Issuu

ROJAS....PG 8

Vol 21, No. 11 • March 2022

FARRAR.......PG 9

News You Can Use

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The Therapeutic Corner Welcome to the Therapeutic Corner! We want to share information, awareness, tips, and techniques you can apply to increase your overall mental wellbeing. Mental Health is a broad field with different professions. In honor of Social Work Appreciation Month, let's introduce the writer who is currently a licensed social worker. Fleming is a native of Corinth, but currently resides in Columbus. She is a graduate of Corinth High School and served as the CHS class 2011 president. A proud wife and mother, Fleming confidently walks the line of faith and mental health, becoming a voice for the hurting. Being a therapist in the mental health field, her passion is to not only educate individuals about emotional well-being, but also to see people live a life of freedom while on their healing journey. She has worked in the field of social work for six years, specializing in families, mental health, and addiction. She graduated with a master's degree in clinical social work from the University of Mississippi in 2018 and later received her certification as a Licensed Master Social Work. She has worked specifically in the mental health field as a therapist for three plus years. Fleming was an addiction therapist for one and a half years and currently works as a staff counselor for the Mississippi State University Student Counseling Services. Why is mental health so important? I am so glad you asked. In life, we get several things routinely checked and assessed. As you age, you are encouraged to get an annual physical checkup to assure your physical health is intact. We are encouraged to get our car's oil changed when it reaches a certain date or mileage. When a baby is born, it must get regular checkups to receive vaccination shots to promote healthy and consistent growth. If we are encouraged to get these various things checked, why not get mental health checked? Return Address: P.O. Box 1292 Corinth, MS 38835

POSTAL PATRON Nakesha Fleming

In the past two years, the pandemic triggered emotional and psychological distress. When the world shut down, many struggled to process the rising COVID-19 cases and the uncertainty of a government that sought to find and provide answers to this deadly disease, feeling lost and without control. During these past years of traumatic change, domestic violence, substance use, and suicide attempts have increased. Before the pandemic, individuals were able to use the busyness of work, school, family, and even church to ignore emotional or psychological distress. There are several life challenges that can cause mental distress. It can be the loss of a loved one, loss of a job, loss of normalcy, trauma, life transitions (positive and negative ones), and physical health that can bring disruptions to your mental health. I want to give you a tool to use to check in with yourself. You can even use this to check in with a loved one. First, let me explain that mental health is not just an absence of a mental illness. Mental health is a continuum, ranging from excellent mental health to severe symptoms that include panic attacks or depressive episodes. There is a model called the mental health continuum that gives five zones of one's mental state. Look below at the model to see where you are today.

So, how are you doing? Are you thriving or are you surviving? What is causing you to be in this zone? Is it job stress, family stress, or other life stressors? Oftentimes, the check engine light is on, and we do not even notice. Other times we forget or ignore it. Now is the time to get realigned so you can excel. If you find yourself in a crisis, please do not be afraid to seek the help and support of a professional, friend, family member, or other supportive person. Remember help is here. see THERAPEUTIC....pg 4

March 2022

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

Have you ever had someone tell you that you need to “get the skeletons out of your closet?” The old metaphor rings true, but also needs to be applied to the person who is using it on you. In the gospel of Matthew 7:35, the Bible warns against judging someone who has a “mote” in his eye, when you have a “beam” in your own eye. Likewise, in the gospel of John, there’s a story of the woman taken in the act of adultery, and destined to be stoned to death, but whose accusers were moved by Jesus when he said, “He who is here without sin, cast the first stone.” Well, according to some spiritual closets that I’ve seen; we could all stand to do a little more decluttering and tidying up of our spiritual closets. For the people who live in glass houses, I think that they should put down their rocks. When you think about it, we should do a little decluttering on a more frequent basis to keep our

Cleaning out the Closets

spiritual lives healthy, to make for a less arduous task. On a regular basis we need to look at our spiritual inventory and consider if it helps us come closer to Jesus. Take the time to evaluate, prioritize, and reorganize as God leads. Remember that too much clutter in your clothes closet can be stressful and too much stuff in your spiritual closet and be weighty as well. We can build up too much spiritual clutter until there’s no place left for God. Don’t forget that hoarding old, sinful habits keeps us from growing in our faith. We weren’t made to live in the guilt and frustration of sin! Decluttering means less space for negative thoughts (that pesky emotional baggage) and behaviors (sin.) You can focus on your unique God-given image, talents, and strengths as He leads. God wants us to live contented and satisfying lives! Of course, once you have decluttered your spiritual life, it may be a challenge to keep it that way. This is not a one-and-done proposition. Likewise, decluttering your spiritual life has some awesome benefits as well. When you let go of the overwhelming schedule, you create order in your life. That can release stress and anxiety. When your “to-do” list is concise and achievable, you can see the purpose God has planned for you with greater clarity. Decluttering helps you manage your time and resources so that you can enjoy the true treasures of living your life centered in Jesus. It replaces the overwhelming calendar with peace and rest. When you clean out the unforgiveness, the impatience, the anx-

iety, and worry, etc., you are not only more available to His plans, but you are strengthened by His

peace. When we declutter our spiritual life, we can focus fully on Him. Decluttering frees up space for the One who longs to hear from you and desires a deep, loving relationship with you. There’s a popular song by the Williams Brothers called “Sweep Around Your Own Front Door” that reminds us of the five spiritual “brooms” that can be used to help you in your closet process. Though this process can be a little tiresome – it’s well worth the effort when you seek the Lord for guidance in this mundane task. Here are some steps to help you get going and a good place to start is in your heart: 1. Start by praying and asking the Lord to show you what you need to get rid of and what to keep. David did that in Psalm 51:10. 2. Next, unpack your junk. Bring all your spiritual mess and go through it, piece by piece. Ask

