REV. GIBBS pg 10
Vol 16, No. 5 • October 2016
REV. THOMAS pg 11
News You Can Use
Adkins Passes On Lessons Learned at Ripley Church In Own Ministry guidance of First Evangelistical pasBy Lucy Weber tor Ronnie Gibbs. The Rev. Alphonso Adkins "Pastor made a great can pinpoint the exact emphasis on Christian educamoment he answered the Lord's tion," Adkins said. "He was call to ministry. passionate about laughter. He told It was the second Sunday in July us you can't be too serious, that 1996. He had already been a deacon God can't use us if we are. at First Evangelistical Baptist Christians can have fun too. I apply Church in Ripley for about a year, that lesson now, especially with the studying and teaching Sunday School. youth so they can see their minister "I was 36 when I accepted my be loose in a Christian way." calling to ministry," Adkins now serves Adkins said. "My as the pastor of Wolf preparation began Creek Missionary when I sat on the Baptist Church in deacons' minBooneville. He istry. God had preached his first been ministering sermon as the to me in every senior pastor song, every there on Easter word, so I Sunday 2011. answered the Adkins call." stayed for two Adkins years at First preached his Evangelistical. first sermon He moved to that September Rock Hill on the third Baptist Church chapter of the Dr. Rev. Alphonso Adkins in northern book of Micah, Tippah County where he served for 12 years. "Don't make plans without God." Adkins was the oldest member of the Fav He graduated from American Baptist Theological Institute in Jackson, Tenn., and Five, the group of young pastors learning is now enrolled in the doctoral program at how to lead a church under the spiritual Jacksonville Theological Return Address: P.O. Box 1292 Corinth, MS 38835 Seminary. Like Ronnie Gibbs served as his mentor, Adkins has mentored young ministers through POSTAL PATRON the years and seen young men confess their calling to the minsee ADKINS pg 4
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Tucker found service to God as member of Fav Five By Lucy Weber Rev Jonathan Tucker remembers the joy. At 17, he was a high school junior at Blue Mountain High School when he answered the call that led to his life as a servant of the Lord. "I had experienced God at a younger age, not thinking I was ready. Then, my grandfather passed at the end of 1993. The calling was so intense that I decided to surrender," he said. "In the beginning of 1994 I accepted my calling." The Rev. Ronnie Gibbs, the pastor then and still today at First Evangelistical Church of Ripley offered that 17-year-old a position as associate pastor - the first one at the church. Tucker was soon joined by Rev. Gibbs' son Derrick as a music leader and Rev. Gibbs' nephew see TUCKER pg 4
Rev. Jonathan Tucker
Gibbs credits Ripley church for his growth in ministry By Lucy Weber The Rev. Lowell Gibbs compares his mentor and uncle, the Rev. Ronnie Gibbs, to an old-school football coach. An athlete in college, the younger Gibbs said his uncle, the longtime pastor at First Evangelistical Baptist Church in Ripley, reminds him of the legendary Vince Lombardi. "He had a tough love approach. He was so thorough. He made us what we are today." The "us" is the Fav Five, the group of young and upcoming pastors that Ronnie Gibbs mentored about 20 years ago at the church. A dynamic group of men with deep faith, the Fav Five have grown in their ministries through the years, spreading their messages of faith throughout the north Mississippi area and into Alabama. Lowell Gibbs said his training in those days with the other members of the Fav Five was so complete that "when I went to seminary, it was a breeze." Since 2008, Lowell Gibbs has served as senior pasRev. Lowell Gibbs
see GIBBS pg 4
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October 2016
The Community News Flash
Editor’s Corner Man in the Mirror
Jerry W. Porter CEO/Publisher
PO Box 1292, Corinth, MS 38835-1292 Cell: 662-643-6842 Email: read.newsflash@gmail.com
"The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing." Edmund Burke The verb in Hebrew is "shub." It means to do an about face, to turn back, to change direction. Taken symbolically, shub means to change one's ways, to alter one's course, to look at things differently. To shub, in Hebrew, is a radical reorientation. We should never underestimate the subversive character of Jesus. He was quite a rascal, really. He liked to cross people up, especially the fancy, important folks. I like to think he took a small amount of innocent pleasure in confusing the Dickens out of highfaluting, pompous people. They were always trying to trip
him up, but he was too clever. To put it straight, Jesus never did or said what the haters expected and it infuriated them. It made them hate more. As we all know, it wound up getting him into a lot of trouble. Jesus won every rap battle, though. Take chapter eight of John's gospel, for example. Jesus is minding his own business, teaching, worshiping at the temple and the Pharisees and other smart folks drag this poor, messy woman, caught in fornication, up in front of him. "Just look at her," they say. "Look at this piece of work, rabbi. According to our laws, she should be stoned for her offenses. What say you?" Haters, again, trying to trick Jesus. What did Jesus do? Anybody remember, without looking it up and cheating? Did he throw a fit, show out, act a donkey, like the haters wanted him to do? Remember, Jesus had the wisdom of God at his fingertips. He could have done anything, like call down a cohort of angels to beat the breaks off everybody, or quote passages of scripture to intellectually refute their claims. What did he do, though? Without looking up, without even getting red in the face, Jesus simply bent down, doodled in the sand with his finger and said,
"Let he among you without sin cast the first stone." Well, drop the mic. Tip your waitress. We're out. I can just hear the mob, can't you? "What? What did this dude just say? I know I didn't just hear what I thought I heard." You can practically hear the seconds ticking by in the passage as the fancy, learned folks, standing there with mad, then confused faces, holding rocks, begin to look at each other like somebody just told them water is actually dry. They didn't know how to respond. Game changer! Seventy-five-yard, offtackle touchdown! Toss the ball to the ref, like you've done it 100 times. Begrudgingly accept a few pats on the helmet. Jog to the sideline. Let the television news shout and get loud about it. Jesus just lets the flock of haters flutter their feathers for a moment. Then, one by one, they drop their rocks, snort, kick the dirt and walk off. Nobody saw that one coming. Jesus changed the game. Let's shub for a moment, change direction. WWMJS? What would Michael Jackson say? I think the King of Pop would challenge us to look at "The Man in the Mirror." "As I, turn up the collar on, my favorite winter coat, this wind is blowing my mind," right? Love it.
The Community News Flash is published monthly by Porter Publishing, Inc., with all rights reserved – © 2001 Reproduction or use without permission of editorial on graphic contents in any manner is prohibited by law. This newspaper is designed to exhibit the positive by publishing only positive and uplifting personal profiles. The annual subscription rate is Twenty four dollars and forty eight cents ($26.00). Information is gathered from sources considered to be reliable and accurate. Thoughts expressed in letters to the editor and commentaries are those of the authors and not necessarily those of The Community News Flash staff. Equal Opportunity. It is policy of the newspaper. 1. To employ people on the basis of their qualification and with assurance of equal opportunity and treatment regardless of race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap. 2. To not knowingly accept any advertisement, which implies and preferences limitation or discrimination based on race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap.
Sing along with me. "I've been a victim of, a selfish kind of love." So many great, instructive, koan-ofwisdom lyrics in that beautiful song. It's a slap in the face, though. Not a cuddly song, despite its infectious groove. "Who am I, to be blind, pretending not to see their needs?' Michael sings. Then, he throws down the gauntlet. "If you want to make the world, a better place, take a look at yourself and make that change!" Amen, Michael! Tell us, maestro, how to change direction, to shub, to make a radical change in our lives. "Got to get it right, while you got the
time," he says. It starts with me. Back to Jesus. What does he tell us? Wait, how about Shakespeare, stealing from Jesus? The bard called his play, "Measure for Measure." "For by what measure you measure shall be measured unto you." Oh, man. I'm not sure I like that. A pound of flesh, you say? I can't spare it. Actually, I can. You're telling me that I'll be judged according to how I judge? Wait! Maybe Jesus softens it up a little, for us good folks, later in the paragraph. Let's see. "Why, then, do you pay attention
to the splinter in your brother's eye and ignore the log in your own?" he asks. Jesus, brother, the rules of the game are set. You can't keep changing the game with these challenging, slap-in-the-face changes. You're making me rethink my whole existence and what I thought was right and just and holy. You're telling me that making a better world starts with changing myself? Drop the mic. Take a look at the man in the mirror. Whoo! Whoo! Until Next Time! All Aboard!
