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Bugg appreciates motherhood as ‘best job in the world’ nected with youth in Corinth through a long list of programs like the Boys & Girls Club, Girl Scouts, the Junior Managing comes easily to Tina Bugg since it’s been her way of life working in Civitans, Reconnect for Autism and more. “I wear many hats,” she said. “I her banking career, raising her family joke that I’m so involved because I have and serving her community. free time.” “I’m an organizer and a manager by Her motherly role in the community habit,” said Bugg, the commercial relaalso involves working in the nursery at tions manager associate for Trustmark church, Holly Baptist Church. “I love Bank in Corinth. The mother of two adult children who rocking those babies on Sundays.” “Being in service is a spiritual gift. I both work in the medical field – a son in Murphreesboro and a daughter in Tupelo try to install in my kids (her own and those she works with) to be a team play– Bugg also loves spending time when er,” Bugg said. she can with her son’s two boys, her As a child, Bugg watched her father grandsons. play an active role in service to others in “Being a mother is the best job in the Corinth. He was very community-mindworld,” she said. ed,” she said. “My mother was always a Bugg said her 37 years working at Trustmark helped her fine-tune her man- supporter of my dad in the community. She’s always been our biggest supportagement experiences that came in handy er.” when her children were growing up. Bugg said she is blessed to be able to “Back in the day, you had to manage it live close to her mother and her brother all with your job and family – ball and his wife so they can spend time games, Scouts, school and more,” she together. “You need to make time for said. “Those first 17-18 years of your family, and don’t take that time for children’s lives are very precious. You granted. We all get together for Sunday need to stay involved. dinners. “Some of my cherished memories are “Sunday dinner is very, very precious all of us going to church,” said Bugg, who was a volunteer with various church to me,” she said. “Mother’s Day for us is every Sunday with our Sunday dinner.” activities that her children joined in. “I The best advice Bugg has for young have fond memories of youth trips.” mothers today is to make time for famiWithout her children living in town, ly. “You have to get out of the mindset Bugg said she makes sure she stays conthat ‘you have to do’ Return Address: P.O. Box 1292 Corinth, MS 38835 for your children but that ‘you get to.’ Young mothers need to soak all these times POSTAL PATRON up.” By Lucy Weber

Tina Bugg

May 2022

The Community News Flash

Editor’s Corner

Jerry W. Porter CEO/Publisher

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

If you think one person cannot bring about meaningful change in this world, think again. In order to make a change, observation is key. Each month, I get the opportunity to observe the city landscape while delivering newspapers and boy, there are noticeable differences from city to city. Growing up in South Corinth I can recall the sense of joy, pride, and the family and communal attitude that radiated throughout the community. I remember an elderly gentleman named Mr. Primrose having his garden tilled by a team of mules to ready it for spring planting; there was Mrs. Ruby Hunter next door pampering her roses for picking, and Mr. Bill raising his chickens for plucking. Boy, those were the days where pride was king. As I look back over my monthly delivery trek, I can vividly see the common thread of broken windows in many

You Can Make a Difference communities. So, my curiosity traits are modeled by our peers ing sweet potatoes in the sea had as to why prompted me to do a and our surroundings and for spread throughout the troops of little research when I stumbled years researchers tried, in vain, macaques. This habit of sweet upon social scientists, James Q. to observe the lifestyle of an elu- potato washing had become established as a new cultural eleWilson and George L. Kelling’s sive troop of free-ranging monment in the troops of macaques. Broken Window Theory. They keys. It was hard for the researchers believe that the sign of broken They finally enticed the monto believe their findings so they windows is a predictor for varikeys of the forest by leaving tried another ous environmenConsequences of Negligence experiment to tal conditions Anything if it happens slowly enough, keep the troop and behaviors. if tolerated long enough, can lead to our ruin. in the open area Intrigued by The severity of such an erosion is often not realized until death has a little longer. their theory, I come knocking on the door...and by then it may very well be too late This time they decided to dig a to do anything. -- Author Unknown little further. tossed unhusked While researchrice onto the sandy beaches. The diet of unhusked ing, I began to think about some- sweet potatoes and other treats as bait on the open beach, where rice caused the monkeys to take thing that a pastor mentioned in a little longer to sift sand out of one of his sermons a few months observation and study could be made more easily. Careful obser- the rice before eating it: the ago. He said, “It doesn’t matter vation revealed that different researchers had not reckoned where you go in America people subgroups behaved differently. with Imo’s inventiveness. act the same". Still curious as When the researchers put out the to why I was seeing this comgoods the older monkeys resisted mon thread, I stumbled across Dr. Albert Bandura’s Social sampling as the younger ones Learning Theory about people advantageously ate the samples, learn from watching others. In after which the older monkeys other words, "monkey see, monfollowed. key do". One day Imo, a female The age-old saying monkey macaque, did something no see, monkey do caused me to other monkey had done- she revert back to my college psybegan washing the sand off of chology class and the story of her sweet potatoes by tossing Imo, the macaque from the them in the salty sea water. Island of Koshima. As you may When the researchers returned Privately owned know, many of our behavioral ten years later, the habit of wash-

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.

Imo scooped up a hand full of rice and threw the whole lot into the water. The sand sank to the bottom, the rice floated to the top and she skimmed off the rice. Again, Imo’s eating habit was copied by the other troops and a new eating habit soon took root. Like Imo, the macaque from the Island of Koshima, you too can change your culture by modeling new behavior. The lyrics to the song says, One Monkey Don’t Stop No Show, but one monkey can change its culture. Remember, monkey see, monkey do - Be careful of your actions because people will mimic you! Whoo! Whoo! Unit Next Time! All Aboard!

