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Vol 20, No. 4 • September 2020

News You Can Use

662-643-6842

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Postal carrier puts stamp of approval on her career By Lucy Weber Melinda Bowdry-Bolton doesn’t only deliver letters on her postal route. She brings smiles too. The 23-year veteran of the Corinth Post Office said she appreciates all the people she sees along her way as she delivers the mail at the 700 stops on her daily route. “I like seeing the people every day. Kids love to see you and older people like to see a smiling face and have a little chat, especially these days when they’re home,” said Bowdry-Bolton. “Everybody likes connections.” The Baldwyn native had not considered joining the U.S. Postal Service until she saw a job posting from the post office. She had gone to school for respiratory therapy but discovered she didn’t like that field of work. She was planning to return to school in another field when she applied for the postal job. “The post office is very hard to get into,” she said, but Bowdry-Bolton got hired quickly and joined up for a career she loves. She’s only worked two routes in Corinth her entire career. “Carriers stay in those jobs. You know everybody and you see their kids grow up. Children look up to you, and for the older people you may be the only face they see and talk to all day long.” Bowdry-Bolton lives in Tupelo, but said she doesn’t mind the commute for her work day. “That’s me-time. It’s a nice hour-long drive.” When she arrives at the Corinth Post Office at 7:30 a.m. each weekday, BowdryBolton said she never knows what delivery will be like. “At the post office, you don’t know what kind of days you’ll have,” she said. Some days are filled with grocery store flyers, “marriage mail” – direct mailings that combine several ads, sales notices and coupons into one – or lots and lots of packages that can make her mail bag heavy, Bowdry-Bolton said. “There’s a high demand for home delivery these days. “We want our customers to count on us.” On her route, Bowdry-Bolton switches between driving her mail truck and walking house to house to make her deliveries. “I like walking. It’s cooler than in my truck,” she said, adding that as a left-hander, driving a vehicle while seated on the right side doesn’t bother her. The postal service is working hard to deliver the mail and complying with all the regulations to deliver the mail safely during the Covid-19 pandemic. “We are proud of our role in accurate service,” she said. Carriers are required to Return Address: P.O. Box 1292 Corinth, MS 38835 wear masks and gloves all day on the job, frequently wash and sanitize hands and sanitize their vehicles. Masks and POSTAL PATRON see BOWDRY-BOLTON pg 4

Melinda Bowdry-Bolton

September 2020

The Community News Flash

Editor’s Corner

Jerry W. Porter CEO/Publisher PO Box 1292, Corinth, MS 38835-1292 Cell: 662-643-6842 Email: read.newsflash@gmail.com

Spirituality and Work: A Juggling Act Many of us continue to work despite the global pandemic. Many of you may even have assumed more duties and responsibilities. Work is like a second home, and to many it may seem like their primary home. It’s easy to focus so much on work that other aspects of our lives get ignored. Despite the success you may find at work and the goals you may achieve, you may still have a sense of emptiness. We must ensure our spiritual needs are being met despite the fastpaced and work focused lives many of us lead. Here are some tips to assist you in remaining spiritually balanced while juggling a career. Start a journal. Take a few minutes each day and write down

Becoming Balanced: A Seven Part Series on Becoming a Better You your spiritual thoughts and areas of your spiritual life you’d like to improve. Create a prayer plan or set aside a few minutes each day to reflect on those aspects. Jot down inspirational quotes or writings that may stand out in your mind. You can always utilize them later to help fulfill whatever spiritual needs you may be lacking. Use the radio, podcasts, and/or your personal playlist to help you remain spiritually balanced. The commute to and from work provides an excellent opportunity to lose yourself in faith music or inspirational podcasts, etc. Don’t hesitate to turn the news report off and the faith music on in the car. This is a great way to stay locked in to your faith. Get your co-workers involved. You may spend your days working side-by-side with people who share more than just the workplace with you. They may be struggling with staying spiritually balanced as well. Talk to them. Maybe form a prayer circle or faith centered group message during your lunch hour or other breaks throughout the day. Each person in the group can take turns sharing a particular scripture that is on their heart, or an inspirational quote. You may feel that your job isn’t that spiritually uplifting. It can be. Maybe instead of focusing on getting a better job, you could try doing a better job. We all have co-workers. Use humor or kind words to brighten someone’s day. Theologian Emanual Swedenborg wrote, “When you start thinking in terms of how to make other people happy instead of how to make yourself happy, that’s the first step in finding spir-

itual fulfillment.” You may feel you are not in a position to make anybody feel better. Swedenborg adds, “But every job has the potential to make someone’s life just a little bit better or easier, or to bring some small joy where there was none before. Even people who don’t seem to have much power or influence—farmers, cab drivers, janitors, waiters, admins—can have a positive impact on other people just through the way they do their jobs and how they relate to the people around them.” Spirituality is creeping into the workplace. It poses many challenges, but one thing is certain, people are not leaving their values at the door. “Sometimes, it’s much easier to say what it’s not, than to say what it is,” explains Ann Bass Perle, an HR consultant based in Spokane, Washington, interested in the spirituality-atwork concept. “It’s not about religion. It’s not about converting people. It’s not about making people believe a belief system or a thought system or a religious system. It’s about knowing that we’re all spiritual beings having a human experience. It’s about knowing that every person has within him or herself a level of truth and integrity, and that we all have our own divine power.” Don’t let work rob you of your spiritual time. Listen to your heart more and remember you’re not alone. One thing I’ve learned while here on this planet is that humans have far more in common than we have differences. We all need each other, especially now. Whoo! Whoo! Until Next Time! All Aboard!

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.

The Community News Flash will be hosting a voter registration on September 19th from 10am -12 noon in the vacant space between Mt. Moriah church and the Shell gas station on South Cass St.

