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Vol 20, No. 1 • June 2020

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The Music Is In Deminicus McKinnon aspect of his career he loves the By Lucy Weber most. “The creative part is what Deminicus McKinnon keeps his I like. I get to put myself into busy schedule in tune with the it while getting others’ cremusic that is a constant in his life. ativity out,” he said. A man of many talents, he is What music producers do is a music producer create “the whole song from for major start to finish” along with the and local performer, artists, a McKinnon one-on-one said. consultant with “We artists, a prowork fessional on the musician, an song audio engitogethneer skilled er.” in mixing and mastering, a teacher and Deminicus McKinnon more. Plus, McKinnon said he gets the best out of he’s a proud father of three, a 10-year-old, his music clients by going outside the box a 7-year-old and a 7-month-old. and using sounds that traditionally aren’t McKinnon, who is known professionally found in musical works. “I don’t do the as Sunny Dizzle, and his family live in traditional,” he said. Memphis. Clients come to him from all over the “I’ve always been doing music. I startU.S. besides local talent in Memphis. He ed recording the fifth or sixth grade,” said works with several clients at a time since it McKinnon, who graduated from Corinth can take up to 3-4 months to get the right High School in 2004. music out. Producing music for others, for TV, McKinnon is so in tune with his career films, commercials and the stage, is the that he can’t listen to the radio because he immediately Return Address: P.O. Box 1292 Corinth, MS 38835 knows what he would do to make what he hears better. Growing up, McKinnon said he learned working on POSTAL PATRON his own music. “Everything I did, I did on my own. I didn’t see MCKINNON pg 4

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Johnson’s gift of writing spreads uplifting messages through his books “My daddy told me at least once a By Lucy Weber week, ‘What comes from the heart, reachWriting comes naturally and es the heart.’ He was always one to push easily to Shamontae Johnson. me,” Johnson said. The words flow to share stoHoyle was his godfather and also his ries, to teach lessons, to motivate pastor at St. James Temple Church of readers to reach their potential, to God in Christ. “He challenged me in inspire others through faith, to faith. I could talk to him about offer support to those facing anything. He was like a problems, and to chalwalking Bible.” lenge his readers. The Johnson grew up with a Ripley resident is love for putting his preparing for the July thoughts, stories and ideas release of his third on paper. “Writing has book within seven been a thing all my life. months. “The books In school, I’d write short are a progression,” he stories and my classsaid. “My field is mates would read them helping people.” and tell me I would be an His first book author. “Overcoming the Spirit “Writing in my stress of Identity Crisis: The reliever. I can release anything Yoke Breaks Today” I’m feeling,” he said. “If I points out that if you have a notebook and a pencil, don’t know who you are I’m happy.” in God, then you allow Writing, though, is just people to define you. Shamontae Johnson part of Johnson’s very busy “You need to learn to life. “I do better on two hours sleep than define yourself through the Word of God. with eight. I just keep going,” he said. “I Sometimes that is easier said than done,” always have something going on.” he said. He is a motivational speaker, an entreHis second book “Survivor” tells stories preneur, a writing coach through his busithat relate to Johnson’s life growing up in ness So You Wanna Write?, youth presiRipley, dealing with bullies and low selfdent at his church, a full-time supervisor at esteem. “This tells what I overcame and the Blue Springs Toyota plant and proud the steps I used.” husband to wife Tanesha Johnson. Johnson The latest book “Evolution” inspired is also helping raise and serving as the by the advice and teachings of two great father figure to his 14-year-old niece. He is men in his life – his father, the late Clifford Rucker, and his pastor/mentor, the also working to develop Speak Up the late Bernell Hoyle – that Johnson relied on Movement, a program that he believes will help people who suffer in silence. “This is as he grew into manhood and deeper into personal to me. I want these people to his faith. “I’m praying my words can help,” Johnson said. see JOHNSON pg 4

June 2020

The Community News Flash

Editor’s Corner

Jerry W. Porter CEO/Publisher

PO Box 1292, Corinth, MS 38835-1292 Cell: 662-643-6842 Email: read.newsflash@gmail.com

Staying Socially Balanced As we all continue to stay balanced during these times, it's important to understand there isn't one single area of life that we need to focus on. Rather, there are multiple areas that require balance. So far, we have covered spiritual and mental balance, but what about staying socially balanced? Social health can be defined as, "Our ability to interact and form meaningful relationships with others." Social health can affect our overall health. There are many things you can do to improve your social health. Balancing your social and personal time is impor-

Becoming Balanced: A Seven Part Series on Becoming a Better You tant. Have you ever said to yourself, "There just doesn't seem to be enough of me to go around?" Odds are, you have and that may not be a good sign. Relationships are important in life, but so is your personal time. It may be beneficial for you to spend more time on yourself than others. It's easy to become consumed with other people's problems. It's good to be there for others and provide a listening ear, but sometimes that can rob you of important personal time. We all have various "lives" we live. There's our work life, social life, personal life, etc. Balance is necessary so that one "life" doesn't steal time away from another. To maintain social balance it is also important to be yourself in all situations. It may seem easier to pretend to be somebody else in order to "fit in" as the saying goes, but this can lead to stress. According to Psychology Today, "A person who worries about behaving in just the right way is not likely to behave better." Any social relationship built on the wrong foundation will eventually collapse. Not all personalities and relationships are meant to thrive together.

Find opportunities to meet new people. I realize that may not be easy to do as we are still encouraged to practice social distancing and many social events have been postponed or cancelled. But do not be afraid of meeting and getting to

want anything in life we must work for it. But that doesn't just apply to the jobs we go to for financial gain; it applies to other aspects of our lives. If we want meaningful relationships, we have to work at them. If we want a balanced social life, we must work on that as well. Lastly, the quality of your relationships is more important than the quantity. You don't need to have three thousand followers or friends to enjoy the benefits of a healthy social life. Steven Handel writes, "You don't need to be super popular or be the life of the party to have a healthy social life. All you need is a

couple of really close friends who support you and you can trust, and you'll find everything you need to live a socially satisfying life." Staying socially balanced may have a positive impact on your overall well-being. It is easy to become discouraged with all that is going on in the world. Remember to make time for yourself and stay balanced. Matthew 6:33-34 states, "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself." Whoo! Whoo! Until next time! All aboard!

