Change is inevitable. No matter how much we plan or how hard we try to maintain the status quo, life is full of unexpected shifts that force us to adapt. However, while change may be inevitable, our attitude toward it is completely within our control. Learning to laugh at change rather than resisting it can make all the difference between feeling defeated and thriving in the face of uncertainty. This lesson is evident when we examine the experiences of the children of Israel in the Bible and the characters in Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson.
In the Bible, the children of Israel were delivered from slavery in Egypt and led toward the Promised Land by Moses. However, as they wandered through the wilderness, they often complained and longed for the "good old days" in
Learn to Laugh at Change
Egypt, where they were at least familiar with their surroundings, even though they were in bondage. Their resistance to change led them to grumble against God and even lose faith in His plan. Instead of seeing their new situation as an opportunity for growth and blessing, they saw it as a hardship, failing to embrace the journey toward a better future.
Similarly, in Who Moved My Cheese?, the characters Hem and Haw face a sudden change when the cheese, which represents their source of comfort and sustenance, is moved from its usual place. Hem, like many of the Israelites, resists the change. He clings to the past, refusing to look for new cheese and insisting that things should stay the same. He is paralyzed by his fear of the unknown and misses out on opportunities for growth. Haw, on the other hand, slowly learns to adapt and eventually laughs at the situation. He begins to see the humor in how tightly he had clung to old habits and how much better off he is when he embraces the change and searches for new cheese.
The key lesson in both of
these stories is that resisting change leads to frustration, fear, and stagnation, while embracing it with a positive attitude opens the door to new possibilities. We can’t control every circumstance in our lives, but we can choose how we respond. And one of the most powerful ways to deal with change is to develop the ability to laugh at it.
Laughter has a way of diffusing tension, lightening our mood, and helping us see things from a fresh perspective. When we laugh at change, we are no longer intimidated by it; we are empowered to face it head-on. We begin to realize that change is not a threat but a catalyst for growth. By loosening our grip on the past and stepping into the future with a sense of humor and optimism, we can navigate life's transitions with grace and resilience.
So, the next time life moves your "cheese” or you find yourself wandering through your own wilderness, remember the children of Israel and Haw from Who Moved My Cheese?. Don't be like Hem, who stayed stuck in his fear, or the Israelites, who longed for the very chains that
once held them captive. Instead, learn to laugh at change, trusting that God has a better plan ahead, and embrace the new opportunities that come your way. When we approach change
with faith, flexibility, and a bit of laughter, we transform it from an obstacle into an adventure.
Whoo! Whoo! Until next time! All aboard!
Please find listed the dates and times for the area Christmas parades:
Belmont, MS. Saturday, November 30th, at 6 pm
Selmer, TN. Sunday, December 1st, at 6 pm
Baldwyn, MS. Monday, December 2nd, at 6 pm
Booneville, MS. Monday, December 2nd, at 6 pm
Savannah, TN. Monday, December 2nd, at 6 pm
Ripley, MS. Tuesday, December 3d, at 7 pm
Counce TN. Friday, December 6th, at 6 pm
Iuka, MS. Saturday, December 6th, at 6pm Corinth, MS. Saturday, December 7th, at 5 pm
Tishomingo, MS. Saturday, December 7th, at 6 pm
Burnsville, MS. Monday, December 9th, at 6pm
Walnut, MS. Tuesday, December 9th, at 7 pm
"A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones."
Stop by our new location at 712 S. Tate St., Corinth, Mississippi, or contact me, Jerry W. Porter, at (662) 643-6842, or visit us on Facebook to get more information on this ministry. If you wish to make a donation to this ministry, it would be greatly appreciated. Please use the Cash App at $SuitsYouToo or mail your donation to PO Box 1292, Corinth, MS 38835.
NOVEMBER BIBLE TRIVIA
1. What kind of tree was withered by Jesus because it bore no fruit?
2. What tree's leaves were used to cover the naked Adam and Eve?
3. What tree's fruit was used to make a plaster to heal the diseased King Hezekiah?
4. What furnishings in the temple were made of olive wood?
5. What epistle uses the grafting of the olive tree as a symbol of God choosing the Gentiles in addition to the Jews?
6. What prophet mentions a gift of ebony wood sent to Tyre?
7. In what land did Moses see a burning bush that was not consumed?
8. On what day of Creation did God make the plants?
9. What kind of flowers were supposes to be carved into the sacred lampstands?
10. What were Solomon's chariots made of?
11. What book mentions "apples of gold"?
12. In the parable of the sower, what unwanted plant causes some of the seeds to die?
13. What was Moses' basket made of?
14. What plant was used to lift up a sponge to the dying Jesus?
15. What plant was given to Jesus as a mock scepter by the Roman soldiers?
16. What plant food, given to pigs, was wanted by the prodigal son?
17. What flower were the capitals on the temple columns shaped like?
18. What plant, according to Isaiah, would not be broken by the Messiah?
19. What tree's fruit was symbolically represented on the clothing of Israel's high priest?
Send in your answers to the following Bible Trivia Questions and take a chance at winning a complimentary bible from the Community News Flash. Random drawing will be held monthly and contestant can only win twice within a 6 month period.
