BalancingNumbersandCheer:ShaylaAllison’sPassionforFinanceandMentorship
By Community News FlashStaff
For Corinthnative ShaylaAllison, life has always beenabout balance—balancing academics with athletics, a demanding career with community service,andpersonalgrowth with liftingothers alongthe way. Her journey fromstudent-athlete to finance professional and award-winning cheer coach is a story of faith, resilience, and a deepcommitment toempowering others.
Allison is the proud daughter of Graylin Allison,Sr., andPatti and Steve Hill. Raised in both Jackson, MS &Corinth,she developeda strongsense of discipline and determinationthrough her family’s encouragement and herinvolvement in sports.At CorinthHigh School,where she graduated in 2005, she stayed busy on the basketball court, on the track, and onthe sidelines as a cheerleader.Those experiences would become the foundation for much of her leadershipand mentoring worktoday.
With severalacademic scholarships, Allison headed to ‘THEE’Jackson State University—a place she calls “transformational” in shaping bothher 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,Allisonmajored in Physical Therapy. But her father noticed something
she sometimes overlooked—her natural ability withnumbers, budgeting, and problem-solving.
With hisencouragement, she shiftedher focus to Accounting, and later broadened her studies to Finance. By herjunior year, she realizedshe wasfascinated 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 witha degree in Finance and, severalyears later, returned to graduate school at Mississippi College, where she earned a Master’s in Finance in 2016.Thatcombinationof education and professional experi-
ence cemented her calling inthe financial rewarding to contribute to anorganization that offers quality healthcare topeople who are often overlooked bythe traditional healthcare system.”
Her work is often behind the scenes, but its impactis deeply felt. Without careful financialplanningand accountability, manyof the center’s patientswould not have access to the care they need.Allison sees her role asmore than just numbers on a spreadsheet—she sees it asministry through finance.
While finance became her career, cheerleading never left her heart. During her time at Jackson State, professors andclassmates began askingAllison tohelptheir familymembers prepare for junior high and high school cheer tryouts.The results spoke for themselves—every girlshe trained made herteam.Thatsuccess lit a spark inAllison,showing her that her influence stretched far beyond routinesand tumbling passes.
After graduation, a coworker who had just been named a cheer sponsor asked Allison to help with herteam.Thatexperience openedAllison’s eyes to the power of mentorship. “The way the girlsgravitated 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 growinto confident, strong youngwomen.”
Eventually,Allison wasinvitedto coach the Jackson Bears, a youth cheer league.What began as skill development soon evolvedinto lifecoaching.She helped her girls earn cheer spots on their respective school teams, but more importantly, she guided them intobecoming productive young women prepared for the
ShaylaAllison
JerryW.Porter
CEO/Publisher
POBox1292, Corinth,MS38835-1292
Cell:662-643-6842
Email:read.newsflash@gmail.com
Somepeoplefindpeacein music.Othersfindtheircalmin longwalks,intherhythmof cooking,orinheartfeltconversationwithfriends.Butforme? Mypeace,mytherapy,comes throughapen.
Yes,apen.
Itmightsoundunusualto callapenmybestfriend,but it’sthetruth.Mypenlistens withoutjudgment.Itflowswith methrougheverythought, everymood,andeverystruggle. Witheachstroke,itcapturesthe verysoulofmyemotionsand placesthemsafelyonpaper.My penismyquietplace,mysafe place,andmyreminderthat Godstillspeaks—eventhrough ink.
Myrelationshipwithpens didn’tjuststartyesterday.It beganwaybackinmychildhood.Whilesomekidscollected baseballcards,toycars,ordolls, Icollectedpens.Anykindof pen—ballpoint,felt-tip,fountain,gel—Iwantedthemall.I didn’tquiteunderstandwhy.To me,theywerejustshinytreasures,littletoolsthatfeltimportantevenbeforeIknewwhy.
Lookingbacknow,Irealize itwasmorethanjustahobby. ThatlittlehabitwasGod’sway ofpreparingmeforsomething greater.TheverythingIcasuallycollectedbecametheinstrumentofmyhealing,mypurpose,andmyconnectiontoothers.Mychildhoodfascination wasaseed,andtodayithas blossomedintosomethingfar moremeaningful.
Mypenhaswalkedwithme throughthebrightestofdays andthedarkestofnights.Ithas recordedvictories,whispered throughmomentsofjoy,and absorbedmytearsonnights whenlifefelttooheavytocarry alone.
WhenIcouldn’tfindthe wordstosayoutloud,Icould alwayswritethemdown.When mymindwastangledinconfusion,scribblingoutthoughts oftenbroughtclarity.Whenthe worldgotloud,andthenoise seemedunbearable,Ifoundmy
quietinthescratchofinkmovingacrossablankpage.
Paperneverinterruptedme. Inkneverrolleditseyesor changedthesubject.Mypen gavemeavoicewhenmy mouthcouldnot.Andinthat,I discoveredsomethingpowerful: sometimeshealingdoesn’tcome throughtalking,butthrough writing.
That’swhyIcallmypenmy therapy.Justlikeacounselor sitsandlistens,mypensitsand receives.Everyfrustration, everypraise,everydoubt,every prayer—ittakesitall.Andthe moreIwrite,thelighterIfeel.
Thispersonaltherapyhas grownintosomethingbigger thanmyself.TheCommunity NewsFlashandtheDailyDose inspirationsarenotjustpublicationsorcolumns—theyaremy therapysessionsinprint.Every timeIputwordsonthepage,I ampouringoutwhatGodhas placedinme.Atthesametime, I’mreceivingHispeace,His encouragement,andHis remindersofgrace.