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know different and new people when the opportunity presents itself. They may bring a wealth of health to your social life. Social media is an excellent way to meet new people without the face-to-face connection. Always remember to balance your social and work lives. "We live to work or we work to live" is an important statement to think about. Which do you do? A job is necessary obviously, but try to remember there are other things and people in need of your time. We have been taught that if we

The Community News Flash is published monthly by Porter Publishing, Inc., with all rights reserved – © 2001 Reproduction or use without permission of editorial on graphic contents in any manner is prohibited by law. This newspaper is designed to exhibit the positive by publishing only positive and uplifting personal profiles. The annual subscription rate is Twenty four dollars and forty eight cents ($26.00). Information is gathered from sources considered to be reliable and accurate. Thoughts expressed in letters to the editor and commentaries are those of the authors and not necessarily those of The Community News Flash staff. Equal Opportunity. It is policy of the newspaper. 1. To employ people on the basis of their qualification and with assurance of equal opportunity and treatment regardless of race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap. 2. To not knowingly accept any advertisement, which implies and preferences limitation or discrimination based on race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap.

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Monthly Meditation But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Matthew 6:33-34

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Notable Quote “A balanced inner calmness radiates from a peaceful centre. It neither craves others' approval nor rejects others' presence. It neither pulls towards nor pushes away. It has a reverent attitude towards life and all its inhabitants.” - Donna Goddard

June 2020

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JUNE BIBLE TRIVIA 1. This bald prophet was the performer of many miracles and the successor to another great prophet. 2. This court prophet confronted King David with his adultery. 3. This young prophet had a vision of a stature composed of different metals. 4. This prophet, put into a hole in the ground for being too outspoken, was often called the "weeping prophet." 5. This king of Israel was, early in his career, associated with a group of prophets. 6. This wilderness man confronted the prophets of Baal in a famous contest. He was taken to heaven in a chariot of fire. 7. This prophet, famous for his vision of the dry bones, was with the exiles in Babylon. 8. This prophet's work is quoted in the New Testament more than any other's. He is famous for his vision of God in the temple. 9. The kinsman of Jesus ate locusts, preached repentance, and baptized penitents in the Jordan. 10. This Christian prophesied a famine in the land. 11. This New Testament character prophesied the destruction of Jerusalem 12. This woman was sent for when the long-neglected Book of the Law was found during Josiah's reign. 13. These four young women, daughters of a Christian evangelist, were considered prophetesses. 14. This elderly woman recognized the infant Jesus as being the Messiah. 15. This man, who anointed the first two kings of Israel, was considered both a judge and a prophet. 16. This prophet of Moab had a confrontation with his talking donkey. 17. This Old Testament patriarch was revealed as a prophet to King Abimelech. 18. This Egyptian-born Hebrew leader predicted the coming of a prophet like himself. 19. This prophet took David to task for numbering the people of Israel. 20. This prophet predicted that Jeroboam would be king over 10 tribes of Israel. 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

May Answers 1. Priscilla (Acts 18:26) 2. Phoebe (Romans 16:1-2) 3. Timothy (2 Timothy 1:5) 4. Abishag (1 Kings 1:15) 5. Asenath, wife of Joseph (Genesis 41:45) 6. Delilah (Judges 16:4) 7. Lois (2 Timothy 1:5) 8. Jedidah (2 Kings 22:1) 9. Jehosheba, Joash's aunt (2 Kings 11:2-3) 10. Priscilla (Acts 18:2, 18, 24-16) 11. Naomi (Ruth 1:19-21) 12. Bathsheba (1 Kings 2:20) 13. Lydia (Acts 16:14) 14. Deborah (Judges 5:31) 15. Ruth (4:15) 16. Hannah (1 Samuel 2:21) 17. Michal (2 Samuel 6:23) 18. Abigail(1 Samuel 25:36-42) 19. The witch of Endor (1 Samuel 28:25) 20. Eve; actually, she was ashamed of her lack of clothing (Genesis 3:7)

Fun Playtime Ideas for Father's Day

JOHNSON....from page 1 flourish and to know they don’t have hold in their thoughts or emotions” as they become the people they’re supposed to be, he said. Johnson knows he has more books in him. Most times, he said he is thinking of his next three or four projects at one time. “Writing is my Lord-given gift.” Johnson’s books can be purchased on Amazon or through his Facebook account. He is happy to ship books out, as he’s done for readers in New York, Colorado, Texas, Louisiana, and other locations across the country. He can also be reached through email at speakupthemovement1@ya hoo.com.

MCKINNON...from page 1 have anybody to show me.” His self-taught skills came into play when he earned his undergraduate degree in music production and master’s degrees in entertainment business management from Full Sail University. “It was a breeze,” he said. Now, he gives back to aspiring young musicians through the Memphis Music Initiative where he is an in-school fellow teaching music production in public middle and high schools. What he appreciates about working with students is “I get to teach them what they’re interested in, the music like I was. I show them what happens behind-the-scenes.” For the past three summers, he has worked with students in a young actors’ camp/workshop but the Covid19 pandemic will prevent that. That’s unfortunate, he said. He performs

June 2020

The Community News Flash

photo of upcoming book

professionally at clubs around Memphis with the help of his Steaksawse brothers, LaRoad Jones and Roger Rowe. Their music and other music that McKinnon helps create can be found at www.steaksawse.com. McKinnon can be found on Instagram @sunnyd38834.

(StatePoint) Playtime is one of the best opportunities for dads, grandfathers and other father figures to serve as role models in a child’s life, and research shows that these experiences have a number of positive health benefits for kids. According to experts at The Genius of Play, a research-based initiative providing parents and caregivers with facts, inspiration, and hands-on resources to help make playtime an important part of every day, regular active physical play between fathers and young children is associated with improved developmental outcomes. To help make Father’s Day special for kids and dads alike, check out these fun and creative playtime ideas from The Genius of Play. • Storytime Stretch: Read or tell a story to your child that has a single word repeated often. Have your child jump, stretch, clap or do some other exaggerated physical movement every

time they hear the word. Then, mix things up and have your child tell you a story. This is a great way to spend time together building vocabulary, boosting creativity and having fun. • Science Kit: Whether it’s erupting a volcano, building a system of pulleys and levers or growing crystals, dads and kids can learn about science and engineering, as well as practice following directions by completing a science kit together. • Charades: Choose a category for the game such as television shows, songs, sports, animals or professions. Then have everyone write down a noun in that category on a slip of paper. Mix the slips of paper together in a hat or bowl. Take turns choosing a slip of paper from the mix. Without speaking, act out a word or phrase that others can guess. Whoever guesses correctly then begins his or her turn. • Board Game Fun: From puzzles and party games to cards and trivia,

