consistency:establishing regularopportunitiestorevisit andrefinetheplan.
ReviewandUpdate Regularly
Reviewyourplanregularly, especiallyaftermajorbusiness changes,leadershipshifts,or personallifeevents.Keeping theplancurrenthelpsensureit staysalignedwithyourgoals andyourcompany’sneeds.
StepsYouCanTakeToday
•Documentyourtoptwoor threesuccessiongoals;
•Identifyatleastonepotentialsuccessor;and
•Scheduleaconversation withatrustedfinancialorlegal advisor.
Creatingasuccessionplan mayfeellikeafutureconcern, butplanningaheadcanhelp protectyourbusiness,support youremployees,andmakethe nextchaptersmootherfor everyoneinvolved.
(c) designer491 / iStock via Getty Images Plus
(c)JacobWackerhausen/iStockviaGettyImagesPlus
(StatePoint)Asthecountry bracesforapredicted“hotterthan-normal”summer,homeownerswillfacefinancialpressurefromhighercoolingcosts comparedtolastyear.The goodnews?Thiseasyand affordableDIYchecklistcontainsmoney-savingupgrades thatboostenergyefficiency aroundthehome,keepingsummerbillsincheckthroughout thescorchingseason.
1.GiveYourHVACSystem RoomtoBreathe:Clogged HVACfiltersareacommon yetoverlookedproblemthat restrictsairflow,forcesairconditionerunitstoworkharder andcancauseuneventemperaturesthroughoutthehome. Checkfiltersregularlytoclean orreplacethem.Thissimple stepnotonlyimprovesindoor airquality,buthelpstakethe strainofftheAC,leadingto noticeablesummersavings.
2.Don’tLetCoolAirSlip OuttheWindow—SealUp SneakyLeaks:Tiny,hidden gapsaroundwindowsand doorsletcoolairescape,leadingtolargespikesinenergy bills.Installingeasy-to-use weatherstripseals,suchasthe DuckBrandHeavy-Duty WeatherstripSeal,isanaffordablesolutiontoreplacewornoutseals,formingabarrier againstthehot,humidoutdoor airaswellasdust,pollenand insects.Simplyapplytheselfadhesivesealtotheperimeter ofdoorsandwindowsashesto increasecomfortandenergy efficiencyduringthewarmer months.
3.TakeAdvantageofthe CoolerHours:Oncrispmorningsandevenings,leverage naturalairflowtogiveyourAC abreak.Simplyopenyour windowsanddoorstoletthe freshairin,thensealthem tightbeforethepeakafternoon heathits.Tomakethemostof
theseoutdoorbreezes,try installingaproductlikethe DuckBrandHands-Free MagneticScreenDoor.Its meshconstructionhelpskeep theheatoutbyallowinghotair toescapeandcoolbreezesto flowthroughthehomewithout lettingbugsinside.Plus,it’s quicktoinstall,easytowalk throughwithfullhandsandis breathable,soyoucanenjoy seasonalweather.
4.BringtheShade,Block theHeat:Asubstantialamount ofsummerheatentersyour homethroughuncoveredwindowsfacingthesun.Youcan sayfarewelltothatunwanted warmthwithblackoutcurtains, reflectivewindowfilms,orjust bykeepingyourblindsclosed duringthehottestpartsofthe day.Thiscreatesaninvisible barrieragainstrisingtemperatures,workingalongsideyour
DIYhomeweatherization effortstokeeprefreshingly chilledairinsideandyour electricitybillsdown.
5.OptimizeCeilingFan RotationforSummerCooling: Ceilingfanscanmakearoom feelseveraldegreescooler whenspinningintheproper direction.Trysettingyourceilingfantorotatecounterclockwiseduringthesummer.This directionpushescolderair downwardandcreatesawindchilleffect,soyoucandepend moreonyourfansandlesson yourconditioningunittomaintainacost-savinghome.
HavingalowerACbillcan beabreezethissummer,with therightDIYhomeweatherizationhabits.Followthissimplechecklisttomakeanoticeabledifferenceincomfortand spendingthisseason.