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September 2020

The Community News Flash

SEPTEMBER BIBLE TRIVIA 1. The angel of the Lord appeared to the banished Hagar and told her what to name her child. What was the child's name? 2. How many angels rescued Lot and his family from the doomed city of Sodom? 3. What apostle was released from prison by an angel who opened the prison's iron gate? 4. The prophet Balaam could not see the Lord's angel, but his talking donkey could. What was it about the angel that made the donkey turn away? 5. Joshua encountered an angel who was captain of the host of the Lord. What was the angel's purpose in appearing to Joshua? 6. The angel of the Lord instructed Philip to go to Gaza. What person did Philip encounter afterward? 7. What was the name of the angel who appeared to Mary and to Zacharias? 8. This man's mother was visited by the angel of the Lord, who told her she would have a son who would be dedicated as a Nazarite. Who was he? 9. Elijah was nurtured by an angel after his flight from Israel's evil queen. Who was the queen? 10. Jacob is the only person known to have wrestled with an angel. What kindly act did the angel perform after the wrestling match? 11. What Roman official was visited by an angel who told him God had heard his prayers? 12. Who was commissioned by an angel to save Israel from the Midianites? 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

August Answers 1. Daniel (7:9) 2. Stephen (Acts 7:55) 3. Paul (2 Corinthians 12:2) 4. John, author of Revelation (Revelation 4:2) 5. The train of God's robe (Isaiah 6:1) 6. Moses (Exodus 33:23) 7. The prophet Micaiah (2 Chronicles 18:18) 8. Ezekiel (1:26) 9. Jacob (Genesis 28:12-13) 10. Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and 70 of the Israelite elders (Exodus 24:9-10).

BOWDRY-BOLTON...from page 1 gloves can make a hot summer day even hotter, but Bowdry-Bolton said she makes sure she stays hydrated. She carries a big jug of ice water and several more bottles of water plus electrolyte packages she can add to her water. “The Post Office tells us if we get dehydrated to take a break.”

Honing Your Small Business Toolkit in Uncertain Times (StatePoint) It’s been a challenging year for small businesses, with local shutdowns requiring many operations to close their doors, some temporarily, all while weathering the ripple effects of a global economic downturn. However, experts say that by getting back to basics and honing your small business toolkit, you can run a tighter ship, leaving your enterprise in a better position to survive these difficult times. Here are a few strategies to consider. Automating Accounting Upgrading your accounting software will help you avoid errors that are common with manual number crunching and leave you well-prepared should your business be randomly audited. Keeping your books in order and automating back-office tasks like this will save you substantial time and energy, which is especially important these days when your attention is better spent on the big-picture aspects of running your business. Just be sure to choose a trusted, vetted solution. Ditching Paper Payroll A 2019 survey by Intuit QuickBooks and Kelton Global found that small business owners spend on average 4.5 hours each pay period preparing, calculating, and

September 2020

The Community News Flash

Bowdry-Bolton said she has nine more years until she can retire from her postal job. “I’ll probably keep going on,” she said. She and her husband Jared have two children, a son who is a sophomore at Itawamba Community College, and a daughter who is in eighth grade. “Everybody is doing well, staying safe and wearing masks,” she said.

filing payroll. By automating payroll, you can turn your attention to more pressing needs, such as finding new clients, exploring new digital offerings and maintaining your business. Various tech tools can help you get a handle on what may be your largest expense – paying your workers. A payroll service with a one-day direct deposit feature can be especially valuable, as it allows you to hold onto company cash longer. Overall, automating payroll can give you confidence that employees are paid on time and accurately. Owning Tax Time And while traditional payroll software can be helpful, it may not go far enough – Intuit QuickBooks, for example, has an expanded suite of QuickBooks Online Payroll offerings that enable small businesses to run payroll and file taxes automatically. This saves small business owners valuable

time each payroll cycle by eliminating manual data entry and reducing errors. QuickBooks also offers Tax Penalty Protection that guarantees if a customer receives a federal, state, or local payroll tax penalty from an error made while using QuickBooks Online Payroll, QuickBooks will help resolve it with the government and pay up to $25,000 in fees and interest. To learn more, visit www.getqb.com/payrolltools. “Across the board, small business owners today are facing exceptional circumstances, only now they have the option of using new game-changing tools,” says Laurent Sellier, vice president and business leader of QuickBooks Online Payroll. “By overcoming cash flow, payroll and tax challenges, companies can be in a better position to make it through these uncertain times.”

Eight Quick Tips for Saving Money

(StatePoint) Saving money is a top priority for many Americans, but it becomes even more important during times of economic turmoil. Luckily, there are many simple steps you can take to eliminate wasteful spending in your daily life. Here are eight easy strategies to start saving more money now: 1. Track your personal expenses in a notebook or spreadsheet for 30 days. Doing this is as easy as writing down what, where, when and how much you spend on every transaction. It is only after you know what you are spending your money on that you can wisely choose where to reduce or cut. 2. Ask for discounts and use coupons when shopping for essentials. When possible, select non-branded products, which are often found at a lower price than name brand goods. But be savvy and check for a trial price or return/refund guarantee.

3. Make major purchases using credit cards that offer product assurance guarantees and make filing disputes easy. If a product is defective or damaged, you may be able to get it repaired or replaced for free. 4. Check your bank and credit card statements or online account information for any automatic charges you are paying for services that you no longer use. A $5 charge per month for a service that you don’t need is equivalent to throwing away $60 every year. 5. Contact service providers to confirm there are no other contract options that offer lower monthly service charges. Many companies offer varying service levels and contracts at different prices, but they won’t tell you about them unless you ask. For instance, you could avoid a $190 cable bill by paying only for the channels you most frequently watch. 6. Learn to say “no,” at

least sometimes, to your kids and grandkids. Spending money, mobile phone plans, car insurance, gas money and car payments are a few things you may be supplementing for a child or grandchild that you might consider cutting out or at least reducing. 7. Set up different checking accounts for your non-discretionary and discretionary spending. Arrange for monthly bills to be paid from the first account by a bill-pay service or electronic fund transfer. Conversely, use a debit card for personal spending. With two separate accounts, you can better manage and monitor your discretionary spending. 8. Consider creating a separate savings account at a different financial institution from where you have your checking account(s) so it is harder to transfer money. You can set up a direct deposit or auto-draft from your paycheck to do this each month without any effort on your end. A Certified Financial Planner professional can also help you audit and discover expenses that can be reduced or eliminated. To find a CFP professional near you, visit letsmakeaplan.org. These simple steps may seem small, but they can add up to big savings for you and your family.