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The Community News Flash
OCTOBERT BIBLE TRIVIA 1. What vine is mentioned in the Old Testament as bearing poisonous berries? 2. What kind of tree does Psalms compare a wicked man to? 3. What prophet complained about the people making sacrifices under spreading oaks, poplars, and elms? 4. What kind of weed does Jesus say will be separated from the wheat at the last judgment? 5. What kind of wood was the ark of the covenant made of? 6. What prophet was a "dresser of sycamore trees"? 7. What kind of trees did the exiled Jews hang their harps upon? 8. What did Delilah use to bind the sleeping Samson? 9. What defeated king was buried with his sons under an oak tree? 10. Which tree does Jesus say can be uprooted and thrown into the sea- if one has enough faith? 11. What city was the "city of palm trees"? 12. What tree's foliage was found in the carvings inside the temple? 13. What king appointed an overseer to watch after the fruits of the olive trees and sycamores? 14. Who was killed after his hair was caught in an oak's branches? 15. What man met the Lord at the oaks of Mamre? 16. What prophet had a vision of a branch of an almond tree? 17. To what king did Jesus compare the lilies of the field? 18. What plant was used to purify lepers? 19. When Rahab hid the Israelite spies on her rooftop, what did she hide them under? 20. What did Noah's dove bring back in its beak? 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
September Answers 1. Ishmael (Genesis 16:1-12) 2. Two (Genesis 19:1-22) 3. Peter (Acts 12:1-19) 4. He was holding a drawn sword (Numbers 22:22-35) 5. To give him instructions on conquering Jericho (Joshua 5:13-15) 6. The Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-39) 7. Gabriel (Luke 1:5-38) 8. Samson (Judges 13:1-20) 9. Jezebel (I Kings 19:1-8) 10. He blessed Jacob (Genesis 32:24-29) 11. Cornelius (Acts 10:1-8) 12. Gideon (Judges 6:11-23) 13. Cherubim (Genesis 3:24) 14. Isaiah (6:5-7) 15. The Assyrians (2 Kings 19:35) 16. Abraham (Genesis 22:11-18) elders (Exodus 24:9-10).
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October 2016
The Community News Flash
ADKINS...... from page 1
GIBBS......from page 4
istry from his churches. One of the lessons he passes on is "don't expect people to believe God's word if you don't say it like you believe it." Adkins said he never expected to follow this path of ministry although he now knows it was one he was set to follow. "When I was younger, I was in and out of the church but for the wrong purpose." Adkins' parents were from Ripley, but he was born and raised in Chicago. Later, he moved to Houston, Texas, where he met his wife, Cassandra. After they moved to Ripley to live, Adkins followed his wife to First Evangelistical where
tor at Macedonia Baptist Church in Town Creek, Alabama. He has two associate ministers working under him and he is mentoring a younger pastor, passing on the lessons he learned at First Evangelistical.
TUCKER.... from page 1 Lowell Gibbs and Sapata Thomas as associate ministers. Another nephew of Rev. Gibbs, Shane Rainer, was called to service at a church in nearby Falkner. Together, those men of God, in their late teens and early 20s, were known around town as the "Fav Five" during the three or so years they sang and preached the Word. Tucker doesn't know who first coined the nickname but says it was likely other ministers in the community. "It was a real joy to be together. We all encouraged each other," Tucker said,
Gibbs grew up in his home church in Falkner. When he went away to college, he had intentions of becoming a teacher and a coach. He joined First Evangelistical in 1994, not thinking about the ministry. He said as he became involved in Bible study and teaching,, he knew
Rev. Ronnie Gibbs and Dr. Rev. Alphonso Adkins
his life in ministry began. Looking back at his years as one of the associates at the church, Adkins said the Fav Five shared spiritual camaraderie. "We were all so humble and so supportive of each other. I wouldn't trade those experiences for any-
thing. There were so many successful sons in ministry that came out of that church because of Pastor Ronnie Gibbs' gift of nurturing." Adkins and his wife have three children who are all active members of their churches.
adding that still today the Fav Five still talk and support each other in their ministries. "We probably won't ever lose touch." In April 1994, Tucker stood in the pulpit to preach his first sermon from Luke, Chapter Two on the "Good News." During the three years, Tucker served at First Evangelistical, he preached many times to those in the Ripley community who had watched him grow up. "It was a great experience," he said. "They knew me, and they knew my family. They took me under their wings." His service there was a joy and a challenge, he said.
Members of the congregation were great students of the Bible and they were quick to correct their young minister in Bible studies, Tucker said. Tucker, now celebrating his 14th year as pastor of New Birth Community Church in New Albany, said returning to the pulpit in Ripley is something he looks forward to annually. "I love to go and do revivals there," he said. "The last Sunday in May is always homecoming there, and I preach that. My mother-in-law is still a member there." When he looks out at his congregation now, he will see some familiar faces. Some of his former members in Ripley now live in and attend his church in New Albany. Tucker met his wife Scherrita at First Evangelistical. They have two children, an 18year-old daughter and a 16-year-old son.
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the Lord was leading him. Two years later, he answered the call to preach. "I had known all along that the Lord was calling me but I didn't have the courage" at a younger age, he said. "The Lord led me in the right direction." First Evangelistical offered a good environment for young preachers learning how to lead a church, he said. "It was a really great atmosphere. We were all different ages but at the same time in our ministries. It was not just spiritual work, but physical work too. We painted, we remodeled and we cooked. "My ministry at the church helped me in training people and preparing them for the ministry," Gibbs said. "It made me more well-rounded." Before moving to Macedonia Baptist, Gibbs served from 20022008 at St. Peter's Baptist Church in Tishomingo. He said he tries to get back to First Evangelistical once a year. He and other alumni of the Fav Five stay in touch. "We all preach to each other," he said, by sharing pulpits during revivals and at other times. Gibbs and his wife Sara have a daughter who is a junior at the University of Southern Mississippi.
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October 2016
Is It Time to Stop Driving? In spite of our reputation, the statistics say that we seniors aren’t bad drivers. A 2010 report by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says that, “Contrary to expectations, senior drivers aren’t causing more crashes than they used to.” Rates of crashes in drivers 70 and older have actually declined. The catch, however, is that we must know when to stop or limit our driving. Once we start making driving mistakes, the results can range from merely annoying (having our driving restricted) to catastrophic (a serious crash or death). Ask yourself: Are other drivers honking at you more lately? Have you hit a curb or mailbox? Do you have a hard time backing up, possibly because it’s difficult to turn around in the seat? Do you wonder which way to go at exit ramps? These might be signs that you need to think about whether to continue driving. There are tools and information online to help you decide if you need to stop or limit your driving. Go to www.hartfordauto.thehartford.com and search for Crash Risk Assessment. Also look for Safety for Older Drivers. Take the quiz for drivers age 50 and older. Consider taking a senior driver refresher course. Go to AARP.org (or call 1-888-227-7669) and look for Driver Safety Program. Locate a class near you or sign up for the online class. Classes are often held in senior centers, adult education classes and hospitals. If you’re concerned about an elderly parent who is still driving, AARP has put together an online seminar that helps explore the topic. Go to AARP. org and search for “We Need to Talk” or call the AARP number above. Matilda Charles regrets that she cannot personally answer reader questions, but will incorporate them into her column whenever possible. Write to her in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, or send email to columnreply@gmail.com.
