MOTHER’S DAY MAY 14TH
MAY 29TH
Vol 16, No. 12 • May 2017
News You Can Use
662-643-6842
Detective Mom is on the job at home and at work By Lucy Weber When Detective Heather Russell heads out on a case from home, she hears the sweet sound of her 11-yearold calling "Be careful. I love you." A veteran of the Corinth Police Department since 2008, Russell says serving in law enforcement and enjoying family life with daughter Anniston and husband Ryan make for a perfect work/home mix. At home, they stay busy with Heather Anniston playing softball in the Russell backyard and with her competitive cheerleading squad. The cheerleading season has the family on the road fre-
quently from January to April with Lancaster's Cheer Force. "My boss is great. I give him the cheer competition schedule so he can make sure I'm not on call," Russell said. On the job, Russell looks after youngsters and teens in the community as she investigates crimes against children and juvenile crime. "I see so much more of the bad things that can happen in the community. It makes me worry about her (Anniston) more," she said. But, Russell is confident in her
see RUSSELL pg 4
Talking and Listening: Juvenile detention director says compassion and respect are keys to her success By Galen Holley ALCORN COUNTY - A mother’s touch helps when working with children, especially those who have had legal issues. After nearly two decades in law-enforcement, Shelly Hopkins, director of the Alcorn County Juvenile Detention Center, knows that the sympathy and gentleness of a mother is an invaluable skill to possess. “You have to treat these children
the way you’d want your own children treated,” said Hopkins, mother to sons Chase, 12, and Cooper, 9. Alcorn County is one of 17 juvenile detention centers in the state and serves children ages 10-17 who have committed a criminal
Return Address: P.O. Box 1292 Corinth, MS 38835
POSTAL PATRON Shelly Hopkins
offense. “People ask me all the time how I deal with these kids and my answer is always that I deal with them with respect and dignity and compassion and really talk to them and listen,” said Hopkins. Hopkins started her law-enforcement career as a patrol officer with the Corinth Police Department. She holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Mississippi and once worked as a teacher at Alcorn Central Middle School. She still takes on some teaching duties at the juvenile detention center. Sheriff Jimmy Taylor knew of Hopkins’s work with youth and asked her to head the center in 2006. Today she over-
see HOPKINS pg 4
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Officer Mom remarks personally. While female officers do have job challenges, I play a role in establishing key Officer Tara relationships between Sloan wears many the police department hats. A mother of and the community. two sons, she is Becoming a police offiemployed as a cer is largely about police officer and sacrifice. No one serves as the first should enter school resource into this job officer for West with selfish Point motivations, Consolidated because they School will most District She likely be completed her quickly disaptraining pointed. Of twelve years course there are ago at North downsides to Mississippi the job, as Law there are with Enforcement Tara Sloan any career, Training Center but the benefits far outweigh and earned her degree in Criminal Justice. In addition the detriments, and despite tough times, a career as a to the challenges facing all police officer is quite possimothers, Sloan faces many bly one of the most rewardin the field of law enforceing jobs you will ever find. ment which is predominateMy biggest tool is my ly comprised of men. A vetmouth and communication eran officer, her mission is skills," she said. "I'm a not only to make the comsmall female, so I know I munity safer, but to educate have to be better at commuchildren on the role police nicating with people to preofficers play by proactively vent a bad situation," she engaging and interacting added. with them. While some of her time "I feel that women in any is spent writing tickets for profession face challenges parking violation at the their male counter parts don't have to deal with. As a school where she is employed, her role there is female, I have to learn the much more important. She 'tough way' not to take prejudiced and off-color By Nick Langstgon
see SLOAN pg 4
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May 2017
The Community News Flash
Editor’s Corner A Shift In The Right Direction
Jerry W. Porter CEO/Publisher
PO Box 1292, Corinth, MS 38835-1292 Cell: 662-643-6842 Email: read.newsflash@gmail.com
Have you ever stopped to think about how fitting it is that Mother’s Day falls in the Spring? The season of beautiful flowers. The season of life. The season of warmth returns to comfort a cold a world? I mused on this the other day as I watched a mamma bird return to an old nest and set about the task of getting it just right for the baby birds to come. She’d cock her head, scanning, find an old twig, and pick it up with her beak, then throw it out. She’d fly off. Then she’d be back with a new twig. Back
and forth, back and forth, until all the bad twigs were gone and the nest was perfect for her young. Watching her, I thought about my mother. Whenever we bought a new piece of furniture, my mother would move reorganize the entire house. She’d move things around until she found their new perfect spot. Any item that had out-stayed its usefulness…or just didn’t fit in the new world this table or couch had created? Gone. Personally, I find that moving things around in a house is just something that women do. Just like Moms who move things around in the house, we too must learn to reorganize our thoughts.We have to find the things that aren’t useful or don’t fit any more
and throw them out. It’s a spring-cleaning for the spirit and mind, a way of preparing our mental nest to nurture life and positive growth. It's called spiritual shifting. We can’t go move forward and grow without cleaning and maintaining our mental space. And if we neglect to keep our spaces maintained, the consequences can be terrible. Just think what would happen to your car if you only topped off your oil but never changed it. As important as it is to add new positives such as new insights, inspirations, and friendships, it is just as important to remove those negatives that may have built up. We must learn to shift the way that we think. If there is hatred, malice, envy and strife in our lives then 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.
must move it out of our spiritual house to make room for love and happiness. We must learn to be conscious of having gathered too many things until our thoughts our jumbled and our lives confused. Clutter...whether in a room or the mind...will eventually cause you to stumble.
So, in this time of Mother's Day and of spring cleaning, I encourage everyone to think about the simple lesson that your mother taught you about shifting and to apply the logic to your life for a spiritual shift. Whoo! Whoo! Until Next Time! All Aboard!
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Notable Quote "It's not easy being a mother. If it were easy, fathers would do it." -- Dorothy,"The Golden Girls"
May 2017
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The Community News Flash
MAY BIBLE TRIVIA 1. Where did Paul have a vision asking him to found churches in Europe? 2. At what church were Paul and Barnabas set apart by the Holy Spirit to do missionary work?
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2. It brought forth thorns and weeds (Genesis 3:17-18)
4. At what church did Paul have a “loyal yokefellow”?
3. Abraham (Genesis)
5. At what church did some people follow the teachings of Balaam?
4. Those who attempt to remain
6. What church was told by John to buy white clothing to hide its nakedness?
under the Law (Galatians 3:10)
7. At what church did the Egyptian-born Apollos first serve?
5. Paul (Galatians 1:8)
9. What apostle was supposed to be the rock on which the church was built? 10. Who founded the church at Antioch of Pisidia?
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1. Israel (Deuteronomy 28:15-16)
3. Who reported his vision of unclean animals to the church at Jerusalem?
8. What church did Timothy grow up in?
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April Answers
6. Christ (Galatians 3:13) 7. The blind and the deaf (Leviticus 19:14) 8. Job (2:9)
11. From what Asian church was Paul driven out by unbelieving Jews?
9. Malachi (4:6)
12. What church was overseen by James?
10. James (3:10)
13. In what church were Christians guilty of taking other Christians to court?
11. Paul (Acts 23:12)
14. Who established the church at Ephesus?
12. Satan (Job 1:11; 2:5) 13. Ecclesiastes (10:20)
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
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HOPKINS.....from page 1 sees a staff of eight who provide structure, discipline and life-training to troubled youth at the state-monitored facility. “I work with an extraordinary group of people and we certainly believe that we’re making a difference in these kids’ lives,” said Hopkins. Early intervention The mission of the juvenile center is focused more on reform and correction than punishment. The staff hopes to reach the children before bad habits set in for life, or before they become so emmeshed in the penal system that they become longterm recidivists. The work is hard and requires firm control and authority as well as compassion and understanding. “Most of what these kids do, most of their acting out, is a cry for love,” said Hopkins. “Many of them come from pretty desperate situations and are convinced that nobody loves them. We try to counter that belief.”