September 2020

The Community News Flash

5 Common Questions About Life Insurance

Patterson Memorial Chapel

Memory Lane Let’s take a walk down memory lane, shall we? We seniors have seen a lot of changes in the world since we were born. In 1941, gas was 19 cents a gallon, which equates to $2.95 in today’s money. Bread was 8 cents ($1.24 today) and milk was 34 cents ($5.29 today). The very next year the production of autos was halted. A car cost around $800 ($12,000 today) but after we were attacked at Pearl Harbor, rationing went into effect and car owners were limited to five tires. Other things were quickly added to the rationing list: bicycles, stoves, gas, coffee, butter and sugar. Most homes had “Victory” gardens in the yard. In 1946, rationing finally ended, and the use of the car increased. The first drive-in bank teller opened. We had punchboards instead of lottery tickets, and Slinkys and Tinkertoys, as well as Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls. If we had a phone, it was probably on a party line, and we had a number like SYcamore 4-0160 or 0551-J1. The first computer (ENIAC) was built. It weighed 30 tons and took up 1,800 square feet. The first Roosevelt dime was issued (worth $1.20 today), and only 6,000 families owned television sets. By 1952, nearly 17 million families owned televisions and we were introduced to TV dinners. We watched the debuts of “Dragnet” and “The Today Show,” and “The African Queen” and “It’s a Wonderful Life” at the movies. The Roosevelt dime’s buying power went down to 83 cents. Have you considered creating a memory book for the future generations of your family? 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.

125 South Franklin Street Corinth, MS 38834 662-286-2200 Office

(StatePoint) COVID-19 has significantly impacted our lives in many ways. It has even led some people to start reconsidering the importance of life insurance to protect loved ones who would be left behind should something happen. “If you’re researching life insurance for the first time, don’t be surprised if you find it intimidating and confusing. Life insurance can be complex, and everyone’s needs are different -- there is no one-size-fitsall,” says Louis Colaizzo, senior vice president of Erie Family Life. “The best advice is to talk with your insurance agent who can walk you through how the various coverages work and help you determine the type and amount that’s right for you and your family.” In the meantime, here are answers to five of the most common questions people have about life insurance from Erie Insurance: 1. Can you get life insurance during the pandemic? Most healthy people can still purchase coverage but there may be a different process, as insurance companies are making changes to provide quotes while maintaining social distancing. Others may offer insurance that doesn’t require a medical exam. For example, Erie Insurance offers a policy called ERIExpress Life that was designed to serve people who may have thought the process was too lengthy or complicated. It offers affordable life insurance in as little as a few minutes with a simple application and no physical exam. 2. Why is life insurance important? Maybe you just got married, had your first child, bought a house

or are thinking about putting a child through college. Whatever major life change is happening, that’s usually when people think about life insurance. Life insurance can provide peace of mind and ensure your loved ones are able to handle not only final expenses, but also pay off debts, such as credit cards and even a mortgage. 3. How much does life insurance cost? The cost will vary based on the type and amount you purchase, but it is often much more affordable than many people think. Depending on the type of policy and amount of coverage, a policy can cost less than $15 per month. 4. Is it taxable? Most of the time the death benefit from a life insurance policy is not taxable for beneficiaries, which is one of its advantages when it is part of an overall financial plan. 5. What’s the difference between term and whole life insurance? Term provides coverage for a specific number of years and is generally the most affordable option. For example, some people may buy a term life insurance policy so it’s in effect just long enough to pay off a mortgage or cover a child’s college tuition costs, but later it is no longer needed. Whole life insurance is designed to last a lifetime and builds cash value. “Now that you have some basic information under your belt, a next step is to have a deeper discussion with your insurance agent to find out whether you need life insurance and if so, what type and how much,” says Colaizzo. “When it comes to life insurance, the only wrong choice is doing nothing at all.”

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The Community News Flash

September 2020

MONEY

How to Choose the Right Personal Loan

(StatePoint) When it comes to selecting a personal loan, making the right choice is essential, particularly when you’re in a tight financial spot or have imperfect credit and fewer options. “It’s important to understand the type of loan you’re getting and the impact it can have on your long-term financial story,” says Chad Prashad, president and CEO of World Finance, a peoplefocused company providing personal installment loan solutions and personal tax preparation and filing services. Serving millions of customers nationwide, World Finance helped more than 225,000 customers raise their credit score out of subprime and deep subprime in the last year, and is offering the following insights into obtaining a loan prudently. Loan Types There are dozens of personal loan variations out there, but for borrowers with no credit or imperfect credit, there are three basic types to know. • Pay day loans are typically for smaller amounts of money to be paid back in a lump sum on the next pay day. Customers are often

required to provide a postdated check for the loan amount that the lender can automatically cash. While lenders don’t consider a borrower’s overall financial picture or ability to repay the loan, making them easy to acquire, these loans are notorious for having extremely high interest rates. Plus, your credit won’t be improved with timely repayment. • Title loans offer higher loan amounts and the length of repayment periods vary. Obtained by posting an important asset (i.e. car title, mortgage) as collateral, you risk losing the asset and more if you can’t repay the loan and its high interest rates (usually well over 100 percent). Like with pay day loans, your credit won’t be improved with timely repayment. • Personal installment loans let you borrow a set amount of money (usually $500-$5,000) and then pay it back in equal monthly installments over the life of the loan (typically four to 46 months) with accumulating interest. Installment lenders work with borrowers to figure out the best monthly payment amount so that borrowers have enough funds left to

cover essential monthly expenses. These loans typically come with lower interest rates, and, because the lender reports payment behavior to credit bureaus, also offer the opportunity to build credit and long-term financial stability. To learn more about installment loans versus pay day and title loans, visit LoansbyWorld.com. Next Steps Before applying for any loan, read the fine print for interest rate, fees or prepayment penalty details. A bit of research can also clue you into whether you’re dealing with a reputable lender. Reputable lenders will have a phone number and legitimate physical address that can be verified on Google and the Better Business Bureau. All lenders and brokers are required to register in the states where they conduct business, so look for a state license. Beyond these basics, prioritize a track record of honesty and customer success. Talk to trusted friends or colleagues who’ve been through the lending process. Lastly watch out for red flags -- reputable lenders will never call or email you out of the blue with offers. Free educational tools on financial subjects are offered by World Finance. To learn more and take the American Financial Services Association’s MoneySKILL online course, visit LoansbyWorld.com/education. “While acquiring a loan can be stressful, being able to turn obstacles into opportunities should be the cornerstone of any financial decision,” says Prashad.