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.

cause you to stumble, and too much junk left untethered, will get in the way of your spiritual walk. Don’t be like that person in the commercial that said, “I’ve fallen, and I can’t get up.” Don’t blame anybody when you fall just because you forgot to clean up some junk that fell out of the closet. Don’t you love how your spaces look after decluttering? While the process may take some time and hard work, I appreciate being able to find what I want. I feel less stressed and more organized. I find I have more time for what's important in life. Whoo! Whoo! Until Next Time! All Aboard!

the Lord to reveal the items that draw you closer to Him. If the items don’t draw you closer, then they drag you down. 3. The next thing that you should do is release, submit and surrender to the will of God. Stop hanging onto emotions, hurts, and bad and morbid memories. Don’t forget what was behind you, learn from it, and keep on pressing to the mark of the high calling. 4. Next, you should keep the things that bring value to your life. Carve out time in your busy schedule to spend some quiet time with the Lord and let Him direct your path. He’ll lead you and order your steps if you let Him. 5. Finally, open your ears to listen to the voice of God. A child’s toy left on the floor will

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Notable Quote “Out of clutter, find simplicity. From discord, find harmony. In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” - Albert Einstein

March 2022

MARCH BIBLE TRIVIA

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The Community News Flash

1. What runaway servant was the main subject of one of Paul’s epistles? 2. Who sent two of his servants to fetch Peter from Joppa? 3. To whose servant did Peter deny any knowledge of Jesus? 4. Who, with 318 of his servants, defeated the captors of Sodom and Gomorrah? 5. Who was Elisha’s servant? 6. What Egyptian official had Joseph as a servant? 7. Who was permanently crippled because a servant women dropped him as a boy? 8. Who cut off his ear of Malchus, the high priest’s servant? 9. Who had a servant girl who advised him tot got to Elisha to be cured of leprosy? 10. What servant women was the mother of Ishmael? 11. Whom did Abraham’s eldest servant find a wife for? 12. Where did Jesus heal a centurion’s servant? 13. Who was a servant to the Persian king Artaxexes? 14. What two servants of Pharaoh were in prison with Joseph? 15. Who was Laban’s servant for many years? 16. Whose servant woman took Moses from the river? 17. What judge’s servant killed him at his own request? 18. What two servant women bore children to Jacob? 19. Who made the Israelites into slaves? 20. In what parable are the servants of a landowner beaten up?

February Answers 1. Og, king of Bashan ( Deuteronomy 3:11) 2. Ahab (1 Kings 21:4) 3. The church of Thyatira (Revelations 2:22) 4. Peter’s (Mark 1:30) 5. Ishbosheth, son of Saul (2 Samuel 4:7) 6. Jacob (Genesis 47-49) 7. The Song of Solomon (1:16) 8. Amos (6:4) 9. Aeneas (Acts 9:33-34) 10. That the son of man had to forgive sins (Matthew 9:1-8) 11. The marriage bed (Hebrews 13:4) 12. Amnon (2 Samuel 13:5) 13. Joash (2 Chronicles 24:25) 14. Elijah ( 1 Kings 17:19) 15. Michal, wife of David (1 Samuel 19:11-17) 16. Potiphar’s wife (Genesis 39:7) 17. Ahaziah (2 Kings 1:4) 18. The rich women of Shunem

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

(2 Kings 4:10)

March 2022

The Community News Flash

Why Experts Say We Must Broaden Our Definition of Health

(StatePoint) Many Americans view health as a product of the medical care they receive. However, public health experts say that’s just one piece of the puzzle. “In reality, our health is shaped more by the zip code we live in than the doctor we see. In fact, where we live, our financial circumstances, our access to affordable, nutritious foods, and other non-medical factors overwhelmingly influence our physical and mental health,” says Dr. Shantanu Agrawal, chief health officer,

THERAPEUTIC.... from page 1 Please continue to use this model to check in with yourself and loved ones. It really is that simple. The longer you wait to respond to the check engine light the longer the problem can accumulate. Also, remember if you know of a loved one who expressed any thoughts of hopelessness and despair, please use the resource below. You are not alone. Help is waiting for you. Take care and stay well ... Holistically!

Anthem, Inc. These factors that Dr. Agrawal refers to are known as “social drivers of health” (SDoH), and they determine up to 80% of our health outcomes, according to Robert Wood Johnson Foundation research. As part of “What’s Driving Our Health,” Anthem’s campaign to start a national conversation around whole health, the healthcare company recently conducted a study to learn more about Americans’ perceptions of what health really means. Here are some of the study’s top find-

ings: • While 46% of Americans are unaware of the concept of social drivers of health, once given the definition, 60% agree that their local community is facing at least some health issues related to them. • Americans of color are disproportionately affected by the consequences of SDoH. While 58% of white respondents report that their local community is facing at least some health issues related to SDoH, 69% of Hispanic and Latino respondents report the same, as do 68% of Asian respondents and 68% of Black/African American respondents. • Poor nutrition can contribute to a range of chronic health conditions, and 50% of those surveyed say it is hard to find affordable, healthy food in their local community. • Though 70% of Americans live near at least one hospital or medical center, one in five say that lack of transportation has kept them from medical appointments. What’s more, nearly one-third struggle with