October Answers
1. The vine of Sodom (Deuteronomy 32:32)
2. A green bay tree (Psalm 37:35)
3. Hosea (4:13)
4. Tares (Matthew 13:25)
5. Acacia (Exodus 25:10)
6. Amos (7:14)
7. Willows (Psalm 137:2)
8. "Green with" - probably tree bark or twigs (Judges 16:7)
9. Saul (I Chronicles 10:12)
10. The sycamine (Luke 17:6)
11. Jericho (2 Chronicles 28:15)
12. The palm (I Kings 6:29)
13. David (I Chronicles 27:28)
14. Absalom (2 Samuel 18:9-10)
15. Abraham (Genesis 18:1)
16. Jeremiah (1:11)
17. Solomon (Luke 12:27)
18. Hyssop (Leviticus 14:4-6)
19. Stacks of flax (Joshua 2:6)
20. An olive leaf (Genesis 8:11)
“It is well to give when asked, but it is better to give unasked, through understanding; and to the openhanded the search for one who shall receive is joy greater than giving.”
-Kahlil Gibran
Depression and anxiety have sometimes been described as infirmities of a self-absorbed mind. People suffering from mood disorders tend to focus on themselves to such an extent that they are literally trapped inside their mind. It’s worth noting that bad moods in general have more to do with what is going on between our ears than with the real world. The oftrepeated remedy for this self-absorption is to focus your attention outwardly, and specifically on trying to help those around you. There is no end to the types of service one can offer and we don’t need to look far to find those who need help. Charity can always begin at home, helping your family or anyone that you share your living space with. We sometimes fall into the trap of thinking that we need to do something grand or dramatic to serve others, but there are opportunities everywhere to serve, from the moment you get up in the morning until you lay your head on the pillow at night. Perhaps you can make breakfast for your family or pick up donuts on the way to work. When you see that someone is struggling at school or work perhaps you can help them or at least give them some encouragement. And instead of looking away from the people you see in your daily affairs, perhaps you can give them a smile and a friendly greeting.
–Christopher Simon
Why Veterans Make Great Hires
Brian Armstrong and colleague David Smith at a Veteran Bridge Home talent panel.
(StatePoint) Honoring members of the military means not only reflecting on their exemplary service, but also appreciating the talents and skills of veterans in the civilian workplace.
Shining a light on how military skills transfer to corporate America is Brian Armstrong, a Marine Corps veteran who now serves as Wells Fargo’s head of military recruitment.
Having led the safe transport of equipment and security protection forces, on top of serving as a small unit leader overseeing the well-being of fellow Marines, Armstrong acquired skills that easily transfer to everyday business during his military career. And his experience is not unique to him, but shared amongst the hundreds of thousands who transition out of the military to civilian careers each year.
“In the military, you have to be able to think on your feet,” Armstrong said.
“We [veterans] span the breadth of the United
businesses, its dedicated Military Talent Sourcing Team is committed to helping veterans effectively navigate the transition to civilian life. The company’s Military Talent Liaisons are committed to recruiting, counseling, and advocating for military job seekers.
States, and we can leverage our unique, diverse perspectives to react and deliver under pressure. Add this to the soft skills we gain during service, and I think veterans are an extremely attractive demographic for employers.”
In fact, many companies in recent years are catching onto the value veterans bring to the workplace, with veteran employment rates trending upward over the past 10 years, according to Department of Labor Statistics. Nevertheless, veterans do face unique workplace challenges, particularly during the hiring process, from employer bias to dealing with the culture shift of post-military life.
Where military recruitment is concerned, Wells Fargo is a good example of a corporation aligning its actions with its words. For more than 170 years, the company has supported military service members and veterans. In addition to initiatives like home and car donations, grants, and supporting veteran-owned
According to Armstrong, other companies can benefit from similar initiatives. The team’s programming includes military-specific hiring events, corporate fellowships, apprenticeships through the Department of Labor, and intensive training programs.
“It’s not just about supporting veterans, it’s also about how veterans can help a company. Their ability to thrive in differing environments and circumstances makes them agile and serious-minded in their endeavors,” Armstrong says. “Obviously we’re not in a military situation in our typical workplace, but I suspect many veterans, like I do, take their corporate roles seriously, the same way they’d get prepared for a mission.”
To learn more about Wells Fargo’s military recruitment initiatives, and its more than 170 years of supporting military veterans and their families, visit wellsfargojobs.com. To learn more about why veterans make great leaders, visit https://stories.wf.com/ why-veterans-make-greatleaders.
Employers can reflect on how making their workplaces more inclusive to veterans can help both their community and their bottom line.
The Eucharist
The small book This is My Body – A Call to Eucharistic Revival by Bishop Robert Barron, summarizes, in just over 100 pages, the significance of the Eucharist, the bread which Catholics treat as a sacrament in memory of Christ’s sacrifice. Barron places the Eucharist in its Biblical context, explaining how the Israelites performed sacrifices with grains and animals, and he explains how Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross fits into (and completes) the Old Testament tradition. Along the way, he explains some of the earliest descriptions we have of Jewish sacrifice, including the throwing of blood on the altar and the sprinkling of blood on the people. Some of the Bible’s strangest stories are explained, such as God’s demand that Abraham sacrifice his only son Isaac. Barron breaks up his analysis of the Eucharist into two parts: the Eucharist as a sacred meal and the Eucharist as sacrifice. Barron says “It is only now, at the conclusion of this survey of practically the whole of salvation history, that we are in a position to understand the relationship between the Eucharist and sacrifice.” He concludes this gem of a book by explaining why we cannot take the Eucharist only as a symbol. Two things are especially noteworthy about this book: 1) the sweep of Biblical history which it encompasses, and 2) the way in which it explains the metaphysical and ontological significance of the Eucharist, which includes a review of the history and theology of Eucharistic debates. This is not a particularly easy read, but it is worthwhile for anyone who wants a better understanding of the meaning and significance of the Eucharist.