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The Community News Flash
Anxiety, Phobias and Panic Attacks DEAR DR. DONOHUE: What is the difference between anxiety and panic attack? I am claustrophobic, and I need to fly from the West Coast to the East Coast and back. I can’t do so because of my problem. I have tried therapy several times, but it did not help. I do not want to go that route again. Can you give me some suggestions on how to be able to fly with this problem? Is there a medicine I could take before I get on the plane? — Anon. ANSWER: Anxiety is excessive worry. In some cases, worry is appropriate. But with pathological anxiety, the worry is about things that don’t merit worry or about imagined things that truly merit no concern. Under “anxiety disorders” are many different conditions, each with a slightly different set of symptoms. They all share some things in common. Panic attacks are the sudden onset of terror in places where such terror is inappropriate. The attack builds to a high point in a matter of 10 minutes or less. The attack can take place in a perfectly neutral situation, like shopping in the grocery store. During an attack, the heart beats fast, people become short of breath, and they often sweat and fear they are at death’s door. Phobias are unreasonable fears of people, places and things that don’t engender fear in others. Claustrophobia is the fear of being in an enclosed space, like an airplane. Phobias can bring on a panic attack. Maybe your phobia is not so much a fear of enclosed space but a fear of flying.
I’m not certain these distinctions are of importance to you. The important thing for you is to uproot whatever it is that paralyzes you when you must board an airplane or to blunt it so you can function. Mental health professionals can get you over anxiety, panic attacks and phobias. I’m not positive what you mean by “going that route” again. Do you mean a detailed probing into your childhood and such matters? That isn’t usually necessary. The doctor might prescribe a medicine that calms you and that you take only when needed. You won’t become dependent on that medicine every day of your life. You use it only for the situation that throws you into such high anxiety. *** DEAR DR. DONOHUE: My husband, 78 years old, fell off a ladder, and his head struck the sidewalk. I insisted he go to the emergency room, although he put up a fight. In the ER, the examining doctor gave him a very complete examination. He ordered a CT scan of his brain. The doctor found nothing wrong, and the scan was said to be normal. They sent us home. This week we got a report of the scan. It says my husband has brain atrophy. I had to look up the meaning of atrophy. My husband was never an Einstein, but what is the significance of brain atrophy? He carries on a reasonable conversation, and he reads the paper carefully. Need we be concerned? I’m upset. He isn’t. — W.Y. ANSWER: Atrophy means shrinkage. If everyone your husband’s age had a brain scan, most of their reports would say brain atrophy. It’s something that happens with age. It doesn’t imply any serious trouble. It shouldn’t scare you or him. *** Dr. Donohue regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but he will incorporate them in his column whenever possible. Readers may write him or request an order form of available health newsletters at P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. © 2011 North America Synd., Inc. All Rights Reserved
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The Community News Flash
BACK TO BASICS FITNESS
Meet new fitness columnist Arlene Dent By Lucy Weber Arlene Dent got the fitness bug when she served in the United States Marine Corps. Straight out of high school, Dent joined the Corps and learned that as a Marine, you get fit and stay fit. That way of life stuck with her after she left the Corps. Twenty years ago, she began working out after she started her family - which includes four sons, now 28, 26, 22 and 20 and two daughters, 13 and 11. "After having children, your body is not the same. So I started working out and decided 'I like this,'" she said. At the time, her family lived in Columbus. She took the classes at Mississippi University for Women to get certified as a fitness instructor. She has been certified through AFAA (Aerobics and Fitness Association of America) for 20 years. Now, living in Tupelo, Dent has taught one-onone and group classes at churches and at local gyms. Students have told she brings "a military air" to their sessions, she said. "My clients probably call it insane boot camp. "I tailor my classes to the individual or to the group," she said. "My goal with a client is to meet their needs. What do you want to do? Do you need to lose weight? Are there any medical issues, like knees or back issues? "I cater to what that client needs. I need to be their cheerleader, and they need to be accountable," Dent said. The biggest obstacle to any workout is that a client needs to decide to address health and fitness, she said. "The first step is the hardest, and that is you make up your mind 'I don't want to live this way.'" Dent doesn't believe in numbers. "Don't look
at the scale. You can weigh 170 pounds and not look it because you've developed muscles," she said. "I try to keep them away from the scale as much as possible."
Arlene Dent As a columnist, Dent intends to share the knowledge she's gained over the past 20 years of helping people get healthier. "We're going to discuss life choices what makes you tick - and fitness tips," she said. "Just be aware of who you are and whose (God's) you are and everything is possible." One tip to get started: "Just move more. It sounds clichĂŠ but every little bit helps. People don't believe it, but it does. Walking is the best exercise, and everyone can do it."
October 2016
October 2016
The Community News Flash
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Toddler scores with football and family
Brian Walker
Brylan Walker
By Lucy Weber Brylan Walker wants to be a football player, and his family is helping the twoyear-old run for the goal line. "My role as his aunt is to protect his dream," said London Harris, 22, of Corinth. "He's a lot more driven than most adults." Brylan's dad is Brian Walker is a star defensive
back for the Fort Valley State University Wildcats in Georgia. "He looks up to his daddy," London said. "Brylan loves football. He turns everything into a football," said his grandfather Tony Harris. "With his dad a football player, he's got it in his blood." Cars and trucks and other toddler toys don't interest him. It's all about
Aunt London Harris and Brylan Walker
the football. The whole family, Brylan's mother DreAnna Harris, aunt London, and grandparents on both sides will do anything they can to make sure the toddler plays football. Being Brylan's coach is a role they all play. "Everybody is involved. Brylan is not going to have it any other way," London said. "He'll coach you in what he wants you to do." For a child that won't turn three until Jan.3, Brylan already shows a lot of potential. "He has a lot of techniques," Tony said. "He's a quarterback. He can throw the ball. London teaches him techniques." London, a fitness instructor, makes sure she takes Brylan to go play football whenever he wants. They'll head to the Corinth High School field, take off their shoes and start running. "I don't know if I'm teaching him, or he's teaching me," London said. "He knows what a touchown is. He knows offense and defense." The family makes sure Brylan gets to see, as well as play, football. "He's sees his daddy play and we go to local games," London said. "This is not just a phase," his aunt said. "He really does enjoy this. He just wants to play football."