games build communication skills, teach good sportsmanship and create opportunities for strategic thinking. • Two Truths and a Tale: Take turns saying three things about yourself. Two are true, but one is not. The other players have to hold up one, two or three fingers to indicate which of the three statements they think is untrue. The person who guesses correctly then takes a turn. If no one gets it right, the fibber goes again! • Build a Fort: Collaborate and stretch the imagination with fortbuilding. First drape sheets over the backs of chairs and stack pillows underneath or decorate cardboard boxes with markers or paint and attach them together. Now you can use your fort as a secret clubhouse to play board games and cards, or pretend you’re defending a castle – the possibilities are endless. • Craft Puppets: Start with socks or paper bags and craft your own puppets with markers, googly eyes, yarn and other materials around the house. Then act out a play with your new characters. For more play tips and resources, visit TheGeniusofPlay.org. This Father’s Day, be sure dads or other father figures make the time for playtime. Beneficial for healthy child development, there are many ways to get in on the fun, from word games and hands-on arts and crafts projects to board games and fort building.

June 2020

Finding a Good Nursing Home Researchers at University of Pittsburgh’s Graduate School of Public Health took a close look at the citations for 16,000 nursing homes from the years 2000 to 2007. They discovered that 15 percent of the facilities had been cited for a deficiency in infection control. This is important because nearly 400,000 people die each year from infections. More than 400 infection-related citations were in facilities that had low staffing of registered nurses, nurse aides and licensed practical nurses. From the study results, it appears that understaffing can be a big reason for the lack of infection control. Could it be as simple as nurses being too busy to wash their hands? It also was learned that those facilities cited for lack of infection control had a poor rating of care in general. If you have Medicare, there are places online you can look for ratings information as part of your search for a good nursing home. Medicare-eligible facilities are rated on the www.Medicare.gov site. Called Nursing Home Compare, the website uses the fivestar system to rate nursing homes in areas such as fire safety, health inspection, nursing staff levels and others. Do a search by ZIP code or city/state of the area you’re interested in. To be eligible for Medicare, these facilities must have an annual inspection and be recertified. As always, know what Medicare will and won’t pay for. Generally, nursing homes (skilled nursing facilities and nursing facilities) are for short stays. If you need long-term care, perhaps for assistance with daily living, investigate at-home services. On the Medicare.gov website you’ll also find information such as the “Nursing Home Checklist” and “Guide to Choosing a Nursing Home.” 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.

The Community News Flash

Leg Cramps Cramp Sleep DEAR DR. DONOHUE: For several years I have had spasms in my left leg at night while asleep. Now I get them in my right leg. They are intense and painful. My calcium is normal. I have taken magnesium and leg-cramp pills without results. I have put soap in the bed, used mustard and tried many other home remedies without any luck. I would be indebted for any other suggestions you might offer. — S.G. ANSWER: Nighttime leg muscle cramps are another one of the joys of aging. Why? I don’t know. A cramp is a sustained, painful muscle contraction. In a very small number of people, low blood calcium or magnesium, an underactive thyroid gland and dysfunctions of the kidney or liver might be the cause. For most, a cause cannot be found. Quinine was a favorite remedy. Now quinine has a limited use — only for malaria. It has potentially dangerous side effects that make it unwarranted for muscle cramps. Some find that tonic water stops their cramps. That’s fine that they do; the amount of quinine in tonic water is quite small. There is evidence that the heart and blood pressure drug diltiazem can be useful. Vitamin B complex — a mixture of the B vitamins, including B-6 — also has some support for its use. Stretching the leg muscles three times a day and again before going to bed might prevent cramps. One exercise is standing on the lowest step of a stair with heels projecting off the edge of that stair. Raise high on your toes

and then slowly lower yourself until the heels are well below the level of the stair. Hold that position for 10 seconds and repeat the exercise 10 times. Some have found that a warm bath taken before heading to bed stops their cramps. The booklet on restless leg syndrome and nighttime cramps offers a more lengthy treatment of this annoying problem. Readers can obtain a copy by writing: Dr. Donohue — No. 306W, Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. Enclose a check or money order (no cash) for $4.75 U.S./$6 Canada with the recipient’s printed name and address. Please allow four weeks for delivery. *** DEAR DR. DONOHUE: When I had my last tetanus vaccine, the shot also included pertussis. Doesn’t that make it more complicated? Why not one shot at a time to avoid allergic reactions? — I.M. ANSWER: The tetanus shot is given every 10 years. Included in the tetanus shot is diphtheria vaccine. The material is called Td. Between the ages of 19 and 64, another vaccine is included in the shot — pertussis, whooping cough. That shot is Tdap. It is substituted for the Td shot and is given only once. Pertussis immunity wanes with age and needs this booster to keep people from contracting whooping cough. Whooping cough isn’t just a childhood illness. Older people catch it and spread it. At that stage of life, whooping cough leads to coughing that lasts for many months. The rate of allergic reactions from the combination of these vaccines is quite low. The protection that the combination provides is quite high. *** 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. © 2011 North America Synd., Inc. All Rights Reserved

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June 2020

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PERSONAL FINANCE

Protecting Your Financial Health in These Uncertain Times

(StatePoint) With expected delays in bill payments, unprecedented layoffs, hiring freezes and related hardships, many Americans are facing new financial challenges. “COVID-19 has impacted all industries and individuals from all walks of life,” says Rod Griffin, senior director of Consumer Education and Advocacy for Experian. “With all of these rapid changes, you might not be thinking about how your credit report may be impacted yet, but you likely will soon.” As you adapt to life in this unprecedented time, the experts at Experian are sharing strategies and resources for protecting your financial health and credit history. • Check your credit report. While checking your credit report regularly is always a good idea, this is especially true now. You can get a free copy of your report from Experian every 30 days with a free account. In addition, you can get a free credit report from each of the three national credit reporting agencies annually by visiting annualcreditreport.com.