–Christopher Simon
Free Flu Shots
Quite a few communities are offering free flu shots, more so than in recent years. For those of us who don’t yet have Medicare, or have an insurance plan that won’t pay for a shot, these free clinics can be a big help.
Ask about free shots at work, senior centers, local health departments and home health aide groups, at the hospital, town hall and local college. Go online to google.com and put “free flu shot” in the search box, along with the name of your town.
Even if you can’t find a free shot this year, get one if your doctor thinks you should have it.
To find a flu shot online, go first to www.flu.gov and scroll down the right side to Flu Vaccine Finder, and put in your ZIP code. Also check www.INeedAFluShot.org and www. findaflushot.com.
If you’re age 65 or older, ask your doctor if you should have the extrastrength shot for seniors.
If you want to keep tabs on the spread of flu this winter, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a website (www.cdc.gov/flu) with maps, information on prevention and more. Be sure to read the section on How Flu Spreads. Did you know that someone 6 feet away can spread it to others by coughing or sneezing?
The vaccines this year include an influenza A (H1N1) virus, an influenza A (H3N2) virus and an influenza B virus, so keep your hand sanitizer ready. Use the wipes provided at the grocery store on the shopping cart handle before you even touch it. Learn not to touch your face with your hands.
Remember, it takes a few weeks for the vaccine to become affective.
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.
Best Way to Treat COPD? Quit Smoking
DEAR DR. DONOHUE: My mother is in her early 70s. She has been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, COPD. She had a bronchoscopic exam to remove a mucus plug. She was a very heavy smoker. She still smokes. She thinks her kids don’t know, but we have seen the evidence. She is on oxygen. Her doctor thinks she has quit. What does this do to her life expectancy? How long can she live this way? — J.S.
ANSWER: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, COPD, is two illnesses: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Emphysema is a harmful stretching and destruction of the millions of air sacs found in the lungs. Through those delicate structures, oxygen reaches the blood. When they are damaged, a person cannot get enough oxygen and becomes breathless on even slight exertion. Chronic bronchitis is inflammation of the air passageways, the bronchi. They fill with thick, pus-filled globs of phlegm. Air cannot pass through them. A cough that produces of sticky, tenacious sputum is its chief sign.
Cigarette smoking is the major cause of COPD, but not the only one. It’s hard to watch people ruin their own bodies and hasten death. That’s what your mother is doing. Tell her that the most important treatment for COPD is total abstinence from smoking. Abstinence allows lungs to recover from the damage done from inhaling cigarette smoke. It doesn’t achieve a complete reversal overnight. It does prolong life.
What does this do to her life expectancy? It shortens it. How long can she live? That can’t be foretold.
Unequivocally, she will live longer and enjoy her life more if she never lights up again.
COPD is a major problem and the fourth-leading cause of death. The COPD booklet explains its causes and treatments. To order a copy, write: Dr. Donohue — No. 601W, 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 have arthritis. Every time it rains, my pain seems to increase. I attend the Arthritis Foundation’s exercise classes, and we all have the same response to rainy weather. We’re wondering if this is due to increased humidity, low barometric pressure or just an “old wives’ tale.” — E.S.
ANSWER: A drop in barometric pressure along with an increase in humidity has been demonstrated to cause a flare of arthritis. It’s the exact set of conditions that happen prior to a storm.
Some arthritics experience more joint pain when temperature drops. ***
DEAR DR. DONOHUE: I would appreciate reading your comments on the current rumor that microwaved food loses all nutritional value. — C.T.
ANSWER: That’s not a current rumor. It’s a piece of misinformation that has been circulating since microwave ovens appeared on the market. It’s not true. Microwaving preserves vitamins and minerals better than almost any other method of cooking. Foods lose some of their nutritional value when they are boiled in lots of water; the water draws out some vitamins. Little water is used in microwave cooking.
***
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.
Endings and Beginnings
By Francine Papadimitrakis
All endings are just beginnings. We all face many endings in our lifetimes: end of relationships, end of jobs, even end of life. Yes, it’s important to grieve these endings, but we should also see them as doorways to something new.
We tend to focus on what we lost and often get stuck there. Wouldn’t it be great to shift our focus on what we gained prior
to the ending? We gained experience. We gained love. We gained lessons to learn from. We gained joy.
We gained a great many things.
When a loved one passes away, I try very hard to reflect on the years and memories we had and not succumb to the despair of the years and moments that could have been. When a relationship ends, I recount and reflect on the joy, the love, and the lessons learned. It's not easy; anger, hate, resentment, remorse, and emotions that do not come from the heart are easy. It takes heroic courage to be grateful, to discern and hold on to love, to grasp the good.
In a society that views sensitivity, authenticity, purity, and vulnerability as weaknesses, it takes a warrior of light to go against the grain.
And so I say, grieve the ending and embrace the beginning, because God/ Divine/Universe will replace what you lost with something that is meant for you.
“This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.”
- Elmer Davis
We salute the bravery and dedication of our veterans and service members. Thank you for serving our country and protecting our freedoms.
“Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!” Romans 11:33 NIV
“T
he inscrutable wisdom through which we exist is not less worthy of veneration in respect to what it denies us than in respect to what it has granted.” -Immanuel Kant
The above quote from Kant highlights an important facet of our existence, i.e., while it is impossible to know with certainty why we exist, or why anything exists, the cosmos is intelligible. We can measure and understand the cause and effects of phenomena. The character trait of inscrutability is an important one in many eastern Religions. Sages and saints often speak in parables or allegorically, saying just enough to pique our interest, but not explicitly explaining everything in detail. This is not so that they might appear wise, but so that everyone may interpret and draw their own conclusions from what they say. In this way, a pithy aphorism truly becomes one’s own wisdom. Philosophers have a habit of over-explaining. Sages and saints will often say very little and leave it to the listener to make their own truths. But there is another, and perhaps deeper reason to be inscrutable, and that is because God’s ways are inscrutable, and indeed unfathomable. Why is there something rather than nothing? Who can say? (Perhaps it is because God is love and love always wants to share; creation is God’s way to share Himself.) Why is there evil in the world? Who knows? All the great truths of religion, and indeed existence itself, are inscrutable? We can formulate reasonable questions, questions that mean something, but there are no definitive answers, and in the end, we just have to say “We don’t know.” And that is why wise men and women are inscrutable. They also don’t know.
–Christopher
Simon
How to Prep Perennials Now for Beautiful Spring Blooms
(StatePoint) It’s a common misconception that once fall rolls around, perennials simply go dormant and don’t require maintenance until spring. But, fall is actually the perfect time to show perennials love.
In a recent Backyard Smart video, the lawn and garden experts at Exmark give the lowdown on prepping perennials for cold weather so you can enjoy beautiful blooms come spring. Here’s what to know:
The Benefits of Dividing Perennials: When plants become overcrowded, they compete for essential resources like water, air, and nutrients, which can hinder their growth. Dividing perennials helps distribute plants across your yard, maintaining a healthy size, preventing overcrowding, and reducing the risk of disease.
When to Divide Perennial Plants: Generally, fall’s the best time to divide perennial plants that bloom in spring and summer. (Conversely, spring’s the best time to divide fall-blooming plants.) But if you’re planning on dividing in fall, don’t wait too long! Get outside about four to six weeks before the ground freezes, or else your plants will be in for a rough winter. Careful! Not every perennial needs to be divided every year. Most need it every three to five years, and some
last thorough watering in before the first freeze. Leading up to that point, gradually wean perennials from regular watering to monthly watering throughout fall.
The general rule of thumb is to cut perennials back once they start to fade. However, there are exceptions. Some perennials should be left alone. Make sure you know what’s in your garden before beginning.
don’t need it at all. Do your research before you begin.
How to Divide Perennials: Make the necessary preparations to ensure your perennials properly take to their new homes. First, thoroughly water your plants a day or two beforehand and cut them back so you can clearly see what you’re dealing with. Then, head out on a cloudy, dry day and get to work.
Dig up plants around the roots and gently lift them out of the ground, knocking away loose dirt and debris. For best results, dig outside the outermost part of plants that water drips from. You can either gently pull apart the roots with your hands, cut into them with a knife or spade, or use two gardening forks to wedge plants in half. Various perennials have different roots systems, so read up on the best method for the species.
You can typically get four to six new sections from a single plant. Just make sure each division has three to five shoots and a substantial, healthy root system. Afterwards, you’re free to plant your new divisions, rearrange existing beds, or share new plants with family or friends!
Water and Cut Back: Even if you’re not dividing your perennials, it’s good to get one
Feeding and Mulching: Once plants are situated, it’s time to layer up. Clear off old mulch so that the soil is exposed, and remove any weeds or grass peeking through. Then, spread on a 1-2inch thick compost layer, followed by an equally thick mulch layer. The compost will gradually break down and release nutrients, promoting better root growth, better soil pH and hardier plants come spring. The mulch provides insulation while protecting soil from erosion and compaction.
Be on the Lookout: Cold weather doesn’t necessarily mean pests take a break from making a meal of plants. Many—such as slugs—will chow down on anything your garden has to offer, so stay attentive! Before mulching, lay down slug bait to send them packing.
To view the video, visit Exmark’s Backyard Life, a multimedia destination that provides tips on everything from gardening to outdoor hosting at backyard.exmark. com.
“Perennials make every garden pop, providing beautiful blooms year after year. Spend some time this fall making your springtime even brighter,” says Jamie Briggs, director of marketing at Exmark.
Where Are They Now?
By Lucy Weber
JaColby Crenshaw is living his best God-centered life in a place he never imagined and in a career he never foresaw.
Crenshaw, a 2016 graduate of Biggersville High School, knew from a child that singing and music would be part of his future. Although he grew up in the Synagogue M.B. Church in Rienzi, he didn’t aspire to ministry.
But the Lord had other plans for the son of Ernestine and Aaron Crenshaw.
“Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.”
Psalm 107:8-9 NIV
Ministry and music lead Crenshaw to serve the Lord
Crenshaw is now a worship leader and worship/production specialist at Palm Valley Church, which has three campuses in McAllen, Texas, near the Mexican border.
“I always knew music was for me. I never had aspirations of full-time ministry,” he said. “This is a call that God has placed on my life. My whole time here is just God—the way I got here and the ways things are.
“It blows my mind every day where I am and what I’m doing,” Crenshaw said.
Crenshaw first attended Northeast Community College. “In college, I stopped going to church, and one day God told me to wake up. It was a no-brainer,” he said, adding that later, when he attended a youth conference in Birmingham, “I felt God tell me this was what He wanted me to do.”
God’s voice leading him to ministry led Crenshaw to Highlands College in Birmingham. Nine weeks after he began his studies there, COVID hit. He spent the next year and a half taking his academic and ministry classes online. “That was hard, but I never thought to quit.”
Because of Highlands College’s placement office for its graduating seniors, Crenshaw received a message from a youth minister at Palm Valley Church about a paid internship. “I wasn’t sure about going there. I told myself I could always say no, but I never said no.”