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October 2016
The Community News Flash
"Catwalk For A Cure" celebrates life, struggle and dignity By Galen Holley Community News Flash CORINTH - Appearance is just one of the many troubling thoughts crowding the minds of those struggling with cancer, so an Alcorn County man is celebrating recovery as well as promoting awareness and paying tribute with an homage to the world of fashion. "I love to dress nicely, and I love clothes and fashion in general, and I know how important appearance is, especially to ladies," said Fred Greer, one of the organizers of "Catwalk For A Cure," to be held Nov. 5. "Perhaps, what we're doing, in some small way, can make people feel a little better about themselves," Greer said. Catwalk celebrates style, not only in the sense of sharp clothing, but the comportment, dignity and courage with which those suffering from breast cancer carry themselves. The fashion show will be held at 6 p.m. at the Southgate Shopping Center, next door to J.C. Penny's. Greer said he is issuing a clarion call to fashionistas and divas throughout the surrounding area to be a part of the fun. Catwalk will certainly be a time to
work it, as the saying goes, to preen a little, but It's for a good cause, Greer said. Most of the $10 ticket price, payable at the door, goes to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. The purpose of the show is to celebrate beauty, compassion and understanding. "The devastating effects that breast cancer has on the body, as well as the treatments, like chemotherapy, impact a person inside and out, and we want to honor the courage and beauty with which sufferers carry themselves," said Greer. Local boutiques will outfit models to strut the runway in their finest fashions, but one needn't have the cache' of Tyra Banks to get involved, Greer said. Participation is free. Featured categories will include ladies in fur as well as in hats, fall fashion, winter wear and children and gentlemen's attire. Community models ages four and up are welcome. Last year's models rocked the catwalk in jaunty, key-lime off-the-shoulder spring dresses, frilly, lace evening gowns, sewn as delicate as cake frosting, and, for the gentlemen, straight-legged, khaki shorts, smartly paired with sheen, hip, button-up shirts and old-school, button-in-the-front,
Fred Greer
"newsboy" hats. Junior misses wore sprightly dresses of tangerine as older girls rocked cream-colored shawls accented with jungle- print scarves and wispy, silken cravats. The regal centerpieces of the evening were ladies in shapely, black eveningwear, draped in luxurious furs. "We had something for all tastes and styles, and it was a fun and meaningful event," said Greer. Personal meaning The fashion show won't be all fun and games for Greer. The issues of awareness, treatment and recovery from breast cancer hit very close to home for him. Not long ago, Greer was working as a surgical technician, assisting during procedures in which malignant tumors were removed from patients. As health care professionals must, Greer tried to distance himself from the emotional trauma he saw every day. Still, it took a toll. "I can remember coming home evenings and being disturbed and troubled by what I'd seen, but I tried to keep professional poise and not let it get me down," said Greer. That all changed one spring evening in 2011 when Greer came home to the devastating news that his mother, Marie Greer Metcalf, had been diagnosed with breast cancer. "From the point forward, I had a whole different outlook," said Greer. The
news was doubly disturbing. Greer's mother was given her diagnosis on Monday. On Friday, Greer's aunt and Marie's oldest sister, Carolyn Greer Gardner, was diagnosed. The family was overwhelmed. "They went to Memphis to get genetic testing, and it turns out that it wasn't even genetic," said Greer. He started furiously researching treatments and immersing himself in the culture of cancer awareness and recovery, Greer said. Sadly, not long after being diagnosed, Greer's aunt passed away. His mother endured what seemed like endless weeks of harsh, chemotherapy. It was hard, Greer said, for Marie to retain the regality and poise she was so used to, especially when it came to fashion. "We wanted her to remain the diva she'd always been," said Greer, affectionately. Marie, who suffered minimal cosmetic effects from her treatment, favored headbands, scarves and stylish hats, Greer said. "She was fiercely strong, and we all still admire the courage with which she carried herself." Today, Marie is happy and healthy and in full remission. Pink Parade It's almost a cliché to say that real men wear pink, but this month the salubrious color will be splattered all over the place, from the wrist bands of football players to fire trucks to balloons and t-shirts. Catwalk will feature a segment in which male models will wear pink in various outfits, from casual to formal, as an homage to the color that immediately signals breast cancer awareness. Ever the quarterly gentleman, Greer has procured a dashing, velvet, maroon, tuxedo-style ensemble for himself, and he looks forward to seeing the red carpet-like gala. "We always have fun at Catwalk, but the underlying meaning is always on our minds," said Greer. "Beauty is important and meaningful in our lives, and we want to celebrate, even in the midst of hardship."
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October 2016
The Community News Flash
9
Reading God's Plan For Your Life
Pastor Doris Day
by Jaylon Neely Jeremiah 1:5 says "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations (Jeremiah 1:5 NIV). " This scripture was spoken to me by Pastor Doris Day, who co-pastors alongside Pastor Frederick C. Patterson at Kingdom Christian Center International in Corinth, Mississippi. She has been preaching for 38 years and has been pastoring in Corinth, MS for 21 years. Although coming from a dark past, Pastor Doris was a highly intelligent woman with a sound mind who graduated from Little Rock Central High School, Little Rock, Arkansas in 1968 and entered the United States Army, where she obtained an Honorable Discharge in 1972. In late 1972 while living in St. Louis, MO, on her 23rd birthday (August 6) she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. Shortly after, while work-
ing as a Tech II at Malcomb Bliss Mental Health Unit in St. Louis, MO, she was approached by a nursing instructor at the St. Louis Municipal School of Nursing and was told "you would make a good nurse and should apply for our nursing program." Day's reply was she knew no one in St. Louis to give her a reference but the nurse responded "I will give you one!" It was here, Pastor Doris said she had to acknowledge a truth to herself and she quoted Shakespeare, "To Thine own self be true‌" I asked her what that truth was and she said that truth was her inability to read well!" So I asked her how did you graduate high school and go into the army? Laughingly she said she and her friends cheated all the way through high school and she would go down to the Army recruiter's office every week and to take the same test until she passed it. She reminded me even though she could not read well,
"I've always had a good mind and could remember things." She informed me she enrolled into Forrest Park Community College and took some remedial classes, where God intervened and taught her how to read through the studying of the written Word of God. With the Lord's help, she took the entrance exam to the Nursing School and passed it and in 1976 became a Registered Nurse. In 1978, Pastor Doris was called into the ministry and was ordained an Evangelist while she was a member at Haynes Miracle Temple Church of God in Christ under the teachings of Pastor Ira Sylvester Haynes in East St. Louis, Illinois. After ministering and traveling extensively spreading the Gospel message, she felt she needed to enhance her knowledge in the Bible so in 1983, she attended St. Louis Christian College, Florissant, Missouri. She graduated with a Bachelor's of Theology in 1985. Then in 1990, she attended the United Pentecostal College (Gateway College of Evangelism) where she obtained an Associate Degree in Ministry in May 1992. "Yes, I know that is backwards ", she stated, smiling. Pastor Doris is now a teacher at the Life Christian Bible Institute in Tupelo, Mississippi which is an extensive campus of Life Christian University, Lux, FA. She recently completed all of her studies for her Doctorates in Theology and is presently working on her doctorate dissertation entitled "Salvation of the Tri-Part Man." In August 1992, she
moved to Corinth, MS and in 1995 she founded and start pastoring Agape Apostolic Church. The name of the Church was changed to Agape World Overcoming Christian Center because as she stated, "John 3:16 says Jesus died to save the whole World." Her spiritual covering is Bishop E.L. Warren, D.Ph., Quincy, Illinois. Pastor Doris has earned the nickname the "Street Preacher" because she has ministered from the Church to the streets and in the crack houses; the world is her platform! Pastor Day has done Missionary work in several foreign countries including Haiti, Africa, Bahamas, and Jamaica. Though she could not read well, she read the plan
that God had for her and did not let Satan use her past or her lack of education against her. Doris quickly referred to Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, said the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil to give you a hope and a future." Doris knew her place in Christ as well as her place in the ministry. Doris was diagnosed with breast cancer, and was healed after only four treatments of chemotherapy, because she remembered that God is the same God in Psalm 103:3 "Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases." Before concluding the interview, I asked Pastor Doris if she had any advice for today's current genera-
tion of young Americans. She said, "These group of young people who are with gangs, and sell drugs are really just young entrepreneurs, who have had the wrong mentors. They have gifts like you and I do, but they were just pushed in the wrong direction. I would love to just sit down with these really talented people and explain to them how these gifts can be used for the right reasons." Pastor Doris also added, "I would love to create and start a Bible college for this new and upcoming generation and just teach them how to love and know Jesus through His Word, and just how much He loves them and then how to apply His Word to their life."