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Notable Quote Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom. -Marcel Proust

May 2022

MAY BIBLE TRIVIA

Congratulations to the Class of 2022!!!

1. Who had a miraculous well opened up for him after he worked up a thirst in battle? 2. What king dug wells in the desert? 3. What king ordered the construction of the Sea, the great basin in the temple court? 4. What exiled woman was approached by an angel at a well? 5. What army man was at the well of Sirah when he was summoned to his death by Joab’s men? 6. Who escaped from Absalom’s men by hiding in a well? 7. Who met his future wife at a well in Midian? 8. Who found a for Isaac at the well of Nabor? 9. Who longed for a drink from the well at Bethlehem? 10. What book contains laws telling owners of cisterns what to do if a person or animal accidentally falls in? 11. What prophet was imprisoned in a cistern? 12. Who met his future wife by a well when she came to water her sheep? 13. Where did God pare down Gideon’s troops to three hundred men? 14. Who had servants who named their wells Esek, Sitnah, Rehoboth, and Beersheba? 15. What son of Jacob nearly perished in a cistern? 16. Who promised the citizens of Jerusalem that they could be free to drink from their own cisterns if they would surrender to Assyria? 17. In what country did Jesus talk with an immoral woman beside a well? 18. Who tried to take the well of Beersheba away from Abraham? 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

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The Community News Flash

April Answers 1. The Pharaoh ( Genesis 41:42) 2. The parable of the prodigal son (since the son was given a ring by his father upon returning home) Luke 15:22 3. Haman (Esther 3:10-13) 4. The king (Daniel 6:17) 5. As a freewill offering for the tabernacle (Exodus 35:22) 6. Mordecai (Esther 8:2-13) 7. John the Baptist (Matthew 3:4) 8. Saul (2 Samuel 1:10) 9. Joseph ( Genesis 42:42) 10. The Israelites ( Deuteronomy 29:5) 11. Joseph’s (Genesis 37:3) 12. The priest (Exodus 28) 13. Job 42:11 14. Jacob (Genesis 27:16) 15. The Midianites (Judges 8:24-26) 16. The “Prince of the Sea” (Phoenicians) (Ezekiel 26:16)

May 2022

The Community News Flash

Huff brings the same skills to family as she does to her career

Patterson Memorial Chapel

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

By Lucy Weber Walk into Jessica Huff's office at the McNairy County EDC and Chamber in Selmer, Tenn., and the Post-It Notes are everywhere, a long-held habit that grew out of being a working mother. "I'm a big note-taker," said Huff, the director of the Chamber of Commerce and the Department of Tourism, and the mother of two sons, Jack, 25, and John, 18. "When the boys were playing sports, being scouts, playing music in the bands and all of the other activities that they had, it was always a balancing act with me and my husband," she said about her organizational skills. "But believe it or not we were both there for them at every activity." For Huff, raising a family and working at a job share the same skill set. "I treat my sons with respect and interest in what they think and believe. This is the same way I treat all the people I come into contact each and everyday. I treat them with respect," the native of Selmer said. "I am as organized as possible. I keep a lot of notes. "For instance, being organized, taking care of problem, I always listen and then try to respond to problems to the best of my ability. There is always two sides to every story and any one person should always be ready to admit that they may not be right. We should pay attention and listen more. "I am that generation who still believes in paper but can also do the digital. That's where we can be on the move and still be able to do work and have family time," Huff said. Family time is important for the Huffs who enjoy being together. "We like to go on mini trips together. From this small community, we can travel anywhere and see and do many things. We are big movie and games people too. We love art and photography," she said. For Huff, being able to raise her children in Selmer where she was born and raised and where her mother's family has lived for many generations is special. "It is home. Our family is very close because of our commitment to one another." Huff is also committed to her job and showing people the best of Selmer. "I love everything about my job. Each and everyday is different. It makes it very exciting to do," she said. Her advice for her job is the same as

Jessica Huff

advice for raising children. "Be able to roll with the punches. Keep your head held high and wait for the good times. They do arrive," she said. "I am always here to support my sons' dreams and ambitions." Huff believes in service. "When you invest in your community, no matter where you live, you help it thrive. What better way to make it a great place to live by you simple investing your time and passion to make it a better place to live with your family," she said. "I get to love two very important people in my life. I believe my boys are kind, smart and generous. They are the best and they make me want to be the best for them."

May 2022

Leaving a Family Tree for Future Generations Have you ever done your family tree? Even if there aren’t any genealogy fans in the current generations of your family, you never know when someone will develop an interest in learning about the family’s history. Here are some things you can do for the next generations: • Identify all photos. If you write on the backs of them, it’s important not to use a ball point pen or anything with a sharp point. Special acid-free pens are available this purpose. It’s best if photos aren’t stored in albums with plastic pages. Instead, store photos carefully in archive boxes with sheets of acid-free paper between the layers. • Scanning photos and putting them onto CD can be a tedious job, but if you have the time and equipment, it’s one way to share photos while the originals are stored away. You also can have the CDs copied and mailed to family members. • Write or record stories of your life. Make a list of the tales you wish to write down and check them off as you go. Or you can type your stories or put them on tape and ask someone to transcribe them. The point is to get them down somewhere. Consider having copies made to give to family members. If you’ve never done your family’s genealogy, take a class that will teach you to use the Internet to research back beyond the generations you know from memory. In the class you’re sure to learn how to discern which sites have good information and which are likely to have inaccurate information. A class also will let you try out the different genealogy programs that are available and show you how to use family group charts. Let me know if you catch the genealogy bug! 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.