Crenshaw said the first morning he arrived in McAllen and met with the leadership of the megachurch, he accepted the offer. “I felt full peace.”
Crenshaw said he realized the Texas church offered him a wonderful opportunity to learn all he could about the technical aspects of worship services. “I knew singing and music, but I wanted to know how the service happens. I wanted to be a Swiss Army knife to be all I could and be more than a singer.”
In January 2023, his internship turned into a full-time job on the staff. “It has lived up to my expectations and more. I’m still learning every day I go to work.”
Crenshaw is part of the music-related worship leadership team. Growing up loving and singing gospel music, Crenshaw has brought some of that energy to con-
temporary services at Palm Valley. “I love that I have infused the two styles together.’
Crenshaw’s ease in leading the worship music continues to grow as he has the full backing of the church leadership behind him. “When I lead, I like to read the room and figure out what it needs—do I say something in the moment or do I just be silent?”
Also, as part of his job, Crenshaw works on the services team that manages all four church venues on three campuses. Crenshaw schedules all of the church’s production teams and does a lot of administrative work to help the church’s busy schedule run smoothly, in addition to leading vocals on production teams.
He is also a strong part of the youth program, playing music for their programs and services. Two years ago, he taught himself to play bass because it was needed in the youth music program. “I have stepped really heavily into youth worship,” he said.
Crenshaw said God placed him in Palm Valley. “I was almost too perfect. I hit the ground running and haven’t stopped.
Thanksgiving
As we celebrate Thanksgiving we should call to mind all that we have to be thankful for: our health, our friends and family, the food and drink that nature so bountifully provides, and perhaps even to be thankful for our material resources. Cars and houses make our lives more comfortable and it’s also okay to be thankful for the money we have in the bank and our other resources. But we should also be thankful for what we don’t have. Sometimes our possessions can be too much. The bigger house and our investments can become like albatrosses around our neck that do more to cause anxiety than to make us comfortable. Having a good job is something to be thankful for, but often we can be thankful for not having the boss’s job. So this Thanksgiving, reflect on what you have to be thankful for, but also on the things that you are thankful for not having. –Christopher Simon
JaColby Crenshaw
NEWS FLASH Kids Zone
Memorable Main Dishes Made in 30 Minutes or Less
(StatePoint) Fifty-one percent of families find it challenging to get new ideas for meal planning. If you’re like most Americans and stuck in a recipe rut, or you’re often tired when it’s time to prepare dinner and want something fast and easy, it’s time to expand your repertoire of go-to meals that you can make in 30 minutes or less.
Here to inspire more flavor variety is McCormick. The brand’s more than 40 dry Recipe Mixes—which are single-use spice packets—can help you create quick, convenient meals with the perfect combination of seasonings—from homestyle classics like chili and meatloaf to flavors from around the world like gyros and stir fry. To give weeknight meals new life in minutes, check out recipes from the brand:
Tender and Juicy Chicken
Tired of dry, flavorless chicken? This recipe for Garlic Ranch Crunchy Chicken is tender and juicy on the inside and crispy-crunchy on the outside. Requiring just 5 minutes of prep, it makes for a low effort but memorable main dish any night of the week.
• 4 boneless chicken breasts, about 1/2 to 1-inch thickness (about 1 3/4 pounds)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Place chicken on a large foil-lined sheet pan sprayed with no-stick
cooking spray.
2. Brush top of chicken breasts with mayonnaise. Coat top of chicken breasts with Seasoning Mix, pressing lightly to adhere.
3. Bake for 20 minutes or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F).
Test kitchen tips: Try substituting BBQ sauce or a mixture of mayonnaise and hot sauce or sour cream in place of mayonnaise.
For the air fryer: Preheat to 360 degrees F for 3 minutes. Place chicken, coating-side up, in a single layer in the air fryer. Air fry 10 to 12 minutes or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F).
Taco Night Twist
There is no such thing as a bad taco, but if you’re bored and want a twist on your standard taco night, McCormick has you covered. Inspired by the flavor of the popular Mexican street food, elotes, these insanely delicious Mexican Style Street Corn Tacos can be made in just 15 minutes.
• 1-pound boneless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
• 1/2 cup water
• 8 (6-inch) corn or flour tortillas, warmed
• Optional toppings: Cotija cheese, cilantro, avocado and lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick skillet on medium heat. Add corn; cook and stir for 3 minutes or until heated through. Stir in 1 tablespoon of the Seasoning Mix. Transfer to a small bowl. Stir in mayonnaise; set aside.
2. Heat remaining oil in the same skillet on medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook and stir for 3 minutes. Stir in remaining Seasoning Mix and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 3 to 5 minutes until chicken is cooked through, stirring occasionally.
3. Spoon chicken into warm tortillas. Top with corn mixture and serve with desired toppings.
For more recipes and flavor inspiration, visit mccormick.com.
You don’t have to resort to the same humdrum meals again and again. Using the right ingredients, easy-to-prepare dishes will become new family favorites.
• “I feel the following is the best way to remove lint from the trap on my dryer. After completion of the drying cycle, take the used Bounce dryer sheet and swipe the screen. Then throw it into the wastebasket, located next to the dryer. For loads not using Bounce, take a used one from the wastebasket and use it. This puts the Bounce sheet through a complete clothes-drying episode.”