Whatamazesmemostis howGodcantakesomethingso small—apen—anduseitfor somethingsopowerful.Heuses inktohealnotjustme,butotherstoo.Someoneouttheremay pickupthenewspaperorscroll acrossaninspirationalwordand findexactlywhattheyneededat thatmoment.That’s notjustwriting. That'stheministry. That’sGod’shand movingthroughthe simplestoftools. Now,here’s whereIwantto slowdownandtalk toyou,thereader. Youmaynotbea writer.Youmaynot caremuchforpens orpapersatall.But thetruthis,weall
TheCommunityNewsFlashispublishedmonthlybyPorterPublishing,Inc.,withallrightsreserved–©2001 Reproductionorusewithoutpermissionofeditorialongraphiccontentsinanymannerisprohibitedbylaw. Thisnewspaperisdesignedtoexhibitthepositivebypublishingonlypositiveandupliftingpersonalprofiles. TheannualsubscriptionrateisTwentyfourdollarsandfortyeightcents($26.00).Informationisgathered fromsourcesconsideredtobereliableandaccurate.Thoughtsexpressedinletterstotheeditorandcommentaries arethoseoftheauthorsandnotnecessarilythoseofTheCommunityNewsFlashstaff. EqualOpportunity.Itispolicyofthenewspaper.
1.Toemploypeopleonthebasisoftheirqualificationandwithassuranceofequalopportunityandtreatment regardlessofrace,color,creed,sex,age,sexualorientation,religion,nationaloriginorhandicap. 2.Tonotknowinglyacceptanyadvertisement,whichimpliesandpreferenceslimitationordiscriminationbasedon race,color,creed,sex,age,sexualorientation,religion,nationaloriginorhandicap.
havesomethingthatservesas ourtherapy.
Forsome,it’sapaintbrush. Forothers,it’sthegentlestrum ofaguitar.Somefindpeacein plantingseedsinthegarden, watchingflowersbloomwhere therewasoncebaresoil.Others findtheirtherapyincookinga meal,runningamile,singinga song,orfixingupanoldcar.
Thetoolitselfdoesn’tmatter asmuchasthepeaceitbrings. WhatmattersisthatGodoften giveseachofussomething—a gift,apractice,atalent—that helpsusreleasewhat’sonthe inside.Itbecomesawayfor Himtobringuscalm,clarity, andjoy.
So,letmeaskyou:what’s yourpen?
What’sthatthinginyourlife thatgivesyouamomentofstillnessinastorm,abreathofcalm whenchaosrises,orarelease whenwordsaren’tenough? Whateveritis—don’trunfrom it.Leanintoit.Embraceit.God maybeusingitasyourtherapy, yourhealingtool,yourlifeline indifficulttimes.
Forme,apenisnotjust aboutwritingwords—it’sabout fulfillingapurpose.EachtimeI pickupmypen,Iremember thatGodtrustedmewiththis gift.Hegavemetheabilityto putthoughts,lessons,and encouragementintowordsthat mighttouchsomeone’sheartat justtherightmoment.
Andletmebehonest:that’s notalwayseasy.Writing requiresdiscipline,vulnerability,andfaiththatsomeone, somewhere,willneedwhat flowsthroughmypen.But everytimeIseesomeonesmile afterreadingaDailyDose,or hearthatacolumnencourages themtokeepgoing,Iknowmy therapyhasbecomesomeone else’sblessing.
That’showGodworks.He
takestheverythingsthatheal usandallowsthemtohealotherstoo.Hetakesourprivate therapysessionsandturnsthem intopublictestimoniesofHis grace.
Weliveinaworldthatnever seemstostopmoving.The phonesbuzz,theheadlines scream,theobligationspileup, andthedaysblurtogether.It’s easytoloseourselvesinthe noise.
Buttherapy—realtherapy— remindsustoslowdown.For me,that’sassimpleaspicking upapenandfacingablank sheetofpaper.Foryou,itmight meangrabbingapaintbrush, pullingweedsinyourflower bed,playingafavoritesong,or takingawalkinthepark.
Whateveritis,Iencourage youtofindit,useit,andhonor it.Don’tdismissitas“justa hobby.”Don’toverlookitas “justsomethingIliketodo.”It mightbetheverythingGod
designedtokeepyougrounded, focused,andatpeace. Soyes,mybestfriendismy bestfriend—mypen.Ithasbeen withmesincechildhood, throughupsanddowns,joyand sorrow.Ithaslistenedwhenno oneelsecould.Ithashealed woundsthatconversations couldn’t.Andithasreminded methateveninink,God’sgrace canflow.
Your“pen”maylookdifferentfrommine,butthetruth remains:Godhasgiveneachof usaformoftherapy.Embrace it.Leanonit.Useitasatool notjustforyourself,butforotherstoo.
Becausesometimes,thevery thingthatbringsyoupeace couldbetheverythingGod usestobringpeacetosomeone else. Whoo!Whoo!Untilnext time!Allaboard!
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.
SEPTEMBERBIBLETRIVIA
1.Whobuiltthefirstaltar?
2.Whatmilitaryleaderwaskilledwhileholdingontothehornsofthealtar?
3.WhatbookoftheBiblementionsatalkingaltar?
4.Whoalmostsacrificedhismuch-lovedsononanaltarbutwasstoppedbyanangel?
5.WhatkingofJudahtoredownJeroboam'saltaratBethelandpoundedthestonesintodust?
6.Whobuiltanaltarandcalledit"TheLordismybanner"?
7.Whatkindofstonewas,accordingtotheLaw,notsupposedtobeusedinmakinganaltar?
8.Whatwasthealtarinthetabernaclemadeof?
9.Whichofthe12tribescausedcivilwarwhentheybuiltamagnificientaltaronthebanksoftheJordan?
10.Whatjudgebuiltanaltarandcalledit"TheLordispeace"?
11.WhatkingofIsraelbuiltaBaalaltartopleasehispaganwife?
12.Whatjudge'sparentssawanangelgoinguptoheavenintheflamesonthealtar?