• Maintain your score. Making credit payments on time and in-full and keeping your utilization rate (balance-to-limit ratio) as low as possible are the best ways to maintain your credit score. At a maximum, you should try to keep your credit card balances below 30 percent in total and for each individual card. For many reasons, maintaining these habits might not be possible right now. However, paying your minimum monthly payments and anything additional you can afford will go a long way. • Talk to your lenders. Keep in mind, lenders don’t want you to fall behind on your payments any more than you do. If you’re facing trouble making monthly payments, contact your lender or creditor. They may have options for helping you cope with COVID-19-related financial hardships. For example, lenders can place your accounts in forbearance or deferment for a period of time. • Use credit as a financial tool. While debt is a problem, credit can be a financial tool that can help

improve your overall financial health in the long run. As always, avoid making rash decisions when it comes to credit and your financial health. • Check out resources. Use new educational resources that can help you protect your financial health in these uncertain times. For example, Experian is hosting a series of #CreditChat conversations surrounding COVID19 on Wednesdays at 3 p.m. ET on Twitter. The program covers important personal finance topics. The next several #CreditChats will be dedicated to items like methods and strategies for bill repayment, paying down debt, emergency financial assistance and preparing for retirement during COVID-19. You can also visit Experian’s blog post, “COVID-19 and Your Credit Report,” for updated information pertaining to how COVID-19 may impact your creditworthiness. Additionally, the “Ask Experian” blog shares immediate and evolving resources on its COVID-19 Updates page. To obtain a free Experian credit report and other free services, enroll at Experian.com. While staying safe and healthy should be everyone’s number one priority, it is also important to protect your financial health at the same time. Be sure to leverage all the resources available to you that can help you emerge from this crisis in good financial standing.

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June 2020

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5 Tips on How to Combat Loneliness During Social Distancing (StatePoint) As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, many people are staying in their homes to help prevent the spread of the disease. Feeling lonely from time to time is natural, but this unprecedented time of social distancing could lead to increased loneliness. There are some easy ways to feel connected to others, even when you aren’t seeing them in person. Consider these tips from Dr. Doug Nemecek, Cigna chief medical officer for behavioral health. • Use technology… but not too much. Social media is a favorite and easy way to stay connected to family and friends, but too much use can leave you feeling lonely. Cigna’s 2020 U.S. Loneliness Index found that 72 percent of very heavy social media users identify themselves as lonely. Balance technology use with disconnecting and taking time for yourself. Use real-time interactions with others, like video chats, to build meaningful connections and limit time spent passively scrolling social media. Read a book, take a walk or do a puzzle after screen time. It may help you feel more connected when you spend time online. • Join a virtual club or group. There are plenty of resources available to find virtual book clubs, craft communities or even fitness challenges. You can start a new hobby, learn a skill or find others who are interested in the same things as you, remotely. Once the guidelines for social distancing are lifted, you’ll have new friends you can meet in person. • Spend time outdoors. Simply leaving your house to

take a jog around your neighborhood or to walk your dog a few blocks could improve your spirits, refreshing you for the next time you virtually connect with others. • Ask those you reach out to how they’re really doing. How you connect with those in your network makes a significant difference in how lonely you feel. People tend to feel less lonely when connecting on a deeper level. Cigna’s study found that those who do not feel they have close relationships that give them emotional security and well-being have an average loneliness score of nearly 15 points higher than those that do. When video chatting with friends, ask them for their most honest response when you ask how they’re doing. Everyone will likely feel better for it. • Rethink working hours. We spend approximately 90,000 hours at work over our lifetime, so how we spend that time will play an important role in how we feel overall. Improving your work-life balance and connecting with colleagues can reduce loneliness. Your employer may also benefit from you feeling less lonely. Lonely employees are less productive, produce lower quality work and miss more days of work. So, talk to your boss about slight changes you can make to how you spend your working hours. This could help you feel less lonely and benefit your company. Being unable to spend time with others in-person will likely cause many of us to feel lonely, but there are ways to help lessen those feelings during this challenging time. (c) gorodenkoff / iStock via Getty Images Plus

June 2020

The Community News Flash

How to Eat to Feel Strong While Sheltering in Place Like father, like daughter (StatePoint) With social distancing orders in place in areas across the country, you may be doing your behind the wheel of big rigs many grocery shopping with shelf stability in mind. But this

The last week in May, Gun began By Lucy Weber working for FedEx Ground, hauling For about 18 years, Rosalynn two trailers at 53 feet in length Gun has kept on trucking. each, from her base in Texas Like her father Jimmie to wherever they need to get who had 30 years on the quickly. Working with a road, including long-dispartner, she makes loadedtance hauling, before down round trips that can retiring, Gun drives a big range from about 24 to 36 truck for her living. “My hours. In her first job during dad is my right-hand her first week, Gun travman,” said the Corinth eled through the night native who has lived and the day from in Fort Worth for Dallas to about 10 years. Virginia Worth. and back Whenever in about she got lost 26 hours, or couldn’t as she read a map and her in her first partner weeks on the traded off road, she time in would call the driher dad for ver’s advice or Rosalynn Gun seat. help as she Gun said her trucker’s hours allow her drove. “I call him from the road all the 14-hour work days, of which 11 hours can time now just to talk,” she said. Then, be driving, and then there’s a mandated every Tuesday, the father-daughter have a 10-hours off. “Before when I was on the standing telephone time. “We talk about road, I’d be gone two or three weeks at a trucking and being on the road.” time,” she said. Her brother just started his trucking “Now on my 10-hour break, I can go career about nine months. When Gun, her home to cook or clean,” before heading brother and her dad get together, they all talk trucking. “He’s proud of me and proud back out again, she said. The appeal of truck driving is the freeof my brother,” she said. dom Gun said it gives her. “I don’t have Gun was working at a warehouse, anybody looking over my back,” she said. watching people get laid off, when she Gun is never bored by the long expansmade a decision. “I told my dad I was es of endless highways. Instead, the roads going to be a truck driver,” she said. give her peace of mind. “I’ve got my In 2002, she and a cousin attended two music. I’ve got audio books. I can talk to different truck-driving schools to get their people on the phone,” she said. licenses. The cousin didn’t like it as much and didn’t keep on, but through the years Gun has worked for several different trucking companies. “Every year I say I’m going to get out. My dad said if you stay in the business two years, you’re there,” Gun said. “Truck driving is not for everybody. It took a lot to get where I’m at today.” Behind the wheel high above the road, Gun is happy and relaxed. She’s worked as a trainer for her former companies, passing along her knowledge of safe trucking skills.