access to health services and care. • Internet access not only determines whether one is able to use important health services such as telemedicine, it deeply impacts educational outcomes and access to economic opportunities, including employment. Yet, only 39% of Americans believe it significantly impacts their health. • Some additional factors that can drive health outcomes in the short and long term include access to green spaces, educational opportunities, economic stability and living in a safe community. Where to Start More than 80% of those surveyed believe that healthcare entities, local government, private citizens and employers share responsibility to address the many social drivers of health. While these issues are complex and no one entity can

fully address all the social drivers alone, here is what you can do today: 1. Connect the dots. Visit WhatsDrivingOurHealth.com to read the full report and learn more about whole health and its drivers. 2. Spread the word. Share what you’ve learned about the ways social drivers affect you and your community and follow the conversation on social media using #DrivingOurHealth. 3. Join the conversation. Understanding is the first step in making positive change. Engage with friends, family, and community members about the many ways to address health-related social needs in your community. “The sooner we broaden our definition of health, the sooner we can address the many factors that affect people’s ability to thrive,” says Dr. Agrawal.

March 2022

Happiness Cycles We could have told them, if they’d asked: We’re happier now than we were a decade or two ago. There is a new study out about happiness cycles throughout life. Scientists have done tests all around the world (80 different countries) and have come to a conclusion: We’re fairly happy when we’re young, but middle age takes a toll and our happiness levels fall, sometimes to the point of actual depression. Once we become seniors, the happiness levels rise again. They call it the U-Shaped Cycle. Researchers pinpointed the late 30s for women as the most likely time for depression and low happiness levels, and the early 50s for men — then we spring back by the time we’re 70. They concluded that middle-age depression wasn’t related to having young children, income or job changes, or even divorce. The research paper is loaded with technical jargon, but once you wade through it one thing is clear: The researchers couldn’t come to a conclusion about what really causes the rise in happiness levels once we become seniors. So they came up with three possibilities: 1) Cheerful people live longer. 2) Friends die and we start to count our blessings. 3) We adapt to our strengths and weaknesses and in midlife give up our “infeasible aspirations.” (Translation: We give up our impossible dreams.) That last one is irritating because scientists were grabbing guesses out of the air, not having any real answers. To explain the low happiness levels, think about what happens in middle age: We had a child in college, or maybe two children. We had a mortgage. We had parents to care for. I think it’s fairly clear why we become happier as seniors: We don’t have as many responsibilities — and we have the time, finally, to go after our “infeasible aspirations.” 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

How to Choose Heartburn Medicine DEAR DR. DONOHUE: Please explain the difference between Protonix and the other medications available for GERD. I have been on Protonix for nine months, and no one is able to give me a clear definition. — E.S. ANSWER: Heartburn, acid reflux, hiatal hernia and gastroesophageal reflux disease are different names for the same condition — the upward spurting of stomach acid and digestive juices into the esophagus, the long muscular tube that stretches from the throat to the stomach and through which food travels to arrive in the stomach. The medicines that are the most powerful in suppressing acid production, and therefore in quieting heartburn symptoms, are proton pump inhibitors. “Proton” is another word for “acid.” There are five of them: Prevacid, Prilosec, Nexium, Aciphex and your Protonix. They work in a similar fashion. Each has its own slightly different profile and its own slightly different set of side effects. Which is best? The best one for you is the one that stops your heartburn, causes you the fewest side effects and costs the least. There are many other GERD medicines — simple antacids like Maalox, for example. Tagamet, Zantac, Axid and Pepcid cut acid production in different ways from the proton pump inhibitors. If they work for a person, then he or she should stick with one of them. Raising the head of the bed with 6inch blocks under the bedposts or lying on the left side while asleep keeps stomach acid in the stomach and can put an end to some people’s heart-

burn without resorting to medicine. Staying away from caffeine, citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes and tomato products, chocolate, peppermint, onions and fatty or fried foods is another approach to minimizing heartburn symptoms. The booklet on GERD (heartburn and hiatal hernia) explores this topic in full. Readers can order a copy by writing: Dr. Donohue — No. 501W, 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: A psychiatrist recently diagnosed my 20year-old granddaughter with dysthymia. Can you explain what it is? — B.L. ANSWER: Dysthymia is sadness that lingers for no good reason. It’s not quite the depths of dejection that qualifies as a major depression, but it is a state of a down mood that affects a person’s life and work. Dysthymic people have little energy, have poor appetites, are unable to sleep or sleep excessively and are consumed with pessimism. With direction from a mental health professional and perhaps with medicines to right any imbalance of brain chemistry, most dysthymics can obtain relief. *** DEAR DR. DONOHUE: I am 67 and have high blood pressure, high cholesterol and arthritic knees. Walking was my favorite exercise, but knee pain now prevents that. What exercise would be best for my knees? — R.C. ANSWER: Swimming would be the ideal exercise. Even if you don’t know how, 67 is not too old to learn. You also could do water aerobics — exercising in the water. Water provides buoyancy that protects your knees. *** 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 328536475. © 2008 North America Synd., Inc. All Rights Reserved