13.WhatjudgeandprophetbuiltanaltartotheLordatRamah?
14.Whatkingwastoldtobuildanaltarinathreshingplace?
15.WhatrebellioussonofDavidsoughtrefugefromSolomonbyholdingonthehornsofthealtar?
16.Whotookbonesoutoftombsandburnedthemonanaltartodefileit?
17.WhohadavisionoftheLordstandingbesidethealtar?
18.WhatkingofIsraelchangedthereligiousinstitutionsofthecountrybybuildinganaltaraBethel?
19.Whatgoodking'sbirthwasforetoldhundredsofyearsbeforethefactbyaprophetstandingbeforethe altaratBethel?
20.WhathappenedtoJeroboam'saltarwhenorderedhismentoseizeaprophetinfrontofit?
SendinyouranswerstothefollowingBibleTriviaQuestionsandtakeachanceatwinningacomplimentary biblefromtheCommunityNewsFlash.Randomdrawingwillbeheldmonthlyandcontestantcanonlywin twicewithina6monthperiod.
AugustAnswers
1.Haggai's(1:12)
2.Isaiah(40:3)
3.Peter(Acts10:13-15)
4.Nebuchadnezzar(Daniel4:31)
5.Ezekiel(1:24)
6.Rhoda(Acts12:14)
7.TheLord'sservant (Isaiah42:2)
8.Hebrew(or,insome translations,Aramic) (Acts26:14)
9.Darius(Daniel6:20)
10.2Peter(2:16)
(StatePoint)TwoinfiveU.S.adultsidentifyasfamilycaregivers,butthereisalackofsupportforthemnationwide, accordingtonewresearchfromEdwardJonesinpartnership withMorningConsultandAgeWave.With46%ofAmericans expectedtobecomecaregiversinthefuture,thisresearchsought tobetterunderstandtheirconcernsandchallenges,anduncover waystosupportthem.
Howcaregiversarenavigatingtheirfinances,emotionsand careers
Topfinancialconcernscaregiversfaceincluderisingcosts andinflation(56%)andinadequateretirementsavings(42%).In fact,95%ofcaregivershavesomeleveloffinancialconcernfor theirretirement,and51%mustcutbackonpersonalspending becauseoftheircaregivingresponsibilities,accordingtothe study.Inadditiontofinancialchallenges,manycaregiverscited caregivingasasignificantemotionalresponsibility,leavingthem
world beyond cheerleading.
ForAllison, the championshipsand trophies are rewarding—her teamshave become 3-time CMYAChampions—but the real victories are muchdeeper.
“The most rewarding part of beinga cheer coach is watchingmy athletes grow, both on and off the mat,” she said. “Many of the youngergirls start off shy and uncertain, but bythe end of the season, they’re thriving.And withthe older ones, it’s incredible tosee them achieve their goals, whetherthat’s makingtheir school squads or even coming back later to serve as youth coachesthemselves. 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 sacrificesworthwhile.
Balancingtwo demanding roles is no small feat, butAllison says her faithand her sense of purpose keepher going.
“By the grace of God, it all gets done,” she saidwith a smile. “The same community Iserve in my finance jobis the one I
stressed,burnedout,andunabletoprioritizetheirownhealth.
Mostcaregivers(72%)arewillingtosacrificetheirown financialsecuritytoensurepropercarefortheirlovedones.This sometimesincludessuchmeasuresassteppingawayfromtheir jobsentirely,reducingworkhours,takingondebtanddipping intotheirownretirementsavings.
Despitethesechallenges,80%ofcaregiverssaytheirrolehas strengthenedtheirrelationshipswithlovedones,withthelarge majorityreportingfeelingsofpersonalfulfillmentandgratitude fromthoseintheircare.
“Caregiversoftenbeargreatfinancialburdensandsacrifice theirownwell-beingtocareforchildrenandelderfamilymembers,”saysKenDychtwald,founderandCEOofAgeWave. “Thevitalroleoffamilycaregiversinourcaresystemsandsocietydemandsgreaterrecognition,resourcesandrelief,especially asAmerica’spopulationcontinuestolivelongerwithmore chronicconditionsandtheneedforcaregivinggrows.”
Support,educationandresourcesforcaregiversiscrucial. Fifty-sevenpercenthavenotsoughtprofessionaladviceforcaregiving-relatedfinancialguidance,yet93%ofthosewhowork withafinancialadvisorreportfeelingmoreconfidentabouttheir financialfuture.
“Financialadvisorsareanimportantelementofacaregiver’s supportsystem,”saysKenCella,principalandheadofexternal affairsatEdwardJones.“Theycangivecaregiversacomplete pictureoftheirfinances,enablingthemtonavigatethecomplex realitiesofcarewhileplanningformultiplelong-termfinancial andlifegoals.”
Policiesthathelpcaregivershavebipartisansupport
coach in. Knowing how muchthey depend on me fuels mycommitment.If my girls can show up, pushthrough, and give their best despite their challenges, thenI know I can dothe same. Their resilience reminds me whyI do both”
Allison’scheerleaders quickly learnthat
Currently,68%ofAmericans,regardlessofpoliticalaffiliation,saythepublicsectorisnotdoingenoughtosupportcaregivers,asentimentfeltmorestronglyamongthosecaringfor elderlyadultsandspecial-needsadults.Theresearchfoundthat themajorityofAmericanssupportenactingfederallegislation thatwouldaidcaregivers,suchasexpandedretirementaccount contributionsforcaregivers,andadditional“catch-up”contributionsforcaregivers.
Additionally,74%saytheybelieveemployersshouldoffer benefitssuchasfinancialsupportorflexibleworkarrangements foremployeeswithcaregivingresponsibilities,reflectingagrowingdemandforsupportiveworkplacepolicies.
