CNF September 2025

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Vol 25, No. 5 •September 2025 News You Can Use

662-643-6842

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Balancing Numbers and Cheer: Shayla Allison’s Passion for Finance and Mentorship

By Community News Flash Staff For Corinth native Shayla Allison, life has always been about balance—balancing academics with athletics, a demanding career with community service, and personal growth with lifting others along the way. Her journey from student-athlete to finance professional and award-winning cheer coach is a story of faith, resilience, and a deep commitment to empowering others.

Allison is the proud daughter of Graylin Allison, Sr., and Patti and Steve Hill.

Raised in both Jackson, MS & Corinth, she developed a strong sense of discipline and determination through her family’s encouragement and her involvement in sports. At Corinth High School, where she graduated in 2005, she stayed busy on the basketball court, on the track, and on the sidelines as a cheerleader. Those experiences would become the foundation for much of her leadership and mentoring work today.

With several academic scholarships, Allison headed to ‘THEE’ Jackson State University—a place she calls “transformational” in shaping both her education and her character. While at JSU, she became a member of the cheerleading team, an experience that not only gave her lifelong friends but also reaffirmed her love for cheerleading and mentoring young athletes.

Initially, Allison majored in Physical Therapy. But her father noticed something

she sometimes overlooked—her natural ability with numbers, budgeting, and problem-solving.

With his encouragement, she shifted her focus to Accounting, and later broadened her studies to Finance. By her junior year, she realized she was fascinated with more than just numbers on a page—she wanted to understand how money moves, grows, and impacts communities.

She graduated Cum Laude in 2009 with a degree in Finance and, several years later, returned to graduate school at Mississippi College, where she earned a Master’s in Finance in 2016. That combination of education and professional experi-

ence cemented her calling in the financial field.

Today, Allison works as an accountant at a nonprofit healthcare center, where she manages the financial systems that allow the organization to provide critical care for uninsured, underinsured, and lowincome patients.

“What I enjoy most about working in finance is knowing that my work directly supports a community that truly needs it,” she said. “It’s incredibly

Return Address: P.O. Box 1292 Corinth, MS 38835

POSTAL PATRON Shayla Allison

rewarding to contribute to an organization that offers quality healthcare to people who are often overlooked by the traditional healthcare system.”

Her work is often behind the scenes, but its impact is deeply felt. Without careful financial planning and accountability, many of the center’s patients would not have access to the care they need. Allison sees her role as more than just numbers on a spreadsheet—she sees it as ministry through finance.

While finance became her career, cheerleading never left her heart. During her time at Jackson State, professors and classmates began asking Allison to help their family members prepare for junior high and high school cheer tryouts. The results spoke for themselves—every girl she trained made her team. That success lit a spark in Allison, showing her that her influence stretched far beyond routines and tumbling passes.

After graduation, a coworker who had just been named a cheer sponsor asked Allison to help with her team. That experience opened Allison’s eyes to the power of mentorship. “The way the girls gravitated toward me and opened up about their lives showed me that my role wasn’t just about cheer technique,” she explained. “It was about helping them grow into confident, strong young women.”

Eventually, Allison was invited to coach the Jackson Bears, a youth cheer league. What began as skill development soon evolved into life coaching. She helped her girls earn cheer spots on their respective school teams, but more importantly, she guided them into becoming productive young women prepared for the see ALLISON on page 4

The Community News Flash

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September 2025

Editor’s Corner My Pen is My Best Friend: My Pen, My Therapy

Jerry W. Porter CEO/Publisher

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

Some people find peace in music. Others find their calm in long walks, in the rhythm of cooking, or in heartfelt conversation with friends. But for me?

My peace, my therapy, comes through a pen.

Yes, a pen.

It might sound unusual to call a pen my best friend, but it’s the truth. My pen listens without judgment. It flows with me through every thought, every mood, and every struggle.

With each stroke, it captures the very soul of my emotions and places them safely on paper. My pen is my quiet place, my safe place, and my reminder that God still speaks—even through ink.

My relationship with pens didn’t just start yesterday. It began way back in my childhood. While some kids collected baseball cards, toy cars, or dolls, I collected pens. Any kind of pen—ballpoint, felt-tip, fountain, gel—I wanted them all. I didn’t quite understand why. To me, they were just shiny treasures, little tools that felt important even before I knew why.

Looking back now, I realize it was more than just a hobby.

That little habit was God’s way of preparing me for something greater. The very thing I casually collected became the instrument of my healing, my purpose, and my connection to others. My childhood fascination was a seed, and today it has blossomed into something far more meaningful.

My pen has walked with me through the brightest of days and the darkest of nights. It has recorded victories, whispered through moments of joy, and absorbed my tears on nights when life felt too heavy to carry alone.

When I couldn’t find the words to say out loud, I could always write them down. When my mind was tangled in confusion, scribbling out thoughts often brought clarity. When the world got loud, and the noise seemed unbearable, I found my

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quiet in the scratch of ink moving across a blank page.

Paper never interrupted me.

Ink never rolled its eyes or changed the subject. My pen gave me a voice when my mouth could not. And in that, I discovered something powerful: sometimes healing doesn’t come through talking, but through writing.

That’s why I call my pen my therapy. Just like a counselor sits and listens, my pen sits and receives. Every frustration, every praise, every doubt, every prayer—it takes it all. And the more I write, the lighter I feel.

This personal therapy has grown into something bigger than myself. The Community News Flash and the Daily Dose inspirations are not just publications or columns—they are my therapy sessions in print. Every time I put words on the page, I am pouring out what God has placed in me. At the same time, I’m receiving His peace, His encouragement, and His reminders of grace.