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September 2020

The Community News Flash

Tips for Handling Your Finances During a Crisis (StatePoint) With record numbers of Americans filing for unemployment and many facing income loss, the financial impacts of COVID-19 are far-reaching. “Times of financial crisis can be overwhelming,” says head of Wells Fargo & Company’s Innovation Group, Lisa Frazier, who learned this lesson at a young age when her family struggled to make ends meet on the farm. “But you don’t need to navigate these waters alone. Numerous resources are available, so don’t be afraid to ask for help.” To get a handle on your finances, consider these tips and resources from Frazier and the experts at Wells Fargo: 1. Guard against fraud. The Federal Trade Commission and other agencies have warned consumers to watch out for scammers exploiting the crisis. Be suspicious of messages claiming to be from creditors, employers or charities you do not recognize. Don’t respond to these emails or phone calls directly. Only contact phone numbers or email addresses you know are accurate, like the contact information on a creditor’s or charity’s website.

2. Bank online. As banks and retailers adjust in-person services and hours, consider managing finances online or through mobile banking. With most digital tools, you can easily check account balances, pay bills and make transfers. Consider direct deposit of your tax refund this year, which is faster than a paper check. Digital banking may also allow you to more easily send money to family in need or to receive funds from people who may be in a position to ease your financial burden. 3. Know your credit score. Many banks and other services allow you to access your

credit score online. Take advantage of this feature to ensure the information is accurate and look for areas where you can improve. A financial coach can help you understand which money decisions will impact your score and how to preserve it as best as possible. 4. Use credit wisely. If you need to carry balances or borrow more, make a list of your current credit sources, including current balances, credit limits and annual percentage rates (APRs). Note the end date of any zero percent introductory offers. If your credit is good, consider requesting higher credit limits, which can soften the impact of higher-than-usual balances on your credit score and reinforce your safety net. 5. Seek free expert help. Feeling uncertain about which bills to pay first? Struggling to pay rent and other household needs? There is help available. A financial coach can help you tap government benefits and other resources and get on track. This is why the Wells Fargo Foundation is supporting the following nonprofits that provide free, confidential finan-

cial coaching over the phone and online to anyone facing financial hardships: • Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education: Sign up to meet with a certified-financial coach at yellowribbonnetwork.org/afcpecovid19. • National Disability Institute: Visit the Financial Resilience Center at NationalDisabilityInstitute.org/financialresilience-center for accessible financial health resources and to connect with a certified-financial coach with disability-related experience. • National Foundation for Credit Counseling: Call 1-844-865-1971 or visit nfcc.org/locator to connect with a financial counselor for assistance with managing creditors or debt. • Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund: Visit fecpublic.org/about for a list of locations in cities across the U.S. offering virtual financial counseling as a free public service. As you take steps to protect your health, be sure to also take steps to protect your finances.

The Community News Flash

September 2020

Prepping for a Successful School Year (StatePoint) Whether heading back to the classroom or back to a digital device this fall, it is important to be prepared. Get your children set up for academic success with the following resources and gear: • Comfortable workstation: A few considerations will improve ergonomics and comfort, for better focus when working at home. Consider a heightadjustable table or desk as well as an adjustable chair in order to accommodate your growing child’s needs. If possible, select an area for your child to work that gets plenty of natural light. A good desk lamp is also essential. • Math tools: Did you know that there are free math resources available online that can help to alleviate the challenges posed by remote-learning? Check out Casio’s learning site, available at CasioEducation.com/remote-learning, which provides math activities, YouTube videos, an online calculator and downloadable resources. The brand also offers a variety of models of scientific and graphing calculators, providing students of all levels with the features they’ll

Make a change that you wish to see by voting. Register to Vote so that your vote will be heard. Requirements: In order to Register and Vote, a person must: • be a United States citizen; • be 18 years old by December 31 of the year in which you file this form (note: you must be 18 years old by the date of the general, primary or other election in which you want to vote); • live at your present address for at least 30 days before an election; • not be in jail or on parole for a felony conviction and; • not claim the right to vote elsewhere. • Have valid ID (identification) photo - can be a state ID card, permit, or a driver’s license. PLEASE GO TO YOUR LOCAL CIRCUIT CLERK’S OFFICE OR LOCAL MUNICIPAL COURT TO REGISTER TO VOTE. YOU MUST BE REGISTERED TO VOTE BY OCTOBER 3RD, NOON!

need to make the grade. • Headphones: With so many distractions that can derail a student’s attention, a good set of noise-canceling headphones can make all the difference. • Music instruction: Give kids the tools they need to play music wherever and whenever they’d like. With the ultracompact LK-S250 keyboard, novices can easily learn to play favorite songs using the instrument’s Key Lighting system and library of built-in songs. By connecting to the free Chordana Play app, they can take lessons further by mastering favorite tunes from downloaded MIDI files. The class-compliant USB port connects to any Mac, PC, iOS or Android device with no drivers needed. • Functional fashion: The best accessories also serve a purpose. Look for a watch that has a range of features that help students stay on task. Check out the Pro Trek line of watches. Its different alarm settings can be used to keep a schedule. Be sure kids are equipped for a successful school year, no matter where or how their learning takes place.