“Inthefaceofrisinglivingcostsandaloomingretirement crisis,supportingcaregiversthroughnationalandemployment policiesisaninvestmentineconomicstability,publichealthand thewell-beingofbothcaregiversandthosetheyarecaringfor,” saysCella.“Asafirm,weareproudtoadvocateonbehalfof caregiversbybackingpoliciesthatwillbuildlastingfinancial strengthforourclients,colleagues,communitiesandsociety.”
EdwardJonessupportstheImprovingRetirementSecurityfor FamilyCaregiversActandtheCatchingUpFamilyCaregivers Act.Accordingtoadvocates,thesebillswouldbuildonthesuccessoftheSECURE2.0Actbyprovidingadditionalsavings opportunitiesforcaregivers.Tolearnmore,visitwww.edwardjones.com/caregiving.
Caregivershavealottonavigateemotionally,financiallyand logistically.Butsupport,educationandresourcescanhelpthem meetthechallenges.
she is as much a mentor asshe is a coach. She instills lessons thatextend beyondthe gym:
Hardwork beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.
These lessons, she says, are the building blocksof 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 thatstrengthen herprofessional work.
“Bothroles have stretched me in different ways, but togetherthey’ve made me a better leader,” she reflected.
Like anyone balancing career and service,Allison has facedher share of challenges. In finance, working withlimited budgets at a nonprofit can be daunting. In coaching, many of her athletes face barrierssuchaslack of transportation, limited gear,or struggles at home.
Instead of dwelling on what’s missing,
Allisonfocuses onsolutions.“Leadership isn’t about having all the resources,” she said. “It’s about making an impact with what you dohave.”
As she looks to the future,Allison has cleargoals. Professionally, she wants to continue growing her expertise infinance and step into more leadership roleswithin nonprofits thatserve underserved communities.As a coach, she hopes to expand her programtoreachmore young girls, helping them discover their potential.
“I believe thatsuccess is about more than just individual achievement,” she said. “It’s about lifting others up alongthe way. Helpingothers succeed is what truly motivates me and drives everything I do.”
From balancing budgetstobalancing stunts,ShaylaAllison embodies resilience, purpose, and heart. Her story is a reminder that success is not just about personal milestones—it’s about using one’s giftsto inspireanduplift others.Whethershe’s in the finance office ensuring patientshave access to healthcare, or in the gym helping young girls findtheir confidence,Allison is leaving an indelible mark onher community.
MONEY
AmidVolatility,Americansare LivingFinanciallyFulfilledLives
(StatePoint)ThreequartersofAmericans (74%)areoptimisticabouttheirfinancial futuresdespiterecentmarketvolatilityand uncertainty, accordingtonewresearch.
Capturingthegoals,challengesandfeelingsofNorthAmericansregardingtheir finances,researchfor“ThePulseofNorth America”reportwasconductedbyEdward JonesandCerulliAssociatesduringApril’s increasedmarketvolatility.Anencouraging 79%ofrespondentsindicatedtheyareon tracktoachieveorhavealreadyachieved a financiallyfulfilledlife.
“Sentimentfromourownclientsconfirmsthis,”saidDavidGunn,principal, headofU.S.andCanadaBusinessUnitsat EdwardJones.“Inthehalfamillionconversationsourfinancialadvisorshavehad withclientsinthepastfivemonths,onlya quarterofourclientshighlightfinancial stress.Thisreflectsthepowerofdeep,personal,trustingrelationshipsandholistic financialadvice.”
Recentvolatilityimpacts,butdoesnot derail,financialfulfillment
Despite49%ofrespondentsindicating thatinflationisasourceoffinancialstress, Americansremainsteadfastinthepursuitof financialfulfillment.Theydefinefulfillmentashavingthefreedomtopursuetheir passions(46%),makeabetterlifeforthemselvesandtheirfamilies(42%),andhave securityandprotectionfromunforeseen events(41%).
Tobecomemorefinanciallyfulfilled, Americansaremostwilling tochangetheir discretionaryspendinghabits(45%),pay offtheirdebt(33%),andimprovetheir financialliteracy(28%).Thisflexibilitywill
helpthemtacklepotentialobstacles,includingrisingliving costs(59%),unexpected financialsetbacks(35%),andinsufficient incomeorsavings(27%).Nearlytwo-thirds ofrespondents(63%)indicatedtheywould needtoearna$150,000-plussalaryannuallytoachievefinancialfreedom.
Americans reportoptimismandprogress relativetopersonalbenchmarks
Whenitcomestotrackingfinancial progress,only18%ofAmericansbenchmarkthemselvesagainsttheirowngoals andplansratherthanthoseofothers,while 33%primarilycomparethemselvestotheir peers,22%totheirsignificantothers,and 19%totheircolleagues.
Respondentsindicatedthattheyare trackingconfidentlyagainstfinancialand otherlifegoals,reportingthattheyareon parwithoraheadofotherswhenitcomes tospecificobjectives,suchasachieving financialstability(88%),travelgoals (84%), financialliteracy(83%),savingfor retirement(80%),andachievinghomeownership(78%).
“Evenwithheightenedmarketvolatility andeconomicuncertainty,American investorshavestayedthecoursewiththeir portfoliosandlong-termplans,”added Gunn.“Theyaremakingmeaningful progressbykeepingthefutureinmind, whileexpressingwillingnesstopivotinreal timewiththehelpofafinancialprofessional.”
Theroleoffinancialadvisorsinpursuingfinancialfulfilment
While57%ofDIYinvestorshavea financialplan,thisnumberincreasesto 77%forAmericanswhoregularlyengage withafinancialadvisor.