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March 2022

The Community News Flash

MONEY

Know Your Options if Your Home Loan Payment Suspension is Ending (StatePoint) Is the COVID-19-related payment suspension (also known as a forbearance) on your home loan ending? Ready to resume making mortgage payments? Understanding your options and being proactive can help ensure a smooth process, say experts. “Loan servicers are currently reaching out to customers through emails, letters and calls to help them with exiting forbearance. Responding to this outreach promptly is crucial,” says Rulon Washington of Wells Fargo, who’s worked with nonprofits throughout the pandemic to educate homeowners on what they’ll need to do as their forbearance plans come to an end. Below, Washington answers common questions homeowners have when exiting their forbearance: Can I move missed payments to the end of the loan term? In most cases, if you were current on your mortgage or home equity payments when the suspension started and are ready to resume your regular monthly payments, you may be able to move missed payments to the end of the existing loan term. This additional balance won’t accrue interest and will be due when the loan is paid in full, refinanced, or when the home is sold. What other options are available? You may have the option to pay off missed payments in full or follow a repayment plan, which divides what’s due into manageable amounts, and adds it to the regular monthly payment. What if I need help with a lower monthly payment? If you need a reduced payment, you may qualify for a loan modification. Wells Fargo and several investors provide streamlined, no-document modification review processes in many cases. What if I can’t afford reduced payments and need to sell? Your loan servicer can work with you as you attempt to sell your home, and in many cases, enable you to take advantage of the strong increases in U.S. home prices. Who controls how my loan is handled? Many loans are insured, guaranteed or owned by third-party “investors” who set the rules for how loans are managed. Investors include government-sponsored enterprises, like Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, government agencies, such as FHA, VA or USDA, banks and private companies. While many investors offer similar programs to help homeowners coming to the end of a payment suspension, exact programs may vary. Will my home be foreclosed if I stay in forbearance or can’t resume payments? Servicers will not move to foreclosure or eviction on anyone who remains in an active, approved payment suspension plan. In the case of Wells Fargo-owned loans, all foreclosure-related activity and evictions have stopped on occupied properties through the end of

2021, except in very specific cases. For loans Wells Fargo services for other investors, we follow the investor’s requirements for customers as they exit payment suspensions. “We’ll make every effort to reach out to customers to discuss deferral of missed payments, modifications and other available programs before advancing or initiating foreclosure,” says Washington. What if I’m exiting a COVID-related forbearance but have been impacted by a natural disaster? Contact your loan servicer for options during this difficult time. Other Resources No-cost housing counseling agencies approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development can help assess your situation, navigate available programs and even work with your servicer on your behalf. To find an approved agency, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-569-4287 or visit www.hud.gov/counseling. Additionally, states, U.S. territories and Native American tribes are being granted federal funds designated for helping qualified homeowners address payments missed during a suspension and with payments going forward. Check with the appropriate housing finance agencies or contact a housing counseling agency for information about when these funds may be available and to determine if you might qualify for assistance. Finally, Wells Fargo mortgage and home equity customers can find additional information at wellsfargo.com/repaymentdetails or can call 800-219-9739 to speak to someone who can help review their circumstances. “If your payment suspension is ending, help is available. Be sure to contact your mortgage servicer for next steps,” says Washington.

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March 2022

The Community News Flash

5 Ways to Spring Clean Your Routine (StatePoint) Falling short of your goals? In a period of stagnation? It may be time to spring clean your routine. Here are a few tips and ideas for getting more done with greater ease. 1. Spruce up your settings: Do you find some of the push notifications on your phone distracting? Give yourself the gift of fewer beeps and buzzes by spending just a few minutes reviewing and changing the notification settings of your apps. 2. Squeeze in self-care: Taking regular breaks from your work is essential. Not only are these interludes good for your mind and body, they can actually help you be more creative and productive. However, if you’re someone who loses track of time easily when you’re concentrating, you may need a tool to remind you to step away from your workstation. That’s where a watch like those in the G-Shock lineup can be of assistance. Equipped with multifunction alarms, a step tracker and a heart rate monitor, you may just be motivated to use your break to take a brisk walk. 3. Reduce mealtime stress: If weeknight dinners are rushed and chaotic but you

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meals. The good news is that many such services have ever-changing menus, as well as flexible options for those who are on special diets. These kits can also be a good way for kitchen novices to master

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basic culinary skills before embarking on more complicated efforts. 4. Stay focused: Everyone is overscheduled these days. Having tech tools handy that keep you task-oriented can help ensure you never miss an important meeting or appointment. Those who embrace classic styles should consider Casio Edifice watches. Particularly suitable for those who frequently travel or work with others in different time zones, the watch displays the time of cities all around the world. And because the watches are water-resistant and in many cases, solar-powered, it’s a timepiece you can rely on. 5. Write it down: On the first of each month, take a few moments to jot down any goals you have for the month ahead, as well as any habits you want to start or stop. Take time to note how you are planning to fulfill your objectives. At the end of the month, review what worked and what didn’t. Getting out of a rut can be as simple as making a few tweaks to your routine. Lean on tools and strategies designed to help.

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March 2022

The Community News Flash

When Makeup Becomes Art her friends and family. By Angela Rogalski "I've had people reach out to me, such Veronica Rojas is an artist as a couple of churches during the that loves what she does; she month of October. They can capture beauty and charm asked me if I was availwith makeup. Special effects able to face-paint during is definitely her forte. Rojas festivals that they were hails from Southern hosting," she said. "But I California, but moved to turned them down because Corinth to be with her I really don't like doing it brother and friends and for other people right loves it. She works in retail now. I like doing it for right now, but does have my close friends if they ambitions to one day satisfy have a graduation or a her passion for creating prom, or any event art with makeup. where they need "My day job is at their makeup Good Will in done special." Corinth," Rojas said. Rojas "But my side hobby added that is doing all kinds of she does makeup. I first have started getting into future makeup when I goals was seven-yearsof one old. My mom day always bought me opening up the little kid's her own shop where she makeup kits and does makeup and masI loved experisage therapy. menting with "I'm also a massage them. And therapist, so I want to go when the to cosmetology school pandemic and open my own salon first began Veronica Rojas someday where I comand I was stuck at bine cosmetology and home, I really massage therapy. That way I can provide started working at different approaches. full-service hair, makeup and massage." I'm entirely self-taught and I do everything: special effects, such as working with latex to create wounds, I do face-painting, full-Glam makeup; just most anything with makeup. My favorite thing to create is horror special effects. I'm really good at the gory stuff," she laughed. Rojas said that she really doesn't do makeup for the public right now, but has done it for