May 2017
The Community News Flash
Being a law-enforcement officer is quite different than most other emergency-responder positions, Hopkins said. “For example, firemen show up and put out a fire, and paramedics come to rescue someone, but most people associate the appearance of police with trouble, and they have a negative association.” The majority of the children the detention center have an adversarial view of police, Hopkins said, and that is part of what she and her staff try to overcome. Missing models Many of the children at her facility come from fatherless homes and have no positive, male role-models in their lives, Hopkins said. Perhaps, she said, as a woman and mother, she is able to reach the children on a more personal, intimate level and listen in a way that many male officers could not. “I don’t think it’s sexist to say that men and women are different and that we have unique gifts,” said Hopkins. “I try very hard to earn the kids’ trust and to establish communication with
SLOAN....from page 1 also is a mother figure and role model for the students and she enjoys working on the preventative side of law enforcement rather than the reactive side. "It's just something about females, some kids feel more comfortable talking to a mom-type person rather than a guy in a uniform who looks scary," she said. "I show my kids (yep my kids) at West Point Consolidated School District that I have their backs by being visible and showing them that I'm here for them not for just school related issues but for whatever it is they want to talk about, she stated. "It's important for 'my' children to perceive police officers as friends and trusted adults, and they need to learn about police officers," she added. The most important job Sloan has is that of a Mother. Aged twenty and eighteen now, they were very young when she entered law enforcement. "This has been a long journey for my sons because I entered in law enforcement when they were ages 5 and 7. They enjoyed seeing me in the uniform and going for a ride in my patrol car when they were younger. Now that they are older they tell me that they don't like me working nights and are afraid for me. 'I got this' is what I say to them with a laugh. I don't want them to worry about me because as long as they are safe and ok at home then I'm ok mentally at work. I explain to my children
them.” Long-time friend Denise Webb said that Hopkins passion for her work and her personal investment in children is remarkable. “Her commitment to the youth of Corinth and the surrounding area is unbelievable,” said Webb. “She works hard to give them the tools and lessons they need to thrive in life.” Hopkins said her heart always goes out to her charges, and sometimes that makes life a little harder. “I can’t place or remove any child from the center,” said Hopkins. “That’s up to a youth court judge, but what I can do is genuinely care for them and show them love and dignity and respect while they’re here, and hopefully that will make a difference. I’m the kind of person who can hug on somebody one minute then tell them that, unfortunately, they have to come to jail the next. Still, I can do my job with compassion, and treat everyone with dignity and I think that’s what a mother does.”
how dangerous my job is by doing scenarios involving them being the police and I'm the suspect. They get amazed at some of the reactions I display to them. Some are stupid and some are just downright funny. Because they are older now I can go in to detail more because they understand better now," she explained." I expect my children to do the right thing. They feel like I'm always in police mode because they can't get anything past me. They say, 'Gosh Mama, you just too hard on us.' I tell them that the streets are harder," she added. While her career and children are very rewarding, balancing home and work hasn't been easy. "My biggest challenge has been 'thinking I could do it all' as a working mom, despite working 12 hour shifts and holidays. I always wanted to do what I could to make people's lives a little easier whether it's by helping a homeless person with advice or a cup of coffee or playing basketball in the street with kids who once hated the police all because they have been told something negative and to not trust us. In my heart I know I have and I'm still making a difference in people's lives. I didn't want to be stuck behind a desk because I feel like being out interacting with citizens is more important. I'm not going to let myself fail and I encourage the young as well as the older women to consider law enforcement."
RUSSELL..... from page 1 daughter's ability to handle situations. "She's mature for her age. We talk a lot. She's more aware because I talk to her." A Corinth native, Russell never imaged she'd be wearing the badge to protect and serve the community although "I knew I wanted to do something to help people." At the University of Mississippi, she considered a career at the federal level. But when she saw that the Corinth Police Department was hiring, she put in her application. "I wouldn't want to be anywhere else," she said. Russell started out as a patrol officer. "That was
fun but I knew I wanted to be a detective," Russell said. "I do care about this community. This is where my family is," She moved to the detective squad in 2012. Russell is one of four detectives in the department, and one of two women who are sworn officers on the 42-member police force. "I work with some really good guys," she said. "These guys are great to work with. This is my career home." The people of Corinth are what make it a good place to raise a family, Russell said, and the police department is a part of that. "It's a good family-oriented place to work."
May 2017
Warm Weather Means Walking My walking club is about to move to its warm weather location — the great outdoors. All winter we’ve been using indoor treadmills and hallways. I for one am eager to be out and about. More and more studies are showing the benefits of walking for seniors: improved circulation, muscle tone and balance; lower blood pressure; increased socialization and better mental health; fewer generalized aches and pains. If you’re interested in adding walking to your fitness program, it’s easy to start. All you need is a few buddies and a good pair of shoes. Look for places in your area where it’s safe to walk as a group. Some indoor shopping centers open their doors at dawn for seniors who want to get together for a “mall walk.” If you live in a community of sidewalks, map out a route to follow that involves crossing as few busy intersections as possible. It’s a bonus if you live near a park with paved walking paths. Wear the right shoes. You want a sneaker with laces or Velcro closures that offers good arch support and ample cushioning. Plan to walk at the same time every day to get into a routine. Or walk on alternate days as part of your overall fitness program. If you absolutely can’t walk in your neighborhood, investigate walking CDs and tapes for a walking program you can do at home. (I tried one, and it was a better workout than you’d imagine.) Remember to start slow and gradually build up your speed and distance. If you have any medical issues, be sure to talk to your doctor first before you start any fitness program. He might have suggestions, too, about how to make your walking more effective. 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.
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The Community News Flash
Breaking the Laxative Habit DEAR DR. DONOHUE: This question is one I cannot ask my family physician. I take about 15 laxatives a day — all at once — and have been doing so for about two years. I feel I am really doing myself harm, but I can’t seem to wean myself from them. Your thoughts are appreciated. — A.B. ANSWER: You’re going to need your family doctor’s input in getting you over the laxative habit. The doctor isn’t going to recoil in disgust or swoon on hearing this. He or she has heard the same story many times. The dangers of laxatives have been overstated in the past, but taking 15 a day is a bit much for anyone’s colon. There are four general classes of laxatives. I don’t know which you’re taking, so I’ll spend a moment on each. Osmotic laxatives pull water into undigested food. MiraLax, Cephulac, Enulose and milk of magnesia belong in this class. They have few side effects. If your stools are loose and voluminous, you can lose minerals like potassium. That applies to all laxatives. Bulking laxatives attract water into the food residue too. Metamucil, Citrucel and psyllium are such laxatives. So is fiber. And fiber can safely replace the 15 laxative pills you take. As you decrease the number of your laxative pills, increase the amount of fiber you eat. Do this slowly; too much fiber gives you gas and bloating. Drink more fluid than you usually do. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are fiber
sources. We’re supposed to get around 25 grams a day. An apple with skin has 4.7 grams; a carrot, 4 grams; 1 ounce of All-Bran cereal, 14 grams; 6 prunes, 8 grams; a cup of baked beans, 9 grams. If all 15 of your pills are bulking agents, you’re not in deep trouble at all. Stool softeners act like soap to promote the mixing of food and fluids. They keep stools moist and soft. Colace is an example. Stool softeners don’t get people into dire straits. Stimulant laxatives irritate the colon wall and cause it to contract more forcefully. If taken in large amounts, they have the potential to disturb colon action, but the colon can return to normal when a person eventually gets off them. Senokot and Cascara are stimulant laxatives. Do tell your doctor, who can work with you to get you over your laxative habit. The booklet on constipation and laxatives treats this topic in depth. To order a copy, write: Dr. Donohue — No. 504W, 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: 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 32853-6475. © 2008 North America Synd., Inc. All Rights Reserved
Don’t ever stop learning, dreaming and achieving. Go get ‘em graduates! Patterson Memorial Chapel 125 South Franklin Street Corinth, MS 38834 662-286-2200 Office
798 South Cass St. CORINTH
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The Community News Flash
BACK TO BASICS FITNESS
I Just Don’t Want To… As the days turn into weeks, and the spread out into months, we find ourselves on the cusp of nearly a quarter of the year behind us. The daily grind of our busy schedules, begin to take a toll upon us, mentally and physically. With this being said, it is no real surprise to hear, on a frequent basis, the unenthusiastic shatter of gym-goers and such alike, say vehemently, ‘I just don’t want to work out today’. Adopting the fitness lifestyle comes with a bevy of triumphs and challenges. And no short supply of those seeking a listening ear and an encouraging word. There is often question upon question regarding healthy food choices, fitness tips, and the best way to do…this, that or the other. Therefore, it gives me pause when there appears to be a growing of them that wish to throw in the towel, so to speak. “I just don’t want to”. We’ve all thought it at one time or another. And have even said it on any number of occasions. That girlfriend calls wanting to go shopping. You know the one I mean. She visits every outlet in the area, tries on several outfits in each, merely to purchase the very first outfit she tried on. A spouse asks for a particular dessert to be prepared for Sunday dinner. Of course it’s the dessert that has several ingredients in it and takes an hour minimum to prepare. The vast majority of friends will accompany the known shop-a-holic on the dayslong outing with a smile and provide that extra set of hands. Dessert, with its many stages of preparation is often center stage on the Sunday dinner table. Why? Let’s face it; sometimes it’s just easier to say, ‘sure, I’ll do it’! Those of you who may be wondering, what does any of the previous statements have to with a fitness journey? The answer is quite simple, everything! We, as individuals, on the whole, lead busy, fastpaced lives. Careers, spouses, children and extended family, coupled with various social responsibilities, leave us completely spent. By days end, fitting a workout in is just not on the to-do list. As a matter of fact, for some of us, it’s on the, ‘are you kidding me? Workout? I don’t think so!’ list…What’s a body to do? How does one juggle the ins and outs of daily living and toss in a workout to boot? Especially when, the fact of the matter is, you really don’t want to.