Thoseworkingwithafinancialadvisor aredoingsotomanagefinancialrisk (28%), seekasecondopiniononfinancial decisions(26%),orbasedonrecommendationsfromfamilymembersorotherprofessionals(25%).Americanswhoregularly workwithafinancialadvisoraremorelikelytofeeloptimisticabouttheirfinancial futurethanthosewhomanagetheirfinances ontheirown(79%vs71%respectively).
Formoreresearchinsights,visit www.edwardjones.com/pulse.
Four locations:
1901GSouthHarperRd Corinth,MS.38834 (662)594-1250
6620MichiePebbleHill Michie,TN.38357 (662)872-4489
6984HwyAlt.North WestPoint,MS.39773 (662)275-6949
1514KY121Murray, KY.42071 (270)917-8003
(c) nd3000 / iStock via Getty Images Plus
(StatePoint)Traditionismeetinginnovationin today’smemorialpractices,provingthatevenlife’sfinal chaptercanbereimagined.
Today’sfuneralsbearlittleresemblancetothoseof thepast.AccordingtotheNationalFuneralDirectors Association(NFDA),cremationsurpassedtraditional burialsasthepreferredmethodoflayingthedeceasedto restin2015.Thattrendcontinuestoday,withtheestimatedcremationrateintheUnitedStatesin2024at 61.9%,andtheburialrateestimatedat33.2%.
Thetoneoffuneralshasalsochanged,withmany optingtohostacelebrationoflifecharacterizedwith brightcolors,upbeatmusicandevenlaughterasloved onesremembertreasuredmomentstogether.
Anewer,somewhatsurprisingtrendisnotwaiting foralovedonetodiebeforeofficiallycelebratingtheir life.Knownaslivingfunerals,thesehighlycustomized ceremoniesareactuallyoverseenandattendedbythetobedeceased.
Technologyistakingamoredominantroleinmemorials.Streamingservices,virtualmemorialsandonline tributesmakeitpossibletopayone’srespectswithout traveling.Digitaltoolsmakeplanningthefuneralorcelebrationfasterandmoreconvenient.
Perhapsoneofthemostsignificantchangesisan environmentalfocus.Biodegradablepolymerurnsare availablethatreleasenutrientsintotheEarth.Treepod burialsinvolvewrappingtheindividualinanorganic fiberburiedwhereatreewillbeplanted.Whilesuch greenoptionsareincreasinglypopular,theyarenotyet availableeverywhereandmustfollowstringentrequirements.
Watercremation,alsoknownasalkaline-hydrolysis oraquamation,isbecomingmorecommonbecauseofits low-carbonfootprint.Althoughitisfarfromafrequent formofdisposition,itisgainingpopularityandlegal acceptance.Amongotherenvironmentalbenefits,it offers90%energysavingsoverfirecremation.
Ofcourse,costisoftenakeyconsideration.Unless thedeceased’sfamilyiswealthy,theywilllikelyrelyon theproceedsofexistinglifeinsurancepoliciestocover
costs.
AccordingtotheNFDA,themediancostofafuneral withviewingandtraditionalburialin2024was$8,300. Cremationislessexpensive,whichhelpstoexplainits growingpopularity.Butthereareotherexpensestoconsider.Theseincludecemeteryplots,headstones,flowers, musicians,transportationandobituaries.Thefacevalue oflifeinsurancepoliciesvariesgreatlydependingona family’sfinancialsituation.Atminimum,financialadvisorswilltypicallyrecommendthatalifeinsurancepolicy bepurchasedwithadeathbenefittopayforfinalexpenses.Thesesmallerpolicies,whichaverage$5,000$25,000,aredesignedsolelytocovernecessarycosts withoutfinanciallyburdeningfamily.Smallerwholelife policiescanaccomplishthesamegoals.Neither,however,domuchtohelpsurvivorssustainastandardofliving followingadeath.
Determiningexactlyhowmuchlifeinsuranceyou andyourlovedonesneedandthebestformofcoverage canbechallenging,especiallyconsideringtherearemore optionstodaythanever.But,withthehelpofanexperiencedlifeinsuranceagent,theprocessisnotoverwhelming.ErieInsuranceagents,forexample,workclosely withclientstofullyunderstandtheirfinancialneeds todayandinthefutureandmatchthemwiththeright policy(term,whole,universal,etc.).
“Ouragentsserveasadvocates,helpingstreamline theapplicationprocess,adviseonpolicyoptions,conduct reviewsandmanagenecessarychangestopoliciesover theyears.Theyalsoassistwithclaimsandactasliaisons withtheinsurancecompany,”saidMikeFletcher,SVP, salesandmarketing,ofErieInsurance.
Tohelpgiveyouaheadstartonplanning,visit erieinsurance.com/life-insurance/calculator.Thisfast,private,no-obligationplanningtoolwillhelpdetermine howmuchlifeinsuranceyouneedbasedonyourage, familysituation,burialplansandfinancialstatus.
Whilefuneralpracticesareinflux,onethingremains thesame,alifeinsurancepolicycanhelplovedones meetexpenses.
AllAboard:CabooseatCrossroadsMuseumisaboutreadyforvisitors
ByLucyWeber
Trainenthusiastswill soonaddanewexperiencetotheirvisitstothe CrossroadsMuseum locatedinCorinth’sold depot.
BillAveryandLee Thurner,whobothserve onthemuseumboardof directors,refurbishedthe insideofthered,former GM&Olinecaboosethat sitsonanabandonedspur linebythemuseum."It wasuglyandclosed,so wemadeitpartofthe museum,"Averysaid.
MuseumdirectorLisa Kinneysaidtheimprovementstothecaboosewill enhancetheexperience forvisitorswhoarerailroadingfans.“They’ve reallydoneanimpressive job,”shesaid.“Whenvisitorscangetinsidethe caboose,itwillprovidean immersiveexperience.”
Thetwomen,both retirees,decidedtorenovatethecaboosetoaddto themuseum’sdraw.“We
havegotsomanyvisitors whowanttogoinsidethe caboose.”