The Community News Flash

No Cure for Heartburn, but Medicines Can Help DEAR DR. DONOHUE: In 2004, I had a scope put down my throat and into my stomach. The doctor said I had a hiatal hernia and signs of acid reflux. He put me on Prilosec. It stops my heartburn very well. I have been on it ever since. If I miss two doses, the heartburn returns. Is it safe to take this medicine for long periods of time? — L.K. ANSWER: Prilosec (omeprazole), Aciphex, Protonix, Nexium and Prevacid are proton-pump inhibitors, the strongest medicines for decreasing stomach acid production. The manufacturers of these medicines suggest a four-to-eight-week course of medicine. The medicines don’t cure heartburn. They suppress it as long as a person takes them. So what’s a person to do when heartburn returns after a course of therapy? Another kind of medicine, like Zantac, can be used. Common antacids often work. Avoiding foods that stimulate acid production is another way to control symptoms. However, if acid reflux is severe, then the proton-pump medicines are the best. Evidence suggests that longterm use might make a person more apt to have a hip fracture. That danger can be partially offset by taking calcium and vitamin D. Many people remain on these medicines for extended periods. You have to make this decision for yourself. The booklet on hiatal hernia, acid reflux and heartburn focuses primarily on the common heartburn problem and its treatment. Readers can obtain a copy by writing: Dr. Donohue — No. 501W, Box 536475, Orlando, FL

32853-6475. Enclose a check or money order (no cash) for $4.75 U.S./$6 Canada with the recipient’s printed name and address. Please allow four weeks for delivery. *** DEAR DR. DONOHUE: I would like to know about the side aches I get when I walk or run. Why do they occur? Do I walk them off or take a break until they go away? — E.H. ANSWER: What you call side aches, others call side stitches. Everyone gets them. Some feel they are spasms of the diaphragm — the large, thin muscle that serves as a partition between the chest and abdominal cavities and the muscle that is the principal breathing muscle. Or they might be due to too much food or fluid in the digestive tract. Some believe a decreased blood flow to the diaphragm is the cause. In truth, no one knows. One way to get rid of them is to raise both your arms overhead while taking a deep breath. Then lower your arms while exhaling and simultaneously contracting your abdominal muscles. Another favored treatment is to bend the knee on the side of the pain while pressing your fingers into the painful area. *** DEAR DR. DONOHUE: I have what doctors call black hairy tongue. Can you tell me about it? — Anon. ANSWER: Black hairy tongue, aside from its looks, is an innocent condition that comes from the elongation of tongue papillae, tiny projections from the tongue’s surface. Gently brushing the tongue three times a day with toothpaste, baking soda or 3 percent hydrogen peroxide can usually get rid of it. If it’s not gone in a month, return to the dentist or doctor for a follow-up exam. *** 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 328536475. © 2009 North America Synd., Inc. All Rights Reserved

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The Community News Flash

MONEY

Spring Cleaning? Tips to Dust Off Your Financial Matters

(StatePoint) While a new study conducted by Lincoln Financial found that eight in 10 employees would rather clean their house than their finances this spring, prioritizing a deep clean of your finances can provide not just a fresh start to the season, but a secure financial future. “While many know they want to improve their financial wellness, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming,” said Sharon Scanlon, senior vice president, Customer Experience, Producer Solutions and Retirement Plan Services Operations, Lincoln Financial Group. “By taking it one step at a time, just like you would tackle one room at a time when spring cleaning, you can make small improvements that will set you up for future success.” To freshen up your finances, consider these area-by-area tips from Lincoln Financial: Kitchen: Research showed that 78% of employees would rather scrub their kitchen appliances than figure out how much life insurance they need. • Start at the kitchen table. Have a conversation with your loved ones or a financial professional to set expectations and get the

right plan and benefits in place to make sure you’re protecting your family for the future. Bedroom: The survey found that 74% of employees would rather clean out their closet than review their 401(k) investments. • Don’t let worries keep you up at night. Close the closet door and sleep well knowing you’re saving enough for the retirement you envision. Leverage dashboards and calculators in your employer-sponsored retirement plan to determine how much you’ll need to save for a secure retirement and take advantage of the options available to you, like in-plan guaranteed income, to ensure your savings last a lifetime. Exterior: Research showed that 65% of employees would rather wash their home’s windows than meet with a financial professional. • Make things clearer with an outside perspective. Financial professionals can help you see the path ahead, create a holistic financial plan and explore financial products that can help secure your future, like life insurance, annuities and longterm care solutions. Home office: Lincoln Financial found that 57% of

employees would rather dust off every shelf than calculate how much they will need in retirement. • Dust off more than knick-knacks. Don’t let the benefits and resources your workplace offers collect dust on a shelf. Reach out to your HR or benefits team for more information. From a retirement plan to services like Hospital Indemnity and Disability, these products can help protect you and your family from financial burden. Even simple steps, like increasing your retirement plan contribution or setting savings goals, can have positive long-term impacts. Bathroom: Lincoln Financial found 58% of employees would rather create a detailed budget than scrub their grout and tile with a toothbrush. • Start with a clean slate. With more motivation to create a budget than scrub the bathroom, take the initiative and tap into financial wellness and budgeting tools. Make sure your budget includes savings to ensure you’re maximizing the power of compound interest. To learn more about keeping your finances tidy, and additional products, tools and financial services designed to help, visit lincolnfinancial.com. “While cleaning offers immediate results, it’s just as important to set aside time to analyze your finances. Ensuring you have the right benefits today while planning and saving for tomorrow may take more time, but the results are worthwhile and can last a lifetime,” said Scanlon.