September 2020

The Community News Flash

Corinth church blesses community with monthly food give-away

First Lady, Angela Hoyle and Pastor, Elder Willie Hoyle

By Lucy Weber Greater Harvest Church of God in Christ provides for those in need each month. The church at 1108 Proper St. in Corinth may be small in number but it is big in heart. For five years, the church led by Pastor Willie I. Hoyle gives food boxes away to anyone in the community who needs them. “We want to do this. We have a heart for this ministry. There’s a joy to be a blessing,” said Hoyle who has led the church for 26 years. The church has an active congregation of about 50-60 members. “We all work together. It’s not a big job,” for the free food give-away, said the pastor, who added that volunteers from the community help also. “This is church-based but through the community too.” The food is provided by the Missions Department of the regional Church of God in Christ office in Memphis. Hoyle said he calls up there each month to learn when the food boxes will be available for pick up in Memphis, meaning the give-away in Corinth is not on the same date each month. This month, he expected to the give-away to be held on Sept. 4. The church notifies the community through flyers, word-of-mouth and on Greater Harvest’s Facebook page. The boxes contain mostly vegetables and fruits, “something of everything,” the pastor said. “Our church rents a truck and goes to pick it up. We get 300 to 500 boxes of

food each time,” Hoyle said. “The cost of the truck is no burden to us at all.” Hoyle’s wife Angela, who he calls “his backbone,” drives the truck to Memphis and works alongside him and others handing out the food from the church parking lot. “She’s a worker. She pushes me to be the best we can be.” The food is given out on a first-come, first-served basis to anyone in the community who comes by. The give-away starts about 3 p.m., the same day the food is picked up in Memphis. Large households are giving two boxes depending on how many people there are to feed. Sometimes the volunteers are there till after 6 p.m., depending on when people drive by to pick it up. “It we don’t give it all away, we drive through neighborhoods giving it away,” Hoyle said. The program began because “we wanted to be a blessing in the community,” the pastor said. “Not everybody is as fortunate so we want to be a help.” The church bases the program on Matthew 25:35, “For I was hungry and you gave me food.” Hoyle said he is looking forward to when his congregation can be together again in person inside the church building. The services, because of Covid-19, are held online or sometimes in the parking lot and can be viewed on the church’s Facebook Live. “We can’t hardly wait until we come together.”

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September 2020

The Community News Flash

Top Ways to Take a Safe Vacation (StatePoint) After months spent indoors at home due to the coronavirus pandemic, it’s clear that many people are itching to get back out there and take a vacation. This is with good reason. Staying isolated for too long can take a substantial toll on one’s mental health and well-being, according to the American Psychological Association. If you still feel uncomfortable with going far from your home for a travel experience however, traveling domestically can be a step in the right direction. There are lots of great places to visit a few hours’ drive from your home that you probably didn’t think of! Whether you’re looking for a beach stay, or some nature, exploring options close to home can allow for an escape you and your family want, and in a safe environment, such as an apartment or home vacation rental. And it’s an increasingly popular choice. According to trivago, a global accommodation metasearch provider, the share of users clicking on deals for such vacation rentals increased by 5 percent from February to June 2020, both in the U.S. and internationally. As you book and plan your travel, here are a few tips to consider to help ensure you have a healthy and safe experience: • DIY Cleaning: If you are worried about cleaning standards, consider seeking out accommodations where you don’t have to worry about someone else coming into your space during your stay. Bring your own wipes, anti-bacter-

ial soap and other supplies and wipe down surfaces when you arrive, and as often as needed. Of course, you should always check with your accommodation provider about their hygiene standards to make sure they meet your expectations. Major hotel chains have announced special cleaning protocols in light of the coronavirus. • Beating the Crowds: From beach houses to mountain cabins, try to look for a vacation experience away from densely populated city destinations, which is a good choice for those wanting to beat the crowds. • Staying Active: Getting away doesn’t have to mean

staying indoors somewhere new. Take a leisurely stroll on a beach. Go on a hike in the mountains. Explore a national park you’ve always wanted to see. Brunch at a small local café. There are plenty of ways to stay active and have fun, all while following social distance guidelines. • Choosing Your Destination: So where is everybody going? The current most popular U.S travel destinations by click share according to trivago are: 1. Las Vegas 2. Myrtle Beach, S.C. 3. Panama City Beach, Fla. 4. Virginia Beach, Va. 5. Destin, Fla. 6. Miami Beach, Fla. 7. Ocean City, Md. 8. Galveston, Texas 9. South Padre Island, Texas 10. Orlando, Fla. 11. Key West, Fla. For more travel tips and ideas, visit trivago.com, and trivago.com/corona for the most up-to-date travel restrictions. Whether you hit up a popular destination or head somewhere remote, make sure you adhere to local health guidelines when traveling. And above all, stay safe and healthy.

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September 2020

The Community News Flash

NEWS FLASH

Kids Zone

September 2020

The Community News Flash

Basting Basics Basting meats and vegetables with a marinade is one of the best ways to infuse a dish with flavor. What does "marinade" or "marinate" mean? A marinade is a seasoned liquid mixture that adds flavor and in some cases helps tenderize tough cuts of meat. Some marinades are homemade mixtures. Other times they are bottled dressings or sauces. Marinate also means to steep the food in a marinade. If the meat is a tender cut, marinate it for a short time, no more than 30 minutes, or you'll have a mushy, soft entree! For

tougher cuts of meat, marinade for 8 to 12 hours in the refrigerator. Whenever you decide to use a marinade on meats, place it in a re-sealable bag on a plate in the refrigerator. If your recipe calls for basting the meat with a marinade as it cooks, reserve some of the marinade that has NOT been in contact with the raw meat to use as a basting sauce. Otherwise, you are contaminating cooked meat with raw meat juices -- a foodsafety NO-NO. Never use the same basting brush on raw meat and cooked meat. To prevent cross-contamination, try applying the marinade with a spray bottle or a bottle with a squirt top.

delicious on chicken, fish, pork, beef and vegetables. It's inexpensive to make and enhances the flavor of grilled meats and vegetables. MULTI-PURPOSE BASTING SAUCE 3/4 cup wine vinegar 3 tablespoons cooking oil

The same contamination can happen when the plate that held the raw meat is used for transporting the cooked meat. Also avoid using the fork or turner that touched the raw meat to

turn or check the cooked meat. It's best to use a different kitchen utensil each time, or rinse it with warm soapy water between uses. This recipe for MultiPurpose Basting sauce is

3 tablespoons finely chopped green peppers 1 tablespoon salt (optional) 1 can (6 ounce) frozen pineapple juice concentrate 1/2 cup dark brown sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons soy sauce (optional) Combine all ingredients and simmer for 15 minutes