Thurnerhastherailroadknowledge,Avery said,and“I’vebeenthe step-and-fetch-itguy.We havefinishedwhatwe weredoingfornow.We havegotsomanyvisitors whowanttogoinsidethe caboose.Havingthe caboosefixedupaddsto theviabilityoflookingat Corinth’srailroadhistory.”
Overfiveweeks,the menpaintedtheinsideof thevintagetraincaralong withtheinteriorchairs, bunks,andvinylcovers andalsoreplacedrusted steelonthedoors.“We spiffeduptheinsideof thecaboose,”Averysaid.
“We’vegottheoutside topaint.That’sanupcomingprojectinthefall whenit’scooler,”hesaid. “We’vegotitlooking goodsofar.”
Corinthwasonce billedastheCrossroadsof
theSouthbecauseofthe importancetherailroads playedduringtheCivil War.Tworaillines crossedovereachotherat thecitycenter,making Corinthoneofthemost strategictransportation hubsfoughtoverbyboth theUnionand Confederatearmies.
Sincetrainshave playedabigrolein Corinth’shistory,Avery saidthehistoryofthe cabooseisimportantfor visitorstolearn.“Thefascinatingthingabouta cabooseisthatithada three-mancrewaboard. Theirfunctionwasto watchoutforthecupolas onbothsidestocheckthe smokefromtheengine,” hesaid,addingtheywere checkingforunusual smokethatcouldindicate apotentialsafetyissue.
Therailroadplayed andcontinuestoplayan importantrolein Corinth’shistoryand dailylife,Averysaid.
Thirteenfreighttrainsa daycontinuetorunjust
yardsawayfromthe museum,buttheydon’t stop.headded.
Aboutfiveyearsago, ThurnerandAveryconvincedtheotherboard memberstoshiftthefocus ofthemuseumfromthe BattleofShilohtothe railroadingtheme.The twohavebeenworkingon therailroadingaspects eversince.
“We’regoingtocontinueinsideonthemodel trains,”Averysaidwhile theywaitforcooler weathertopaintthe caboose’sexterior.
Therailroadmuseum includesseveraldifferent gaugesofmodelrailroads thatrunthroughdioramas setagainstlifelikemurals. Thedioramaincludesthe Tenn-Tom.Waterways, loggingareas,depotsin
Glen,Iuka,andCorinth, and“allkindsofcool thingsonthere,”Avery said.
Localcompanieshave sponsoredtheinclusionof theirbuildingsinthe scenery.“That’shelpedus fundthework,”Avery said.
“We’vestillgotalong waytogo,”hesaid,but added,“Themodelrailroadshaveincreasedour visitors.Childrengetso excitedseeingthemodel trainsrun.”
TheCrossroads Museumat221N. FillmoreSt.isopen TuesdaysthroughFridays, 10a.m.to3p.m.,and Saturdays,10a.m.to2 p.m.Admissionis$5for adults,whilechildrenage 10andundergetinfree.
CraftingTomorrow’sHeirlooms:ChrisKramerBuildsFurnitureMeanttoLastaLifetime
By LucyWeber
Chris Kramer doesn’t just build furniture —he builds legacies.
For the past four years, the Saltillo-based artisan has operated ShedWolf Woodworking,transforming his longtime passion for workingwith wood into a thriving business. His handcrafted pieces — designed to last for generations —blend timeless craftsmanship with the warmthof personal storytelling.
“If youdo what you love, you'll never work a day in your life,” Kramer says. “Andfor the past four years, I haven’t felt like I’ve worked atall.”
Kramer’s journey to woodworkingwasn’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 thathe found his true calling.What beganas a hobbyquickly grew intoa calling.
Six years ago,a road trip fromCalifornia brought Kramer to Mississippi, where he met the woman who would become hiswife.They now share a home and a young daughter — who, fittingly, slept as a baby in a crib hand-built by her father. “Building thatcrib set me on mypath,” Kramer reflects. “I love making things thatare used and loved every day.”
ShedWolf Woodworking,which began humblyin a small shed, has since expanded into an by-appointment workshop where Kramer collaborates closely with clients to designcustom,
one-of-a-kind pieces.From headboards andkitchen cabinets to dining tables andhis personal favorite — mid-century-inspired media andrecordcabinets — 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 processis meticulous.He begins by asking clients for photosof the space where the piece will live, then sketches ideas and selects the ideal wood. His favorite material iswalnut, prizedfor its rich
color that doesn’t require staining anditssuitability for the curved edges often featuredin mid-century designs. From concept to completion, a single piece can take up to three months.
Inhis workshop, Kramer marries machine precisionwith hand-tool finesse. Machines handle the initial millwork, ensuring surfaces are perfectly flat, while his skilled hands add intricate details that give eachpiece its character. “I avoidthe mass-produced look,” he explains. “I want to build pieces that you canpass on to your grandchildren.”
For Kramer, every project is a chanceto learn and stretch his skills.“Toavoid burnout, I alwayschallenge myself to trynew tech-
niques,” he says.Thatspirit of exploration recently led him to sculpting — a craft inspiredby his wife — resultinginwhimsical whale and wolf sculptures that nowaccompany his cutting boards and charcuterie boardsat local festivals.
ShedWolf
Woodworkingis frequently present at local events, such as Oxford's Double Decker Festival inApril, where Kramerdisplays his creations beneath the banner "AskAbout Our Cabinetry."
Tosee more of Kramer’s work or inquire about a custom piece, visit him on Instagram at @shed.wolf or Facebookat ShedWolf.
Chris Kramer
(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 anexciting opportunity to make it yours. This go-to guide provides a flexible frameworkfor styling on- and off-campus dwellings
quickly, so you cango from unpacked to unreal by the end of the weekend.The best part: no tools are required.