Arlene Dent I suggest you buddy up! We all need a little boost now and then. A jump- start, so to speak. On those days when we find ourselves out of gas, and it seems we just can’t go one step further, tag a friend. It’s much easier to keep going when you’re not on the journey alone. Results in most challenges are much better when one is held accountable. The same holds true for fitness as well. It is much too easy to fall off the health and fitness wagon. One missed workout turns into two, one unhealthy food choice leads to another, and before you realize it, you are back at step one on your journey. It definitely pays to take a proactive approach in order to minimize setbacks and keep on track in order to fulfill your fitness goals. There is no one formula to follow along this road we travel towards healthier living. What methods that work for some may not work as well for others. The key to success in any endeavor is to test the waters and find out what works best for you as an individual. We are not all cut from the same cloth, therefore treatment of each garment, so to speak, must be customized. So the next time the occasion arises, and you find yourself questioning whether you want to work out are not. And you hear that inner-voice saying, ’I just don’t want to’. Ask yourself this simple question. “Can I really afford not to?” You are worth the extra mile. You are worth the extra effort it takes to become a healthier you. You can get it done. And on those days you need an extra push. Tag a friend! You just may be ‘IT’!
May 2017
May 2017
The Community News Flash
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Shopping Local Can Benefit You and Your Community local businesses can benefit opportunities not available to organization solutions. Their your household and the comthem as individual businesses. retailers can be found in local munity. At a locally owned For you, this can mean more communities throughout the store, you will be more likely and better choices of products country, with a varying prodto find interesting items and and affordability. uct selection depending on products that set your home In the case of Flooring location. apart. And more of your dolAmerica for example, this So, if you are looking to lars will stay put when you means being able to offer a make home improvements this give them to business owners wide selection of products, spring, check out your local who pay taxes locally, hire including hard surfaces like retailers that not only offer locally and may be more hardwood, laminate and tile, great product selection, but inclined to support community and soft surface flooring, also contribute to your comcharities and organizations. paint, cabinets for kitchen ren- munity in a positive way. You may also find indeovations and even closet pendent retailers that can offer some of the same benefits as a large chain. For example, when Privately Owned and Operated small business owners belong to a Providing Healthcare to the Community Since 1928 cooperative, they come together to (662)286-3331 scale buying power, 2101 E. Proper St. Jennie Whitfield, NHA access goods and services at a lower Corinth, MS 38834 President/Sec cost, and create
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(StatePoint) If you have home improvement plans this spring, it’s important to consider where you will be doing your shopping. For many people, the first stores to come to mind are big box retailers because of the widespread
assumption that chains can offer better selection and better prices. Keep in mind, though, that when it comes to items needed for your home projects -whether it be new flooring, paint or a kitchen renovation -
- more often than not, experts say that your local independent retailer can offer as good or better selection, be competitive with pricing, and provide a superior customer service experience. What’s more, shopping at
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May 2017
The Community News Flash
Mom looks after her children at home and her county on the job By Lucy Weber Tori Jumper has the best of both worlds. She's making a difference in her job as an investigator with the Prentiss County Sheriff's Office. At home in Marietta, she and husband Cassidy are raising 7-year Glen Ashton and 1-year-old Katelynn and loving every minute. "I just love everything about being a mom. Being a mom makes me a better officer," Jumper said. "I love being an investigator." The mom in her shines through in her work. "I'm big on making sure kids are OK." Jumper started with Sheriff Randy Tolar in 2000 as a dis-
patcher. "I knew Randy and he asked me to work for him. I wasn't thinking about it as a career." As a dispatcher, Jumper started riding the roads with the deputies. "I knew I wanted to do that. I wanted to help people." When she turned 21 in 2002, she was hired as Prentiss County's first full-time female patrol deputy. On patrol is where she met her husband, who was a volunteer firefighter working the same wreck she was. He went on to become a dispatcher and after the two married, Cassidy became a Tupelo police officer.
The two worked the same shift when Tori was on patrol duty, which sometimes made for a hectic schedule after they adopted
their children. Last September, she was promoted to investigations, giving her a better schedule for home life. "I've got more time now with my kids," she said.
Serving the public as a law enforcement officer and taking care of her children can be stressful. "At any minute, you don't know what you'll be dealing with on the job. I want to make sure I'm best at my job and not neglecting my kids," Jumper said. She makes sure she doesn't miss any of Glen Ashton's ballgames. "He loves any kind of sports. He always has a ball in his hand. He loves being outside." Jumper and her brother, who is Prentiss County's chancery clerk, grew up at different military bases, including a tour in Sicily. Their father, who died in 2009, was in the Navy before he retired and
moved the family home to Prentiss County. "I wouldn't take anything for growing up the way we did, the friends we make," she said. "I changed schools every year until the ninth grade." Now, Jumper lives next door to her mother, which is a blessing, she says, for those nights when she's called out on duty. "I enjoy being here and being with my children," she said, calling their time together precious. The best thing about working with the sheriff's office is helping people, Jumper said. The best thing about being a mother is "being able to be with my kids, spend time with them, take them to church and raise them right."
5 Things to Know if Someone You Love is Addicted to Painkillers
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(StatePoint) Fifty-two people die every day from opioid overdoses nationwide, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported more than 12 million U.S. residents used prescription painkillers non-medically in the past year. Unfortunately, even a small dosage can depress respiratory function, and these drugs can be especially dangerous when combined with other common substances like alcohol and sleeping pills. What’s more, prescription drug abuse can be addictive, and even lead to heroin use. If you love someone who may be addicted to prescription painkillers, here
are five things the National Safety Council says you should know. 1. Addiction is a chronic disease that affects the brain. Addiction, like heart disease or diabetes, leads to increasingly poor health, and can be fatal if it’s not effectively treated and managed. People who suffer from addiction still have self-worth and should be treated with dignity. Unfortunately, shame and discrimination prevent many individuals from seeking treatment. Recovery can be achieved in many different ways and all recovery efforts should be celebrated. 2. Medication Helps. Opioid and heroin addiction cause a chemical imbalance in the brain, which medication can help repair. There are three major medications typically used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling and participation in social support programs: Buprenorphine, methadone and naltrexone. Buprenorphine and methadone diminish the effects of withdrawal and cravings restoring brain chemistry. Naltrexone blocks the euphoric effects of opioids and heroin. Buprenorphine and naltrexone can be administered by health care providers.
Methadone is delivered in specialized clinics. 3. Traditional treatments aren’t always effective. Recovery is a lifelong journey. Unfortunately, some traditional treatments focus on quicker fixes like attempting it alone or by going cold turkey, which ultimately can be detrimental. Indeed, rates of relapse for people who have gone through in-patient treatment programs are up to 56 percent within the first year following discharge. However, medications, can offer longer-term solutions, and are often less expensive than in-patient treatment. If traditional substance abuse programs haven’t worked, consider medication. 4. Support is critical. A failed cycle of detox and inpatient therapy, then relapse, can leave a person feeling hopeless. This is why support is critical. Doctors and treatment counselors are important, but even more so is a well-informed support group of family and friends. “Addiction is not a broken arm that can be fixed. It’s like being on a permanent diet with a piece of candy staring at you every day,” says Avi Israel, a survivor advocate who lost his son after battling a
prescription drug addiction. He advises friends and family of patients to, “Know the signs of addiction. Don’t judge. Throw tough love out the window. Love. But love with structure.” 5. Understanding addiction is crucial. Both patients and their friends and family should understand that addiction is a disease, and know what is needed to manage it. “My son had Crohn’s disease, and I knew everything about that. I wish I had known as much about addiction,” says Israel. There are more options than traditional 30-day-treatment programs and 12-step programs. In addition to medication, there are support programs like SMART recovery, which provide attendees with tools based on the latest scientific research, as well as a worldwide community with selfempowering, science-based support groups. A road of recovery is paved by many people – not just those in recovery. With the right support systems in place, a successful and sober life is possible.