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

September 2020

The Community News Flash

By Samantha Weaver

• A trio of sewing tips from S.R. in Idaho: 1. “Store patterns in plastic baggies. It’s hard to get them back into their envelopes, and I find that the baggies store just as well. 2. I keep my pattern from tearing by spraying them with spray starch. 3. I also sharpen needles by stitching through very fine sandpaper. These tips have worked for me for many years.” • “It’s almost time for Scouts to start up again. I have been washing uniforms and sashes, and find this trick to be helpful when it comes time to stitch on badges. Put a bit of plain school glue on the back of your badge, place it where you want it on the sash, then let it dry. It will stay in place long enough to stitch the edges. When you launder it, the glue will wash right out.” — R.D. in Florida • Solve the case of the tricky screw: Coat problem screws with clear fingernail polish right before you insert them. They will hold tightly after that. • To keep hair shiny and soft, rinse weekly with a 50-50 mix of vinegar (apple cider or white) and water. The smell goes away quickly, but the softness and shine stick around. • If you have a cracked or otherwise leaking vase that is opaque (not glass), try heating a bit of paraffin wax and coating the inside of the vase with it. Let it harden, and it should be watertight again. • “To keep plywood or thin materials from splitting, I tape my cut line with low-tack masking tape. It keeps my cut sharp, reduces the fraying and it’s easy to remove when I’m done.” — G.S. in Minnesota

• It was way back in the 17th century when noted Scottish scholar Patrick Young made the following sage observation: “The trouble with weather forecasting is that it’s right too often for us to ignore it and wrong too often for us to rely on it.” • About once a week, a frog will shed its skin. Then eat it. • If you’ve watched many old Westerns, you’ve doubtless seen Native Americans scalping their enemies. You probably don’t realize, though, that the brutal practice didn’t originate with the Indians. When the Dutch and English settlers were trying to clear out the natives, they were paid a bounty for each scalp they brought back. The Native Americans adopted the practice only after the Europeans’ arrival on the continent. • The country’s first pizzeria opened in 1895 in, unsurprisingly, New York City. • Those who study such things say that 70 percent of Americans have visited either Disneyland, in California, or Disney World, in Florida. • If you want to have an especially memorable — and chilly — vacation, consider heading to Finnish Lapland. There, more than 150 miles north of the Arctic Circle, you can stay at the Kakslauttanen Hotel. The quarters aren’t luxurious, but the sights are amazing. All the accommodations are geodesic glass igloos, offering amazing views of the aurora borealis. • Are you a snollygoster? If so, you’re shrewd, which isn’t a bad thing, but you’re also rather lacking in principles. • When Andrew Jackson was running for president in 1828, his opponents called him a stubborn jackass. Jackson was proud that he was known for obstinately sticking to his guns, so he started using the image of a donkey on his campaign materials. The Democrats have been using that symbol ever since. *** Thought for the Day: “Everyone, in some small sacred sanctuary of the self, is nuts.” — Leo Rosten © 2011 Ki

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September 2020

The Community News Flash

Grilled Ratatouille Pasta

15th Amendment Grants Voting Rights to African American Men By Nadra Kareem Nittle The 15th Amendment, ratified on February 3, 1870, extended the right to vote to African American men seven years after the emancipation proclamation deemed the enslaved population free. Giving black men voting rights was yet another way for the federal government to recognize them as full American citizens. The amendment stated: “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.” However, fierce racial discrimination that would last for several decades effectively prevented African American men from realizing their constitutional rights. It would take the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to eliminate the obstacles, including poll taxes, literacy tests, and retaliation from employers that disenfranchised African American men and women alike. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 is a key component of the civil rights movement that seeks to enforce the Constitution's guarantee of every American's right to vote under the 15th Amendment. The Voting Rights Act was designed to end discrimination against black Americans, particularly those in the South after the Civil War. Text of the Voting Rights Act An important provision of

the Voting Rights Act reads: "No voting qualification or prerequisite to voting, or standard, practice, or procedure shall be imposed or applied by any State or political subdivision to deny or abridge the right of any citizen of the United States to vote on account of race or color." The provision reflected the 15th Amendment of the Constitution, which reads: "The right of U.S. citizens to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude." History of the Voting Rights Act President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act into law on August 6, 1965. The law made it illegal for Congress and state governments to pass voting laws based on race and has been described as the most effective civil rights law ever enacted. Among other provisions, the act prohibited discrimination through the use of poll taxes and the application of literacy tests to determine whether voters could take part in elections. "It is widely regarded as enabling the enfranchisement of millions of minority voters and diversifying the electorate and legislative bodies at all levels of American government," according to The Leadership Conference, which advocates for civil rights. However, the Voting Rights Act has faced challenges in recent years.

Blueberry-Raspberry Summer Pie When you combine fresh blueberries and raspberries, you combine much more than berries. You combine magic! 1 (4-serving) package sugarfree vanilla cook-and-serve pudding mix 1 (4-serving) package sugarfree raspberry gelatin 1 1/4 cups diet lemon-lime soda pop 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 1/4 cups fresh blueberries 3/4 cup fresh red raspberries 1 (6-ounce) purchased graham cracker pie crust 2 (2 1/2-inch) graham cracker squares, made into crumbs 1/2 cup reduced-calorie whipped topping 1. In a large saucepan, combine dry pudding mix, dry gelatin and soda pop. Cook over medium heat until mixture thickens and starts to boil, stirring often. Remove from heat. Stir in cinnamon. Add blueberries and raspberries. Mix gently just to combine. 2. Spoon hot mixture into pie crust. Evenly sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over top. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. When serving, top each piece with 1 tablespoon whipped topping. Makes 8 servings. • Each serving equals: 162 calories, 6g fat, 1g protein, 26g carb., 213mg sodium, 2g fiber; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 Fat, 1/2 Fruit.