— G.B. from Minnesota
• “A great way to keep tennis shoes and other shoes together: When you take them off, tie the shoes together by the shoestrings (loosely) or connect the two shoes with Velcro straps if they close that way. In doing this, it is much faster and easier to find BOTH shoes when ready to go. Keep smiling!” — J.B. in Virginia
• “To keep celery fresh for a month or more, wrap your bunch of celery just like you purchased it (not washed) in foil at both ends and all around the celery bunch. When needing celery, unwrap and remove the stalks you need, then rewrap and store in refrigerator.” — R.B. of Florida and Ohio
• “I read your tip on splinters. I would like to suggest another: Put a drop of Elmer’s glue over the splinter, let it dry and then use tweezers to pull off the hard drop of glue. The splinter usually comes right with it if any of the splinter was exposed.” — P.C. in Alabama
• “I have a tip to keep those nasty flies out of your salads while trying to enjoy the food at a picnic: shower caps! They work well on almost any shape or size of bowl or plate. And they stay on better then stretch wrap. I go to the dollar store and buy 10 shower caps for a buck. And you can wash them in really hot water to reuse.” — A Reader, via email
Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, c/o King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475 or e-mail JoAnn at heresatip@yahoo.com.
By Samantha Weaver
• It was French Renaissance essayist Michel de Montaigne who made the following sage observation: “Nothing is so firmly believed as what is least known.”
• If someone called you a “mumpsimus,” would you be flattered or insulted? It seems that the appropriate reaction would be to take offense. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a mumpsimus is “a stubborn person who insists on making an error in spite of being shown that it is wrong.”
• The English language is unique in the number of collective nouns it possesses. For instance, a group of frogs is known as an “army” and a group of crows is called a “murder.” We have a “shrewdness” of apes, a “wisdom” of wombats, a “congregation” of crocodiles, a “smack” of jellyfish, a “wiggle” of worms, a “crash” of rhinoceroses, a “waddle” of penguins and a “scourge” of mosquitoes, to name a few. Geese flock together in “gaggles,” unless they’re in flight, in which case they are collectively known as a “skein.”
• In the Baltic region, it’s traditional for a bride to wear black.
• You’ve probably never heard of Harvey Lowe, but in the 1930s he enjoyed a certain amount of notoriety; in 1934 he won the first World Yo-Yo Contest. Now that you know who he is, can you imagine what he had in common with Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards and notoriously flamboyant entertainer Liberace? It turns out that all three took out insurance policies on their hands.
• If you’re like 20 percent of the respondents in a recent poll, you find it embarrassing to order tap water when you’re in a restaurant.
***
Thought for the Day: “A great deal of intelligence can be invested in ignorance when the need for illusion is deep.” — Saul Bellow
Financial Planning: A Great Career Option for Remote Work
(StatePoint) If you’re like most workers today, you see remote work as a major perk. In fact, a Buffer study finds that 98% of all workers have expressed the desire to work remotely, at least part of the time.
Fortunately, high-earning potential and the flexibility to work anywhere often go hand-in-hand for those on the path to becoming a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL
PLANNER® professional. Here’s why, and what it means for you:
An in-demand field: The Bureau of Labor and Statistics predicts that demand for financial planners will increase at a rate of 13% through 2032, meaning financial planners enjoy job security and plentiful career opportunities at firms of many types and sizes. And CFP® certification only makes your job more secure — 86% of consumers prefer an advisor who has completed a rigorous education program and passed a certification exam.
Broad parameters: CFP® professionals work in a variety of settings. Many CFP® professionals start their own business — acting as their own boss, deciding on their pay structure and working wherever they wish. Some financial firms that hire CFP® professionals also have remote options. Holistic financial planning advice can be delivered in person or virtually, allowing for a great deal of location flexibility. Scheduling flexibility: Where you work is just one piece of the equation. What about when you work? It’s not uncommon to have a lot of schedule flexibility as a financial planner, especially if you lead your own practice. You can design a work
Fall Harvest Carrot Salad
week that aligns with your personal life, family needs and outside pursuits.
Job satisfaction: Financial planning is a helping profession. Financial planners help their clients achieve financial goals, navigate life’s challenges and even help close wealth gaps. Many CFP® professionals also serve those in need through pro bono financial planning. In addition, the flexibility of financial planning makes this one career path that provides plenty of job satisfaction. In fact, 89% of CFP® professionals are satisfied with their decision to pursue certification.
To learn more about career options with a CFP® certification, visit https://www.cfp. net.
As you embark on a financial planning career, be sure to secure credentials that will not only increase your earning potential and drive your career forward but also expand your opportunities so that you can work where and when you want.
A crisp autumn day, a winning team and tailgating with family and friends before the Big Game. What could be more enjoyable during football season?
2 cups shredded carrots
1 (11-ounce) can mandarin oranges, rinsed and drained 1/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup fat-free mayonnaise Sugar substitute to equal 2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1/2 cup fat-free whipped topping
1. In a medium bowl, combine carrots, oranges, raisins and walnuts. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sugar substitute and lemon juice. Fold in whipped topping. Add dressing mixture to carrot mixture. Mix gently to combine.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Gently stir again just before serving. Makes 4 (3/4 cup) servings.
6 (17 by 12-inch) sheets fresh or frozen (thawed) phyllo
Nonstick cooking spray
1 package (11-ounce) mixed dried fruit
3/4 cup apple or orange juice
1/2 cup water
3/4 teaspoon anise extract
1 pint fat-free vanilla frozen yogurt
Lemon leaves for garnish
1. Stack sheets of phyllo, one on top of the other. With knife or kitchen shears, cut phyllo stack lengthwise in half. Cut each half crosswise in half to make 24 pieces. Keep phyllo covered with plastic wrap to help keep it from drying out.