May 2022

The Community News Flash

Social Self-Care: How are your connections?

Nakesha Fleming, LMSW, PCAT, BC-TMH

Spending time with others and connecting with our family and friends is beneficial to our overall social self-care. You may be wondering if you did not pick up the last edition of the paper what is social self-care? I am so glad you ask. Social selfcare simply involves our connections with other people. You may think between work and family that you have plenty of social interactions and connect with various people. If the truth is told, the daily busyness of our schedules can get in the way of us truly bonding with our friends and family. Taking care of social needs can help you to build a network or support system of people who can pillar you in good and tough times. I want to give you some strategies for social self-care. Let's look at the list below: 1.Plan for face-to-face time: take time for intentional in-person time with friends and family members. If you still feel uncomfortable with meeting in person, wear a mask. 2. Make sure you are disconnecting: We live in a world where technology is at our fingertips. While it is a great resource to have, phones, television, instant messaging, etc. can get in the way of socializing. So, I encourage you today to take time and put the phones away, cut off the television, and connect

with your friends and loved ones. 3. Schedule times to socialize: it may be good for you to schedule a time to socialize with friends and family. This will assure that you are getting time to connect with others. 4. Be aware of others: call and check on people. For some individuals, this comes naturally. For others, you may have to set a reminder. So, check on your neighbor, family, and friends. 5. Review your relationships: sometimes life happens, and we lose contact with others. It may be good to reconnect. Also, you may have a family member that is draining, emotionally or verbally abusive, etc. This may be an area where you need to create boundaries and create some healthy distance. After reviewing the previous list, I have a question. How are your connections? Are you connecting to your loved ones and taking time to disconnect from social media? The pandemic showed us how we can take these opportunities with family and friends for granted. Also, do not be afraid to create boundaries. Some family and friend connections need to cease, or we need to create some healthy boundaries. Remember the goal is to be balanced. So go make connections. Whether it be old or new!

May 2022

The Community News Flash

Big family is everything for Eckford including on job when her daughter is at work. By Lucy Weber Eckford said she and her siblings Beverly Eckford has a heart for were brought up by their parents to be family. responsible. "We were brought up that Eckford's role in her big, extended you have to earn your way," she said, family is mother, daughter, grandadding that she used the same principle mother, great-grandmother, sibling with her children. "I'm firm but I give and the one who helps those in some. I learned from my children that need feel like part of a famiif you give them all the things, they ly. don't respect you." As executive director Eckford start at the housing of the Baldwin Housing authority in 2011 and became the Authority, Eckford sees executive director last May. "I'm her responsibility lies busy all day. There's a steady beyond just the 65 stream of calls," she said. "I work apartments, but with late every day, sometimes till the young families and 6:30 or 7 but I love what I do. 40 senior citizens living I've always been a hard worker." there. "They look to me As soon as she became the for help. Everybody director, Eckford knew that her needs somebody." father could be an asset on the While maintaining job so she offered him a position. her professionalism on "I told him he had six months to the job, Eckford realmake a decision on whether he izes that some of the wanted to stay. His working of me seniors have no one else. that tickles him," she said. She helps them out with a Eckford is her Sunday School smile by giving them rides Beverly Eckford secretary at Emmanuel Baptist to doctors or reading their Church in Baldwyn and works a retail job on mail to them, or even fixing televisions when weekends. But, she says, there is always time they find it difficult. "You have to have a heart for family. and have Jesus on your side," she said. The past two years with Covid slowed down That desire to be of service comes from the immense family gatherings of up to 50 or being from a big family. Eckford is the oldest more but Eckford said everyone is looking forof seven children. Her parents are 82 and 83 ward to getting together, possibly on Memorial years old, but her father is one of her part-time Day. "I can't wait to do that again." employees, and she also has many aunts and uncles around. She's the mother of one so, is a minister at Greater Life United Baptist Church in Corinth who has five children, and a daughter, who has two girls. She also has a great-grandchild. "My grandchildren, I love them and would do anything for them," Eckford said. She said she is blessed that as a grandmother she is able to keep her daughter's 10- and 131010 Meigg Street year-olds at times 662.286.6327

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May 2022

The Community News Flash

Team Up To Clean Up Project Team Up To Clean Up is a community clean up project established two years ago. Because of the pandemic the project had to be put on hold, but Saturday April 23rd approximately 70 citizens gathered to rekindle the flames to cleaning up South Corinth. The project brought fellowship, pride and unity to those who gathered. Everyone was encouraged to meditate on [1 Corinthians 12] as they used their talents to clean up the neighborhood. All were challenged to stand on the theme of unity. A second clean up project has been set for Saturday, June 11th from 8am -12 noon. We will meet at the Black History Museum at 1109 Meigg St. Come out and use your talent to help us clean up the community. "Take pride in where you reside." 1

7 5

1. Azalea Shields, Akeelah Davis, Sabrina Patterson, Asiana Pridgett, Maleah Stallings, Tatiya Cox 2. Ashley Pridgett & Frank Barber 3. Freida Miller, Edwina Taylor, Vannie Holland, Nellie Bush 4. Karen Cook 5. Mesha Edmond, Dennis Dilworth, and Audarreuna Moore 6. Alexis Brown 7. Seseley Boyd, Devontae & Deonte Lasley, Kaysen Boyd, Demarquez Lasley