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October 2016
The Community News Flash
Derrick Gibbs continues family's ministry through music
Let your pastor know how much you appreciate them
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 To set up Workshops/Seminars Call or Email Jerry Porter at: 662-643-6842 read.newflash@gmail.com
Rev. Derrick Gibbs
By Lucy Weber The Rev Derrick Gibbs carries on the pastoral legacy he learned growing up in his father's church. The son of the Rev Ronnie Gibbs of First Evangelistical Church in Ripley, Gibbs is the minister of music and worship pastor at White Hill Baptist in Tupelo. He is in his 13th year there, after leading St. Mark's in the Holly Springs area for over four years. But it was at First Evangelistical where he began his journey of faith. A natural musician, Gibbs started playing keyboard at age 7 and at 9 or 10 he began working with his dad by playing piano at church. By age 15, he was minister of music at First Evangelistical. Gibbs was a part of the Fav Five, the group of young men in their late teens and early 20s who got their start in the church at First Evangelistical. "The atmosphere was energetic, very spiritual, very charismatic. It was a platform for us to grow in our ministry. God has blessed us," Gibbs said. "It took all of us to do what my dad did collectively." Gibbs said he was happy leading the music at his father's church but he felt the tug on his heart to preach. "I saw the burden of true pastorship on my father's heart. I would see him up and down the road caring for his members. He has to work with people who may not want his help," Gibbs said. "He let me watch him
work. That was a valuable lesson." "As a preacher's child, I did not want to preach. I was comfortable playing my music. I ran for two years from preaching," he said. "I saw the burden on one side but there's blessing on the other. I have seen others that have gleaned so much from his ministry." Gibbs started preaching at age 21 at First Evangelistical. Soon after, he answered the call to lead St. Mark's as the pastor. "It was very difficult to leave. All I knew was my father's ministry, but leaving, that was something the Lord was doing" he said. As his father mentored the Fav Five and so many other young pastors, Gibbs said he has mentored other young people who want to serve the Lord. One of the young men he mentored is now assistant pastor to another of the Fav Five, the Rev. Jonathan Tucker at New Birth Community Church in New Albany. Gibbs returns to First Evangelistical in Ripley from time to time to preach and minister. Carrying on the pastoral legacy "has been a blessing." Gibbs and his family carry on that life with their church in Tupelo. His wife Latoya is a praise and worship leader at White Hill. His older son, who is 13, is the assistant drummer for the church and plays for teen church. His 10-year-old daughter and 8-year-old boy and girl twins are also involved in all areas of the church in Tupelo.
October 2016
The Community News Flash
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Thomas follows God's path to different ministries By Lucy Weber Raised in the United Methodist Church, Sapada Thomas found his calling as a pastor in the pews of First Evangelistical Baptist Church in Ripley. Thomas, with his wife Amy, joined the church led by the Rev. Ronnie Gibbs. "Being there with Pastor Gibbs, every time he taught the Bible or preached a sermon, it seemed like he was talking to me," he said. Thomas had grown up active in his home Methodist church, feeling that God had a plan for his life. Feeling that tug to ministry at First Evangelistical again, Thomas met with Rev. Gibbs to ask "How do you know when you are called?" His answer was: "When you ask questions like that." Thomas was first ordained as a deacon at the church and from there he became a pastor in training. In March 1997, he preached his first sermon on Revelations 3:20, "The Rev. Sapada Thomas Lost and Found." Thomas became part of the Fav Five, the group of associates being men- Helping Hands outreach ministry and then tored by Rev. Gibbs as they began their lives serving as an associate pastor until 2015. in the ministry. During his Methodist ministries, Thomas Thomas said he kept growing and learncontinued his education. He received his ing in his ministry through First associate's degree from Northeast Evangelistical. After becoming licensed as a Community College in psychology and a preacher, he began preaching more and more degree in sociology from Rust College. He at other churches in the Corinth area, includadded a master's degree in divinity from ing his home church of Moses Chapel United Memphis Theological Seminary. Methodist in Ripley. Currently, Thomas works as a mental "A lot of local pastors opened their doors health therapist in Tupelo and assists at to us young guys and let us preach," he said. Pleasant Grove UMC in Nettleton. He is a His first church to lead was St. Peter's provisional elder in the Methodist church. He Missionary Baptist in Tishomingo where he and his wife have three children and one pastored for two years. From there, he grandchild. returned to his Methodist roots. "I felt a Thomas' interest in the field of mental move to go back and went home to Moses health was prompted by his father's diagnosis Chapel," he said. with dementia at age 50. Following his Because of the change in denominations, father's death in 2013, Thomas has turned his Thomas had to wait two years for his attention toward a ministry to those with Methodist license although he continued to mental health issues. preach, lead Bible studies and work with "I can see how God put me in different youth ministry at his home church. places to get me to this point," he said. When he received his pastoral license, he was appointed to Mt. Moriah UMC in Corinth. He Jimmy Greene served there until 2010. Thomas then Manager moved to Tupelo 2750 Harper Road, Corinth, MS 38834 to work at First Phone 662-287-0129 Cell: 662-415-5665 United Methodist, jimmy.greene@crossroadsbuildingsupply.com first leading the
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October 2016
The Community News Flash
Photos from Dr. Rev. Alphonso Adkins graduation banquet held in Baldwyn, Ms. on September 10, 2016 Life is like a camera....... Just focus on what is IMPORTANT CAPTURE the good times..........DEVELOP from the negative If things don't work out, just take another shot. To purchase photos from this event please call Jerry W. Porter 662-643-6842. 1
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16 1. Dr. Rev. Alphonso & Casandra Adkin 2. Rev. Ronnie & Pauline Gibbs 3. John & Gloria McKinney 4. Tarka Fields 5. Dalton Jackson 6. Lysa Edmond & Mable Warren 7. Leonia Burress 8. Bernadine Rowan 9. Martha Rowan & Jimmy Dixon
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10. Oscar Lee McGee 11. Juan McGee & Alfreda Hill 12. Dr. Rev. James & Ober Dye 13. Berthetta Hughey Hatch 14. Jessie & Sarah Pannell 15. Rev. Willie & Elizabeth Hill 16. Linda Miller 17. Margie & Cornelius Medcalf 18. William & Keesha Jackson
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October 2016
The Community News Flash
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LIVING
Tips to Overcome Personal Struggles and Achieve Goals
(StatePoint) When faced with tough challenges, it can be tempting to throw in the towel. But experts say the power of goal-setting is fierce and the discipline behind it can help anyone overcome obstacles. “Failure has the power to break you or it has the power to push you forward,” says Scout Bassett, a U.S. Paralympian in track and field. “Use your experiences as an opportunity to reevaluate your goals and move forward from there.” Having lost a leg early in her life in China, Bassett spent her early childhood in an orphanage before being adopted by an American family. She came to the United States at the age of seven just wanting to fit in. As a child she discovered a love of running and set off on a path to qualify for the Paralympic Games. In her first attempt in 2012, she came in dead last and did not qualify for the team. She briefly considered giving up her dream. This year, she is relishing the progress she has made. As a member of Team USA who competed in Rio, she’s showing off her skills on a global stage and participating in Citi’s “#StandForProgress” program to inspire all Americans to think about the progress they want to achieve in their lives. Bassett offers the following insights into goal-setting. • “Progress” doesn’t always come in the form of a medal or an award. Sometimes progress means you have to take a few steps back, go back to the drawing board, see what worked and what didn’t, and find a way forward from there. Most of us experience setbacks, disappointments and even failures sometimes, but ultimately those moments can be the greatest motivators. • The biggest struggles you face may not be the ones handed to you by fate or outside forces. They may be the battles you fight within. Look past your own inner voice discouraging you from your hopes and dreams. Developing mental fortitude is a continuous process. • You can’t change the past but you can help write the future. Embrace and focus on what you have gained, not what you have lost. • Don’t let naysayers hinder your progress or cause you to lose faith in yourself. The beauty of being underestimated is you have an opportunity to defy the odds. Use pessimism to motivate you. • No one can do it alone, so don’t be afraid to rely on the help of others. Even at times when you don’t believe in yourself, there may be others who do. Citi’s Stand for Progress program explores how all of us define progress, set goals, overcome obstacles and support and inspire others to do the same. Americans can share how they stand for progress by using #StandForProgress and posting their own goals on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram. Whether it’s eating healthier, saving money for a house, or spending more time with loved ones, it helps to clarify your goals by writing them down.