What amazes me most is how God can take something so small—a pen—and use it for something so powerful. He uses ink to heal not just me, but others too. Someone out there may pick up the newspaper or scroll across an inspirational word and find exactly what they needed at that moment. That’s not just writing.

That's the ministry.

That’s God’s hand moving through the simplest of tools.

Now, here’s where I want to slow down and talk to you, the reader.

You may not be a writer. You may not care much for pens or papers at all. But the truth is, we all

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.

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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.

have something that serves as our therapy.

For some, it’s a paintbrush.

For others, it’s the gentle strum of a guitar. Some find peace in planting seeds in the garden, watching flowers bloom where there was once bare soil. Others find their therapy in cooking a meal, running a mile, singing a song, or fixing up an old car.

The tool itself doesn’t matter as much as the peace it brings.

What matters is that God often gives each of us something—a gift, a practice, a talent—that helps us release what’s on the inside. It becomes a way for Him to bring us calm, clarity, and joy.

So, let me ask you: what’s your pen?

What’s that thing in your life that gives you a moment of stillness in a storm, a breath of calm when chaos rises, or a release when words aren’t enough?

Whatever it is—don’t run from it. Lean into it. Embrace it. God may be using it as your therapy, your healing tool, your lifeline in difficult times.

For me, a pen is not just about writing words—it’s about fulfilling a purpose. Each time I pick up my pen, I remember that God trusted me with this gift. He gave me the ability to put thoughts, lessons, and encouragement into words that might touch someone’s heart at just the right moment.

And let me be honest: that’s not always easy. Writing requires discipline, vulnerability, and faith that someone, somewhere, will need what flows through my pen. But every time I see someone smile after reading a Daily Dose, or hear that a column encourages them to keep going, I know my therapy has become someone else’s blessing.

That’s how God works. He

takes the very things that heal us and allows them to heal others too. He takes our private therapy sessions and turns them into public testimonies of His grace.

We live in a world that never seems to stop moving. The phones buzz, the headlines scream, the obligations pile up, and the days blur together. It’s easy to lose ourselves in the noise.

But therapy—real therapy— reminds us to slow down. For me, that’s as simple as picking up a pen and facing a blank sheet of paper. For you, it might mean grabbing a paintbrush, pulling weeds in your flower bed, playing a favorite song, or taking a walk in the park.

Whatever it is, I encourage you to find it, use it, and honor it. Don’t dismiss it as “just a hobby.” Don’t overlook it as “just something I like to do.” It might be the very thing God

Monthly Meditation For the word of God is alive and active.

Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

designed to keep you grounded, focused, and at peace.

So yes, my best friend is my best friend—my pen. It has been with me since childhood, through ups and downs, joy and sorrow. It has listened when no one else could. It has healed wounds that conversations couldn’t. And it has reminded me that even in ink, God’s grace can flow.

Your “pen” may look different from mine, but the truth remains: God has given each of us a form of therapy. Embrace it. Lean on it. Use it as a tool not just for yourself, but for others too.

Because sometimes, the very thing that brings you peace could be the very thing God uses to bring peace to someone else.

Whoo! Whoo! Until next time! All aboard!

Notable Quote “The pen is mightier than the sword” - Edward Bulwer Lytton

September 2025

The Community News Flash

SEPTEMBER BIBLE TRIVIA

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.

1. Who built the first altar?

2. What military leader was killed while holding on to the horns of the altar?

3. What book of the Bible mentions a talking altar?

4. Who almost sacrificed his much-loved son on an altar but was stopped by an angel?

5. What king of Judah tore down Jeroboam's altar at Bethel and pounded the stones into dust?

6. Who built an altar and called it "The Lord is my banner"?

7. What kind of stone was, according to the Law, not supposed to be used in making an altar?

8. What was the altar in the tabernacle made of?

9. Which of the 12 tribes caused civil war when they built a magnificient altar on the banks of the Jordan?

10. What judge built an altar and called it "The Lord is peace"?

11. What king of Israel built a Baal altar to please his pagan wife?

12. What judge's parents saw an angel going up to heaven in the flames on the altar?

13. What judge and prophet built an altar to the Lord at Ramah?

14. What king was told to build an altar in a threshing place?

15. What rebellious son of David sought refuge from Solomon by holding on the horns of the altar?

16. Who took bones out of tombs and burned them on an altar to defile it?

17. Who had a vision of the Lord standing beside the altar?

18. What king of Israel changed the religious institutions of the country by building an altar a Bethel?

19. What good king's birth was foretold hundreds of years before the fact by a prophet standing before the altar at Bethel?

20. What happened to Jeroboam's altar when ordered his men to seize a prophet in front of it?

3

August Answers

1. Haggai's (1:12) 2. Isaiah (40:3) 3. Peter (Acts 10:13-15) 4. Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:31) 5. Ezekiel (1:24) 6. Rhoda (Acts 12:14) 7. The Lord's servant (Isaiah 42:2)

8. Hebrew (or, in some translations, Aramic) (Acts 26:14) 9. Darius (Daniel 6:20)

Send in your answers to the following Bible Trivia Questions and take a chance at winning a complimentary bible from the Community News Flash. Random drawing will be held monthly and contestant can only win twice within a 6 month period.