May 2017
The Community News Flash
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Called To Serve: Law-enforcement is a life commitment for Booneville department’s first female captain By Galen Holley BOONEVILLE – Balancing the demands of being a single mother with criminal investigations is all in a day’s work for Detective Capt. Corie Gann Robbins. Robbins’s son, eight-year-old Jack, known famously on Facebook as “Short Step,” keeps her on her toes and so do the responsibilities of being a kind of den mother to her fellow officers at the Booneville Police Department. “I like to make sure my guys have what they need,” said Robbins, who has been with the department for 13 years, most of them in investigations. In addition to investigating crimes, including homicides and other felonies, Robbins serves as the juvenile officer, teaches several skills and handles a number of administrative duties that keep the department and its officers shipshape. It is hard work but something she feels called to do, Robbins said. “It you don’t have it in your heart, you’ll never make it,” said Robbins, with a smile in her voice. “It’s a calling. It really is who you are.” New Career Robbins took an unusual route to becoming
a police officer. She worked for years in retail sales and eventually wound up in loss-prevention, working to deter shoplifters. Her father, the late Mackie Gann, served as an officer with the Booneville department and she made several friends among the ranks. One day, in an almost offhanded manner, the chief suggested that Robbins join the force. The wheels of fate started to turn and Robbins graduated from the Mississippi Delta Community College Law Enforcement Academy in 2005. She eventually became the department’s first female captain. “It ended up being a real calling in my life,” said Robbins. “My father was a Vietnam veteran and I was raised to value service and patriotism, so in some ways, becoming a police officer was a natural step.” Robbins started her career on night patrol and her work ethic and passion for the job helped her ascend in rank within the department. Her intuitive disposition and interpersonal skills soon landed her in investigations. “I handle everything, from property theft to violent crimes,” said Robbins. “Some aspects of the job are very ugly and you see the worst of people but I believe that people are mostly good and the good outweighs the bad in life.”
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Unique gifts Particularly in situations involving domestic violence and children, Robbins said, her perspective as a mother, including the compassion and delicate, human touch that come with raising a child, serve her well. “As police officers, men and women all suit-up-and-bootup the same, but I think that being a woman and a mother adds a unique dimension to my work,” said Robbins. “Authority is a very powerful thing. It’s a privilege and those who have it, like police officers, have to remember that they’re here to serve and to handle people gently and with compassion.” Robbins’s partner, Detective James Page, said that she is remarkably poised and works as hard and as smartly as anybody on the force. “Corie is just a great partner and she has to balance a lot of roles in life,” said Page. “Outside the job, she helps coach her son, Jack’s, baseball team. He’s involved in Cub Scouts and other things and Corie handles it all very well.” Paying forward Robbins holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Mississippi, and one of her great passions is teaching.
Throughout the year, she teaches crime scene investigation and defensive tactics at the academy. “I really enjoy helping train new, young officers,” said Robbins. “I believe that’s shaping the future of law-enforcement.” Each day she tries to bring a mother’s gentleness and compassion to a job that can often put her in threatening situations, Robbins said. “Working victim crimes is really what I enjoy most,” said Robbins. “I want to follow through with the victims, to see how they’re doing in the long-run.” Robbins said that her male coworkers have a progressive, modern mentality and they trust that she can perform the challenging work with grace and skill. “They’ve grown up in a world where women are an important part of the workforce and have accomplished great things in society so they treat me with total respect,” said Robbins. As with any police officer, the challenges of her work often lay heavy on her heart, Robbins said. “I’ve seen behind the curtain, and I can’t un-see it,” she said. “I see my job as having to cope with it, and I feel called to help others cope with it in the most understanding and compassionate way that I can.”
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May 2017
The Community News Flash
Selmer officer keeps busy with job and home filled with children By Lucy Weber Stephanie Maxedon grew up wanting to make a difference, and she does just that, both in her job in law enforcement and at home with her children. Maxedon is a patrol officer with the Selmer Police Department and before that she was with the McNairy County Sheriff's Office. At home, she and husband Byron are raising 14-year-old Dylan, 12-year-old Hayle, 4-year-old Caden, 13-month old Cace and until May 31, 15-year-old Vivien, a German foreign exchange student here since January. "We have a full house, but I enjoy it," she said. Maxedon believes that being a mom makes her a better police officer and vice versa. "I see the world in a whole other light. I see a lot of bad so when I look at my life I don't take anything for granted." Those times she encounters abused or neglected children on the job make her appreciate her children even more. "It shines a light for me. I'll go home, hug my children and tell them how much I love them."
Her own upbringing was a hard one, Maxedon said. "I was taught not to call the law if something happened. I realized that's not right. The way I grew up, I always wanted to make a difference." At age 16 in Florida, she met an Air Force family, who were good, loving role models and became surrogate parents, influencing Stephanie Maxedon
ule. I spend a lot of time with the kids." Maxedon's parenting of her children. On off-duty days, Maxedon gets every"They taught me a lot about love. They one up in the morning and takes them to started taking me to church," she said. "I school. "The baby gets to stay with me." try to see them twice a year." In 2011, Maxedon realized her dream of With Dylan involved in soccer, Hayle in cheerleading and Vivien in softball, that attending the police academy with two litmakes for a busy family time. "We find a tle ones at home. She's been with the way to work it all out." Selmer PD for seven months, doing comWhen the opportunity arose to became munity policing to serve and protect. "To me, law enforcement is a calling. My heart a host family for a foreign exchange student, Maxedon said the family embraced is in it." Her patrol schedule has her working the new addition. "We consider her another daughter. She fits into our family very 12-hour shifts Sunday to Tuesday well. She will always have an American one week and Sunday to home." Wednesday the next. That means she's home for dinner by 6:15 each evening. "The kids say 'Hey Mom' and we sit down and eat fami1007 Hwy 72 East, Corinth, MS 38834 ly dinner. It's 662-286-1300 / 662-423-9208 a nice sched-
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May 2017
The Community News Flash
Structure. Discipline. Humanity. Officer Tiffany Gilleylen lays out the keys to motherhood, policing, and life.
Tiffany Gilleylen
By Brent Bonds A little boy walked up to his teacher’s desk. Seeing the photograph she had of a policeman and a child, he asked her, “Who are they?” “Why, that’s my son and his son,” the teacher said. The boy’s eyes went big. “What? You mean to tell me cops have kids?” That story was told to Tiffany Gilleylen by a coworker who happened to be the policeman in the photo, and it is a story that Gilleylen has never forgotten. She explains, “So often, police aren’t thought of as...people.” And it’s soberingly true. Too seldom do we look into the uniform and see our officers as fathers or as mothers. Gilleylen, who’s been an officer for and a mother for 26 years makes a point to be seen as a person. Moreover, she makes it a point to see those she works with and works for as “somebody’s daughter, son, mom, or dad”. “The biggest thing I try to practice is that everyone is human. Someone loves them. Tensions may be high, but that is someone’s loved one...when I deal with younger kids, I see my kids... Sometimes you have to be mean, but, generally, when you take the time to explain things to people...they understand.”