factor should not be your only priority. Right now, it’s especially important that the foods you eat also support your health and longevity. Here are three things to know about eating to feel strong while sheltering in place: 1. Empty Calories Should Get the Boot. Many products designed to last a long time don’t contain the vital nutrients your body needs, and instead, contain artificial ingredients that lead to quick energy and crash cycles. While empty calories will keep you alive, they won’t allow you to thrive, promoting fat over muscle and actually weakening your body’s ability to defend itself. 2. Nutrients Ignite Your Body’s Natural Power to Defend. The COVID-19 crisis highlights the fact that those with compromised immune systems and those with chronic disease are often the most vulnerable to viral infection. Fortunately, you can help to boost your immunity and defend against certain chronic diseases with a nutrient-packed diet. Why? Nutrients nourish your cells, defend against free radicals, give you energy, and aid muscle growth and repair. 3. Eating to Thrive is Easier Than it Sounds. Getting the “Big Five” -- protein, vitamins, minerals, omega-3s and fiber -- doesn’t have to be a challenge during diffi-

Fuel your body right and give empty calories the boot. : (c) Yuliya Apanasenka / iStock via Getty Images Plus

cult situations. To get all your essential nutrients in every meal, consider stocking up on products supported by research, such as Nutrient Survival, a line of nutrient dense foods and drinks that are simple to make. Developed by a team of food scientists, researchers, chefs, outdoorsmen, survivalists and adventure athletes who were frustrated with the lack of effective emergency food options, these non-perishable snacks, drinks, entrées and even coffee are high in protein and contain 14 vitamins and 14 minerals, so you can provide your body with what it needs throughout the day. To learn more, visit NutrientSurvival.com. Social disruption should not stop your ability to survive and thrive. In these challenging times, fueling your body right is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself.

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June 2020

The Community News Flash

Mastery of video games back then prove their worth on the job today

Dewey Easley

Y P P HA

S ’ R E FATH

By Lucy Weber Who knew the skills developed while playing popular video games decades ago would prove successful at work nowadays? Dewey Easley loved playing games like Pac-Man and Galaga with their quickwrist action on the joysticks, and now he utilizes those moves operating a brush truck for the City of Corinth’s street department. Weekdays, Easley said he drives the truck that has a “big ole claw in that back that goes out to grab trash, limbs and other debris” on the streets. The truck has two joysticks that manipulate the brush to make it go side-toside and up and down and also make the brush go round and round. Adding to the video game comparison, there are buttons on top of the joysticks that move it

! ! ! ! Y DA

and open/close it. “Playing those games was good training,” said Easley, who’s been on the job for three years. “I’ve got skills on the joystick. It helped having those skills in a lot of ways.” The Ohio native has lived in Corinth since 1978. He and his wife have seven grown children in their 20s and 30s, and so many grandchildren that Easley said he sometimes loses count. “We have big family gettogethers,” said Easley, who is looking forward to this Father’s Day. The family likes to fish and cook out together. He and his wife attend Greater Life United Pentecostal Church, which is the family church of his wife, who grew up in Corinth. Easley’s oldest grandchild is a 13-year-old, who loves

video games just like PawPaw did. These games are of another generation to Easley, just like his generation’s favorites are totally different to his grandson. “I do play games with him and I’ve tried to get him to learn games from back in the day. They’re too simple for him,” he said. Today’s games like Grand Theft Auto, Fortnite and Mortal Combat are ones

Easley has attempted to learn from his grandson. “He’s supposed to teach me how to play but he just beats me up, and then he goes bragging about it,” Easley said. Easley may not have the video game dexterity for today’s games. On the job, though, as he travels a different route daily in his truck, he’s got the skills that thosenow retro games gave him to keep Corinth streets looking good.

798 South Cass St. CORINTH

Make a change that you wish to see by voting. Register to Vote so that your vote will be heard. Requirements: In order to Register and Vote, a person must: • be a United States citizen; • be 18 years old by December 31 of the year in which you file this form (note: you must be 18 years old by the date of the general, primary or other election in which you want to vote); • live at your present address for at least 30 days before an election; • not be in jail or on parole for a felony conviction and; • not claim the right to vote elsewhere. • Have valid ID (identification) photo - can be a state ID card, permit, or a driver’s license. PLEASE GO TO YOUR LOCAL CIRCUIT CLERK’S OFFICE OR LOCAL MUNICIPAL COURT TO REGISTER TO VOTE. YOU MUST BE REGISTERED TO VOTE BY OCTOBER 6TH, 2012!

June 2020

The Community News Flash

Keeping Personal Information Safe During a Pandemic (StatePoint) Americans are spending more time at home, which means they’re likely spending more time online. While their attention is focused on staying healthy, they shouldn’t forget to stay vigilant about cybersecurity either. The FBI recently warned that cybercriminals are taking advantage of the current environment to steal personal information and money. The scams come in various forms, including fake emails from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and World Health Organization claiming to offer new information on the virus; emails asking users to verify personal information for an economic stimulus check from the government; and emails selling counterfeit COVID-19 related products or treatments. Personal health information can be a target for hackers too. According to the Office of the Inspector General, personal health information (name, social security number, Medicare number) can be stolen and used to file false Medicare

or other health insurance claims. If this occurs, individuals might experience a disruption in medical care should they need it. Bob Davis, deputy chief information security officer, Cigna, has a few simple steps to protect individuals and families from threats. • Never open email or attachments

from unknown senders. Many scams occur when clicking on fraudulent links or attachments in emails. Sometimes these emails can look similar to those received from legitimate sources, such as a health insurer, making it difficult to notice the difference. Pay attention to details: does it look like other valid commu-

Don’t Forget To Clean Your Cellphone Amid mass worry about the coronavirus (COVID-19), it’s important to keep both yourself and your living space clean–and that extends to your cellphone. Why do I need to keep my phone clean? According to data from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, one in six mobile phones are contaminated with fecal matter. Researchers found that despite 95% of people saying they wash their hands after using the restroom, 92% of phones examined had bacteria associated with fecal contamination on them. In fact, your phone may even be 10 times dirtier than a toilet seat.

nications you’ve received? Is the sender email address correct? To check a link’s legitimacy, hover over the text to see where it will redirect. Also note, when communicating with health insurers online, it will likely be done through a secure email portal, which automatically encrypts (secures) emails and can only be accessed by signing in using a predetermined password. • Guard personal information. As a general rule, health insurers will never ask for credit card information or account passwords in an email. Report emails asking for this information to your health insurance company immediately. • Hang up and call back. Not all threats occur online. Be wary of phone calls from someone claiming to be your health insurance company asking for personal information. To confirm legitimacy, simply hang up and call the customer service phone number listed on the back of the insurance card. In most cases, if information or payment is needed,

individuals will receive a letter in the mail, not a phone call. • Monitor texts and social media. Many use cell phones as a primary way to communicate, so it should be no surprise that cybercriminals are turning to text messages as a way to steal information. Text messages should be approached the same way as emails. Don’t click on links or share information with unfamiliar numbers. Same goes for social media. Don’t click on suspicious advertisements or links. • Remind friends and family. Just like friends and family are reminded to stay healthy, the same should be done with cybersecurity threats. Remind loved ones, especially the elderly, to pay close attention to unsolicited emails and calls, and to limit the information they share over the internet. If seniors think that they may have been victim of a scam, they should contact Medicare as soon as possible at 1-800-MEDICARE.