8. Bacarra Hill 9. Rev. Alex Eckford, Marcus & Myles 10. Kendrick Coppage 11. Jonathan Soward 12. Rev. Eric Betts 13. Kitana & Dorothy Mitchell, Tony Harris, Brylan Walker 14. Andrea (Dee Dee) Brown 15. Clint Walker 16. Ivary Brooks 17. Zayden Keeton, Gacoby Walker

17 15

May 2022

The Community News Flash

New Research Sheds Light on How People Are Taking Civic Action (StatePoint) New research is offering insights into how the world can recover and rebuild from the pandemic, along with how individuals and organizations can address issues they care about in their communities. “Civic Life Today: The State of Global Civic Engagement,” which was commissioned by Points of Light and designed and executed by INFLUENCE|SG, studied attitudes around civic engagement in the United States, the United Kingdom, India, and Brazil. “We believe that the most powerful force is the individual who has realized their power to make change happen. However, everyone can be more impactful when working together,” says Natalye Paquin, president and CEO of Points of Light, the world’s largest nonprofit dedicated to accelerating peoplepowered change. “This report is intended to reveal ways to act effectively -making it easier for individuals to find these opportunities and organizations to create them.” The report also supports Points of Light’s Civic Circle, a framework that helps people understand that there are many ways to do good. The nine activities outlined by the Civic Circle are: listening and learning, using one’s voice, social entrepreneurship, volunteering, public, national or military service, using one’s purchasing power to express values, working, voting, and donating. Whether you’re a business leader hoping to mobilize your employees, a nonprofit or NGO leader looking to connect individuals to your cause, or an individual wanting to support your community, the Civic Circle and these key report takeaways can help you get started: • Pandemic effects are universal: The same social issues and personal costs have been shared by people everywhere. At the country level, healthcare, education, and the environment/ climate demand attention. On a personal level, the health of others in the community is where the most impact has been felt, followed by

individuals’ financial and mental health. • Issues leading civic engagement: Education, the environment, and healthcare were the top issues respondents wanted their countries to support, with healthcare ranked the leading issue in the United States. • How people prefer to take action: The most common Civic Circle actions taken by respondents were using one’s voice (influencing one’s network through social media, advocacy, or other form of expression), listening and learning (learning about a cause or social issue), and volunteering (intentionally helping someone else). However, perceived barriers to civic engagement linger -- two of the top three reasons people cited for a lack of social issue

involvement were financial in nature, reflecting the perception that being civically involved means donating money. • Virtual volunteering is here to stay: Volunteerism has not only remained important, it’s on the rise, with 54% of global respondents saying, “I plan to volunteer more than I did before the pandemic.” Of those, the vast majority

intend to do so primarily via virtual opportunities. • Calls for corporate involvement: Individuals see companies as having an obligation to get involved. Indeed, a majority of respondents said they expect companies to address social challenges. At the same time, respondents are measuring a given company’s sincerity by the way it treats its employees. On Tuesday, May 10 at 1 pm ET, Points of Light will host a webinar with INFLUENCE|SG to discuss the research findings in more detail. To register and download the report, visit pointsoflight.org/civic-engagementresearch. “At a time when the whole world is facing a common challenge, we’re excited to see people take action. According to this report, 80% of Americans took at least one civic action in a 30-day period, up from 52% in May 2020. That statistic itself is amazing,” says Paquin. “If we hope to move forward together, it’s this positive energy that we must capture.”

May 2022

The Community News Flash

NEWS FLASH

Kids Zone

May 2022

The Community News Flash

Asparagus Is Perfect for Spring Recipes Nothing says spring is here like a beautiful bunch of crisp asparagus. While asparagus is available year-round, it's much better when purchased locally. Asparagus is easy to select and prepare, and comes in a variety of vibrant colors including green, violet, purple and white. It also grows wild and is commercially available fresh, frozen and canned. The stalks range in size from colossal to small. Various types and colors of asparagus can be used without any noticeable difference in the taste, so mix and match colors and sizes for visual interest. Asparagus should be crisp and firm, not limp or wrinkled, with tightly closed tips. Dull colors

and ridges in the stems are an indication of a lack of freshness. The stalks should not be limp or dry at the cut and of uniform thickness. If you're planning to use the asparagus on the same day, rinse it under cool water and pat the stalks dry with a paper towel.

Smaller stalks can be broken or cut at the point where the stem naturally snaps. Peeling the end of thicker stalks with a paring knife or a vegetable peeler removes any woody stems and can be done up to 2 hours before cooking. Place the prepared asparagus in a plastic bag in the

refrigerator to stay crisp until ready to cook. LEMON CHICKEN WITH ASPARAGUS 4 chicken breasts, about 3 pounds, washed and fat trimmed and removed 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil 4 garlic cloves, chopped

1 red bell pepper, chopped 1/2 pound asparagus, stalks trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper 1 1/2 teaspoons poultry seasoning 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1/2 cup chicken stock 3 cups cooked rice In a large non-stick skillet, heat the oil over medium high heat. Season the chicken pieces with the salt, pepper and poultry seasoning. Place the chicken, skin-side down, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes. Turn the pieces skinside up, and cook until golden brown and done, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and red bell pepper. Add the asparagus and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the zest and the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 3 minutes. Serve immediately over hot rice.