The combination of a mother’s touch and what Gilleylen calls ‘finesse’ helps to de-escalate tense scenes: “They’re always marking me at work because I’m always calling everybody ‘Sugar,’” Gilleylen says. “Even if it comes to an arrest, I’m like ‘Come on, Sugar’ and I put them in handcuffs, and they come right on.” A touch of empathy, tact, and assurance goes a long way. Simple communication. Gilleylen sighs, “Communication is lacking in the world.” The empathetic approach is something Gilleylen picked up on at an early age from the man who would inspire her to go into law enforcement: “We had an Officer Friendly that came to our class in third grade. He talked about safety. Not about crimes or arrests, just about how to stay safe.” Gilleylen’s future was set: “I thought to myself, ‘Ooh, I want to do that. I want to be like him.’ From then on, I would always sign up to be safety officer at school.” A native of Baltimore, Gilleylen went on from school to join the Navy, where she met her husband Samuel. After Naval service, she worked six years as in law enforcement in Portsmouth, Virginia before moving to Tupelo, where she has worked the past twenty. When asked what we need more of
in our culture, Gilleylen responded “structure and discipline” with no hesitation, then explained that it was her time in the Navy that helped her learn the importance of this: “I grew up in poverty. I was a statistic...I made up my mind at a young age, I’m not living like this. If not for the military, I don’t know where I’d be right now.” That discipline is something Gilleylen was sure to teach her own children, Samuel II and James (now 26 and 22, respectively). “When you’re at home with the kids, you still have to enforce the rules. I try not to bring my work home, but some of the techniques I learned in my career, I use at home. With discipline, we used to make our kids due pushups...kids tend to listen more when it’s physical. They didn’t complain too much,” Gilleylen laughs, “If they did, it was ‘do you want a whoopin’ or to do an exercise?’” Of course, Gilleylen brought a little more of work home than that: “The dayto-day, I would always talk about a lot of the things I saw at work. They were pretty good about understanding those sorts of things...I was a little harder on them because of what I saw...there are no close doors in my house--a nosy parent is an effective parent. My oldest son was hanging out with some boys, and I knew some of those boys were smoking marijuana. I’d come home and ask ‘are you smoking?’ and he’d say ‘no, momma’ and I’d say, ‘OK, I need you to pee on this.’ It didn’t register positive, but it made me feel better.” Gilleylen explains, “I don’t expect [my sons] to be perfect, but I do expect them to follow rules, stay in line, and be respectful. At 26, if I catch him not saying ‘sir’ or ‘ma’am’, I’m gonna smack him.” It’s not a one way thing. Just as the policing works its way into parenting, the parenting works its way into the policing. Gilleylen explains that part of being a cop is always being a cop. Like being a mother, it is a 24/7 job: “For the majority of people who know you, you never stop being a cop.” But a big part of what people want is help with parenting. “We get so many calls--Little Johnny won’t listen, Little Johnny won’t go to school…” see GILLEYLEN pg 12
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May 2017
The Community News Flash
A Mother in Blue By Nick Langston Depending on the circumstances, police officers are either the first or last people you may wish to see. There are more than one million police officers serving in the United States. Women account for only twelve percent of uniformed officers. May is the month in which a special day is reserved to honor our Mothers. May's edition of The Community Newsflash will profile three women who bear the title of "Mom" and who also wear a badge. Originally from Aberdeen, Mississippi, Renika Franks knew from an early age her career would be in law enforcement. "My first contact with a police officer was at the age of 8. He was responding to a disturbance call at my house. His presence made me feel safe. So from that day on I knew I wanted to be an officer," she said. Franks completed her training at Mississippi Law Enforcement Officer Training Academy and has served on the force for five years. She began her career working for the City of Verona and currently is currently employed by the City of Oxford, Mississippi. Balancing home and work life can be a
GILLEYLEN...from page 11
challenge for anyone, but it can especially be challenging working rotating shifts in the field of law enforcement and raising a child. Franks's son is eleven years old. "The shift rotations make it challenging, trying to make sure my son is comfortable and prepared for school the next day, etc. But my own Mother is a big help and takes care of him when I'm working night shifts," she stated. "My job is definitely more stressful than most others. I have to wear a body armor vest everyday to keep from getting killed. I'm constantly dealing with other people's problems and makRenika Franks ing sure I'm in
cer, I have always believed the Lord has put me here to make a difference and inspire someone’s life.” Gilleylen’s sense of structure and discipline has helped her to do that many times over. She has a set of daily rituals. The first is to greet everyone, starting with her husband, with a warm “good morning”. Another is to tell her family that she loves them. One of the last, before coming home after a 12 hour
shift to cook a meal for her family (except for Fridays and Saturdays-”those are MY days”), Gilleylen explains is “at the end of each shift, I always ask myself, ‘Are you satisfied with the job you’ve done today?’” If ever Gilleylen feels the answer is no, I guarantee you, there is a family at home, a large group of co-workers, and a community that will say “yes” for her.
When one mother came to Gilleylen, seeking help with a disobedient son, Gilleylen said, “Bring him to me for ONE DAY!” That same boy, now a coach, will always greet her anytime he sees her with a “Hey, Momma, how you doing?” and when asked the the same, reply, “thanks to you, I am doing wonderful!” This need inspired Gilleylen to begin a successful program called “Back on 1801 S Harper Rd Corinth, Ste. 2 Track” which was designed Corinth, MS 38834 for kids aged 7-17 who were 662-286-6681 headed down the wrong road. “We did that program for several years...the Lord just put it on my heart to do that.” Thee program, worked in conjunction with Big Low Bi-Weekly or Monthly Payments Brothers and Big Sisters of Mississippi. Gilleylen won ALWAYS NEW MERCHANDISE Big Sister of the Year due to her efforts. She still keeps up APPLY IN STORE OR ONLINE AT: with her little sisters and is www.searshometownstores.com/corinth happy to report that the vast majority are doing very well. Locally Owned and Operated “By being a police offi-
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line from the political side of the job," she said. Franks is exposed to the results of poor decisions everyday and raises her son differently than some. "In a given week I see theft, people causing harm to others, rape, suicides and drug overdoses. So yes, I raise my son differently. I'm very protective, maybe even overprotective. The number one discussion in our house is about consequences. We talk daily about the consequences of actions. I never let him do wrong without a punishment-no matter how small or big the wrong he is doing-he will always pay the consequences for his actions. As if parents don't worry enough, being a police officer causes Franks to worry about her son more than she should. "I'm
exposed to so much crime and danger everyday and I do worry more, sometimes to the point I'm scared to let him live. I don't like him sleeping over at a friend's house or going inside other people's houses. I don't even let him go outside alone. I even talk to the kids I have to deal with on the job like I'm their Mother. I give them the same advice I give my son. I'm very consoling with kids; it's a Mother's sixth sense. I go above and beyond the call of duty to help kids any way I can. All the people I arrest are not necessarily criminals. They just made poor decisions, perhaps because they had no Mother to teach them growing up," she explained. Unfortunately in her line of work, the worst case scenario is always a possibility. "My son is old enough to understand the risk I take every day. He watches the news and understands there is danger in what I do and there is the possibility I may not come home to him. That's why we don't go a day without telling each other, 'I love you' and I tell him Mommy is working for God to help protect His children. And all are His children, so if something bad happens to me, it's because God really needed me to be with Him."
May 2017
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The Community News Flash
NEWS FLASH
Kids Zone
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May 2017
The Community News Flash
How Well Do You Know Your Neighborhood?
J. Moffett Walker, Retired Counselor & Author I was trying to decide an appropriate topic for my April article. I admit I just love writing, but I enjoy writing about topics that can help others. Before I came up with a subject, I decided to check my e-mails, I am glad that I did. When I opened one e-mail, a member of the Clinton Ink-
Slingers, an organization I coknow what to do to keep safe. founded, had sent me something I Knowing what to do is good all knew I needed to share. I must year. tell you I was surprised at what I I suggest that parents who found. have questions call the police This member sent me the department and ask them which address to Neighborhood Safety rules should go into effect. They Alert. I decided before reading know exactly what to tell you to the other e-mails to check it out. tell your children. One important question appeared. When I placed my zip code in "Does a Sex Offender the space as requested, I learned Live near you?" I did not that a large number of sex offendknow the answer to that question, ers lived in my zip code zone and but I certainly needed to know. some lived less than a mile away. And, you probably do not know the answer to that question either. by Pat O'Reilly With our children out for the summer and with most God made a wonderful mother, parents needing to work to A mother who never grows old; support their families, chilHe made her smile of the sunshine, dren may be left at home. And He moulded her heart of pure gold; They will need directions In her eyes He placed bright shining stars, from their parents as to In her cheeks fair roses you see; who to let into their space. God made a wonderful mother, And, if the children are And He gave that dear mother to me. walking some place in the area, they will need to
That made me realize that I must to be a bit more careful about my goings and comings, especially at night. I also will be more careful about locking my doors in the car and house. I always pay attention to those near me, especially those following behind me. I rarely travel alone because I
understand it is better traveling with someone and even more helpful to have a male companion. Whatever, you decide, I want to remind readers, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Wonderful Mother?
M
emorial Day is celebrated each May to commemorate the people who died in service of the United States of America.