10. 2 Peter (2:16)

The Community News Flash

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September 2025

Caregivers Face Financial, Emotional and Career Impacts, Study Finds

(c) PIKSEL / iStock via Getty Images Plus

(StatePoint) Two in five U.S. adults identify as family caregivers, but there is a lack of support for them nationwide, according to new research from Edward Jones in partnership with Morning Consult and Age Wave. With 46% of Americans expected to become caregivers in the future, this research sought to better understand their concerns and challenges, and uncover ways to support them.

How caregivers are navigating their finances, emotions and careers Top financial concerns caregivers face include rising costs and inflation (56%) and inadequate retirement savings (42%). In fact, 95% of caregivers have some level of financial concern for their retirement, and 51% must cut back on personal spending because of their caregiving responsibilities, according to the study. In addition to financial challenges, many caregivers cited caregiving as a significant emotional responsibility, leaving them

stressed, burned out, and unable to prioritize their own health.

Most caregivers (72%) are willing to sacrifice their own financial security to ensure proper care for their loved ones. This sometimes includes such measures as stepping away from their jobs entirely, reducing work hours, taking on debt and dipping into their own retirement savings.

Despite these challenges, 80% of caregivers say their role has strengthened their relationships with loved ones, with the large majority reporting feelings of personal fulfillment and gratitude from those in their care.

“Caregivers often bear great financial burdens and sacrifice their own well-being to care for children and elder family members,” says Ken Dychtwald, founder and CEO of Age Wave.

“The vital role of family caregivers in our care systems and society demands greater recognition, resources and relief, especially as America’s population continues to live longer with more chronic conditions and the need for caregiving grows.”

Support, education and resources for caregivers is crucial.

Fifty-seven percent have not sought professional advice for caregiving-related financial guidance, yet 93% of those who work with a financial advisor report feeling more confident about their financial future.

“Financial advisors are an important element of a caregiver’s support system,” says Ken Cella, principal and head of external affairs at Edward Jones. “They can give caregivers a complete picture of their finances, enabling them to navigate the complex realities of care while planning for multiple long-term financial and life goals.”

Policies that help caregivers have bipartisan support

ALLISON.....from page 1 world beyond cheerleading.

For Allison, the championships and trophies are rewarding—her teams have become 3-time CMYA Champions—but the real victories are much deeper.

“The most rewarding part of being a cheer coach is watching my athletes grow, both on and off the mat,” she said. “Many of the younger girls start off shy and uncertain, but by the end of the season, they’re thriving. And with the older ones, it’s incredible to see them achieve their goals, whether that’s making their school squads or even coming back later to serve as youth coaches themselves. I may be their coach, but in many ways, they’ve taught me just as much.”

Those “full-circle moments,” she explained, are what make the long hours and sacrifices worthwhile.

Balancing two demanding roles is no small feat, but Allison says her faith and her sense of purpose keep her going.

“By the grace of God, it all gets done,” she said with a smile. “The same community I serve in my finance job is the one I

coach in. Knowing how much they depend on me fuels my commitment. If my girls can show up, push through, and give their best despite their challenges, then I know I can do the same.

Their resilience reminds me why I do both” Allison’s cheerleaders quickly learn that

Currently, 68% of Americans, regardless of political affiliation, say the public sector is not doing enough to support caregivers, a sentiment felt more strongly among those caring for elderly adults and special-needs adults. The research found that the majority of Americans support enacting federal legislation that would aid caregivers, such as expanded retirement account contributions for caregivers, and additional “catch-up” contributions for caregivers.

Additionally, 74% say they believe employers should offer benefits such as financial support or flexible work arrangements for employees with caregiving responsibilities, reflecting a growing demand for supportive workplace policies.

“In the face of rising living costs and a looming retirement crisis, supporting caregivers through national and employment policies is an investment in economic stability, public health and the well-being of both caregivers and those they are caring for,” says Cella. “As a firm, we are proud to advocate on behalf of caregivers by backing policies that will build lasting financial strength for our clients, colleagues, communities and society.”

Edward Jones supports the Improving Retirement Security for Family Caregivers Act and the Catching Up Family Caregivers Act. According to advocates, these bills would build on the success of the SECURE 2.0 Act by providing additional savings opportunities for caregivers. To learn more, visit www.edwardjones.com/caregiving.

Caregivers have a lot to navigate emotionally, financially and logistically. But support, education and resources can help them meet the challenges.

she is as much a mentor as she is a coach.

She instills lessons that extend beyond the gym: Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.

These lessons, she says, are the building blocks of strong, confident young women.

Interestingly, Allison finds that her career in finance and her role as a coach often complement each other. In finance, she has learned the importance of structure, planning, and strategic thinking—all skills she applies to cheerleading seasons.

Meanwhile, coaching has taught her patience, adaptability, and leadership— qualities that strengthen her professional work.

“Both roles have stretched me in different ways, but together they’ve made me a better leader,” she reflected.

Like anyone balancing career and service, Allison has faced her share of challenges. In finance, working with limited budgets at a nonprofit can be daunting. In coaching, many of her athletes face barriers such as lack of transportation, limited gear, or struggles at home.

Instead of dwelling on what’s missing,

Allison focuses on solutions. “Leadership isn’t about having all the resources,” she said. “It’s about making an impact with what you do have.”

As she looks to the future, Allison has clear goals. Professionally, she wants to continue growing her expertise in finance and step into more leadership roles within nonprofits that serve underserved communities. As a coach, she hopes to expand her program to reach more young girls, helping them discover their potential.

“I believe that success is about more than just individual achievement,” she said. “It’s about lifting others up along the way. Helping others succeed is what truly motivates me and drives everything I do.”