2. Preheat oven to 375 F. In 10ounce custard cup, place 1 phyllo piece; spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Top with 3 more pieces of phyllo, spraying each lightly with nonstick cooking spray and arranging them slightly overlapping to evenly line the whole cup. Repeat to make 6 phyllo cups in all. Place custard cups in jelly-roll pan; bake 10 to 12 minutes until phyllo is crisp and golden. Cool phyllo cups in custard cups on wire rack.
3. Meanwhile, coarsely chop dried fruit. In 2-quart saucepan over medium-high heat, heat dried fruit, apple or orange juice, anise extract and water to boiling. Reduce heat to low; continue cooking, covered, stirring occasionally, until most of liquid is absorbed and fruit is tender, about 10 minutes. If not serving right away, keep fruit mixture refrigerated.
4. To serve, let frozen yogurt stand at room temperature to soften slightly. Remove phyllo cups from custard cups to 6 dessert plates. Spoon about two-thirds of frozen yogurt into phyllo cups. Top with warm or cold fruit mixture, then remaining frozen yogurt. Garnish with lemon leaves. Serves 6.
• Each serving: About 270 calories, 5g total fat, 4mg cholesterol, 130mg sodium.
For thousands of triple-tested recipes, visit our website at www.goodhousekeeping.com/recipefinder/.
1. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is the only food that koalas will eat?
2. CARTOONS: What was the name of Fred and Wilma Flintstone’s daughter?
3. FAMOUS QUOTATIONS: Who once said, “It’s not that I’m afraid to die. I just don’t want to be there when it happens”?
4. U.S. STATES: What is the motto of West Virginia?
5. MOVIES: Who wrote the screenplay for “Mean Girls” and co-starred in the movie?
6. GAMES: How many dots are on a pair of dice?
7. GEOGRAPHY: Where are the Channel Islands located?
8. HISTORY: What was the name of the motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was shot?
9. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: When did Staten Island residents vote to secede from New York City?
10. MEASUREMENTS: How many teaspoons are in a tablespoon?
Answers
1. Eucalyptus leaves
2. Pebbles
3. Woody Allen
4. Mountaineers are always free (Montani semper liberi)
5. Tina Fey
6. 42
7. Between England and France
8. The Lorraine Motel
9. 1993
10. Three
1. Which Hall of Fame third baseman was on more All-Star Game rosters during his career: George Brett or Mike Schmidt?
2. Name the last National League MVP before Jimmy Rollins in 2007 who was a switch-hitter.
3. When was the last time before 2007 that the University of Cincinnati football team won 10-plus games in a season?
4. In 2009-10, the Orlando Magic set an NBA record for most threepoint field goals by a team for a season — 841. What team held the old mark?
5. Who was the youngest player to make an NHL All-Star team before Carolina’s Jeff Skinner (18 years, 259 days) did it in 2011?
6. Name the first Alpine skier to win the same event at two Winter Olympics.
7. Before Charl Schwartzel won the 2011 Masters by finishing with four birdies, who were the only two golfers to win the Masters by finishing with two birdies?
Answers
1. Brett was on 13 All-Star rosters, while Schmidt was on 12.
2. Chipper Jones of the Atlanta Braves in 1999.
3. It was 1951.
4. Phoenix hit 837 three-pointers in 2005-06.
5. Detroit’s Steve Yzerman was 18 years, 267 days old when he played in the NHL All-Star Game in 1984.
6. Alberto Tomba of Italy won the giant slalom in 1988 and 1992.
7. Arnold Palmer (1960) and Mark O’Meara (1998).
(c) jacoblund / iStock via Getty Images Plus
Fall Back into a Healthy Routine With These 3 Easy Tips
(StatePoint) The fall season is upon us and it’s the perfect time to reset and renew. Simple and small modifications to your daily exercise and nutrition routines can make a huge difference—and these three easy tips will help you “fall” back into a good routine.
Sneak in Extra Steps
Fall is a refreshing time of year to get moving, especially as we welcome a break from the summer heat. Engaging in simple cardiovascular exercise weekly is key. It can help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels. If working out regularly is daunting, instead, find simple ways to be active in your daily life. Use a smaller cup for your water, allowing you to get up more often to refill it, take the stairs instead of the elevator or park a bit farther from your destination—all these habits will encourage you to take more steps per day.
Make Healthy Swaps
Looking to eat healthier? The fall season offers an abundance of delicious
vegetables and fruits for an easy swap out. Start small by trading out a bag of chips for an apple or fries for sweet potatoes. You are what you eat, and your gut microbiome plays a major role in your health. Ultraprocessed diets negatively impact gut health and throw off the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, which can lead to chronic inflammation. Inflammation lessens your ability to function properly at the cellular level and increases your vulnerability to lifestyle diseases.
Focus on Whole Body Health
A fall reset should focus on whole body health and that starts with your cells. Your body is made up of trillions of cells that help keep you functioning and thriving and supporting them is crucial. Krill oil is an effective supplement for keeping your cells and whole body healthy. What distinguishes krill oil from other marine oils, is that it is a natural multi nutrient. Meaning, that from the source, krill oil already contains several
TECHNOLOGY
Anyone Can Be a Victim of a Cybercrime. Here’s What to Know
(StatePoint) Even the most skilled cybersecurity expert can fall prey to today’s incredibly sophisticated phishing attempts.
Phishing can take place in a variety of ways, but recognizing these “lures” is a powerful way to defang cybercriminals:
Phishing: Traditional phishing comes in the form of a fraudulent email that encourages recipients to click on a link and provide personal data. Often the subject lines are designed to entice the receiver with an interesting headline, timely topic or urgent request.
essential and cellular nutrients all in one, including omega-3s, phospholipids, choline and astaxanthin. The body’s cells need to get these nutrients from the diet on a consistent basis.