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March 2022

The Community News Flash

Creating Uniqueness - Blake Farrar Designs His Own Style Truck & Camper

Black Farrar

By Angela Rogalski An architect, Blake Farrar lives in Guys, Tenn. and loves designing and building things, from big commercial buildings to houses. While in college, Farrar restored a 1966 GMC pickup, then decided to place it on the chassis of a 2001 Tahoe. And while this may sound unique in the world of vehicles, it gets even better. "This was a project that I built

from the ground up while I was in college," Farrar said. "I designed it totally from my imagination. I would come home in the summer and work on it and then go back to school in the fall. I restored a 1966 GMC pickup, then put that on top of a 2001 Tahoe chassis, so everything is new underneath it. I can hit the highway and daily drive it. But I left the exterior very rustic, so it's definitely different." Farrar said that since then, he and his wife have really gotten into camping, so he decided to

build a small teardrop camper to add to his truck creation. "I built the camper from a fivebay utility trailer," he said. "I made it look like a cabin by using fence boards from my childhood home, they're old cedar boards that are probably 25 years old. I used those to side my camper with. I modeled it after a 1950s style camper, so it has a retro look. It actually looks great. Everything is rustic and the patina is super nice. Whenever I go down the road everyone notices it for sure."

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Farrar said that not only are people fascinated by the outside, they love to look at the inside too. "It has running water and electricity," he added. "And my wife and I love to use it when we go camping." Farrar explained that he grew up around vehicles, thanks to his dad, so deciding to build his unique truck and his one-of-a-kind camper seemed natural to him. "It took me a while to build both since I only worked on them part-time, but I'm looking into possibly trying to build this style

camper for the public," he said. "I have a game plan and a shop where I can build them. Now that I've built one for myself, I think I can realistically build one, using a template, every couple of months." Farrar said at first he built his truck for car shows, since at that time that's what he was really into and where he got many ideas. "But my wife and I ended up loving the camper so much that after we took it a few places, now she never stops asking when we're going camping," he laughed.

The Community News Flash

How Support Systems Are Failing Millions of American Children

Illustration by Ash Trowel/Burness

(StatePoint) At a time when the economic impacts of COVID-19 are making it hard for many families to afford healthy food and safe housing, and ever-changing work and school schedules are making their logistics hard to juggle, a new report finds that inequities in the system are further exacerbating these issues for millions of American children. The report from Generations United, a nonprofit that strengthens practices and policies to benefit all generations, finds that 2.6 million American children are living in “grandfamilies.” While grandfamilies -- homes where children are raised by relatives or close family friends -have more stability, higher levels of permanency and greater safety than traditional foster care, it’s much harder for these children and caregivers to access basic services and support in areas such as housing, education, and health care due to bureaucratic barriers. For example, if a grandfamily caregiver doesn’t have a legal relationship to a child, something as simple as enrolling the child in

school or taking them to the doctor can be difficult or impossible; and in some states, caregivers not related by blood or marriage can’t apply on a child’s behalf for benefits such as Medicaid or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Often formed out of trauma, including parental death, incarceration and deportation, grandfamilies come from all geographic locations, socio-economic levels, races and ethnicities. However, Black, American Indian, and Alaska Native children are the most likely to be in grandfamilies, and therefore, are the most likely to be impacted by these inequities. “When children can’t remain with their parents, they do best with people who know and love them,” says Donna Butts, executive director of Generations United. “However, we cannot ask grandparents and other relatives to take on the responsibility of raising children without helping them meet children’s basic needs in return. We must do more to ensure grandfamilies have access to the basic

support they need to help the children they raise thrive.” Butts says that there are many ways that policymakers and decision-makers can support grandfamilies, including: • Supporting quality kinship navigator programs, which offer information, referral and follow-up services to grandparents and other relatives raising children, linking them to essential benefits and services. • Promoting financial equity for grandfamilies by creating a kinship caregiver tax credit, improving access to foster-care maintenance payments and TANF. (Families within the foster care system can receive, on average, $511 per month in financial assistance for one child, compared with an average of just $249 for those outside the system.) • Changing workplace policies to recognize the needs of grandfamily caregivers and improving their access to respite care, child care, and counseling. For more report findings, visit gu.org. To learn more about kinship navigator programs and other services available if you are a grandfamily caregiver yourself, visit grandfamilies.org. “It’s time to rethink our communal systems of care to include the unique needs of grandfamilies,” says Butts. “Meanwhile, if the impacts of COVID-19 or other events have caused you or someone you know to step in to care for a relative or friend’s child, reach out for support. There are people ready to help you get the services and support your family needs.”