From balancing budgets to balancing stunts, Shayla Allison embodies resilience, purpose, and heart. Her story is a reminder that success is not just about personal milestones—it’s about using one’s gifts to inspire and uplift others. Whether she’s in the finance office ensuring patients have access to healthcare, or in the gym helping young girls find their confidence, Allison is leaving an indelible mark on her community.

September 2025

The Community News Flash

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

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September 2025

MONEY

Amid Volatility, Americans are Living Financially Fulfilled Lives

(c) nd3000 / iStock via Getty Images Plus

(StatePoint) Three quarters of Americans (74%) are optimistic about their financial futures despite recent market volatility and uncertainty, according to new research.

Capturing the goals, challenges and feelings of North Americans regarding their finances, research for “The Pulse of North America” report was conducted by Edward Jones and Cerulli Associates during April’s increased market volatility. An encouraging 79% of respondents indicated they are on track to achieve or have already achieved a financially fulfilled life.

“Sentiment from our own clients confirms this,” said David Gunn, principal, head of U.S. and Canada Business Units at Edward Jones. “In the half a million conversations our financial advisors have had with clients in the past five months, only a quarter of our clients highlight financial stress. This reflects the power of deep, personal, trusting relationships and holistic financial advice.”

Recent volatility impacts, but does not derail, financial fulfillment Despite 49% of respondents indicating that inflation is a source of financial stress, Americans remain steadfast in the pursuit of financial fulfillment. They define fulfillment as having the freedom to pursue their passions (46%), make a better life for themselves and their families (42%), and have security and protection from unforeseen events (41%).

To become more financially fulfilled, Americans are most willing to change their discretionary spending habits (45%), pay off their debt (33%), and improve their financial literacy (28%). This flexibility will

help them tackle potential obstacles, including rising living costs (59%), unexpected financial setbacks (35%), and insufficient income or savings (27%). Nearly two-thirds of respondents (63%) indicated they would need to earn a $150,000-plus salary annually to achieve financial freedom.

Americans report optimism and progress relative to personal benchmarks When it comes to tracking financial progress, only 18% of Americans benchmark themselves against their own goals and plans rather than those of others, while 33% primarily compare themselves to their peers, 22% to their significant others, and 19% to their colleagues.

Respondents indicated that they are tracking confidently against financial and other life goals, reporting that they are on par with or ahead of others when it comes to specific objectives, such as achieving financial stability (88%), travel goals (84%), financial literacy (83%), saving for retirement (80%), and achieving homeownership (78%).

“Even with heightened market volatility and economic uncertainty, American investors have stayed the course with their portfolios and long-term plans,” added Gunn. “They are making meaningful progress by keeping the future in mind, while expressing willingness to pivot in real time with the help of a financial professional.”

The role of financial advisors in pursuing financial fulfilment While 57% of DIY investors have a financial plan, this number increases to 77% for Americans who regularly engage with a financial advisor.

Those working with a financial advisor are doing so to manage financial risk (28%), seek a second opinion on financial decisions (26%), or based on recommendations from family members or other professionals (25%). Americans who regularly work with a financial advisor are more likely to feel optimistic about their financial future than those who manage their finances on their own (79% vs 71% respectively).

For more research insights, visit www.edwardjones.com/pulse.

Four locations: 1901 G South Harper Rd Corinth, MS. 38834 (662) 594-1250

6620 Michie Pebble Hill Michie, TN. 38357 (662) 872-4489

6984 Hwy Alt. North West Point, MS. 39773 (662) 275-6949

1514 KY 121 Murray, KY. 42071 (270) 917-8003

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September 2025

7

Life Insurance Options to Fit Today’s Funeral Practices

: (c) Anze Furlan / Getty Images

(StatePoint) Tradition is meeting innovation in today’s memorial practices, proving that even life’s final chapter can be reimagined.

Today’s funerals bear little resemblance to those of the past. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), cremation surpassed traditional burials as the preferred method of laying the deceased to rest in 2015. That trend continues today, with the estimated cremation rate in the United States in 2024 at 61.9%, and the burial rate estimated at 33.2%.

The tone of funerals has also changed, with many opting to host a celebration of life characterized with bright colors, upbeat music and even laughter as loved ones remember treasured moments together.

A newer, somewhat surprising trend is not waiting for a loved one to die before officially celebrating their life. Known as living funerals, these highly customized ceremonies are actually overseen and attended by the tobe deceased.

Technology is taking a more dominant role in memorials. Streaming services, virtual memorials and online tributes make it possible to pay one’s respects without traveling. Digital tools make planning the funeral or celebration faster and more convenient.

Perhaps one of the most significant changes is an environmental focus. Biodegradable polymer urns are available that release nutrients into the Earth. Tree pod burials involve wrapping the individual in an organic fiber buried where a tree will be planted. While such green options are increasingly popular, they are not yet available everywhere and must follow stringent requirements.

Water cremation, also known as alkaline-hydrolysis or aquamation, is becoming more common because of its low-carbon footprint. Although it is far from a frequent form of disposition, it is gaining popularity and legal acceptance. Among other environmental benefits, it offers 90% energy savings over fire cremation.

Of course, cost is often a key consideration. Unless the deceased’s family is wealthy, they will likely rely on the proceeds of existing life insurance policies to cover

costs.

According to the NFDA, the median cost of a funeral with viewing and traditional burial in 2024 was $8,300.