We Want You! Fatherhood Initiative Program Would you like to become a better father? We are looking for fathers who would be interested in becoming “Team Parents” by dedicating a minimum number of hours with their children in order to become more involved in their lives. We will attempt to make a positive influence in the life of a father.

Certified Fatherhood/Male Involement Trainer Since 2001 To set up Workshops/Seminars Call or Email Jerry Porter at: 662-643-6842 or read.newflash@gmail.com

June 2020

The Community News Flash

NEWS FLASH

Kids Zone

When backyard gardens are overflowing with cucumbers, grandma's home-canned pickles are not far behind. But before you take the first bite of that crisp, tangy pickled cucumber, it might be wise to ask, "Is her recipe safe?" No offense to grandma, but it's probably not very safe. Many of the old family favorites use methods that have been deemed unsafe, said Sarah Janicek, who answers food-safety questions for University of Missouri Extension's nutrition education programs. "People are still using really old recipes that are not reliable or safe," she said. For Janicek and other extension nutrition specialists, home canning questions are as much of a summer tradition as

June 2020

The Community News Flash

Saving Summer grandma's pickles. Answers to those questions focus first and foremost on ensuring that home canners know the current recommendations to prevent the possibility of food-borne illnesses and spoilage. Common mistakes include failing to heat pickles in a boiling-water bath, and under-processing tomatoes and other items produced using recipes based on trial and error rather than good food science. Though the U.S. Department of Agriculture -- the definitive source on home food preservation -- completely revamped canning recommendations in 1989, old methods still persist. "Sometimes they (home canners) don't realize the risk they take because up to this point they've managed to escape the most serious consequences, or have not understood why jars came unsealed or spoiled on the

shelf," said Cynthia Fauser, an MU extension nutrition specialist. For years, "cold packing" -treating vegetable-packed jars in a hot-water bath -- was the favored method for green beans and tomatoes, vegetables still popular among home canners. The technique was based on pre-

World War II science when microbiology was still in its infancy, she said. Food scientists now know that water-bath canning is not safe for low-acid foods, which includes vegetables, meats and vegetablemeat combinations, Fauser said. "CI Botulinum goes active when it's canned," she said. "It particularly likes low-acid, airfree environments, as in canning jars with low-acid vegetables. "It's undetected by taste or smell, but one taste can produce potentially deadly stroke-like symptoms," Fauser said. Janicek added, "Low-acid foods need to be pressure canned to kill the botulism spores." REFRIGERATOR PICKLES If you can't find pickling spice, use some (or all) of the ingredients in the pickling spice recipe below to add a boost of flavor to your refrigerator pickles. This recipe also works well for

all types of peppers, just omit the dill weed and dill seeds, and the red pepper flakes. 12 (3 to 4 inch long) pickling cucumbers 2 cups water 1 3/4 cups white vinegar 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh dill weed 3 tablespoons sugar 8 cloves garlic, chopped 2 tablespoons coarse salt 1 tablespoon pickling spice* 1 1/2 teaspoons dill seed 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste 4 sprigs fresh dill weed 1. In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, water, vinegar, dill, sugar, garlic, salt, pickling spice, dill seed and red pepper flakes. Stir, and let stand at room temperature for 2 hours, until the sugar and salt dissolve. 2. Remove the cucumbers to three sterilized, 1 1/2 pint widemouth jars, placing 4 cucumbers

into each jar. Ladle in the liquid from the bowl to cover. Place a sprig of fresh dill into each jar, and seal with lids. Refrigerate for 10 days before eating. Use within 1 month. *Pickling Spice Mix 2 cinnamon sticks, broken 1 tablespoon mustard seeds 2 teaspoons black peppercorns 1 teaspoon whole cloves 1 teaspoon whole allspice 1 teaspoon juniper berries 1 teaspoon crumbled whole mace 1 teaspoon dill seeds 4 dried bay leaves 1 small piece dried ginger Mix together all ingredients. Store in a small, airtight jar up to 2 months. Makes about 1/4 cup.

June 2020

The Community News Flash

By Samantha Weaver

• Use a mesh bag to hold flowers in place in a vase. Just roll or wad it up and put it down in the bottom of the vase. When you’re done with the flowers, you can use a stick to swish the bag around and loosen any gunk inside the vase when cleaning. Launder the mesh or just toss it. • When freezing leftovers, especially soup or stew, consider using zipper-closing bags. They can be filled and frozen flat, then stacked nicely. They take up much less room than standard containers. • “To make a waterproof mattress protector in a pinch, slit a large garbage bag down the side and bottom, lay it flat over the mattress and cover with a beach towel. Then put the sheet over that. The garbage bag protects the mattress; the towel makes it comfortable.” — U.D. in Tennessee • “Keep extra liner bags in the bottom of the garbage can. They are handy, so you’ll be more likely to reline the can as soon as you take the garbage out.” — K.P. in Massachusetts • Keep a box of baking soda in the fridge to absorb odors. When it’s time to replace it, dump it down the drain and follow with a small bottle of vinegar and a hot water flush. Keep your kitchen smelling nice and use fewer chemicals to do it. • “Here’s a fun invitation to make and receive: Blow up a balloon and pinch (don’t tie). Write the details of the party on the balloon in permanent marker. Let it dry fully before you deflate it. Then send it!” — R.A. in Washington