In krill oil, the omega-3s are bound to phospholipids, making them more easily absorbed by the body. This means you get more of the beneficial omega-3s in a form that your body can use efficiently.
“By adding a supplement like krill oil to our lives, we are helping ourselves in a big way,” says Thomas Repstad, nutritionist and global technical marketing manager at Aker BioMarine, a biotech innovator and supplier of Superba Krill. “The real X factor in krill oil is its phospholipid advantage. Around each cell and membrane, we have phospholipids that help maintain the cell’s strength, flexibility, and integrity. Phospholipids are also naturally found in krill oil, delivering total body benefits at a cellular level.”
Learn more at www.krilloil.com.
Smishing: An attacker sends a text prompting the recipient to click a link or call a number for more information. If the link is clicked, the user downloads malicious software to their phone.
Vishing: An attacker uses the telephone–or voice–to gain access to sensitive information for financial gain. The criminal usually poses as someone they are not, such as another employee, technical support person or someone representing a government agency.
Quishing: An attacker creates a fake QR code and uses it to direct victims to a malicious website that prompts them to enter their personal or financial information.
Ultimately, the easiest way for a cybercriminal to steal your information is to trick you into sharing it. Their fraudulent communications will often look official and appear to have come from a trusted source. However, there are warning signs to watch out for. Pause and ask yourself the following questions before responding:
Do you know the person who sent you the message? The source of an email or text can easily be forged, making it seem that a request is coming from someone you know. If something seems off or if the sender is asking for money or personal information, contact them through a different channel than the original message to confirm the message came from them.
Does the message create a sense of urgency? Criminals will often try to rush you into making an unwise decision. An example of such a message may read, “confirm your login details in the next 24 hours using the link below or your account will be suspended.” Always take the time necessary to think through your response and confirm legitimacy.
Does the offer seem too good to be true?
Treat any messages announcing you’ve won money, a prize or the opportunity to purchase an item at a significant discount as suspicious.
Does the message ask you to click on a link or open an attachment? Be particularly wary of emails from people or organizations you don’t know urging you to click on a link or open an attachment. Doing so can lead to malware being installed on your device.
Does the telephone call ask for personal or financial account information? If you receive a call that just doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. Hang up and call the customer service line from their official company website.
Does the message ask you to scan a QR code? As QR codes become more common in daily transactions, utilize these tips when scanning a code:
• First, check to determine that the QR code has not been tampered with, such as a sticker placed on top of the original code.
• Check the URL to make sure the code is sending you to the intended site and that the site looks authentic. Look for typos or misplaced letters.
• Exercise caution when entering information on a site accessed via a QR code and avoid making payments; manually enter a secure URL to complete a payment.
• Do not download an app from a QR code. Instead, search for the app via your device's app store.
• If you receive a QR code from someone you know, reach out to them through a known number or address to verify that they sent you the code.
To learn more about cybersecurity best practices, visit PNC Bank’s Security & Privacy Center at pnc.com.
Don’t assume your tech savviness will protect you from today’s cybercrimes. In the face of increasingly sophisticated scams, an ounce of prevention can go a long way in helping you to protect yourself.
Check Out These Recommendations for the Perfect Fall Getaway
(StatePoint) Anyone who loves fall weather should make plans to come to Kentucky. When October and November roll around in the Bluegrass State, native Kentuckians and visitors alike have their eyes on the tree line, waiting for the first hints of autumn colors. And while the anticipation might seem almost too much
to bear, the breathtaking sight of fall foliage in Kentucky is so worth the wait. If the leaves are turning, no matter where a traveler happens to be in the Commonwealth, they are in for a veritable fireworks show of vibrant fall colors. There are so many ways to get an amazing view of the foliage, from nature trails
for those who like hiking to country roads for those who enjoy nature from the inside of the car.
The Old Frankfort Pike is a National Scenic Byway that runs through Woodford County in central Kentucky and passes by some of the most charming and beautiful landscapes in the entire country. The pike is 15 miles long, including a two-mile stretch of road that features centuries-old limestone fences, pastures, barns and a tunnel-like oak tree canopy on either side of the road. Those lucky enough to drive it during the fall experience a view that’s truly special.
Sixty miles southeast of Lexington is a nature lover’s paradise, the Daniel Boone National Forest. Driving any one of the state routes that passes through the preserve would satisfy most leaf peepers. However, for those who insist on getting out of the car and into the woods, hiking the trails in and around Slade will provide all the leaf colors desired, not to mention jaw-dropping views of Red River Gorge, Natural Bridge and Chimney Top Trail.
To find colors and educational oppor-
tunities, head to the Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, located just outside Clermont. Not only does it contain 16,137 acres worth of arboretum, forest and nature preserve, but it has nature and science programming, dozens of folk art installations and playgrounds for children of all ages.
Pushing to the western part of the state, don’t miss out on the Woodlands Trace Scenic Byway. This road starts at Grand Rivers and takes travelers through the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area and into Tennessee. Along the way, sightseers will be surrounded by all the autumn splendor Kentucky has to offer.
Beyond fall foliage, Kentucky is the place to be for autumn fun -- from haunted mansions and ghost walks to u-pick offerings at farms all across the state. For more information visit, www.kentuckytourism.com.
The Bluegrass State has amazing things to do and see regardless of the time of year, but Kentucky in the fall is hard to beat.