This unique take on ratatouille allows you pair that delicious summertime grilled flavor with pasta! Salt Pepper 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 cloves garlic, crushed with press 1 medium red onion 2 medium zucchini 1 large eggplant 2 large orange or yellow peppers, quartered 1 pound (about 4) ripe plum tomatoes, cut lengthwise in half 1 pound gemelli or elbow pasta 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves 1. Prepare outdoor grill for direct grilling on medium-high. Heat covered 6-quart pot of water to boiling on high. Add 2 teaspoons salt. 2. In small bowl, whisk vinegar, oil and garlic. 3. Cut onion crosswise into 1/2inch-thick slices. Trim zucchini and eggplant; cut diagonally into 1/2inch-thick slices. Brush half of vinegar mixture on one side of onion, zucchini, eggplant, peppers and tomatoes. 4. Grill tomatoes 6 minutes, zucchini and eggplant 10 minutes, and peppers and onion 12 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender and charred, turning over once. Transfer vegetables to cutting board. Cool slightly, then cut into 1/2 inch pieces. 5. Meanwhile, cook pasta in boiling water as label directs. Drain; return to pot. 6. Stir mustard into remaining vinegar mixture. Toss with pasta along with parsley, vegetables, 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Serves 6. ? Each serving: About 425 calories, 9g total fat (1g saturated), 0mg cholesterol, 465mg sodium, 75g total carbohydrate, 9g dietary fiber, 14g protein. For thousands of triple-tested recipes, visit our website at www.goodhousekeeping.com/recipefinder/. © 2011 Hearst Communications, Inc. All rights reserved

1. MONEY: What country’s currency is the baht? 2. LITERATURE: What famous adventure novelist was born with the name John Chaney? 3. BIBLE: Which Old Testament figure’s name means “laughter” in Hebrew? 4. HISTORY: What city was the capital of Russia from 1712 to 1918? 5. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: When was Al Capone imprisoned for tax evasion? 6. MYTHOLOGY: Where was King Arthur buried, according to the myth? 7. GEOGRAPHY: Where does the Horn of Africa lie? 8. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What kind of poisonous arachnid also is referred to as a “violin” or “brown fiddler” spider? 9. LANGUAGE: What is another way to describe someone who is “perfidious”? 10. MOVIES: What is the last name of “Dirty Harry,” the character played by Clint Eastwood? Answers 1. Thailand 2. Jack London 3. Isaac 4. St. Petersburg 5. 1931 6. The isle of Avalon 7. East Africa 8. The brown recluse spider 9. Treacherous 10. Callahan

1. Entering 2011, how many times had Jim Thome tallied at least 20 home runs in a season? 2. Name the last international team before Japan in 2010 to win the Little League World Series. 3. In 1976-77 and 1986-87, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers had the No. 1 overall draft pick each year. Name three of the four players selected. 4. Tom Izzo is the longest-serving Big Ten men’s basketball head coach, having led Michigan State since 1995. Who is second in Big Ten tenure? 5. Who was the oldest NHL player to get his first hat trick before 40year-old Nicklas Lidstrom of Detroit did it in 2010? 6. When swimmer Michael Phelps won his 16th career Olympic medal during the 2008 Summer Games, whose record did he break for men’s total medals? 7. In 2011, Rory McIlroy became the youngest golfer (21) to hold at least a share of the lead after the first day of the Masters. Who had held the mark? Answers 1. Sixteen of 20 seasons entering 2011. 2. Curacao, in 2004. 3. Lee Roy Selmon (1976), Ricky Bell (‘77), Bo Jackson (‘86) and Vinny Testaverde (‘87). 4. Bill Carmody has been the head coach at Northwestern since 2000. 5. St. Louis’ Scott Mellanby was 36 when he got his first hat trick in 2003. 6. Russian gymnast Nikolai Andrianov. 7. Seve Ballesteros was 23 when he did it in 1980.

September 2020

The Community News Flash

HEALTH

TECHNOLOGY

Managing COPD During the COVID-19 Pandemic Combatting Cybersecurity Threats of the COVID-19 Era

Courtesy of the American Lung Association

(StatePoint) Managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is always important, and especially so right now, as individuals living with a chronic lung disease are at a higher risk of severe illness and complications from COVID19. However, misinformation about COVID-19 has made it hard for people with chronic conditions to determine how to stay safe. Dr. Albert Rizzo, chief medical officer of the American Lung Association, is providing answers to common questions that the millions of Americans affected by COPD may have. Q: What additional steps should I take to prevent becoming ill with COVID-19? Because COVID-19 is a new disease in humans, our immune systems haven’t yet developed defenses against it and there’s currently no vaccine. The best way to avoid illness, regardless of age or health status, is avoiding exposure to the virus. For individuals living with COPD, stringent adherence to safety precautions is vital. Stay home as much as possible. When in public, maintain social distance of at least six feet, wear a cloth face covering and encourage others to do the same. Also, wash your hands often and clean, then disinfect, frequently touched surfaces. Q: How can I maintain control of my COPD during the COVID-19 pandemic? COPD control is especially vital right now in case of exposure to the virus that causes COVID19. Continue controller medications for COPD to maintain lung health. To limit potential exposure to COVID-19, find out if mail-order pharmacy options are available to you, and if your insurance allows, secure a 90-day supply of prescription medications. Don’t delay important visits or ignore flare-ups or new symptoms. COPD complications can become serious if left untreated. If telemedicine isn’t an option, bear in mind that doctor’s offices have adopted new safety prac-

tices during in-person visits. Q: Should I continue to use my nebulizer at home? Taking medication correctly is a major component in successfully controlling chronic lung diseases. In certain areas, there have been reported shortages of metered dose inhalers (MDIs) due to increased demand in healthcare settings. Nebulized therapy continues to be a safe, effective way to take inhaled medications at home during the pandemic, though special steps should be taken if you have suspected or confirmed COVID-19. Some patients find that nebulized therapy is more affordable. Talk to your physician if you have concerns about affording your prescribed medications or delivery options. Also, visit Lung.org/nebulizers to access video tutorials on proper nebulizer use and maintenance. Q: What additional precautions should I take if I have suspected or confirmed COVID-19? If you have suspected or confirmed COVID19, maintain home isolation to protect other household members. This includes the following additional safety precautions when using your nebulizer: • Wash your hands before and after treatment. • Use your nebulizer in an area that minimizes potential exposure of aerosolized droplets to other household members. You might consider an outdoor patio or porch, or a room indoors where the air is not recirculated throughout the house and nobody else will enter for 1-2 hours, which is long enough for the droplets to no longer be airborne. • Clean and disinfect your nebulizer. Your healthcare provider will work with you on when you can discontinue home isolation and resume normal nebulizer use. Contact them at the first sign of new, severe or concerning respiratory symptoms for a home treatment plan. While most people recover from COVID-19 at home, having COPD elevates risk for severe symptoms. Seek emergency care for the following symptoms: trouble breathing, pain or pressure in your chest, development of a bluish tinge to your lips or face, and new confusion or inability to wake or stay awake. Q: Where can I find trusted information? You can trust the American Lung Association to provide science-based information and resources. Visit Lung.org or call 1-800-LUNGUSA for more information about COPD, COVID-19, nebulized therapy or any other respiratory topic. Development of this educational resource is supported by Theravance Biopharma.

