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CONNECTION NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Answering the Call

New Market Volunteer Fire Department

NEIGHBORHOOD BRIDGES TRILIGHT MOBILE

Rural Connections By Mike Romano, CEO NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association

Broadband Powers AI

System Reset

e’ve all heard the inevitable question when troubleshooting an internet outage: Have you tried turning the router off and on again? Rebooting electronics is such a common fix that it’s become a running joke. But why does it actually work? You might not think about it this way, but your router is a small computer, complete with its own memory, storage and operating system. Just as your computer can crash or freeze up, the same is true for your router.

WHAT DOES A REBOOT DO? As with any computer, bugs can use memory or trigger safety measures that cause problems. A reboot won’t solve the underlying issue, but it can be a quick fix. Your router also manages multiple devices on the network. If some IP addresses are the same or are not up to date, your router can make mistakes. Rebooting the router resets those assignments. Just like computers, a router can overheat, especially if it’s in a tight space hidden from view. Turning it off for a few seconds can give the hardware a needed break. 

Adobe Stock image by Lightfield Studios

rtificial intelligence is a hot topic these days with a constant stream of news articles talking about its benefits and potential pitfalls. While many of us think about AI in terms of chatbots like ChatGPT, it can also play a powerful role in helping businesses, like small, rural broadband providers, operate more efficiently behind the scenes. As we all explore the practical applications of AI, NTCA members are implementing various AI tools to analyze network performance data, identify potential issues before they affect customers, strengthen cybersecurity efforts and streamline routine administrative tasks. Finding these efficiencies allows employees to spend less time on repetitive work and more time on what matters most— building and sustaining reliable networks and supporting their communities. Especially if the implementation is done right and if providers “own their own AI future,” they can be well positioned to identify and capitalize on new opportunities to grow and sustain their operations and serve customers and communities even better. Rural broadband providers are unique. They are rooted in their communities, and personal relationships are the heart and soul of their service. AI should not replace that but, rather, it should be another tool to help local teams operate smarter and more efficiently so they can continue to provide high-quality, reliable service to their friends and neighbors. And none of this innovation is possible without broadband. Every AI tool, whether used by a family, school, business or even a data center, relies on high-speed, reliable broadband. As the demand for these tools continues to grow, rural broadband providers will invest in building and sustaining the robust networks needed now and in the future. 

Adobe Stock image by Ivan

POWER UP Simple habits help your devices’ batteries last longer Story by DREW WOOLLEY

hether it’s a smartphone, laptop or a favorite pair of earbuds, most of us rely on rechargeable batteries every day. But like any electronic device, those batteries don’t last forever. Most modern devices use lithium-ion batteries, which gradually lose their ability to hold a full charge over time. While battery aging is unavoidable, a few simple habits can help slow the process and keep your devices working well for years. Maintaining good battery health can also delay the need for costly repairs or replacement of a device.

CHARGE SMARTER Many people think leaving a phone plugged in all night will damage the battery. Fortunately, today’s smartphones and laptops are much smarter than older electronics. Most stop charging once they reach 100% and manage the charging process automatically. Even so, experts say batteries tend to last longer when they aren’t constantly kept at either a full charge or completely drained. If possible, try to recharge your device before the battery falls below about 20% and unplug it once it has enough charge for the day. Many newer devices also offer optimized charging settings that learn your routine and reduce battery wear. Heat is a battery’s enemy. Avoid leaving phones or laptops in a hot car or in direct sunlight for extended periods, especially while charging.

CHECK YOUR CABLES A charging cable may seem like a minor accessory, but taking care of it can save both frustration and money. Instead of pulling a cable out by the cord, grasp the connector itself. Avoid tightly wrapping cables around chargers or bending them sharply, since repeated stress can damage the wires inside. If a cable becomes frayed or the connector is loose, replace it rather than continuing to use it. It’s also a good idea to use charging cables and power adapters from reputable manufacturers that meet your device’s specifications.

NO WIRES? NO PROBLEM Wireless charging pads have become increasingly common for smartphones and some earbuds. Instead of plugging in a cable, you simply place the device on the charging pad. Wireless charging can reduce wear on a device’s charging port, especially if you plug and unplug your phone several times each day. Some newer devices also support magnetic wireless chargers that help align the phone for more efficient charging. While wireless charging is convenient, it may charge more slowly than a cable and can generate a bit more heat. For many users, though, it’s an easy way to simplify charging while reducing wear on connectors. With a few simple habits, you can help your devices stay powered longer and keep their batteries healthier for years to come.  November/December 2025 | 3

FROM THE CEO

Stronger Networks, Stronger Communities

How our Smart Rural Community designation reflects the future of rural connectivity

n September 1st, our team, our customers, and our community partners gathered at our Ardmore office to celebrate a moment that reflects both our past and our future. Cornerstone Connectivity, formerly known as Ardmore Telephone Company, has served this region since 1908, beginning with Ardmore’s very first telephone. That single connection marked the start of a promise that has carried us through many different generations. It set the foundation for a company built on reliability, trust, and service to the people who call this area home.