November 8th
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October 2016
The Community News Flash
Funeral director advises families to have life insurance
Danny Patterson
By Lucy Weber Funeral home owner Danny Patterson not only tends to those who die but also to grieving family members. He wants to
make sure that surviving loved ones are taken care of once the funeral is over. "People think they only need enough insurance to be buried. No, you don't. You need to take care of your family too," said the owner of Patterson Memorial Chapel in Corinth for 30 years. "We're looking after not only the one who passed on, but we're looking after the family too." Too many times in his 42-year career has Patterson seen families, devastated by the loss of their loved ones, lack the money for the funeral they want or the funds to pay bills and buy groceries after the burial. "A lot of people don't understand they need not only insurance for the funeral itself but for the bills that are left behind," he said. "People say 'I've got enough to bury me,' but that still leaves a burden on the family." In recent years, Patterson said he's seen families turn to the community through social media funding sites to pay for the type of funeral they think their loved ones deserve. "The community has been great if tragedy occurs to raise money to pay for
funerals, but after a while the community gets tired. "We really need people to know they need to have some type of life insurance so they don't leave a burden on their families." At Patterson Memorial Chapel, families can purchase life insurance up to $10,000. In the old days, folks referred to it as burial insurance but Patterson said it's really life insurance to ensure that beloved family members can live on. Bereaved families are treated the same whether they come in to spend $1,000 or $10,000 on a funeral, Patterson said. "We want you to spend what you can afford," he said. "It doesn't matter to me." Death is looming on the horizon for everyone so there's no reason everyone shouldn't be prepared for the inevitable, he said. The best thing to do for your family is to have life insurance to take care of them, Patterson said. However, he's found that sometimes family members don't want to face that talk about death and dying. "Too many times grown children say 'I don't want to
talk about it.' If you love that person, you want to look after them. You're not doing any favors by not talking about it." Patterson aid that pre-arrangements are available so the cost of a funeral can be made upfront, relieving the surviving family of that burden. "That freezes the cost of the funeral even if you live ten more years," he said. "But you still need life insurance, no matter what," Patterson said.
Do Good Work and Serve the Lord
Have A Safe and Happy Halloween!
It is fairly common, and almost a cliché, to note that the Protestant work ethic fueled capitalism, giving capitalism such guiding virtues as hard work, frugality and efficiency. While honest labor and thriftiness may still be virtues held in high regard, it is tempting to feel that capitalism has somehow lost its soul. Instead of producing high-minded, hardworking Christians who value work, it has produced dispirited automatons who dread work and mindlessly consume whatever the market has to offer. Even Adam Smith, capitalism’s first and foremost theorist, warned in “The Wealth of Nations” that specialized labor would tend to make work boring and alienate labor from its product. So, is there a way to keep work from being so stultifying? Of course, it depends somewhat on the work in question, but any labor that is interesting is redemptive, whether it is figuring out what is wrong with someone’s car that won’t start, planting a garden, or cleaning house. Another way to redeem work is to do it in a craftsmanlike way. There is something inherently pleasurable in doing something well, especially if there is some product to behold or savor at the end of our work. Consider how God Himself beheld His handiwork on the seventh day, and declared that it was good. So, perhaps we should figure out a way to take genuine interest in our work and devote ourselves to doing it well, however humble it may be. Do good work; God is watching.
So I saw that there is nothing better than that a man should enjoy his work, for that is his lot... R.S.V. Ecclesiastes 3:22
October 2016
The Community News Flash
15
LIVING
Fall Trend Report: Tips to Refresh Your Wardrobe this Season
(StatePoint) Cool weather means tailgating, apple picking, attending festivals and enjoying the changing leaves. It also means it’s time to refresh the wardrobe. “This fall, there are plenty of new colors, styles and patterns to try,” says Brittany Moeller, women’s buyer for Off Broadway Shoe Warehouse, a fashion-forward shoe retailer that offers high fashion styles from top designer and name brands. Moeller is sharing some tips on how to wear the latest trends for fall. • Update Feminine Pieces with
Edgy Accents: Lace blouses with bows, pleated skirts and touches of velvet are all popular pieces for fall. They can be worn with blush and rose gold tones, as well as leather accents to add an edgy flair to an overall feminine look. For example, try this season’s on-trend Boho bell sleeve blouses with a leather jacket, leggings or over-the-knee boots. • Select Top Seasonal Colors and Patterns: The current palette for the fall season features a variety of earth tones -- from olive to taupe -- as well as sultry romantic shades, including wine and cognac. Patchwork and plaids round out
the top pattern trends to look for regarding both women’s fashion and menswear. Makeup, accessories and footwear are all ways to incorporate these colors into a fall wardrobe. • Add Key Accessories: Gold jewelry, including thicker bib necklaces and gold chains, continue to remain ontrend. Handbags featuring longer straps and a fun geometric box shape -- also known as camera bags -- are a “musthave,” according to Moeller. • Enjoy Boots and Booties: The short boot, or “bootie,” is featured front-and-center this season as the most versatile piece for fall. Booties with block heels or wedge bottoms complement this season’s wider leg jeans and pant styles. While brown or black boots are wardrobe staples, this season offers a variety of new options in updated fall colors -- including navy, taupe, wine and olive. “The best thing is that there aren’t any rules when it comes to wearing booties. It’s all about mixing it up,”
Moeller said. “Pair booties with jeans and a plaid shirt, leggings and a sweater, or a dress and fringe jacket. Looking ahead, booties with open toes or an exaggerated cutout can even be worn with shorts this coming spring.” For more inspiration for venturing
into the fall season in style, visit offbroadwayshoes.com. With the current autumn fashion report, even the most avid lovers of the warmer seasons can get excited by the latest trends.
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October 2016
The Community News Flash
NEWS FLASH
Kids Zone
October 2016
The Community News Flash
17
FINANCE
How to Tackle Your Grocery Bill
By Nathaniel Sillin Food shopping can quickly take over your budget despite your best intentions. Perhaps it's due to impulse purchases, unplanned shopping trips, food going bad or a combination of all three. If you're looking for ways to save money while enjoying nutritious and delicious meals, consider these
money-saving tactics. Stick to your budget to save time and money. Look at your food budget before making a trip to the store. If you don't have one yet, figure out your overall budget including food costs with a simple budget worksheet. Knowing how much you want to spend and actually spent can help you make informed decisions. Plan out the week's meals with your budget in mind. If you make dishes that rely on the same staples, you can save money by using leftovers to create a new dish. But mix things up to avoid boredom. Make your trip to the grocery store even easier with a shopping list. Sticking to a list can help limit food waste and make it easy to get in and out of the grocery store.