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March 2022

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NEWS FLASH

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March 2022

The Community News Flash

Basting

Basics MULTI-PURPOSE BASTING SAUCE

Basting meats and vegetables with a marinade is one of the best ways to infuse a dish with flavor. What does "marinade" or "marinate" mean? A marinade is a seasoned liquid mixture that adds flavor and in some cases helps tenderize tough cuts of meat. Some marinades are homemade mixtures. Other times they are bottled dressings or sauces. Marinate also means to steep the food in a marinade. If the meat is a tender cut, marinate it for a short time, no more than 30 minutes, or you'll have a mushy, soft entree! For tougher cuts of meat, marinade for 8 to 12 hours in the refrigerator. Whenever you decide to use a marinade on meats, place it in a resealable bag on a plate in the refrigerator. If your recipe calls for basting the meat with a marinade as it cooks, reserve some of the marinade that

3/4 cup wine vinegar 3 tablespoons cooking oil 3 tablespoons finely chopped green peppers 1 tablespoon salt (optional) 1 can (6 ounce) frozen pineapple juice concentrate 1/2 cup dark brown sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons soy sauce (optional) Combine all ingredients and simmer for 15 minutes or until mixture has NOT been in contact with the raw meat to use as a basting sauce. Otherwise, you are contaminating cooked meat with raw meat juices -a food-safety NO-NO. Never use the same basting brush on raw meat and cooked meat. To prevent cross-contamination, try applying the marinade with a spray bottle or a bottle with a squirt top. The same contamination can happen when the plate that held the raw meat is used for transporting the

cooked meat. Also avoid using the fork or turner that touched the raw meat to turn or check the cooked meat. It's best to use a different kitchen utensil each time, or rinse it with warm soapy water between uses. This recipe for Multi-Purpose Basting sauce is delicious on chicken, fish, pork, beef and vegetables. It's inexpensive to make and enhances the flavor of grilled meats and vegetables.

thickens slightly. Cool and seal any remaining marinade in an air-tight container, and refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks. Before grilling, allow marinated meat to sit out at room temperature for 30 minutes. Cook the meat on medium coals or heat. Baste on each side the last 15 minutes of cooking. If you use this sauce as a marinade, turn the meat frequently to prevent burning, as the sugar content is high and browns (and burns) easily. Makes about 25 (4 1/2 ounce) portions.

March 2022

The Community News Flash

By Samantha Weaver

• What’s on sale in March? Winter clothes and cover-ups, camping and gardening equipment, washer/dryer combos and tableware and china. • Use your muffin pan to bake hot potatoes. Stand the potatoes on end in the cups. They bake faster and are easy to grab with an oven mitt. • “If you place an apple in your bag of potatoes, you can keep them from budding.” — T.C. in Washington • A quick fix for salty soup: If you have added too much salt to a soup or stew, relax. Take one raw potato and cut it into thick slices. Add to the soup and leave it for 10 minutes or so. Taste your soup and, if the oversalting has been corrected, remove the slices. The potato draws in salt as it cooks. • “When making cookies that are dropped by the spoonful, dip your spoon in milk first, then scoop. The dough drops perfectly, and the milk does not affect the finished cookie at all.” — F.D. in Pennsylvania • “To keep your paintbrushes clean, soak them in vinegar. I do this, and I have had my brushes for a long time. It removes all of the gunk, and keeps the bristles tight. I also like to dip them in a solution of 50 percent liquid fabric softener and 50 percent water, then hang them to dry before I store them. When I am ready to use them again, I just rinse them with water to get the softener out.” — B.C. in Utah Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, c/o King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475 or e-mail JoAnn at heresatip@yahoo.com.

• It was German-born theoretical physicist (and sometime philosopher) Albert Einstein who made the following sage observation: “Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity, and I’m not sure about the universe.” • You may be surprised to learn that studies show your brain is more active while you’re asleep than it is while you’re watching television. Then again, maybe that’s not so surprising. • The country of South Africa has a total of 11 official languages. • Advertising is everywhere — you can’t turn around without seeing dozens of pitches for some kind of product or service competing for your attention. Perhaps it’s fitting, then, that the English word “advertise” comes from the Latin word “advertere,” which means “to turn toward” or “to pay attention.” • In the TV show “Charlie’s Angels,” it was a requirement that each of the stars have eight different outfits for each episode. • There are those who feel we should adopt the metric system of measurement, claiming that our current system is outdated and archaic. To go truly archaic, though, we could start measuring things in flags, baronies, falls, roods, townships and hides. Yes, those are actual terms of measurement. They equal, respectively, 25 square feet, 4,000 acres, 342 square feet, a quarter of an acre, 36 square miles and 10 acres. • The magnolia — that icon of genteel Southern life — is actually an entire family of plants, encompassing more than 200 species. • The golf tee was patented in 1899, but it wasn’t put into official use until 1922. *** Thought for the Day: “The only reason some people get lost in thought is because it’s unfamiliar territory.” — Paul Fix

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March 2022

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Fight Stress During Uncertain Times by Volunteering in Your Community Sticky Toffee Pudding

by Healthy Exchanges

Sweet Potato Fries (StatePoint) New research suggests that Americans are volunteering to give back to their communities and fight stress during uncertain times. A recent KEEN/Harris Poll Survey found that a majority of Americans see the direct benefits of volunteering, with 86% feeling helping others reduces stress. It’s no surprise then that 59% of respondents say they plan to volunteer in the next two months. But if you’re among the 47% of those who say they struggle to find volunteer opportunities near them, there’s good news. A new partnership between footwear brand KEEN and Points of Light, a nonprofit that mobilizes people to take action that changes the world, is connecting individuals with local opportunities to make an impact in their neighborhoods and communities. To provide easier access to volunteer opportunities large and small, KEEN is enabling everyone to search for local or national volunteer opportunities via KEEN Corps’ Volunteer Finder tool at keencorpsvolunteer.com. The tool can help you search among tens of thousands of volunteering opportunities each day with nonprofit organizations, schools and other local agencies. Now tapping into Points of Light’s massive database, you’ll be sure to find a volunteer opportunity that aligns with your passions and needs. “A great many volunteer posi-