Cremation is less expensive, which helps to explain its growing popularity. But there are other expenses to consider. These include cemetery plots, headstones, flowers, musicians, transportation and obituaries.The face value of life insurance policies varies greatly depending on a family’s financial situation. At minimum, financial advisors will typically recommend that a life insurance policy be purchased with a death benefit to pay for final expenses. These smaller policies, which average $5,000$25,000, are designed solely to cover necessary costs without financially burdening family. Smaller whole life policies can accomplish the same goals. Neither, however, do much to help survivors sustain a standard of living following a death.

Determining exactly how much life insurance you and your loved ones need and the best form of coverage can be challenging, especially considering there are more options today than ever. But, with the help of an experienced life insurance agent, the process is not overwhelming. Erie Insurance agents, for example, work closely with clients to fully understand their financial needs today and in the future and match them with the right policy (term, whole, universal, etc.).

“Our agents serve as advocates, helping streamline the application process, advise on policy options, conduct reviews and manage necessary changes to policies over the years. They also assist with claims and act as liaisons with the insurance company,” said Mike Fletcher, SVP, sales and marketing, of Erie Insurance.

To help give you a head start on planning, visit erieinsurance.com/life-insurance/calculator. This fast, private, no-obligation planning tool will help determine how much life insurance you need based on your age, family situation, burial plans and financial status.

While funeral practices are in flux, one thing remains the same, a life insurance policy can help loved ones meet expenses.

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September 2025

All Aboard: Caboose at Crossroads Museum is about ready for visitors

By Lucy Weber Train enthusiasts will soon add a new experience to their visits to the Crossroads Museum located in Corinth’s old depot.

Bill Avery and Lee Thurner, who both serve on the museum board of directors, refurbished the inside of the red, former GM&O line caboose that sits on an abandoned spur line by the museum. "It was ugly and closed, so we made it part of the museum," Avery said.

Museum director Lisa Kinney said the improvements to the caboose will enhance the experience for visitors who are railroading fans. “They’ve really done an impressive job,” she said. “When visitors can get inside the caboose, it will provide an immersive experience.”

The two men, both retirees, decided to renovate the caboose to add to the museum’s draw. “We

have got so many visitors who want to go inside the caboose.”

Thurner has the railroad knowledge, Avery said, and “I’ve been the step-and-fetch-it guy. We have finished what we were doing for now. We have got so many visitors who want to go inside the caboose. Having the caboose fixed up adds to the viability of looking at Corinth’s railroad history.”

Over five weeks, the men painted the inside of the vintage train car along with the interior chairs, bunks, and vinyl covers and also replaced rusted steel on the doors. “We spiffed up the inside of the caboose,” Avery said.

“We’ve got the outside to paint. That’s an upcoming project in the fall when it’s cooler,” he said.

“We’ve got it looking good so far.”

Corinth was once billed as the Crossroads of

the South because of the importance the railroads played during the Civil War. Two rail lines crossed over each other at the city center, making Corinth one of the most strategic transportation hubs fought over by both the Union and Confederate armies.

Since trains have played a big role in Corinth’s history, Avery said the history of the caboose is important for visitors to learn. “The fascinating thing about a caboose is that it had a three-man crew aboard.

Their function was to watch out for the cupolas on both sides to check the smoke from the engine,” he said, adding they were checking for unusual smoke that could indicate a potential safety issue.

The railroad played and continues to play an important role in Corinth’s history and daily life, Avery said.

Thirteen freight trains a day continue to run just

yards away from the museum, but they don’t stop. he added.

About five years ago, Thurner and Avery convinced the other board members to shift the focus of the museum from the Battle of Shiloh to the railroading theme. The two have been working on the railroading aspects ever since.

“We’re going to continue inside on the model trains,” Avery said while they wait for cooler weather to paint the caboose’s exterior.

The railroad museum includes several different gauges of model railroads that run through dioramas set against lifelike murals.

The diorama includes the Tenn-Tom. Waterways, logging areas, depots in

Glen, Iuka, and Corinth, and “all kinds of cool things on there,” Avery said.

Local companies have sponsored the inclusion of their buildings in the scenery. “That’s helped us fund the work,” Avery said.

“We’ve still got a long way to go,” he said, but added, “The model railroads have increased our visitors. Children get so excited seeing the model trains run.”

The Crossroads Museum at 221 N. Fillmore St. is open Tuesdays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults, while children age 10 and under get in free.

The Community News Flash

September 2025

9

Crafting Tomorrow’s Heirlooms: Chris Kramer Builds Furniture Meant to Last a Lifetime

By Lucy Weber Chris Kramer doesn’t just build furniture — he builds legacies.

For the past four years, the Saltillo-based artisan has operated Shed Wolf Woodworking, transforming his longtime passion for working with wood into a thriving business. His handcrafted pieces — designed to last for generations — blend timeless craftsmanship with the warmth of personal storytelling.

“If you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life,” Kramer says. “And for the past four years, I haven’t felt like I’ve worked at all.”

Kramer’s journey to woodworking wasn’t direct. As a former chef in California, Kramer always had a passion for creating with his hands. However, it wasn't until he inherited his grandfather's woodworking tools that he found his true calling. What began as a hobby quickly grew into a calling.

Six years ago, a road trip from California brought Kramer to Mississippi, where he met the woman who would become his wife. They now share a home and a young daughter — who, fittingly, slept as a baby in a crib hand-built by her father.

“Building that crib set me on my path,” Kramer reflects. “I love making things that are used and loved every day.”

Shed Wolf Woodworking, which began humbly in a small shed, has since expanded into an by-appointment workshop where Kramer collaborates closely with clients to design custom,

one-of-a-kind pieces. From headboards and kitchen cabinets to dining tables and his personal favorite — mid-century-inspired media and record cabinets — Kramer’s work reflects both artistry and precision.