May 2022

The Community News Flash

By Samantha Weaver

• “Use a pastry blender to mash up eggs when you are making egg salad. It works on the yolks, too. I mash mine separately.” — I.F. in Tennessee • Old towels can have new life in your kitchen. Just cut them into small pieces and store in a box — even a tissue box would do. When you have a small spill or need to clean the countertops, you can use one instead of a paper towel. It will save you money, because they can be washed and reused. If the soiling is very bad, you don’t have to feel bad about throwing it out or turning it into a workshop towel instead. • “To freshen plastic flowers, mist with hairspray. Do not use this on silk flowers.” — L.C. in Texas • Has this ever happened to you? You gather limbs or bush trimmings in a garbage can, and before lawn-waste pickup day, it rains, filling your can? Drill a series of holes in the bottom of your lawn and leaf cans, and the water will drain out. It also makes it easier to remove filled bags of leaves. • Shine bathroom chrome with vinegar. Use a dampened cloth to apply, let dry and buff to a shine. • Go Green Tip: According to ENERGYSTAR.gov, “Leaving your car at home just two days a week will save 1,590 pounds of greenhouse-gas emissions each year.” Not to mention the gas you’ll save and the cost of wear and tear on your vehicle. Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, c/o King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475 or e-mail JoAnn at heresatip@yahoo.com.

• It was Ludwig Wilhelm Erhard, chancellor of West Germany in the 1960s, who made the following sage observation: “A compromise is the art of dividing a cake in such a way that everyone believes he has the biggest piece.” • You think you’re a chocolate lover? In Spain in the 16th century, people loved chocolate so much that it was not uncommon for royal families to give cocoa as part of their daughters’ dowry. • Chiffon is a perennially fashionable lightweight sheer fabric used in many beautiful gowns — you yourself might have worn a chiffon dress to your prom. But you probably didn’t realize that the word “chiffon” is actually French for “rag.” • If you’ve ever lived with another person, whether a sibling, a spouse or a roommate, it’s almost certain that no matter how good the relationship, there was friction over sharing the bathroom. A few years ago those who study such things decided to conduct a survey to determine what the most annoying bathroom-related habits are. The results: The habit that annoys people more than any other is failing to replace the roll of toilet paper when it runs out. Leaving blobs of toothpaste in the sink was a close second. • There was once a law in Hawaii that required anyone not owning a boat to pay a fine. • Dooley Wilson, the actor who played Sam the piano player in the Academy Award-winning 1942 film “Casablanca,” was actually a drummer — he couldn’t play the piano at all. • Talk about being desperate for immortality: Greek philosopher Empedocles wanted people to believe that his body had disappeared and he had been turned into a god, so he threw himself into Mt. Etna, an active volcano. *** Thought for the Day: “Illegal aliens have always been a problem in the United States. Ask any Indian.” — Robert Orben

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May 2022

The Community News Flash

Helping Schools and Students Recover From Pandemic Challenges

(c) Lucy Lambriex / Getty Images (StatePoint) Over the past two years, public schools have faced continual disruptions brought about by COVID-19. Experts say that federal relief funds have given the nation a one-time opportunity to learn from the experience and to focus recovery efforts and resources on delivering high-quality instruction and support for students in ways that will accelerate their learning and meet their social and emotional needs. “The federal government has provided $189 billion in resources for states and localities targeted at education recovery. If unchecked and unsupported, states risk bending to the pressure of forces more concerned with political expediency and ideology than sound policy that helps students,” says Jim Cowen, executive director of the Collaborative for Student Success. “Parents, educators, administrators and policymakers deserve credible information about effective policies and practices that are using these funds to accelerate student learning.” According to Cowen, this is why the Collaborative for Student Success, in partnership with The Center on Reinventing Public Education (CRPE) and the Edunomics Lab at Georgetown University, launched EduRecoveryHub.org, a one-stop resource that showcases emerging practices in schools supported with Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funding (ESSER) and other federal recovery funds that can be replicated nationwide. From improving school facilities to easing teacher shortages, the site provides insights into the smart investments that best ensure schools recover stronger and every student benefits. Parents and families can use this site to advocate for their students and point to good ideas that meet specific needs as they talk to teachers, principals, and

school board members. Educators and district staff can learn from their colleagues about ways in which they are overcoming the lingering challenges of the pandemic. The site also allows policymakers to reference and compare state-by-state recovery information and access expert analysis from diverse viewpoints. A panel of national and state-based organizations and experts serving or representing parents, school and district leaders, classroom educators, and the civil rights community review and comment on specific practices they support. “As difficult as pandemic learning has been, our research has shown many bright spots: schools and educators who have gone above and beyond by making powerful connections with students, finding creative ways to deliver personalized learning, and working with community partners to ensure students are healthy and ready to learn,” says Robin Lake, director of CRPE. “But many of these efforts are ad hoc. The unprecedented federal investment will allow school systems to implement effective approaches -- if they pay attention to what we know has worked.” “The federal investment represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for school districts to help students reengage in school, get back on track in reading and math, and earn sufficient credits to graduate ready for college or a career,” says Chad Aldeman, policy director of Edunomics Lab. “In the wake of the pandemic, we are seeing districts use funds in new ways to address challenges and improve student outcomes. These savvy, nimble investments may catch on in other communities and help propel students forward.” Interactive and easy-to-use, the EduRecoveryHub is updated frequently. Individuals or organizations can reference these evolving resources or share their own examples of innovative programs in education by visiting edurecoveryhub.org. From innovative ways to address student mental health needs to work being done to accelerate academic learning, spotlighting education recovery efforts across America can spark progress and improvements in other communities.