tions don’t require any particular skills, just heart,” says Erik Burbank, vice president, The KEEN Effect, the team that leads the brand’s social and environmental justice efforts. “Volunteering can be as simple as picking up plastic at the beach or as involved as restoring a wetland. Every action makes a difference.” Interested volunteers may want to consider taking their efforts a step further by joining The KEEN Corps, the brand’s loyalty program and platform for helping others, which rewards participants for doing good deeds. Since its U.S. launch in September 2021, KEEN Corps has grown to over 18,000 members and counting. As of November 2021, over 10,000 volunteer hours have been logged by Corps members. Through the program, the more you volunteer, donate and shop, the more lives you affect, and the more points you earn. Plus, KEEN Corps volunteers receive limited edition gear, member pricing, and special access to all things KEEN. To learn more or to become a member, visit keenfootwear.com/keen-corps. “Our recent data confirms that many of us are exhausted and looking for ways to relieve stress and feel in control in these unpredictable times,” says Burbank. “Volunteering in our communities has the dual benefit of giving back and leaving us feeling more fulfilled, empowered and happy.”

If you love sweet potatoes like I do, try these fries. You’re in for a real treat. 2 tablespoons thawed orange juice concentrate 1 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon table salt 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch sticks Preheat oven to 375 F. Spray a large baking pan with butter-flavored cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine orange juice concentrate, onion powder, salt and cayenne pepper. Add potato sticks. Mix well to coat. Arrange coated potato sticks on prepared baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes; turn carefully and continue baking for 10 minutes more or until tender. Divide into 4 servings. • Each serving equals: 80 calories, 0g fat, 1g protein, 19g carbs, 322mg sodium, 36mg calcium, 3g fiber; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch; Carb Choices: 1. Visit Healthy Exchanges at www.healthyexchanges.com, or call toll-free at 1-800-766-8961 for more information about our “common folk” healthy recipes.

In England, the term “pudding” refers to many kinds of desserts. This pudding — all the rage in Great Britain and Australia — is a moist cake with a sticky broiled-on brownsugar topping. 1 cup dates, chopped and pitted 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 cup sugar 10 tablespoon (1 1/4 sticks) margarine, softened 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 cup packed brown sugar 1/4 cup heavy cream Whipped cream 1. Grease 13-inch by 9-inch broilersafe baking pan. In medium bowl, combine dates, baking soda and 1 1/2 cups boiling water; let stand 15 minutes. 2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In large bowl, with mixer at medium speed, beat sugar and 6 tablespoons margarine or butter until creamy. Add egg and vanilla; beat until blended. At low speed, beat in flour and baking powder. Add date mixture and beat until combined (batter will be very thin). Pour batter into baking pan. Bake 30 minutes or until golden and toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. 3. Meanwhile, in 2-quart saucepan, heat brown sugar, heavy cream and remaining 4 tablespoons margarine or butter to boiling over medium heat; boil 1 minute. Set aside. 4. Turn oven control to broil. Spread brown-sugar mixture evenly over top of hot dessert. Place pan in broiler at closest position to source of heat; broil until bubbly, about 30 seconds. Cool in pan on wire rack 15 minutes. Serve warm with whipped cream if you like. Makes 12 servings. • Each serving: About 340 calories, 10g total fat (2g saturated), 18mg cholesterol, 275mg sodium, 62g carb., 3g protein.

1. TELEVISION: What was the name of the spaceship on “Lost in Space”? 2. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: How many member states belong to the United Nations? 3. LANGUAGE: What is a pugilist? 4. GEOGRAPHY: What is the capital city of Canada? 5. ENTERTAINERS: What were the names of Elvis Presley’s two private jets? 6. SCIENCE: What kind of cloud forms at the highest altitude? 7. LITERATURE: Who wrote the 19th-century novel “The Pathfinder”? 8. EXPLORERS: What was the name of Sir Francis Drake’s ship, which he sailed around the world from 1577-1580? 9. ADVERTISEMENTS: When did cigarette commercials stop appearing on TV in the U.S.? 10. MATH: How many faces does a cube have? Answers 1. Jupiter II 2. 192 3. A boxer 4. Ottawa 5. Lisa Marie and Hound Dog II 6. Cirrus 7. James Fenimore Cooper 8. The Golden Hind 9. 1971 10. Six

1. Name the three pitchers since Lew Burdette in 1957 to win at least three games in a World Series. 2. Boston’s Ted Williams twice won a Triple Crown without winning the American League MVP award in the same season. Name the two players who beat him out for the award. 3. Who was the first receiver in Tampa Bay Buccaneers history to have back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons? 4. When was the last time before 2006 and 2007 that the Atlantic Coast Conference did not have a team in the men’s basketball Final Four for two consecutive seasons? 5. Which two NHL teams, entering the 2007-08 season, held the longest current streak for not making the NHL playoffs? 6. Which Olympics was the film “Chariots of Fire” based on? 7. When golfer Zach Johnson won the 2007 Masters, three players tied for second, two shots off the pace. Name at least two of them. Answers 1. Bob Gibson in 1967, Mickey Lolich in 1968 and Randy Johnson in 2001. 2. Joe Gordon in 1942 and Joe DiMaggio in 1947. 3. Keyshawn Johnson in 2001-02. 4. It was 1979 and 1980. 5. The Florida Panthers and the Columbus Blue Jackets (six seasons each). 6. The 1924 Summer Olympics. 7. Retief Goosen, Rory Sabbatini and Tiger Woods.