Even though barbecues and visions of the upcoming summer weather may command much of the attention come Memorial Day weekend, the holiday really serves as a remembrance for those military members who paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country, as well as the personnel who continue to protect and serve today. Memorial Day origins Memorial Day was first known as Decoration Day and was borne out of the Civil War. on May 30, 1868, General John Logan, a national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, decreed General Order No. 11, which designated the day for the “purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land.” May 30th was chosen because it wasn’t the anniversary of any particular battle. It took several years for the first state to recognize the holiday, which New York adopted in 1873. By 1890, all northern states recognized Decoration Day. When the holiday changed from commemorating those who died fighting the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war after World War I, the South began to recognize it as well. Honoring the military
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Although Memorial Day pays homage to the brave people who perished fighting for their country, it also is an opportunity to recognize the military men and women and their families who continue to work to ensure the freedom of Americans. The United States Armed Forces is renowned for its size and strength. Various sources suggest the size of the United States military is somewhere between 1.4 and 1.6 million active service people. The military is comprised of the Army, Army National Guard, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Each of these military branches also has its own reserves. There are many ways to honor active, reserve and former veterans, as well as those who died in service of their country. • Help Veterans of Foreign Wars distribute red poppies as a visual reminder of the military’s efforts. • Volunteer at a veterans’ hospital or visit a wounded veteran at home. • Offer financial, legal or career expertise through the Corporation for National & Community Service (serve.gov). • Help to maintain the veteran area of a nearby cemetery. Place flags on all of the graves. • Befriend military families who frequently relocate, making a concerted effort to welcome them into your community. • Educate children about past wars and the services the military provides. • Visit a military museum or historic site. • Observe the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 pm local time for one minute. • Post a message to the troops at the USO website (uso.org).
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May 2017
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The Community News Flash
Teach Your Children about Money this Financial Literacy Month (StatePoint) April is Financial Literacy Month, an ideal time to think about the lessons your children are learning about money. Setting a good financial example is just the start. Parents should also actively engage children on the topic. These lessons can help put kids and teens on the right path towards a financially responsible adulthood. How Money Works Now that many consumers use credit or debit cards, buy things online and even purchase movies on their televisions and mobile devices, children may not realize when you are actually spending money and that money is needed to buy things. Take time to explain to them that products and services have different prices. They also need to learn that money can be spent only once, and that after buying something, a person needs to earn more money in order to buy something else. Play “grocery store” or other games that involve buying and selling items. Take turns being the cashier and the customer. Saving for a Goal Teach your children that some things cost more money than they may have now, and that saving means putting some money aside a bit at a time until you have enough to buy what you want. Kids can learn to keep money in a safe place and practice their math skills by keeping track of the amount saved for future spending. To maximize the benefits your child receives for saving
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money, you may want to consider a Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) or custodial bank account. Those offered by Ally Bank Member FDIC, for example, earn a competitive rate of interest with no monthly maintenance fee. Plus, there's no minimum balance to open the account. When opening such an account, use this as an opportunity to discuss interest and other basic banking concepts. The Importance of Self-Control
Help your children learn the difference between needs and wants or wishes. Explain that although everyone really wants things like toys and electronics, you have to pay for needs - things like food, shelter and heat - before you can buy items that are wants. Help your children come up with a plan to save and spend their own money that takes into account their wants and needs. Making Spending Decisions The next time you need to make a big purchase, talk it through with your child. Explain how you weigh the pros and cons. Show how taking time to ask questions, learn about different choices, and compare what’s good and bad about each choice helps you reach good decisions. “Financial literacy ideally begins in childhood. Even young children should learn about basic concepts like saving for a goal and spending only what you can afford,” says Jacqueline Howard, director of Corporate Citizenship at Ally Financial. There are many resources to help you talk to your kids about money and finances. Parents can download a free ebook from Ally Bank about the basics of money to share with their children at allywalletwise.com or visit fdic.gov/moneysmart for resources for all ages. This April, take the time to boost your children’s financial literacy and enforce the concept of smart money management.
Smart Tips to Prevent Identity Theft
(StatePoint) More than 13 million U.S. consumers fall victim to identity theft each year, according to Javelin Strategy and Research, with more than $15 billion stolen. Fortunately for consumers, many of these crimes are preventable. “Falling victim to identity theft can be financially devastating for many consumers, a consequence that only further emphasizes the importance of safeguarding your personal information,” says Guy Abramo, president of Experian Consumer Services. The identity protection experts at Experian recommend the following tips to better protect yourself. • Protect your home: Your home is your castle and
identity thieves know this is where your most valuable possessions are likely stored. Diminish your vulnerability by using a safe to store sensitive information, such as birth certificates, social security cards and passports. You should also use a shredder to reduce your paper trail. Pay and immediately shred utility bills, credit card statements and other paperwork that includes your personal information. • Be cautious at work: “Familiar fraud” is common and occurs when a victim’s identity is stolen by someone he or she knows. At work, store personal items like wallets and smartphones in a locked cabinet. Don’t copy or scan sensitive documents, as memory functions can save your data. At night, turn your computer off and sign out of sensitive sites. Change passwords often. If you have any concerns with the way your company stores personnel records, talk to your employer or human resources department about their protocols. • Get smart with your smartphone: Smartphones and other devices can be a data goldmine for identity thieves. Use locking features on all your devices, including your laptop. Don’t use automatic login features and always log off when you are finished. Always keep your computer’s anti-virus software up-to-date and be cautious when using public wi-fi. Finally, when upgrading your mobile device to the latest model, be sure to scrub all the data from your
old device before switching to your new phone. • Monitor your credit: Consider enrolling in a credit monitoring product such as Experian CreditWorks, which offers additional peace of mind through real-time notifications of any changes to your Experian Credit Report. Changes to your report are important to review, as they may be signs of fraud. The newest CreditWorks feature, Experian CreditLock, can be especially helpful in taking greater control over your credit information. This product feature allows you to easily lock and unlock your Experian Credit Report in real-time without formally freezing your credit report, which can be a cumbersome process. By locking your Experian Credit Report, creditors no longer have access to it (except for soft inquiries from creditors with whom you already have a financial relationship), which means criminals can’t apply for credit in your name. This should help deter identity thieves, as well as block unwanted inquiries that result in extensions of credit, which can impact your credit scores. In addition, if a creditor or lender tries to access your report, you’ll receive a real-time alert via email and app notification so you can take action immediately. By safeguarding your information and monitoring your credit, you can better ward off the threat of identity theft.
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May 2017
The Community News Flash
Classic Hamburger: Easy to Make at Home
A contest is held in St. Helena, Calif., every year at this time to “Build a Better Burger.” Contestants creatively cook a wide variety of “burgers’ containing everything from spicy Andouille sausage to zucchini. While I enjoy sampling all the unusual toppings, oddly shaped burger buns and mind-boggling flavor combinations, sometimes, I just want a classic, all beef hamburger. Ground chuck is the meat of choice for most hamburger purists. The preferred combination is 80 percent lean meat to 20
percent fat. The fat makes the burgers moist and flavorful. If the fat content is too low, your hamburger patty will dry out during the cooking process. Combining ground chuck with other ground meats adds a delicious combination of juiciness and flavor to your burger. The top choice for making the ultimate hamburger patty is to combine ground chuck with ground sirloin. Try this great recipe to make a classic American burger! CLASSIC HAMBURGERS 1 pound ground chuck (80/20 blend) or a combination of chuck and sirloin 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1. Preheat a large skillet to medium hot. The pan is at the proper temperature temperature when a drop of water dances on its surface. 2. Place the Worcestershire sauce in a medium-sized bowl. Gently press the ground meat into
the liquid and turn and fold it over once or twice to combine. (Remember, the more you handle the meat, the softer it will become, and the more likely it will be to fall apart when you cook it.) Wet your hands to keep the meat from sticking. Divide the meat into 4 equal portions. Hold one portion of the ground meat in the palm of your hand, gently turning and shaping the meat into a patty that is
tightly compact and uniform in size. The patty should be a little larger or about the same size as your hamburger bun. 3. Lightly press three fingers into the center of the patty, making a slight, dimple indention in the center and pushing the meat to the outer edges. (Making it thinner in the middle and thicker around the edges will allow the patty to cook evenly. As hamburger patties cook, they shrink in size. As they shrink, the edges tend to break apart, causing deep cracks to form. To combat this, you want the burger patty to be thinner in the middle than around the edges.) Season the patties on both sides with salt, pepper, onion and garlic powder.
4. Place the hamburger patties into the hot skillet. For a rare burger, cook 4 to 5 minutes on the first side, turn the patties and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes; for a medium burger, cook 7 to 8 minutes per side; for welldone burger, cook 8 to 10 minutes per side. 5. If desired, place a slice of cheese on each burger during the final minute of cooking. When the cheese has melted, remove the burgers to a plate. Rub the skillet with a folded paper towel to clean it. Place the hamburger buns, cut side down, in the skillet for about 1 minute to toast them. Serve the hamburger patties in the buns with your favorite condiments and vegetables.