• It was 20th-century Belgian writer and philosopher Raoul Vaneigem who made the following sage observation: “There are more truths in 24 hours of a man’s life than in all the philosophies.” • The next time you’re annoyed by a bad case of the hiccups, consider poor Charles Osborne. In 1922, when he was 28 years old, Mr. Osborne got the hiccups. For the next 68 years, he continued to hiccup, finally stopping in 1990, one year before his death at the age of 97. • Those who study such things claim that an average bank robber in the United States nets about $4,000 for every heist. No info at hand on how the researches acquired their data. • If you’re planning a trip to the United Kingdom in the near future, you might want to be sure Windsor Castle, located in the county of Berkshire, is on your itinerary. Built in the 11th century, it is both the longest-occupied palace in Europe and, with more than 500 people living and working there, the world’s largest inhabited castle. As a bonus, through April of 2012 you’ll be able to view a special exhibit on royal cakes. Yes, cakes. Amazingly, included in the exhibit are two pieces of cake from the wedding of Queen Victoria to Prince Albert, which took place on February 10, 1840. • Stephen Spielberg, who has earned two Academy Awards for Best Director, and three of whose films have set box-office records, was rejected — twice — when he applied to the film program of the University of Southern California. ***

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June 2020

The Community News Flash

As You Age, Keep Nutrition Top of Mind (StatePoint) Getting proper nutrition can be challenging for everyone, but especially as we age for a variety of reasons, including changing tastes, physical or dental conditions, and lack of access to healthy foods. “It’s critical that people of all ages get proper nutrition, but especially seniors, and particularly now with the spread of COVID-19 in the United States,” says Dr. Gina Conflitti, chief medical officer with Cigna’s Medicare Advantage business, which offers Medicare plans in 18 states and the District of Columbia. “Good nutrition helps older adults stay active and vital, and can help them stave off or better manage chronic conditions.” Cigna provides the following nutrition tips: • Make healthy choices. Add plenty of fruits and vegetables to your plate for colorful, nutrient-rich, fiberfilled meals. Add flavor with spices and herbs instead of salt. Stay hydrated with plenty of water. Even light exercise can stimulate appetite and strengthen bones and muscles. • Consult your doctor. If your appetite is changing or you’re losing weight, talk to your primary care physician. There could be an underlying reason for these changes. For instance, your medication might be affecting your appetite. Or maybe you’re dealing with depression. Your doctor can work with you to identify possible causes. • Adapt to changing tastes. There are a number of ways to change your eating habits to improve your nutrition, from eating more frequent, smaller meals to trying

new foods and cooking styles. For tips on preparing healthy meals, visit ChooseMyPlate.gov. • See a dentist. A dentist may be able to address any dental problems impacting your ability to enjoy food. If you have a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan, you may have access to dental benefits at no extra cost. Check your plan for details. • Explore options. If mobility is an issue, look for local organizations offering transportation or meal delivery to older adults. If you have an MA plan, you may have access to home-delivered meals following a hospitalization. One-third of hospital patients are malnourished at admission and poor nutrition increases their risk of having to return to the hospital after being released. Good nutrition helps patients regain their strength and energy faster for better recoveries. Check your plan for details. • Get help. Some older adults with limited resources may qualify for assistance with food purchases through programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Many older adults qualify for this program and don’t know it. One way to verify eligibility is to visit Cigna.BenefitsCheckup.org and enter your information under the “Food & Nutrition” section. If you aren’t eligible for this type of assistance, you can still find ways to save on food bills, including asking for senior discounts, using coupons, having a store discount card and buying store brands. These are just a few resources. Every individual has unique needs. Cigna encourages you to talk with your physician for additional information about your personal nutrition requirements. For videos about senior nutrition and some warning signs of malnutrition, visit wnpt.org/agingmatters/nutrition-aging.

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TONY GEER

Cherry Pork Chops

Macho Burritos The name says it all — meaty and spicy, hearty and hot as you like it. Real he-man food! 8 ounces ground extra-lean sirloin or turkey breast 1/2 cup chopped onion 2 teaspoons chili seasoning 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce 4 (6-inch) flour tortillas 1/2 cup chunky salsa (mild, medium or hot) 1 (8-ounce) can tomatoes, finely chopped and undrained 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes 1/3 cup shredded reduced-fat Cheddar cheese 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. In a large skillet sprayed with olive oilflavored cooking spray, brown meat and onion. Add chili seasoning and tomato sauce. Bring mixture to boil. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes. 2. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of the mixture on each tortilla. Roll up tortillas and place on a cookie sheet, seam side down. Lightly spray tops with olive oil-flavored cooking spray. 3. In a medium bowl, combine salsa, undrained tomatoes and parsley flakes. Evenly spoon mixture over tortillas. Bake 10 minutes. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons Cheddar cheese over top of each. Continue baking for 3 minutes or until cheese starts to melt. Serves 4. • Each serving equals: 232 calories, 8g fat, 17g protein, 23g carb., 944mg sodium, 2g fiber; Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Meat, 1 Vegetable, 1 Starch.

Boneless pork loin chops cook quickly, and since they have no bones, it’s easy to cut off all the excess fat. Fruit always goes nicely with pork — and here we used some of the season’s early cherries to make our special sauce. 3/4 pound green beans Salad oil Salt 1/2 pound dark sweet cherries 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves 4 (about 4 ounces each) 1-inch-thick boneless pork loin chops 1/4 cup cherry-juice cocktail, or cranberry-raspberry juice 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon red-wine vinegar 1 teaspoon cornstarch 1/2 teaspoon beef-flavor instant bouillon 1. Trim ends from green beans. In 3-quart saucepan over high heat, in 1 tablespoon very hot salad oil, cook green beans and 1/2 teaspoon salt until green beans begin to brown, stirring frequently. Add 1/2 cup water and heat to boiling. Reduce heat to low; cook, covered, until beans are tender, about 3 minutes. Drain; remove green beans to warm large platter; keep warm. 2. Meanwhile, remove pits from cherries; cut each cherry in half. In cup, combine pepper, thyme and 1 teaspoon salt; rub pork loin chops with herb mixture. 3. In nonstick 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, in 1 tablespoon hot salad oil, cook pork chops 10 minutes or until still slightly pink in the center but juices run clear when pierced with a knife, turning chops once halfway through. Remove to platter with green beans. 4. In measuring cup, combine cherry juice, brown sugar, vinegar, cornstarch, bouillon and 1/4 cup water. Add cherry-juice mixture and cherries to drippings in skillet; over high heat, heat to boiling. Reduce heat to low; simmer 3 minutes to blend flavors. Serve sauce over pork. Serves 4. • Each serving: About 455 calories, 32g total fat, 79mg cholesterol, 975mg sodium. For thousands of triple-tested recipes, visit our website at www.goodhousekeeping.com/recipefinder/.