If you share food shopping duties with a spouse or partner, you can avoid double purchases by using grocery apps that let you create and sync shopping lists. Stack different discounts and deals to rack up savings. Once you enter the grocery store, it's time to put your plan into action. Plan for the occasional indulgence and let yourself make impulse purchases occasionally, but try to stick to the list. You can also often save money at grocery stores by joining the store's loyalty program. Members get exclusive discounts, and some programs offer additional savings at partner stores. Check your membership account online or with the app before checking out, as some programs have electronic coupons that you need
to "clip" to get the savings. One way to increase your grocery budget is to use one, or several, of the apps that give you cash back when you buy groceries. Sometimes you can even earn cash back on general purchases like a loaf of bread or a gallon of milk. Depending on the app and food, you may need to verify the purchase by scanning the barcode and sending a picture of your receipt. The store you choose can also significantly impact how much you'll spend. Strategically plan your shopping route. Planning your grocery shopping after reviewing your local stores' weekly sales and coupons can help you determine what to buy where. Also take the time to explore your neighborhood stores, as one grocer
may frequently have highquality yet inexpensive produce while another might have a great butcher. No matter where you shop, be mindful of how the store's design can entice you to make purchases. The outside ring is often where you'll find the fewest processed foods, however you might notice that you need to walk to the back of the store to grab milk or eggs. The store hopes you'll be tempted by something you see along the way. Sticking to your list, refraining from walking through an aisle unless you need to and remembering that the eye-level products aren't necessarily the best bang for your buck can help you avoid these traps. Stick to inexpensive foods. Consider choosing
Savings Are Key Part of Debt-Free Living The surprising results of a recent survey indicate that more consumers are opting to pay off debt rather than save money. An online survey by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling showed that 89 percent of respondents believe that right now it’s more important to pay off debt than to save. It wasn’t always that way. Back in 1959, when such figures were first kept, consumers were averaging savings at a rate of 8.3 percent of income. At this point, the rate of saving is only at 5 percent of income, which is up from 1 percent a few years ago. Gail Cunningham, with the NFCC, is quoted in the organization’s latest newsletter as saying, “In bad times, people save out of a fear of tomorrow, and in good times they spend as if there were no tomorrow.” We’re not at either point right now, not saving out of fear nor spending everything we have. Consumers are paying off debt, but they aren’t saving the money that’s no longer going toward those monthly payments when a debt is paid off.
store-brand rather than name-brand products as they're often cheaper, but not necessarily lower quality. You may also want to consider changing what you buy. Filet mignon can be delicious, but so can cheaper cuts of meat and there's a lot of advice online for how to best prepare them. Staples, such as rice, beans and canned or frozen goods are also a low-cost way to supplement meals. Bottom line. Buying food is a necessity, but you don't have to overspend to keep a well-stocked fridge and pantry. By planning your meals and grocery trips, using the money-saving tactics above and carefully choosing where you shop, you can save time and money – and cook up something delicious.
The problem with paying off debt to the exclusion of saving becomes apparent when an emergency strikes and ready cash is needed. Not having money saved can put consumers in the expensive position of needing to take credit-card cash advances — if they can get them. The availability of those cash advances has provided a cushion when times are lean. However, because of job loss, lowered incomes and more scrutiny of credit worthiness, fewer people have that credit-card cushion during an emergency. Savings needs to become the new source of cash availability. If for no other reason, money that is saved will earn interest (although nowadays the percentage rate is pitiful), and it won’t cost you the interest that a credit card will. Yes, pay off those debts, concentrating on the one with the highest interest rate first. But as soon as you pay one off, put that money into savings every month. Begin building a fund that will cover your future plans and emergencies. Your goal should be not only to be debt-free, but to have savings. David Uffington regrets that he cannot personally answer reader questions, but will incorporate them into his column whenever possible. Write to him in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, or send e-mail to columnreply@gmail.com. © 2011 King Features Synd., Inc.
The Community News Flash
18
October 2016
By Samantha Weaver
• Cell phones get dirty — especially touch-screen phones. Be sure to wipe the surface of your phone daily during cold and flu season. Use an approved antiseptic wipe for electronics. • “I used to hate planning our family’s weekly meals. Now we decide together at dinner on Friday night. We agree on meals for the week, and I can get a shopping list together in time for weekend shopping. It’s made for less groans at mealtime, and the kids have been surprisingly creative and flexible about trying new things now that they are part of the choosing process.” — T.L. in Minnesota • “To keep things running smoothly in the morning, all four of my children must be dressed, with shoes, and seated for breakfast before any television can come on. There’s suddenly a lot of peer pressure to get up and dressed, and much more helpfulness in my morning routine.” — A.M., via email • “I have found myself with an abundance of peppers from my garden, so I cleaned and chopped them, then froze them. I am able to take out what I need, and they won’t spoil.” — C.E. in Florida • Creative uses for kids’ artwork: Tape to cardstock for a homemade greeting card for any occasion. Hang from the bathroom mirror. Laminate and use as placemats. Large pieces can be used as wrapping paper. Frame and donate to local senior centers. • To keep windshield wipers clean between replacement periods, dampen a soft cloth with rubbing alcohol and wipe the length of the blade.
• It was noted American wit Groucho Marx who made the following sage observation: “There’s one way to find out if a man is honest — ask him. If he says ‘Yes,’ you know he is a crook.” • When the city of Los Angeles was founded, it was given the name “El Pueblo de Nuestra Senora de los Angeles de Porciuncula,” which translates to “The Town of Our Lady of the Angels of Porciuncula.” Back then, in 1781, there were just 52 settlers to start what is now the second most populous city in the country. • When speaking of dead languages, Latin is the one that probably comes to mind most often. It’s not quite dead, though; it’s the official language of Vatican City. • Those who keep track of such things say that a professional ballet dancer goes through about 130 pairs of toe shoes in a single year. • The yo-yo became popular in the United States after it was marketed by Donald F. Duncan Sr., a businessman from Chicago, but he didn’t invent the toy. In 1928, Duncan was on a business trip to San Francisco when he saw Philippine immigrant Pedro Flores, who had gotten financing to manufacture the yo-yos and had trademarked the name, demonstrating how to use the toy. Duncan realized that the toy had the potential to be a huge success, so he paid Flores $5,000 for all the rights. Incidentally, the name “yo-yo” means “comecome” in the native language of the Philippines. • If you’re like the average American, showers account for nearly onethird of your home water use. *** Thought for the Day: “Any reviewer who expresses rage and loathing for a novel is preposterous. He or she is like a person who has put on full armor and attacked a hot fudge sundae.” — Kurt Vonnegut Jr.
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General lawn service, brush removal, cleaning, etc.
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October 2016
The Community News Flash
19
Work Is Honorable
J. Moffett Walker, Retired Counselor & Author Growing up in Edwards, Mississippi, during the 40s and 50s, was filled with fun and hard work. Of course we farmed. We planted spring, summer, fall and winter gardens. Our vegetables included; cabbage, collards, cucumbers, Irish potatoes, mustards, peas, peanuts, turnips, and tomatoes. Our crops included corn, cotton, sugar and sorghum cane. Now for sure, the gardens and the farm crops required me to help keep the planted areas free from weeds and tall grass. That meant I had to hoe: that was hard manual labor! Living in Mississippi, most citizens realize that the cleaning was necessary for several reasons. The plants needed the clean soil to grow and produce. But also families such as mine, wanted the area clean so snakes could be seen, especially the rattle snakes and the land and water moccasins. Back then most families had no
lawn mowers. The motor and ride mowers were not in my area. It was in the late 50s before we got a push lawn mower. That only meant I had to assist with keeping the yard and the area around the house free of weeds and tall grass. Since our home was in a pasture, our dairy cows helped with the grass and weeds near the house. In the fall I had to help pull our corn and store it in the corn crib as we called it. And in addition, I had to help pick our cotton. That was a challenge pulling the heavy cotton sack 25 to 50 pounds on my back! And sometimes it was more. But the work I did then gave me a sense of responsibility. Although I hated working in the hot sun, it did not impair me. It motivated me to study and prepare myself for the career I wanted in life, becoming a teacher. It also taught me team work. Working to support oneself and responsibility are two qualities everyone needs to practice. Although I learned those and other qualities from hard manual labor, but today, most individuals can train and prepare to avoid hard manual labor. Yet, there a re some who desire outdoor manual labor. Regardless of the career one chooses for self, responsibility, working to support self and team work are qualities to know and practice. We, the adults, must teach our younger generation: children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, that work in honorable! Available At
662-286-6681 1801 S Harper Rd Corinth, MS
Shrimp Tempura
Italian Vegetable Relish Zucchini happens to be one of those vegetables that gets far too little respect. I think it might be because its vines are so proficient. No matter how good something is, when it’s overabundant, it somehow is taken for granted. Try this ultraeasy relish, and others just might ask you, “Where in the world did you come up with this great recipe?” 1 1/2 cups finely chopped unpeeled zucchini 1 cup shredded carrots 1/4 cup finely chopped green and/or red bell pepper 1/4 cup finely chopped onion 1/2 cup fat-free Italian dressing In a medium bowl, combine zucchini, carrots, pepper and onion. Add Italian dressing. Mix gently to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Gently stir again just before serving. Makes 6 (1/2 cup) servings. • Each serving equals: About 28 calories, 0g fat, 1g protein, 6g carb., 231mg sodium, 2g fiber; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Vegetable.