May 2017
The Community News Flash
PERSONAL FINANCE
Practical Money Matters
17
Make Sure Your Property's Assessed Value is Correct
By Nathaniel Sillin Some homeowners can't wait to see the assessed value of their home drop. In fact, they'll tell you the bigger the drop, the better. Why? Your property taxes depend on your tax rate and your property's current market value, which is determined by a local assessor. You can't dispute the tax rate, but you may be able to show why the assessed value is too high.
An appeal that results in a lower value could save you money for years to come. Find out when you can file an appeal. Start the process by determining when you can appeal your home's value assessment. You may be able to find the deadline on your local assessor's website, which might also have instructions on how to file an appeal. Some areas have a several-month window each year for appeals, often following the annual mailing of assessment value notices. In addition, you might be able to dispute your property's assessment following a renovation or if you just bought the home. Check your current assessment for errors. Every year, you should receive an
official letter stating the assessed value of your home. If you think your property value is lower than the stated value, start collecting proof to demonstrate your reasoning. One of the first things to look for is a mistake on your property's description, which may be on the letter you received or on your property card – available at the assessor's office or online. It's not unheard of for a property card to list an extra bathroom or incorrect square footage. Assessors aren't always able to look inside a home during an inspection, and they might not know about renovations to a home. Make a note of errors and try to estimate the value of each. You'll be able to use these as a basis for your appeal.
Gather more evidence. To strengthen your appeal, you may want to find additional evidence. Make a list of comparable properties. Try to get a list of four to six similar properties in your area and their market value. You could use real estate websites that list recent or estimated sales prices, ask your neighbors or look through public databases to find official assessed values. If you find the homes' sales prices or assessed values are lower than yours, or similar but your home is in worse condition, you may have a strong argument. Estimate the cost of repairs. A leaky roof, cracked driveway or another issue could lower your property's value. Make a list of the faults, estimate cost for repairs and take pictures as
proof. Make a note of changes in your neighborhood. A property's value depends on more than just the home. If nearby houses were recently foreclosed on or the schools' rankings dropped, your property could be worth less than it was before. Get a professional assessment. You could hire a statecertified appraiser to estimate your property's current value. However, the assessment might cost $300 to $500, and this might only be a good idea if your research already looks fruitful. In some areas, you may need an official assessment to file an appeal. Once you organize your evidence, it's time to file an appeal. Present your findings. The appeal process varies depending on where you live. If you
Real Estate: Yes, It’s Safe to Buy Many renters have put aside their quest for home ownership, at least for now, because of the current state of the real estate market. Their fear is that prices aren’t finished dropping and that a year from now they could be upside down — owing more on the home than it’s worth. If you’re looking for an investment with the hope of making a large profit in two years, then yes, you have reason to be concerned. However, if you’re looking for a home for your family, a place you can live in for many years, then the current market needn’t be a major concern if you’re careful. Here are some considerations: • Don’t fall into the same trap that caused much of the current mortgage crisis. Aim for a fixed-rate 30-year loan. That way you’ll know from year to year what your payments will be. • Get your pre-approval and your mortgage letter first. With the letter in hand, you’ll be able to strike immediately when you find a house you like. • Don’t let a lender entice you into taking the full amount of mortgage
have a simple scenario, such as a mistake on your property card, you might be able to make your appeal over the phone. But some counties require you to submit the appeal online or by mail, or you may have to schedule an in-person review at the assessor's office. It could take several weeks to months to hear back. If the decision doesn't come back in your favor, you could file another appeal with an independent review board. Bottom line: After gathering evidence, you can make a showing for why your home's assessed value is too high and potentially lower your property taxes. But think twice if you're considering selling your home soon. A lower assessed value might affect how much someone is willing to pay for the home.
you qualify for. Add in your own monthly safety cushion. After all, you’re the one who has to make the payments. Give yourself breathing room. • Beware of buying in a neighborhood with a lot of For Sale signs. Ask your realtor for a list of recent sales. Sales signs with no recent sales could mean the neighborhood hasn’t bottomed out yet. If the houses are abandoned, you could end up living in a ghost town. • Check Zillow.com for comparable sales in your target area and look at Realtor.com for information and photos. You can weed out a lot of houses just by looking at the pictures. • Don’t buy the first house in a new subdivision, especially one that isn’t finished. If the builder goes under, you could end up losing your down payment. • Your best bet is to find a seller with a house that’s been on the market for six months or more. By now, the seller’s illusion of a quick sale has passed, and he or she will be more motivated to seriously consider all offers. • Use a carefully chosen real-estate agent for protection. You’re less likely to be a victim of fraud. David Uffington regrets that he cannot personally answer reader questions, but will incorporate them into his column whenever possible. Write to him in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, or send e-mail to columnreply@gmail.com. © 2008 King Features Synd., Inc.
The Community News Flash
18
By Samantha Weaver
• Have some leftover wine? Try freezing it in ice-cube trays, and then you can pop those cubes into a bag. They are great for adding to recipes. • It bears repeating: The best thing you can do to both reduce your cooling costs and protect your HVAC system is change your filter monthly. A dirty filter increases the energy needed to cool air, and it can damage equipment. Make it a point to change the filter when the month changes. Buy filters in bulk and label them by month to keep track, or buy one that is washable and reuse. • “I mostly take digital pictures, but I kind of miss having a photo album. Well, I made one, of sorts: I keep the photos sorted on my computer by month and year anyway, so I just printed out a ’contact sheet’ for each month. It’s a collection of thumbnailsize photos, and I put them in a threering binder. When I am looking for a particular photo or looking for inspiration for a scrapbooking project, I browse the book.” — C.T. in Montana • “I am all for using utensils in unusual ways. After you brown ground beef, you can break it up into mostly uniform pieces using a pastry blender. You can use a whisk to break up boiled potatoes for homestyle mashed potatoes. Or if you have a potato masher, you can use it to break up frozen juice concentrate when mixing up a batch of juice.” — D.S. in California • Get more juice out of a lemon by rolling it firmly on a countertop before slicing. If the lemon has been refrigerated, put it in the microwave for 10 seconds, roll, then cut. You’ll double your juice.
• It’s been reported that the dog that played Toto in “The Wizard of Oz” was paid more for its performance in the iconic film than Judy Garland was. • During this election year, it might be wise to keep in mind the fact that it was famed Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw who made the following observation: “Democracy substitutes election by the incompetent many for appointment by the corrupt few.” • In Japan, purple is the traditional color of love. • If you were in the Pacific Northwest recently, you may have been fortunate enough to make it to Eugene, Ore., for the 20th annual Jell-O Art Festival. The event also featured a Tacky Food Buffet, composed entirely of edible Jell-O delicacies. • Statistics show that one out of every 1,000 people in the United States is a murderer. • At one time in the Philippines, it was traditional for a man to declare his intent to marry by throwing a spear into the front steps of his intended bride’s home, symbolizing that the woman had been spoken for. The tradition has fallen into disuse these days, though; a gold engagement ring is common now. I’m sure the brides are much happier this way. • If you could take all the water from the world’s oceans and form it into a ball, you would have a sphere that would be about one-third the size of the moon. You would also have quite a feat to brag about. • Those who study such things claim that the common housefly can give you 30 different diseases. • In ancient China, one fairly common method of suicide was to eat a pound of salt. *** Thought for the Day: “We are here and it is now. Further than that, all human knowledge is moonshine.” — H.L. Mencken
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May 2017
May 2017
The Community News Flash
19
FAMILY TRADITION Sargent Shannon Hester carries on a legacy of service
Sgt. Shannon Hester By Galen Holley The Community News Flash Booneville - Contrary to popular belief, life is seldom normal and almost never predictable, but the unpredictability helps police Sgt. Shannon Hester, a mother of three, stay on her toes. In some ways, the twists and turns of life translate from the living room to the street, Hester said. "You may go to the same house 10 times, on the same call, and the next time have a completely different experience," said Hester, the mother of daughters Jodie, 20, Valerie, 9, and son, Casen, 8. "Many situations, however, are similar to those dealing with your children. You're trying to mediate between disputing parties, and it's never easy." Hester joined the Corinth Police Department in 1994 as a dispatcher. Through her work, she got a firsthand look inside the world of law enforcement, hearing callers' fears and desperation over the phone lines. "You hear the frantic sound in people's voices and you want desperately to help them, but you know that you have to maintain your poise and stay in control," said Hester. After 11 years, Hester felt compelled to carry her work outside the call center. She graduated from The Mississippi Board on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Training Academy, commonly called the police academy, in 2005. She then went to work for the
Booneville Police Department. "I'm out there to make a difference," said Hester. Working in law enforcement runs in Hester's family. Her late father, Charles Hinds Sr., served 18 years with the Mississippi Highway Patrol. Her brother, Chuck Hinds, retired as assistant chief after serving 33 years with the Corinth Police Department. Hinds still serves the department part-time and had high praise for his sister's work. "One of my proudest moments was standing with Shannon at her graduation from the academy," said Hester. "There were three of us, my sister, myself and my father, standing together as a family dedicated to serving as law officers. It was a special moment." Sympathetic authority Hester will tell you plainly that male and female officers receive the same training and women are held to the same, high standards as their male comrades. "The authority of the badge is universal," said Hester, "regardless if you're a man or a woman." Still, it is not sexist, Hester pointed out, to recognize that men and women are different and that they bring unique and special skill sets to the job. "My mother told me that there are three sides to every argument," said Hester. "First, there's her side. Second, there's his side." Hester paused for a moment, allowing herself a quiet laugh. "Then, there's the truth." Hester said she carries into each encounter the sympathy and compassion that are special and unique to parents and, more specifically, to women. "I can relate to the hardships of life, to having to provide for your children and dealing with difficulties," said Hester. "I understand the hardships that people go through." Family comes first for Hester, but she feels that her family extends not only to her children and husband but to the people of Booneville. Still, she enjoys the comforts of home. "Our young ones play baseball and softball and our oldest is busy becoming a young adult," said Hester. "We love to play outside and enjoy time with our fur babies, by which we mean our dogs." It is hard to overstate the restorative nature of family time, Hester said. "When you go home and see your children smiling at you, and you know that they love you no matter what your bank account looks like or what kind of vehicle that you drive, it means more than words can say," said Hester. "It's home. It's family. It's everything."