June 2020

The Community News Flash

FAMILY LIVING

Learning at Home: 5 Tips for Managing Screen Time While Teaching Children Financial Literacy Kids Are Home From School (StatePoint) If you have school-age children, you are probably one of the many parents facing the challenge of educating your kids at home. While there are countless learning options available— from virtual music classes to videos about zoo animals—financial literacy is one important subject that should not be overlooked. Teaching your children financial literacy gives them the knowledge, skills and motivation to responsibly manage their money and achieve their future goals. Learning fundamental financial concepts is not always easy, so experts recommend that you start with the basics. Here are a few ideas to get you started: • Explain that there are three things you can do with money: spend it, save it or give it away. To illustrate the point and introduce them to budgeting, have your child divide up money they receive from gifts or an allowance. Have them pay themselves first by putting a certain amount into savings. Then teach them the importance of giving by having them donate a portion of their funds to a charity of their choosing. Allow them to spend the rest. • Help them distinguish between needs and wants. With older children, you can do this by giving them shopping practice. You could give them a list of things they need, like new clothes, and a budget to shop for these items online. They will have to decide how best to use

their limited resources. Should they buy the designer jeans they really want or a lower-priced option that lets them get everything on their list? With younger children, you might instead have them compare the costs of preparing meals at home (food being a need) to ordering from a restaurant (a want). • Give them firsthand experience with saving money. Many banks let you open savings accounts online. Set one up in your child’s name and have them monitor it. By the time they become teenagers, the benefit of saving regularly will be apparent because they will have some money to spend on clothes, food and experiences with friends— and still save for college. • Involve them in creating a financial mission statement for your family. Ask them what they think is important: Is it planning for a future vacation, saving for college or other goals? Having an open conversation with your

children encourages them to think about the meaning of money, the challenge of earning it and the importance of saving for what they truly value. • Underscore the importance of giving. Explaining to children that other people have less than they do and teaching them to give and volunteer helps develop financial discipline as well as empathy toward others. This will help them stay focused on what is truly important, which can have a profound impact on their finances and every other aspect of their lives. For more tips like these, visit letsmakeaplan.org. Your Certified Financial Planner professional can also suggest educational resources for teaching your children financial literacy. To make the most of your time with your children while they are at home, reinforce the practical life skill of good money management.

(StatePoint) With many kids out of school and spending more time at home, finding ways to fill the time is essential. As most parents know, it can be tempting to allow children to pass some of the extra hours using digital devices, however, research shows that managing screen time is vital for developing minds. When used in moderation and under parental supervision, devices of course can be incredibly powerful learning and communication tools, and in many cases, they will be vital to kids’ continued academic progress while campuses are closed. However, people aren’t meant to spend all their time in front of screens, especially kids. Excessive screen time can lead to: • Impaired mental and physical well-being. • A loss of quality sleep. • Impeded impulse control -- for kids,

impulse control is already hard enough! • Poor communication skills (nonverbal cues are learned in face-to-face interaction, not through device-to-device communication). • Addictive behaviors, and even violent tendencies. • Vision problems. • An increased risk of obesity. With all that said, here are a few ways to manage your children’s screen time: • Create a routine. Post a schedule each morning in a place that’s easy for kids to see. Include such items as doing chores, reading books, practicing an instrument, creating artwork, playing in the backyard and any other activity that will help ensure chunks of the day are spent away from screens doing something productive. • Talk. Be extra proactive about starting conver-

sations with your kids. Check in with them about progress on assigned homework. Ask them how they are feeling. Children are used to being surrounded by fellow students and teachers all day, so be sure to give them opportunities to practice social skills. • Use tech tools. Every parent knows the struggle of limiting device use. But new tech tools can help you make rules that stick. One such tool is a parental control app called OurPact. To start, parents sign up for a free account. After pairing their child’s devices, they’re able to manage them remotely through ata-touch blocking or automated schedules. Customizable, flexible and easy to use, it’s great for setting bedtime schedules, ensuring devices are being used safely and properly, and enjoying ping-free family meals. It works on Wi-Fi and all cellular connections, meaning you can manage access all the time. To learn more or download, visit OurPact.com. You may be spending more time together as a family these days, which makes this a key opportunity to be a good role model when it comes to proper device use. For example, if you don’t want your child to use their device in the middle of dinner, hold yourself to the same rule.

June 2020

The Community News Flash

HEALTH

How to Stay Healthy While Social Distancing

(StatePoint) COVID19 has the public rethinking how they stay healthy -- both physically and mentally. Even those in good health can start to feel anxious and fearful when the words ‘pandemic’ and ‘social distancing’ are mentioned. But can you stay active and mentally healthy while social distancing? The answer is a resounding yes. While routines have changed, it’s critical that people keep exercising and eating nutritious meals, since the body is often able to better fight off illnesses when it’s healthy and strong. Taking these steps helps fight off stress, which most people are experiencing right now in one way or another. Here is some advice from Cigna chief nursing officer, Mary Picerno to help stay healthy, both physically and mentally, during this time. • Get Outside: While it’s important to limit

physical interactions, getting outside for a run, walk or bicycle ride is a great way to boost endorphins and enjoy fresh air. Just make sure to maintain six feet between yourself and others. If weather or other reasons limit your ability to go outside, many companies and gyms are offering free online exercises right now. Endorphins have been found to reduce stress, increase feelings of happiness and help fight against depression. • Get Proper Nutrition: Add fruits and vegetables to your plate for colorful, nutrient-rich meals. Vegetables also are a good source of fiber. Eating well will help you feel better and give you energy to keep moving. Now is a great time to try that new recipe or food subscription box! • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help prevent dehydration. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,

dehydration can cause unclear thinking and mood swings. Not sure how much to drink? Many medical professionals suggest following the 8x8 rule, eight ounces of water eight times a day. • Stay Connected: Just because you can’t be with friends and family in person doesn’t mean you can’t stay in touch. Set up time to connect with video chats, phone calls and emails. Staying connected doesn’t have to be high-tech. Have kids or just a kid at heart? Write encouraging messages on your driveway or in your windows for your neighbors, and postal and delivery workers. • Know Your Options: One of the best ways to prepare is knowing what to do if you start to show symptoms. Cigna and many other health insurers are now waiving the costs of doctor visits related to a COVID-19 diagnosis as well as the cost of COVID-19 FDAapproved testing. To minimize your exposure, call or email your doctor or a local health system about a telehealth visit to be screened for COVID-19. The provider will then identify what steps you should take next. • Get Support: Talking through concerns and fears can help put them in perspective and make you feel calmer. You may want to reach out for professional support if you’re struggling. Cigna offers many resources and tools, including a 24-