Shrimp tempura waits for no one — it gets soggy quickly. Serve as soon as the shrimp are lifted out of the pot and drained. Vegetable oil for frying For Dipping Sauce: 1/3 cup chicken broth 3 tablespoon soy sauce 2 tablespoon water 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar 1 teaspoon seasoned rice vinegar 2 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon minced and peeled fresh ginger For Batter: 3/4 cup ice-cold water 1 cup cake flour, not self-rising 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 pound large shrimp, shelled, deveined, and butterflied 1. In 5-quart Dutch oven, heat 2 1/2 inches vegetable oil until temperature reaches 400 F on deep-fat thermometer. 2. Meanwhile, in small saucepan, combine broth, soy sauce, 2 tablespoons water, vinegar, sugar and ginger; heat to boiling over high heat. Boil 2 minutes. Strain through sieve into small bowl and keep dipping sauce warm. 3. Pour ice-cold water into medium bowl; sift flour, baking powder and salt into water. With fork, stir just until barely incorporated; a few lumps may remain. 4. Dip 4 shrimp at a time into batter to coat lightly. Allowing excess batter to drip off, add shrimp to hot oil and fry, turning once or twice, until coating is very pale golden, 1 to 2 minutes. With slotted spoon, transfer shrimp to paper towels to drain. Serve immediately with warm dipping sauce. Makes 4 main-dish servings. • Each serving: About 309 calories, 12g total fat (2g saturated), 140mg cholesterol, 1,355mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate, 23g protein. Recipe excerpted from “Good Housekeeping Cookbook, Revised Edition: 1,039 Recipes from America’s Favorite Test Kitchen” (Hearst Books).
1. GEOGRAPHY: What U.S. state lies directly south of South Dakota? 2. HISTORY: Which World War II battle was fought entirely by air? 3. FAMOUS PEOPLE: Martha Jane Burke was better known by what name? 4. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: Who was known as the Maid of Orleans? 5. LITERATURE: Who wrote the book “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”? 6. LANGUAGE: What is something that is mordant? 7. RELIGION: Who was the first canonized saint of the New World? 8. TELEVISION: Who is the voice of Moe in the animated comedy “The Simpsons”? 9. GEOLOGY: What is coal made of originally? 10. POETRY: Who wrote the line, “But only God can make a tree.” Answers 1. Nebraska 2. Battle of Britain 3. Calamity Jane 4. Joan of Arc 5. L. Frank Baum 6. Caustic 7. Rose of Lima 8. Hank Azaria 9. Coal is formed from the remains of trees and plants 10. Joyce Kilmer
1. When was the last time before 2010 that no Los Angeles baseball team was in the major-league playoffs? 2. Three Seattle Mariners stole at least 25 bases each during the 2010 season. When was the last time the Mariners accomplished such a feat? 3. Name the last NFL expansion franchise before the Houston Texas in 2002 to win its inaugural regularseason game. 4. How many times has a University of Kentucky Wildcat basketball player been the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA Draft? 5. In the 2010-11 season, Teemu Selanne tallied 80 points, the thirdhighest total for a player 40 or older in NHL history. Who had the top two totals? 6. Who was the first NASCAR driver other than Richard Petty to win the Daytona 500 more than once? 7. Name the last left-handed tennis player before Petra Kvitova in 2011 to win the Wimbledon women’s singles title. Answers 1. It was 2003. 2. It was 2001 (Ichiro Suzuki, 56; Mark McLemore, 39; Mike Cameron, 34) 3. The Minnesota Vikings, in 1961. 4. Once — John Wall in 2010. 5. Gordie Howe (103 points in 1968-69) and Johnny Bucyk (83 points in 1975-76). 6. Cale Yarborough won it in 1968 and 1977. 7. Martina Navratilova, in 1990.
bined with pork or veal, or a more modern version featuring ground turkey or chicken, meatloaf is at the top of the list of comfort foods. It's about time this humble dish got the recognition it deserves. It takes about 1 1/2 pounds of
Making the Perfect Meat Loaf There's no disputing the power of food to provide consolation in times of stress, and a classic meatloaf is no exception. There are very few dishes that combine tradition and innovation the way that meatloaf does. My husband, Michael, loves meatloaf, and evidently, he's not alone. Statistically, affluent baby boomers order the entr e on a regular basis when dining out. Whether it's made from ground beef com-
October 2016
The Community News Flash
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PHOTO CREDIT: Betty Crocker
ground meat to make a meatloaf that serves six people. I've found that "marinating" the ground meat in a bowl with 1/4 cup of water, a tablespoon of mild to medium salsa, and a tablespoon each of Worcestershire sauce and steak
sauce makes for a moister, more flavorful meatloaf. I season my meatloaf with salt, pepper, minced bell pepper, garlic, onions and 1/2 of a shredded carrot, along with fresh herbs including parsley, thyme and basil or a tablespoon of dried Italian Seasoning. A cup of a starch or binder is the next component in a classic meatloaf. I use seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, and an egg. A gentle touch when combining the mixture ensures that the meatloaf will be well-seasoned, but won't be tough. The final step in making a traditional meatloaf is adding the "gravy." I combine ketchup with salt, pepper and medium salsa or barbecue sauce. I pour off any accumulated fat, and then slather the topping on the meatloaf halfway through the cooking process. Meatloaf isn't a complex dish, nor does it make a visually stunning presentation. As a friend of mine once said, "It's a lot of meat in a loaf, and you don't have to chew it very much -- what's not to like?" Meatloaf has provided a tasty way
to stretch a dollar for generations of American families. In these uncertain economic times, we could all use a plate full of comfort. MINI-MEAT LOAVES The great thing about this recipe from the Betty Crocker kitchens (www.bettycrocker.com/recipes) is that the meat loaves cook quickly, and provide individual servings. This would make a great maincourse dish for children or a unique appetizer for a retro recipe party. 1/2 cup ketchup 1/2 tablespoon packed brown sugar 1 pound lean (at least 80 percent) ground beef 1/2 pound ground pork 1/2 cup Original Bisquick mix 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 small onion, finely chopped (1/4 cup) 1 egg 1. Heat oven to 450 F. In small bowl, stir ketchup and brown sugar until mixed; reserve 1/4 cup for topping. In large bowl, stir remaining ingredients and remaining ketchup mixture until well-mixed. 2. Spray 13-by-9-inch pan with
cooking spray. Place meat mixture in pan; pat into 12-by-4-inch rectangle. Cut lengthwise down center and then crosswise into sixths to form 12 loaves. Separate loaves, using spatula, so no edges are touching. Brush loaves with reserved 1/4 cup ketchup mixture. 3. Bake 18 to 20 minutes or until loaves are no longer pink in center and meat thermometer inserted in center of loaves reads 160 F. Substitution: While the mixture of ground beef and pork gives these little loaves a unique flavor, you can also use 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef instead of the mixture.
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