Easy Huevos Rancheros by Healthy Exchanges
Layered Mexican Casserole A grande Mexican dish! 2 cups (3 ounces) Frito-Lay Baked Tostitos Tortilla Chips 8 ounces extra-lean ground sirloin beef or turkey breast 1 (8-ounce) can whole-kernel corn, rinsed and drained 1 1/2 cups chunky salsa (mild, medium or hot) 6 tablespoons sliced ripe olives 1 cup fat-free cottage cheese 3/4 cup Land O Lakes no-fat sour cream 1 1/2 cups shredded Kraft reducedfat Cheddar cheese Preheat oven to 350 F. Spray an 8-by8-inch baking dish with butter-flavored cooking spray. Layer half of tortilla chips in prepared baking dish. In a large skillet sprayed with cooking spray, brown meat. Add corn, salsa and olives. Mix well to combine. Continue cooking for 5 minutes or until mixture is heated through, stirring occasionally. Spoon half of meat mixture over tortilla chips in baking dish. In a small bowl, combine cottage cheese, sour cream and 3/4 cup Cheddar cheese. Drop half of cheese mixture by spoonfuls over meat mixture. Repeat layers. Bake for 30 minutes. Sprinkle remaining 3/4 cup Cheddar cheese over top. Continue baking for 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and mixture is bubbly. Place baking dish on a wire rack and let set for 5 minutes. Divide into 6 servings. • Each serving: 290 calories, 10g fat, 21g protein, 29g carbs, 878mg sodium, 307mg calcium, 3g fiber; Diabetic Exchanges: 2 1/2 Meat, 1 1/2 Starch/Carbs, 1/2 Vegetable; Carb Choices: 2. Visit Healthy Exchanges at www.healthyexchanges.com, or call toll-free at 1-800-766-8961 for more information about the only national food newsletter for diabetics, heart/cholesterol concerns and healthy weight loss.
1 6 1/4 1
medium ripe avocado large eggs cup water tablespoon margarine or butter 1 cup mild salsa 1 can 15 to 19 ounces, black beans, rinsed and drained 3/4 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend, (3 ounces) 8 corn tortillas, warmed 1. In cup, with fork, mash avocado. In bowl, with wire whisk, mix eggs and water. 2. In nonstick 10-inch skillet, melt margarine over medium heat. Add egg mixture and cook 1 to 1 1/2 minutes or until eggs just begin to set, stirring constantly with heat-safe spatula or wooden spoon. 3. Spoon salsa over eggs; top with beans and cheese. Cover and cook 2 to 3 minutes longer or until cheese melts and beans are heated through, but do not stir. 4. Serve egg mixture with tortillas and avocado. • Each serving: About 505 calories, 23g protein, 51g carbohydrate, 26g total fat (9g saturated), 13g fiber, 338mg cholesterol, 855mg sodium. For thousands of triple-tested recipes, visit our Web site at www.goodhousekeeping.com/recipe finder/.
1. When Justin Verlander tossed a no-hitter for Detroit in 2007, he was the fifth Tigers pitcher to accomplish the feat. Name two of the first four to do it. 2. Name the last skipper to take over a team in midseason and guide it to a World Series title. 3. Which team was the first in NFL history to reach a conference championship game a season after losing 13 or more games? 4. How many schools have notched consecutive championships in men’s basketball NCAA Tournament history? 5. Before Carolina’s Eric Staal won it in 2008, how many times did a member of the losing side win the MVP award in the NHL All-Star Game? 6. Who was the first winner of World Cup soccer’s Most Valuable Player award, the Golden Ball? 7. Two jockeys have won the Kentucky Derby five times each — Eddie Arcaro and Bill Hartack. Which one needed fewer mounts to do it? Answers 1. George Mullin (1912), Virgil Trucks (twice in 1952), Jim Bunning (1958) and Jack Morris (1984). 2. Jack McKeon of the Florida Marlins in 2003. 3. The New Orleans Saints in the 2006 season. 4. Seven — Oklahoma State (194546), Kentucky (1948-49), San Francisco (1955-56), Cincinnati (196162), UCLA (1964-65, 1967-73), Duke (1991-92) and Florida (2006-07). 5. Four consecutive times. 6. Italy’s Paolo Rossi in 1982. 7. Hartack had 12 Derby mounts; Arcaro, 21 mounts.
May 2017
The Community News Flash
20
Patricia Pierce - Deputy By: Donna Langston Patricia Pierce is a wife, a mom, a grandmother. Just like any other woman who works outside the home, as an Alcorn County Sheriff’s Deputy, she has had to learn how to balance personal time, family time, and career time. “I have just tried to make it all work out,” said Pierce. Her career in law enforcement began many years ago, when she lived in Memphis and worked as a clerical employee. After moving to Corinth, Pierce sought employment while her children were in college. She became employed with the Alcorn County Sheriff’s Department in 1995 as a processing clerk. Over time, her position and duties slowly evolved to where she is now working outside and doing a little bit of everything associated with being a law enforcement officer. As she puts it, “It’s just a different calling.” She serves warrants and other legal process papers, serves as bailiff for Circuit Court, assists
other officers on calls when necessary, makes arrests, works by sequestered juries, transports prisoners, works traffic accidents, counsels, engages in conflict resolution, does welfare checks on citizens, transports for mental health commitments, occasionally must make that dreaded “knock on the door” visit, and encourages errant youth to get back on the right track, etc. She said she tries to consider and manage each situation from her experienced perspective as a mother, grandmother, or child, and as a trained professional. So much community interaction makes people skills extremely important, as well as communication, empathy, and sympathy.
When asked to tell of one of her more memorable encounters on the job, Pierce said there are so many it would be difficult to name just one. The hardships she sees people going through, the devastation that drugs and alcohol abuse have caused, mental health and its complications that wreak havoc on addicted individuals and their loved ones, neglected and abused children and vulnerable adults, hate, fighting, ignorance, poverty, fatalities, they all cross her path at some time. Nonetheless, she tries to not “take it home” with her. Conversely, all is not bad; there are the occasional funny things that happen, the “random acts of kindPatricia Pierce
ness”, and the everyday good people who go about their day with smiles and encouragement and a helping hand for others. Helping others is how Pierce sees her job. Although Pierce’s children are all grown now, the message to her family, friends, and all those she speaks with is the same: Be alert to your surroundings and what’s going on. Shootings and riots elsewhere in the country have made law enforcement officers here more aware of the need for job safety. The biggest message Pierce wants to get out to adults and older youth is, “Do NOT tell children that they will have the police take them to jail if they don’t behave! People need to know that we are not the bad guys! We are here to protect and serve.” And last, but not least, Pierce expressed her sincere appreciation and gratitude to her co-workers for their support and assistance throughout her career. They have always been a tremendous help.