Currently, he’s tackling his most ambitious project yet: crafting an entire walnut-paneled home library.

The room will feature custom bookcases (with a few hidden doors, media cabinets, and an 11-foot library ladder. “It’s the biggest job I’ve taken on so far,” he says, smiling.

Kramer’s process is meticulous. He begins by asking clients for photos of the space where the piece will live, then sketches ideas and selects the ideal wood. His favorite material is walnut, prized for its rich

Chris Kramer

color that doesn’t require staining and its suitability for the curved edges often featured in mid-century designs. From concept to completion, a single piece can take up to three months.

In his workshop, Kramer marries machine precision with hand-tool finesse. Machines handle the initial millwork, ensuring surfaces are perfectly flat, while his skilled hands add intricate details that give each piece its character. “I avoid the mass-produced look,” he explains. “I want to build pieces that you can pass on to your grandchildren.”

For Kramer, every project is a chance to learn and stretch his skills. “To avoid burnout, I always challenge myself to try new tech-

niques,” he says. That spirit of exploration recently led him to sculpting — a craft inspired by his wife — resulting in whimsical whale and wolf sculptures that now accompany his cutting boards and charcuterie boards at local festivals.

Shed Wolf Woodworking is frequently present at local events, such as Oxford's Double Decker Festival in April, where Kramer displays his creations beneath the banner "Ask About Our Cabinetry."

To see more of Kramer’s work or inquire about a custom piece, visit him on Instagram at @shed.wolf or Facebook at Shed Wolf.

The Community News Flash

10

September 2025

From Suitcase to Styled Space: Your 48-Hour College Apartment Style Guide

(StatePoint) College move-in weekend hits fast. Once the cars are unpacked and family and friends bid farewell, the first few hours in your new white-walled place can feel weird. But this is an exciting opportunity to make it yours. This go-to guide provides a flexible framework for styling on- and off-campus dwellings

quickly, so you can go from unpacked to unreal by the end of the weekend. The best part: no tools are required.

Hours 0-8: Envision Your New Home Unpack the basics that will make your dorm or apartment instantly livable—think bedding, toiletries, chargers and snacks

(non-negotiable). Then, map out key areas, like the entryway, bedroom and workspace, and imagine how you want them to look.

“Prioritize the parts that make the biggest impact first,” says Natalie Guillaume, director of product marketing at FrogTape brand, which makes removable mounting products and other easy décor solutions. “Don’t stress out about perfection—focus on comfort, functionality and your personal style. Using transformable mounting solutions and removable décor can make it all happen.”

Hours 8-24: Decorate and Organize With Zero Tools Maximize every inch of your space with new FrogTape reMOVEables, an array of temporary, damage-free hooks, strips and picture-hanging solutions that are offered in a variety of sizes, colors and finishes. Designed to hold up to 3 pounds, the

Suits You Too Mobile

"We've gone Mobile"

FrogTape reMOVEables HeavyDuty Medium White Hook is perfect for hanging keys, bags, towels and even bulkier items like cutting boards, to add immediate utility to cramped areas.

While the hooks help keep essentials in one place, the picture-hanging strips promise function and personality. Mount a mirror on the back of a door or wall to make the room feel larger or make a stylish gallery wall that’s easy to rearrange and update. Try displaying family photos, vision boards and neon wall signs in a fun grid or shape, like a heart.

Hours 25-36: Make a Statement (Wall) Create a colorful focal point in the living area or your bedroom to draw the eye and add depth.

Whether used as removable wallpaper or for a DIY resurfacing project, Duck Brand EasyLiner Peel & Stick Décor Premium

Removable Adhesive will transform a space for a small price.

Simply cut to the desired length, peel the backing paper from the laminate and smooth across the desired surface, like a wall, headboard or side table, by hand. Try the sea glass for an energetic vibe or the white beadboard pattern for a calm, earthy environment.

Hours 37–48: Set the Mood Give a final personal touch by layering in cozy textures. Drape soft string lighting from the ceiling, cover the floor with a plush rug, hang curtains using removable tension rods and add oversized pillows to the backs of chairs and couches for a room that invites you to relax.

With your move-in checklist complete, you’ve turned a blank box into a polished and personal home that has switchable style for a smoother start to the semester.

We Want You! Fatherhood Initiative Program Would you like to become a better father?

We are looking for fathers who would be interested in becoming “Team Parents” by dedicating a minimum number of hours with their children in order to become more involved in their lives. We will attempt to make a positive influence in the life of a father.

Certified Fatherhood/Male Involement Trainer Since 2001 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, Ephesians 3:20

To set up Workshops/Seminars Call or Email Jerry Porter at: 662-643-6842 or read.newflash@gmail.com

September 2025

The Community News Flash

NEWS FLASH Kids Zone

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The Community News Flash

12

September 2025

Tomatoes Are Ripe for Flavorful Dishes

My favorite summer snack is a handful of cherry tomatoes, picked straight from the vine, sprinkled with a little salt.

Eating tomatoes was almost unheard of in the early 1800s because they were thought to be poisonous or strictly for ornamental uses.

We have Colonel Robert Gibbon Johnson of Salem, N.J., to thank for singlehandily proving to Colonial Americans that tomatoes were safe to eat.

In 1808, Colonel Johnson brought tomato seeds home from Europe. He not only began growing and eating

tomatoes, he offered a prize for the largest tomato grown in the area. Despite all of Colonel Johnson's efforts, tomatoes were still thought to be poisonous and not safe for human consumption. Finally, he came up with the perfect way to prove that tomatoes were safe to eat.