Healthy French Toast

Deli Macaroni Salad What better to take on a picnic than a macaroni salad. As simple as this one is, people will think you stopped at the deli. 1/3 cup fat-free Ranch dressing 1/3 cup fat-free mayonnaise 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish 1/2 cup small curd fat-free cottage cheese 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni, rinsed and drained 2 teaspoons dried onion flakes 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes 1/8 teaspoon black pepper In a medium bowl combine Ranch dressing, mayonnaise, pickle relish and cottage cheese. Add macaroni, onion flakes, parsley flakes and black pepper. Mix well to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Gently stir again just before serving. Serves 4. HINT: Usually 1 1/3 cups uncooked elbow macaroni cooks to about 2 cups. • Each serving equals: 173 calories, 1g fat, 7g protein, 34g carbs, 558mg sodium, 32mg calcium, 1g fiber; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 1/2 Starch/ Carb, 1/2 Meat; Carb Choices: 2. Visit Healthy Exchanges at www.healthyexchanges.com, or call toll-free at 1-800-766-8961 to signup for our FREE monthly newsletter. All you pay is the shipping and handling. This is the only national food newsletter for diabetics, heart/cholesterol concerns and healthy weight loss.

Our slimmed-down take on this Sunday-morning favorite is practically saintly. Subbing in low-fat milk and egg whites gives it half the fat and a third less cholesterol than traditional French toast. Plus, it’s a cinch to whip up. One more blessing in disguise: You can still serve it with maple syrup, which is naturally fatfree. 2 large egg whites 1 large egg 3/4 cup(s) low-fat (1 percent) milk 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract Salt 2 teaspoons margarine or butter 8 slices firm whole-wheat bread Maple syrup (optional) Fresh blackberries, raspberries and blueberries (optional) 1. Preheat oven to 200 degrees F. In pie plate, with whisk, beat egg whites, egg, milk, vanilla and 1/2 teaspoon salt until blended. In 12-inch nonstick skillet, on medium heat, melt 1 teaspoon margarine. 2. Dip bread slices, one at a time, in egg mixture, pressing bread lightly to coat both sides well. Place 3 or 4 slices in skillet, and cook 6 to 8 minutes or until lightly browned on both sides. 3. Transfer French toast to cookie sheet; keep warm in oven. Repeat with remaining margarine, bread slices and egg mixture. Serve French toast with maple syrup and berries if you like. Makes 4 servings. • Each serving: About 300 calories, 9g total fat (2g saturated), 56mg cholesterol, 755mg sodium, 46g total carbohydrate, 6g dietary fiber, 12g protein. For thousands of triple-tested recipes, visit our Web site at www.goodhousekeeping.com/recipe finder/.

1. ANCIENT WORLD: Who was the king of Troy during the Trojan War? 2. MEDICAL TERMS: What happens during sternutation? 3. MOVIES: What movie featured the famous line, “It ain’t gonna be no rematch”? 4. LITERATURE: In which of Shakespeare’s plays does the character of Titania appear? 5. WEIGHTS AND MEASURES: If a standard quarter weighs .2 ounces, how many quarters would it take to equal 1 pound? 6. SCIENCE: What geological process formed the Grand Canyon? 7. EXPLORERS: Who was the first European explorer to travel the length of the Mississippi River? 8. ENTERTAINERS: In “The Gene Autry Show,” who was Autry’s wellknown comic sidekick? 9. TELEVISION: What was the name of the chimpanzee on “The Beverly Hillbillies”? 10. MUSIC: What kind of instrument is a euphonium? Answers: 1. Priam 2. Involuntary sneeze 3. “Rocky” 4. “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” 5. 80 6. Erosion 7. La Salle, in 1682 8. Pat Buttram 9. Cousin Bessie 10. Brass instrument that resembles a small tuba

1. In 2008, Bobby Jenks of the Chicago White Sox became the second-fastest reliever to notch 100 career saves (187 games). Who was the fastest? 2. How many of the 30 major-league teams still play in the state where the franchise started? 3. Name the last Auburn quarterback before Kodi Burns in 2008 to run for 100-plus yards in a game. 4. Which NBA players won the regular-season MVP award three consecutive years? 5. Name the last player in Carolina Hurricanes franchise history to have four goals in an NHL game before Eric Staal did it in 2009. 6. When was the last time before 2009 that the U.S. men won a gold medal at the world four-man bobsled championships? 7. Entering 2009, name the last major that golfer Phil Mickelson won without breaking par in the final round. Answers 1. Kazuhiro Sasaki of Seattle did it in 160 games. 2. Twenty teams. 3. Phil Gargis had 129 rushing yards versus Florida State in 1976. 4. Bill Russell (1961-63), Wilt Chamberlain (1966-68) and Larry Bird (1984-86). 5. Ron Francis in 1984, when the franchise was located in Hartford. 6. It was 1959. 7. The 2005 PGA Championship.