March 2022

The Community News Flash

MONEY

Americans Lose 200 Hours of Sleep Over Debt Stress, Survey Finds

(StatePoint) A new research study looking at how debt affects daily lives reveals that the true cost of debt is more than making the minimum payments. Having debt can also be detrimental to mental and physical health, and impact life decisions. Commissioned by National Debt Relief and conducted by OnePoll, the survey finds that the average American loses over 200 hours of sleep annually over their outstanding financial obligations and has three “debt nightmares” a week. In fact, seven in 10 feel like a “black cloud” hangs over them when they have to pay a bill or loan, and 71% feel debt has permanently affected them mentally. Those surveyed report an increase in anxiety (38%), stress (33%) and moodiness (32%) because of their debt problems, and 69% of respondents who have been in debt say it’s made them withdraw from the things they love. The survey also reveals a vicious cycle -- while 77% of people would feel guilty spending money on leisure items knowing they’re in debt, three in five respondents also admit to feeling pressured to spend money they can’t afford to hide their financial situation. Unfortunately, debt is not just personal. The survey suggests that debt can also place a burden on families and couples. In fact, people worry about debt so much that nearly three in five have even considered putting off marriage to avoid inheriting their partner’s debt and 54% believe having a partner in debt is a major reason to consider divorce. Half of respondents are also afraid of eventually inheriting their parents’ debt. Experts say that when it comes to com-

bating both debt, and the negative feelings it creates, it’s important to be open with loved ones. “Hiding debt can lead to feelings of loneliness and embarrassment around friends and family, or pressure to buy things you can’t afford,” says Natalia Brown, National Debt Relief’s chief client operations officer. “Tell your loved ones your financial situation so they know your limits.” Brown also recommends adopting practices that improve your financial outlook in the short- and long-term while helping you avoid future debt. This includes having smart spending habits that align with your budget, getting health insurance to avoid exorbitant out-of-pocket spending on medical care, and setting up automatic savings. With these practices, Brown hopes more people will be prepared to pay a surprise $400 bill, which the Federal Reserve reported 40% of Americans would struggle to pay. Debt management can be complicated, particularly if you owe multiple creditors or if your debt feels overwhelming. It’s no surprise that nearly three-quarters of those polled wish there were tools and resources available to help them when they were at their worst in debt. To help you pay off your debt faster or even lessen the amount you owe, Brown suggests enlisting the help of a service such as National Debt Relief, which negotiates with creditors on your behalf to significantly reduce your debt, so you can be debt-free in as little as 24-48 months. As a top-rated debt relief company, National Debt Relief has helped hundreds of thousands of clients over the past decade resolve over $9 billion in unsecured debt on everything from personal loans and medical bills to credit cards and student debt. To learn more, visit nationaldebtrelief.com or call 1-800-781-5141. With the ability to adversely impact mental health and harm relationships, debt is clearly more than just a financial burden. But there’s good news -- a majority of Americans agree that getting out of debt feels like they’re retaking control of their lives -- and there are debt resources out there to help.

Three Simple Steps to Help You Strengthen Your Finances

(StatePoint) Americans have been feeling the effects of the pandemic in their wallets, leading many consumers to start thinking differently about their finances. According to Lincoln Financial Group’s Consumer Sentiment Tracker, 59% say they are planning to make permanent changes to the way they spend and save due to the crisis. The findings went on to show that consumers’ top three financial concerns in today’s market include emergency savings (41%), having enough income in retirement (40%) and inflation (39%). “Our research found consumers are especially interested in protection during times of financial uncertainty, which reinforces the need for financial planning,” said Sharon Scanlon, senior vice president, Customer Experience, Producer Solutions and Retirement Operations for

Lincoln Financial Group. “Everyone has competing priorities but making a few easy adjustments can help people achieve their financial goals.” Here are three simple financial steps Lincoln Financial recommends to help strengthen consumers’ financial outlooks: 1. Review finances holistically. Ensure you evaluate the big picture – not just where you are spending, but where you are saving and protecting your future too. A simple budget will help you differentiate between needs and wants, enabling you to find areas to cut back or eliminate to find money to meet your financial goals, like retirement or emergency savings. Maximize online budgeting tools, calculators and other financial wellness resources available through your employer too. 2. Prepare for the unexpected. Without the right protections in place, an

unexpected event can derail retirement savings, disrupt your ability to provide for your family or drive you into additional debt. Look into coverages like disability, accident and life insurance that may be available through your employer or consider an individual life insurance policy. Also, commit to funding your emergency savings account as part of your budget. And don’t forget to think about how you would fund the cost of care if you or a loved one had a long-term care event. 3. Plan for the future. Start with your employersponsored retirement plan and commit to save at least up to the match, if available. If you already meet the match, resolve to increase your retirement contributions each year, or with each increase in pay. You don’t just need a retirement plan, though – you need a plan for retirement! Consider diversifying your portfolio with an annuity. Also, in-plan guaranteed income options can serve as a powerful tool to protect savings during periods of market volatility, while still benefitting you when the market goes up. In addition to these resolutions, also consider meeting with a trusted financial professional who can help you identify solutions that best meet your individual needs and situation. Visit www.lfg.com for more tools and resources. With a few proactive strategies, you can strengthen your financial footing.

The Community News Flash

March 2022