On Sept. 26, 1820, Colonel Johnson stood on the steps of the Salem courthouse, and in front of a crowd of 2,000, ate an entire basket of tomatoes.

Many people in the crowd thought he was committing suicide.

Johnson predicted, "The time will come when this delicious scarlet apple ... will form the foundation of a great garden industry and will be enjoyed as an edible food."

Word quickly spread that Colonel Johnson had suffered no ill effects from this stunt. Soon, tomatoes became widely accepted as part of American cuisine.

Today, Americans consume on average more than 80 pounds of tomatoes each year.

Scientifically, tomatoes are classified as a fruit, but since they don't contain the sweet flavor of most fruits

and are typically used in savory dishes, they're legally classified as a vegetable.

Tomatoes are low in calories and a good source of vitamins C, A and K. They're also a very good source of molybdenum, potassium, manganese, dietary fiber, chromium and vitamin B1. In addition, tomatoes contain lycopene, which has

antioxidant and cancer-preventing properties.

I love using tomatoes as the "dish" for salads like this delicious shrimp salad.

When you scoop out the tomato pulp, place it in a plastic bag and use it in tomato soup or pasta sauce.

The tomato pulp with keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 6 months.

TOMATOES STUFFED WITH SEAFOOD SALAD 1 pound peeled, cooked shrimp (21 to 25 per pound; thawed if frozen), tails removed, chopped; or 1 pound imitation crab meat, chopped 1 stalk celery, finely diced 1/4 cup minced fresh basil 10 Kalamata olives, pitted and finely chopped

(optional) 1/2 small purple onion, minced 2 tablespoons reducedfat mayonnaise 1 tablespoon white-wine vinegar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon sugar 4 large ripe tomatoes, cored In a small bowl, combine the shrimp or crab, celery, basil, olives, onion, mayonnaise, vinegar, salt, pepper and sugar together until well-combined. Using a melon baller or a small spoon, carefully hollow out the inside of each tomato, reserving the tomato pulp.

Fill each tomato with a 1/2 cup of the seafood salad.

Cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day.

Football season is almost here, and we’ve got the perfect seat for kickoff!

September 2025

The Community News Flash

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The Community News Flash

14

How a Near-Death Experience Revealed the Secret to Lasting Happiness

Carl B. Barney, author of the “The Happiness Experiment”

(StatePoint) What if happiness isn’t about accumulating wealth, but about how you use your resources—time, money and emotional energy—to create joy for yourselves and others? Picture your next family gathering not filled with tension or superficial chatter, but genuine laughter and meaningful connections. Imagine seeing the joy on your loved ones’ faces when you share something special with them— not after you’re gone, but right now, creating memories that last.

Science confirms that generosity and gratitude significantly enhance personal happiness. A 2020 University of Chicago study found that people who intentionally give to others experience deeper and longer-lasting joy compared to those who spend only on themselves.

Educational entrepreneur and author of “The Happiness Experiment,” Carl B. Barney is sharing practical, achievable steps to experiencing more happiness today: Express Daily Gratitude: Write down three things you’re grateful for each day. Notice how quickly your outlook shifts toward joy and positivity.

Create Memorable

Experiences: Plan meaningful, shared moments with loved ones rather than simply giving material gifts. The happiness derived from these shared experiences endures long after the event itself.

Give with Purpose: Offer thoughtful gestures, advice or financial help in meaningful ways. Even small acts of generosity can transform relationships and significantly boost your happiness.

This approach to happiness isn’t just theory—it’s a proven pathway to a richer, more fulfilling life. After a near-death experience in a plane crash profoundly shifted his worldview, Barney realized he wanted to witness the joy and impact of his generosity firsthand, rather than leaving his loved ones to benefit only after he was gone. Discover more about this transformative approach and start enhancing your happiness today at happinessexperiment.com.

Happiness can’t be bought, but it can be cultivated. As science and real-world experiences show, generosity and gratitude are fundamental pillars to long-lasting joy.

September 2025

The Community News Flash

September 2025

15

MONEY

MONEY

How to Spot Financial Misinformation on Social Media

Beware the Double Click! Evaluate QR Codes to Protect Against Fraud

(c) Koonsiri Boonnak / iStock via Getty Images Plus

(c) Chinshan Films / iStock via Getty Images Plus

(StatePoint) Thanks to content being delivered nonstop over social media channels such as TikTok, YouTube and Instagram, financial advice is more accessible than ever before. The bad news?

Much of it can be misinformation.

According to CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professionals, here are some red flags to watch out for, so you can stay on track with your goals: Lack of qualifications: Someone simply calling themself an expert does not make it so. Look for credentials such as CFP® certification to indicate that the social media influencer has formal financial planning education and experience.

Guaranteed returns: Offers that sound too good to be true typically are. Be wary of “no risk, high reward” claims.

Pressure: Applying pressure on viewers to act fast could be a sign that you’re watching a scam artist. CFP® professionals can work with you to plan years and even decades ahead, on goals such as retirement or buying a home. Financial planning can take time.

Sensational language: Is a financial influencer, or “finfluencer,” dismissing traditional retirement accounts as obsolete?

Advising that you tie up all your assets in real estate? Be suspicious of bold claims challenging prevailing financial wisdom.

It’s important to remember that many influencers operate with one goal in mind: getting views, likes, comments and reshares. While such content is entertaining, it doesn’t necessarily constitute sound financial advice.

Paid promotions: If the influencer is touting a specific solution or product, it could be a sign they are being paid to do so. Financial advice should be delivered with your best interests in mind.