May 2022

The Community News Flash

SUMMER LIVING

BUSINESS

Survey Reveals Optimism Among Business Owners, Despite Challenges

(StatePoint) Supply chain issues top the list of concerns for small business owners over the last six months, but they see those pressures easing by mid-year, according to new research. In the meantime, inflation is expected to continue impacting business owners, with a majority planning to further raise their own prices. The latest PNC semi-annual Economic Outlook survey of small and mid-size business owners and executives is a good gauge of the overall economy, however analysts point out that the situation in Eastern Europe that’s unfolded since has likely intensified some of the sentiments expressed by respondents. “The events in Ukraine were not on the minds of business owners when the survey was conducted in January,” says PNC chief economist, Gus Faucher, “There was concern at that time about rising prices, and that worry has likely intensified, given the rapid increase in energy prices, among other factors.” In January, 34% of owners who rely on a supply chain said timeliness had worsened in the previous six months and 28% of businesses that rely on inventory are faced with the challenge of not having enough supply to meet expected demand. However, 57% expect these issues to improve in the next six months. “Supply chain problems have been a big contributor to the highest inflation the U.S. has seen in almost 40 years. But it’s encouraging that most small businesses see this easing soon,” Faucher said. ”The wild card now is how long inflationary factors due to the Ukraine crisis last.” Rising prices also are on the minds of business owners – 51% expect to increase their prices in the next six months and 34% percent say their prices have already

gone up in the past six months. “Six months ago, businesses were raising prices because demand was strong enough that they could. Now it appears higher costs are forcing them to,” Faucher said. Turnover and Hiring Impacts Forty-three percent of business owners report losing staff since the start of the pandemic, which they agree is bad for business. Top reasons for employee departures are illness or death (50%), worker concerns over health or safety (46%), and changes in lifestyle or priorities (36%). Among businesses with employees, 26% say it’s become harder to hire qualified personnel. Businesses are responding to recruiting challenges, most notably through improved work conditions, like health and safety improvements, allowing more flexible work arrangements, and increasing compensation. In the meantime, businesses are coping with worker shortages by increasing existing employees’ workloads, having owners or managers cover shifts and by increasingly relying on technology or automation. Other key survey findings include: • Vaccine boosterism: Fifty-six percent of business owners say a majority of their workforce has a COVID-19 booster vaccination. Sixty-five percent have taken some action to encourage boosters through a requirement (31%), assistance and/or education (29%), incentives (22%) or restrictions for those who choose not to receive the booster (19%). • Tempered optimism: Business leaders’ expectations about their own companies remain strong with 47% feeling highly optimistic and only 2% feeling pessimistic. However, their outlook for the national and local economies has shifted to cautious. • Business adaptation: Small and midsized businesses have made dramatic, lasting changes to adapt to the pandemic environment. Ninety-two percent have made at least one change to policies, processes, operations or use of technology, and almost all of those owners expect one or more of the changes to become permanent. For full survey results, visit pnc.mediaroom.com.

Unique Ways to Celebrate Summer Holidays

(StatePoint) Summer holidays often revolve around being together, but whether your family and friends are near or far, there are plenty of fun and unique ways to celebrate these holidays in-person or virtually. Here’s a little history on a few annual summer occasions, and ideas for amping up the festivities. Host a Memorial Day Celebration of Life. While Memorial Day weekend is often the unofficial start to summer filled with camping trips, beach parties and barbecues, it’s important to remember that we commemorate this day to honor the legacy of those who have served and lost their lives in the U.S. Military. You can embrace the bond with your family by having a traditional backyard party or picnic in remembrance of those close to you who have served. Honor them by serving their favorite foods, playing their favorite games, or even writing your favorite memories down on a piece of paper and sharing them with the group. Honor Juneteenth by Showing Your Appreciation for Black Culture. Juneteenth takes place on June 19 and commemorates the emancipation of thousands of slaves who were not aware of their freedom until that date in 1865. On this date, Union General Gordon Granger landed in Galveston, Texas with news that the Civil War had ended and that the enslaved were now free. And in 2021, Juneteenth was officially recognized as a federal holiday in the United States. Many honor Juneteenth with educa-

tional and family gatherings, supporting Black-owned businesses, and by visiting museums and exhibits dedicated to Black culture. You can also send a personalized message of love and inspiration. And& who better to deliver your message than Grammy Award-winning artist Alicia Keys? Her completely customizable SmashUp video greeting is specifically designed to celebrate the Juneteenth holiday. Create a Custom Dad-Approved Experience this Father’s Day. What better way to show your appreciation for the father figure in your life than by creating a day all about him? Think about his favorite hobbies and design an itinerary sure to receive the Dad seal of approval. Whether it’s a fishing trip, creating your own backyard mini-golf course, or going on a brewery tour in search of the best local IPA, it’s sure to be a Father’s Day he’ll remember. If you can’t be with Dad, sending a personalized video or ecard is a great way to show you care. These greetings are made just for him, and you can even add a gift card to one of his favorite stores. Get Crafty for Fourth of July. Fourth of July is the peak of summer and commemorates the Continental Congress formally accepting the Declaration of Independence of the United States in 1776. Often enjoyed with food, fireworks, and parades, it’s a bash that’s anticipated all summer long. Get into the patriotic mood by creating some original décor or USA-themed foods for your cookout or fireworks watch party. Try your hand at designing items like patriotic napkin rings, American Flag-inspired desserts, painting outdoor items such as flowerpots red, white, and blue, or even making your own sparklers and lanterns to hand out to guests when they arrive. Then, after guests have settled into the festivities, add an extra layer of fun by using filterlike Selfie SmashUps to turn yourself and guests into Uncle Sam. Each summer holiday is an opportunity to bring people together to make new memories. By thinking outside the box, you can truly make a splash this summer.

The Community News Flash

May 2022