Hours 0-8: EnvisionYour New Home
Unpack the basicsthat will make your dorm or apartment instantly livable—think bedding, toiletries, chargers and snacks
(non-negotiable).Then, mapout keyareas,like the entryway, bedroomand workspace, and imagine how you want themto look.
“Prioritizethe parts thatmake the biggest impact first,” says Natalie Guillaume, director of product marketing atFrogTape brand, which makes removable mountingproductsandother easy décor solutions. “Don’t stressout about perfection—focus on comfort, functionality andyour personalstyle.Usingtransformable mountingsolutions and removable décor can make it all happen.”
Hours8-24: Decorate and OrganizeWith Zero Tools
Maximizeevery inch of your spacewithnew FrogTape reMOVEables, an arrayof temporary, damage-freehooks, strips andpicture-hanging solutions that are offered in a variety of sizes, colors and finishes. Designedto hold upto 3 pounds, the
SuitsYouTooMobile
FrogTape reMOVEables HeavyDuty MediumWhite Hook is perfect for hanging keys, bags, towels and evenbulkier items like cutting boards, to addimmediate 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 stylishgallerywall that’s easy torearrange and update.Try displaying family photos, vision boards and neon wall signsina fungrid or shape, like a heart.
Hours 25-36: Make a Statement (Wall)
Create a colorful focalpoint in the living area or your bedroom to draw the eye and add depth. Whether used as removable wallpaper or for a DIYresurfacing project, Duck Brand EasyLiner Peel& Stick Décor Premium
RemovableAdhesive will transform a space for a small price. Simplycut tothe desired length, peel the backing paper fromthe laminate andsmooth across the desiredsurface, 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 personaltouch by layeringin cozy textures. Drape soft string lighting from the ceiling, cover the floor with a plush rug, hang curtains usingremovable tension rods and addoversized pillows to the backs of chairs andcouchesfor 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 hasswitchable style for a smoother start tothe semester.
NEWSFLASHKidsZone
ry 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 ColonialAmericans that tomatoes were safe to eat.
In 1808, Colonel Johnson brought tomato seeds home from Europe. He not only began growing and eating
TomatoesAreRipeforFlavorfulDishes
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 ofAmerican 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,Aand 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.
Footballseasonisalmosthere,and
HowaNear-DeathExperienceRevealed theSecrettoLastingHappiness
(StatePoint)Whatifhappinessisn’taboutaccumulating wealth,butabouthowyouuse yourresources—time,money andemotionalenergy—tocreatejoyforyourselvesandothers?Pictureyournextfamily gatheringnotfilledwithtensionorsuperficialchatter,but genuinelaughterandmeaningfulconnections.Imagineseeingthejoyonyourloved ones’faceswhenyoushare somethingspecialwiththem— notafteryou’regone,butright now,creatingmemoriesthat last.
Scienceconfirmsthatgenerosityandgratitudesignificantlyenhancepersonalhappiness.A2020Universityof Chicagostudyfoundthatpeoplewhointentionallygiveto othersexperiencedeeperand longer-lastingjoycomparedto thosewhospendonlyon themselves.
Educationalentrepreneur andauthorof“TheHappiness Experiment,”CarlB.Barney issharingpractical,achievable stepstoexperiencingmore happinesstoday:
ExpressDailyGratitude: Writedownthreethingsyou’re gratefulforeachday.Notice howquicklyyouroutlook shiftstowardjoyandpositivity.
CreateMemorable
Experiences:Planmeaningful, sharedmomentswithloved onesratherthansimplygiving materialgifts.Thehappiness derivedfromtheseshared experiencesendureslongafter theeventitself.
GivewithPurpose:Offer thoughtfulgestures,adviceor financialhelpinmeaningful ways.Evensmallactsofgenerositycantransformrelationshipsandsignificantlyboost yourhappiness.
Thisapproachtohappiness isn’tjusttheory—it’saproven pathwaytoaricher,morefulfillinglife.Afteranear-death experienceinaplanecrash profoundlyshiftedhisworldview,Barneyrealizedhewantedtowitnessthejoyand impactofhisgenerosityfirsthand,ratherthanleavinghis lovedonestobenefitonlyafter hewasgone.Discovermore aboutthistransformative approachandstartenhancing yourhappinesstodayathappinessexperiment.com.
Happinesscan’tbebought, butitcanbecultivated.Asscienceandreal-worldexperiencesshow,generosityand gratitudearefundamentalpillarstolong-lastingjoy.
Carl B. Barney, author of the “The Happiness Experiment”
How to Spot Financial Misinformation on Social Media
(StatePoint)Thanks to content being deliverednonstopover social media channelssuchasTikTok,YouTube and Instagram, financial advice is more accessible thaneverbefore. The badnews? Much of it canbe misinformation.
According toCERTIFIEDFINANCIALPLANNER® 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 toindicate thatthe social media influencer has formal financial planning education andexperience.
Guaranteedreturns: Offers that sound too good to be true typically are. Be wary of “norisk,high reward” claims.
Pressure:Applying pressure on viewers to act fast couldbe a sign thatyou’re watching a scam artist.CFP®professionals can workwith you to plan years and evendecades ahead, on goals such as retirement orbuyinga home. Financial planning can take time.
Sensational language:Is a financial influencer, or “finfluencer,” dismissingtraditionalretirement accounts as obsolete? Advising thatyou tie upall your assets in real estate? Be suspicious of boldclaims challengingprevailing financial wisdom.
It’s important toremember thatmany influencers operate with one goalin mind: getting views, likes, comments and reshares.While such content is entertaining, it doesn’t necessarily constitute sound financialadvice.
Paid promotions: If the influenceris touting a specific solution or product, it couldbe a sign they are being paid todo so. Financialadvice should be delivered with your best interests in mind.