Anecdotal evidence: Every financial situation is unique, so use caution before following advice based on someone’s personal experience. What worked for the content creator may not work for you.

Of course, knowledgeable financial influencers can exist. While their insights can provide general education, there is no substitute for financial advice tailored to your unique situation, delivered by a qualified professional committed to acting in your best interests. To find your CFP® professional, visit LetsMakeAPlan.org.

While social media has the power to help consumers, there is a lot of distracting background noise out there. Before acting on advice from social media, always pause to consider how it aligns with your longterm financial goals.

(StatePoint) Ancient civilizations had hieroglyphics, we have QR codes: the patterned graphic boxes prompting you to access restaurant menus, pay for parking, find out information about a package and more.

Generally, quick response (QR) codes are safe, but they can be used to redirect you to malicious websites, so caution is important. Here’s how it works.

• You get prompted to use your device’s camera.

• You scan the code and a link pops up.

• You click the link, exposing you to threat actors.

• You’re directed to apps, websites, locations using your maps and much more.

Bad actors understand people are in a rush, so this is an appealing form of attack. It’s a cost-efficient scam because these codes are easy to generate and distribute. And they are creative in finding new ways to make them appear legitimate. In public places, criminals can cover an official code with a sticker or printout showing a fraudulent code.

Some of the more prevalent and convincing scams

include: • Parking Ticket Scams.

Criminals place fake parking tickets with QR codes on windshields, causing unsuspecting victims to scan the code and click the link to learn of their offense and digitally pay the alleged fine.

• Brushing Scams. A criminal will ship goods you never ordered, then require you to scan the QR code and click the link to see who sent you the gift.

• Payment Scams.

Criminals cover a legitimate QR code with a sticker that has a fraudulent code that directs to a malicious site.

This can happen at gas pumps, bank windows, parking lots, etc.

• Crypto Scams. Crypto transactions are often made through QR codes associated with crypto accounts, making this an appealing target for fraudsters, especially since once crypto payments are made, it’s unlikely those funds will be recovered.

To stay safe when using QR codes: • Check the URL: Once you scan and the link pops up, stop! Examine it for unusual

domain names or shortened URLs before clicking.

• Verify the source: Only scan QR codes from trusted sources, like official websites or apps. Codes from unfamiliar sources are more likely to be malicious.

• Check for tampering: Look for signs of tampering, like altered graphics, design flaws or stickers placed atop original codes.

• Be suspicious: Treat sites asking for a password or login information as a red flag.

• Be wary of promotions: Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true.

• Use a secure connection: Look for a secure connection (HTTPS) or padlock.

• Confirm validity of request: Before taking action, like making a payment or entering personal information, confirm a request to scan with the company. If you receive a QR code from someone you know, reach out to them through a known number or email to verify they sent it.

• Protect your device: Use antivirus and antimalware software.

• Report. If you identify a suspicious QR code or fall victim to a QR code scam, notify your bank and report it to law enforcement and the Federal Trade Commission.

If you scan a fake QR code, your bank account, email and identity could all be at risk. For actions to take, consult PNC Bank’s Reporting Fraud page on pnc.com.

Cyber criminals are always finding new ways to defraud their victims, and QR codes are no exception. With a little caution however, you can better protect yourself.

The Community News Flash

16

September 2025

COMMUNITY

How Paid Family and Medical Leave Benefits Families and Businesses

(c) PIKSEL / iStock via Getty Images Plus

(StatePoint) The United States is one of the only countries in the world that does not guarantee paid family and medical leave to workers, leaving millions of babies without the care they need in their earliest months of life.

Paid leave is associated with higher breastfeeding rates, regularly attended well-child visits with pediatricians, and

other key markers of short- and long-term health for young children and adults. Plus, early relationships with parents and caregivers, specifically in the first three years of life, shape a child’s brain development, laying the foundation for lifelong learning, health and well-being.

With less than a third of people in the United States having access to paid family and medical leave, many families are left without financial security during a critical time for child development. Access to paid family and medical leave is lowest among workers with the greatest needs, including those with lower incomes, without college degrees, and who work part time. The production, transportation, construction, maintenance and service sectors have some of the lowest rates of access.

Advocates are bringing awareness to the many working parents and caregivers who are forced to sacrifice their jobs and savings when they need time off to bond with their young children or care for themselves or a sick or injured family member.

“All workers—regardless of location, education or job type—should have access to paid family and medical leave to provide the care and stability children and families need to thrive,” says Emmett Avery, coalition manager for the Vermont Paid Leave Coalition, a statewide alliance advocating for the strong paid family and medical leave program in Vermont.

Interestingly, paid family and medical leave is not only good for families, real-world results show that it’s also good for businesses and the economy. Access to paid leave benefits businesses by increasing employee productivity and morale, improving employee retention, and reducing turnover costs, and states with paid leave programs see fewer families relying on public assistance, lowering costs for taxpayers.

“Paid family and medical leave is a commonsense policy that's supported by an overwhelming majority of voters and essential for infants and toddlers, families, businesses and the economy,” says Dan O'Brien the policy director for Children First PA, a nonprofit organization that works to improve the lives of children in Pennsylvania and beyond. “Everyone can help push for policies that give all working families the time they need to care for their loved ones without sacrificing their jobs or financial security.”

If you believe all families deserve the time and support to care for loved ones without risking their jobs or financial security, advocates encourage you to act now. You can join the movement for paid family and medical leave at https://ncit.org/take-action/paid-family-and-medical-leaveaction/ and help push for policies that put children and caregivers first.