(StatePoint) New data reveals that in uncertain times, consumers and businesses need even greater vigilance when it comes to their cybersecurity. The mid-year update to the 2020 SonicWall Cyber Threat Report highlights an opportunistic use of the COVID-19 pandemic by cybercriminals. “Cybercriminals can be resourceful, often setting traps to take advantage of people’s kindness and panic in uncertain times, as well as their trust in everyday systems,” says Bill Conner, SonicWall president and CEO. “With everyone more remote and mobile than ever before, the cybercriminal industry is very aware that businesses are highly exposed.” Shifting Threats During the first half of 2020, global malware attacks fell from 4.8 billion to 3.2 billion over 2019’s mid-year total, a continuation of a downward trend. However, less malware doesn’t necessarily mean a safer world; ransomware has seen a corresponding jump over the same time period and continues to be the preferred tool for cybercriminals. Increasing a staggering 20% globally in the first half of 2020, SonicWall logged 79.9 million ransomware attacks (+109%) in the U.S., a trend that continues to ebb and flow based on the behaviors of agile cybercriminal networks. COVID-19 Email Scams The global pandemic plus socialengineered cyberattacks has proven to be an effective mix for cybercriminals utilizing phishing and other email scams. Dating as far back as Feb. 4, SonicWall researchers detected a flurry of increased attacks, scams and exploits specifically based around COVID-19. This contrasts with phishing as a whole, which was down slightly by the time pandemic phishing attempts began picking up steam. Office Lures a Staple Microsoft Office is a necessity for millions working remotely. Cybercriminals were quick to leverage this shift. Leveraging SonicWall Capture Advanced Threat Protection with patentpending Real-Time Deep Memory Inspection technology, SonicWall discovered that 22% of Microsoft Office files and 11% of PDF files made up about one-third of all newly identified

malware in 2020. The technology identified a record 120,910 ‘never-beforeseen’ malware variants during that time - a 63% increase over the first six months of 2019. “Cybercriminals are too sophisticated to use known malware variants, so they’re re-imagining malware to defeat security controls, and it’s working,” said Conner. Non-Standard Ports By sending malware across non-standard ports, assailants can bypass traditional firewall technologies, ensuring increased success for payloads. A ‘nonstandard’ port is leveraged by services running on a port other than its default assignment. An average of 23% of attacks took place over non-standard ports -- the highest mark since SonicWall began tracking the vector in 2018. IoT Serves Threats Remote workforces can introduce many new risks, including Internet of Things (IoT) devices like refrigerators, baby cameras and doorbells. A 50% increase in IoT malware attacks mirrors the number of additional devices connected online, as individuals and enterprise alike function from home. Unchecked IoT devices can provide cybercriminals an open door into what may otherwise be a well-secured organization. As organizations mobilize for their new business normal, they can adapt to new threats in real-time by leveraging the services of security experts such as SonicWall. For more information, visit sonicwall.com. “This new business normal is no longer new,” says Conner. “As everything goes more remote, mobile and unsecure, organizations must move away from makeshift or traditional security strategies.”

September 2020

The Community News Flash

LIVING

9 Ways to Become a Weather Expert (StatePoint) Weather impacts a range of decisions we make throughout the day, from what to wear, whether to bring an umbrella, when to head out for a jog, or even if you should evacuate the area in an emergency. Having access to the most accurate weather forecasts, news and information, and being able to make sense of it, is essential. That’s why the experts at AccuWeather are sharing nine ways to use their newly designed app to enhance your life: 1. Don’t get caught in the rain. Going for a jog? Avoid getting caught in the rain by checking AccuWeather MinuteCast, the app’s minute-by-minute precipitation forecast in your location for up to the next two hours. 2. Plan ahead. Planning ahead? AccuWeather provides weather forecasts 45 days out, including historic and trend data breakdowns for each day, giving you a holistic view into the future and the peace of mind to plan that camping trip or to set your outdoor wedding date. 3. Know right away. Get informed automatically of what you need to know and when you need to know it with push notifications. Opt in to receive real-time severe weather alerts from the National Weather Service (NWS) and other sources, which can help protect you and your family from weather emergencies. AccuWeather’s mobile apps process NWS severe weather alerts faster than any other source, which is critical when lives are on the line and every second counts. 4. Manage allergies. Don’t let seasonal allergies ruin your weekend. The app’s Allergy Outlook displays daily projections of common allergens in a single, scrollfree list, so you can decide whether to skip that Saturday afternoon picnic in favor of something indoors. 5. Be productive. Outdoors and on the job? Let your crew know if they need to layer up with the help of the exclusive AccuWeather RealFeel. Combining temperature, plus additional factors such as wind speed and humidity, precipitation, cloud cover and sun intensity, this feature provides a proprietary measure of exactly how the air feels outdoors specific to where you’re positioned, so you can keep your worksite productive, protected and comfortable.

6. Get historical. A Location Search feature allows you to check historical weather trends and long-term projections in any given destination, so you can start dreaming about your next vacation as soon as you book a ticket. You can even save your ‘Favorites’ and ‘Recent’ locations for easy access to weather forecasts at work, home and school, or track the local weather of loved ones. 7. Catch sunrise. Want to catch that beautiful sunrise on the last day of your beach vacation? The app’s Today’s Details section lets you know exactly when the sun will rise and set each day, as well as how long each day and night will last. 8. Stay safe behind the wheel. Plan in advance to avoid inclement winter driving by using the 5-Day Precipitation Outlook and the 24-Hour Snowfall Forecast located on one map screen. The map includes a range of additional features, including Radar, Satellite and Temperature Contour, so you can understand all conditions at play. 9. Be prepared. If you live in an area regularly impacted by severe weather events, utilize AccuWeather’s video content, weather trends articles and tips curated to help you adequately prepare for a variety of catastrophic events. To download the app or learn more, check the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. “With accurate information, you can gain the confidence you need to make better informed decisions for your life, business and family’s safety,” said Kurt Fulepp, AccuWeather global chief product officer, who led development of the app.