Anecdotalevidence: Every financial situationis unique, so use cautionbefore following advicebased on someone’spersonalexperience. What worked for the content creator maynot workfor you.
Of course,knowledgeable financial influencers canexist.While their insights can provide generaleducation, there is no substitute for financial advice tailored to your unique situation, delivered by a qualifiedprofessional committedto actingin your best interests.To find your CFP® professional,visit LetsMakeAPlan.org.
While socialmedia hasthe power to helpconsumers, there is a lot of distracting background noise out there.Before acting on advice from social media, always pause to consider how it aligns withyour longtermfinancial goals.
(StatePoint)Ancientcivilizationshadhieroglyphics, wehaveQRcodes:thepatternedgraphicboxespromptingyoutoaccessrestaurant menus,payforparking,find outinformationaboutapackageandmore.
Generally,quickresponse (QR)codesaresafe,butthey canbeusedtoredirectyouto maliciouswebsites,socaution isimportant.Here’showit works.
•Yougetpromptedtouse yourdevice’scamera.
•Youscanthecodeanda linkpopsup.
•Youclickthelink,exposingyoutothreatactors.
•You’redirectedtoapps, websites,locationsusingyour mapsandmuchmore.
Badactorsunderstandpeopleareinarush,sothisisan appealingformofattack.It’s acost-efficientscambecause thesecodesareeasytogenerateanddistribute.Andthey arecreativeinfindingnew waystomakethemappear legitimate.Inpublicplaces, criminalscancoveranofficial codewithastickerorprintout showingafraudulentcode. Someofthemoreprevalent andconvincingscams
include:
•ParkingTicketScams. Criminalsplacefakeparking ticketswithQRcodeson windshields,causingunsuspectingvictimstoscanthe codeandclickthelinkto learnoftheiroffenseanddigitallypaytheallegedfine.
•BrushingScams.Acriminalwillshipgoodsyounever ordered,thenrequireyouto scantheQRcodeandclick thelinktoseewhosentyou thegift.
•PaymentScams. Criminalscoveralegitimate QRcodewithastickerthat hasafraudulentcodethat directstoamalicioussite. Thiscanhappenatgas pumps,bankwindows,parkinglots,etc.
•CryptoScams.Crypto transactionsareoftenmade throughQRcodesassociated withcryptoaccounts,making thisanappealingtargetfor fraudsters,especiallysince oncecryptopaymentsare made,it’sunlikelythose fundswillberecovered.
Tostaysafewhenusing QRcodes:
•ChecktheURL:Once youscanandthelinkpopsup, stop!Examineitforunusual
domainnamesorshortened URLsbeforeclicking.
•Verifythesource:Only scanQRcodesfromtrusted sources,likeofficialwebsites orapps.Codesfromunfamiliarsourcesaremorelikelyto bemalicious.
•Checkfortampering: Lookforsignsoftampering, likealteredgraphics,design flawsorstickersplacedatop originalcodes.
•Besuspicious:Treatsites askingforapasswordorlogin informationasaredflag.
•Bewaryofpromotions: Becautiousofoffersthat seemtoogoodtobetrue.
•Useasecureconnection: Lookforasecureconnection (HTTPS)orpadlock.
•Confirmvalidityof request:Beforetakingaction, likemakingapaymentor enteringpersonalinformation, confirmarequesttoscanwith thecompany.Ifyoureceivea QRcodefromsomeoneyou know,reachouttothem throughaknownnumberor emailtoverifytheysentit.
•Protectyourdevice:Use antivirusandantimalware software.
•Report.Ifyouidentifya suspiciousQRcodeorfall victimtoaQRcodescam, notifyyourbankandreportit tolawenforcementandthe FederalTradeCommission.
IfyouscanafakeQR code,yourbankaccount, emailandidentitycouldallbe atrisk.Foractionstotake, consultPNCBank’s ReportingFraudpageon pnc.com.
Cybercriminalsarealways findingnewwaystodefraud theirvictims,andQRcodes arenoexception.Withalittle cautionhowever,youcanbetterprotectyourself.
(c) Koonsiri Boonnak / iStock via Getty Images Plus
(c) Chinshan Films / iStock via Getty Images Plus
HowPaidFamilyandMedicalLeaveBenefitsFamiliesandBusinesses
(StatePoint)The United Statesisone of the only countriesin the world that doesnot guarantee paid family and medical leave toworkers,leaving millionsof 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 withpediatricians, and
other key markers of short- andlong-term health for youngchildren and adults. Plus, early relationships with parents and caregivers, specificallyinthe first three years of life, shape a child’s braindevelopment, laying the foundationfor lifelonglearning, health and well-being.
With less than a thirdof people inthe United States having access to paid familyandmedicalleave, many families are left without financialsecurity during a critical time for child development.Access to paid family and medical leave is lowest amongworkerswith the greatest needs, including those withlower 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 themselvesor a sick or injured family member.
“All workers—regardlessof location, education or job type—shouldhave access to paidfamily and medical leave to provide the care andstability childrenand families need to thrive,” says EmmettAvery, coalition manager for theVermont Paid Leave Coalition,a statewide alliance advocating for the strongpaid family and medical leave program inVermont.
Interestingly,paid family and medical leave is not only good for families, real-world results show that it’s also good for businesses andthe economy.Access to paid leave benefits businesses by increasing employee productivity and morale,improving employee retention, and reducingturnover costs, and states with paid leave programssee fewer families relying on public assistance, lowering costs for taxpayers.
“Paid family and medical leave is a commonsense policy that's supportedby an overwhelmingmajority 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 helppush for policies that give all workingfamiliesthe time they need to care for their loved ones without sacrificing their jobs or financialsecurity.”
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.Youcan join the movement for paidfamily and medical leave at https://ncit.org/take-action/paid-family-and-medical-leaveaction/ andhelp push for policies that put children and caregivers first.