Our recent ribbon cutting extended that promise in a new way as we celebrated our Smart Rural Community designation, along with the introduction of our new name and the updates to our Ardmore office. These milestones represent more than a refreshed look; they represent the work our team has done to strengthen rural connectivity and prepare our communities for the future. As a rural provider, we work hard to bring rural America the most essential and future‑ready technology available: fiber internet. The Smart Rural Community designation reflects the work we’re KAREN doing in Ardmore, and we are deeply grateful for our customers and JACKSON-FURMAN supportive community members. To be designated as a Smart Rural Chief Executive Officer Provider by NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, rural telecoms must meet several community‑based requirements, including offering 100 Mbps broadband to at least half of their service area and maintaining broadband subscription rates of 50% or more. Cornerstone Connectivity delivers up to 2‑Gig symmetrical service to customers across 100% of our service territory, ensuring every home and business has access to modern, reliable connectivity. SRC benchmarks reflect the growing expectations for rural broadband and the importance of dependable, high‑quality service. They also reflect the reality that rural communities deserve the same level of access and opportunity as larger cities. Earning this designation shows that our network is strong, our service is reliable, and our commitment to rural progress is real. Even more so, I believe it shows that our customers can depend on us for the speed and stability needed for school, work, health care, and the everyday moments that keep life moving. Our new name, Cornerstone Connectivity, also honors that progress. It reflects the work we have done to modernize our network and the responsibility we carry forward. While our look has changed, our purpose has not. We remain committed to strengthening the communities we call home. The celebration in Ardmore was a reminder of how far we have come and how much opportunity still lies ahead. It was a chance to thank the people who make this work meaningful. It was also a moment to recognize that rural connectivity is not simply about technology. It is about people. Cornerstone Connectivity has been part of the Ardmore community for more than a century, and we were proud to celebrate our progress, as well as our path forward, with the people who make this area so special.  4

CONNECTION

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

VOL. 14, NO. 6

is a tech-forward, human-centric telecom company with a network spanning over 5,600 route miles and more than 38,000 residential and business subscribers. As the foundation of broadband communication for the communities it serves, Cornerstone brings high-speed fiber to places often overlooked by large telecommunications companies, ensuring that no one is left behind in the modern digital world. Cornerstone Connectivity is an equalopportunity employer and provider.

Cornerstone Connectivity Telephone: 844-997-5433 cornerstoneconnectivity.com Ardmore Office: 30190 Ardmore Ave. Ardmore, AL 35739 Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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Produced for Cornerstone Connectivity by:

On the Cover: The New Market Volunteer Fire Department’s 64 volunteers provide a crucial service for a 110-square-mile territory. See story Page 8. Photo courtesy of New Market Volunteer Fire Department

CORNERSTONE CONNECTIVITY NEWS

A Grateful Nation Gives Thanks Cornerstone Connectivity proudly honors the men and women who served in our armed forces. Thank you for your service.

HOLIDAY CLOSURES Our offices will be closed on the following days: Thanksgiving—Thursday, Nov. 26 Christmas—Friday, Dec. 25 We wish you and your family a happy Thanksgiving and merry Christmas!

BE WARY OF HOLIDAY SCAMS

This time of year, it can be easy to let your guard down. Keep your season joyful by avoiding these common holiday schemes. Check the card Inspect gift cards and packaging for signs of tampering before buying.

REASONS TO CELEBRATE! Thank you to everyone who joined us on Sept. 1 as we celebrated our Smart Rural Community designation and our new name. We’re grateful for your support. A special thank-you to the Greater Ardmore Chamber of Commerce for helping us bring this event together and for all it does for our community.

Skip the swap Social media gift exchanges promising multiple presents in return for sending just one gift are classic pyramid schemes. Question the deal Fake shopping ads can lead to bogus websites designed to steal payment and personal information. Pause before clicking Unexpected package alerts, tracking links and urgent holiday messages can be phishing attempts. Inspect the app Holiday apps can be fun, but some may collect personal information or carry malware. Verify before giving Research charities before donating and make sure you know where your money is going. Spot a scam? Report suspected scams and find consumer tips through the Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker at bbb.org.

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Museums and M TRAVEL

Remembering the war that changed the world Story by LAURA McGILL

hen measured on a grand scale, World War II is almost too immense to comprehend. An estimated 16.4 million people served in the U.S. Armed Forces during the war, with more than 405,000 losing their lives. The United States spent about $341 billion on the war effort, or $4.7 trillion when adjusted for inflation. Globally, the loss of life is estimated to be as high as 85 million people, with adjusted costs surpassing $15 trillion. On a human level, the war is responsible for countless stories of lives cut short and those forever changed. Many of those accounts are preserved at The National WWII Museum in New Orleans.

OVERWHELMING AND INTIMATE Located on a sprawling campus, The National WWII Museum features seven distinct areas. The experience captures both the

grand scale of battle through immersive displays and the small, poignant reminders of the men and women who fought for freedom on the battlefield and the homefront. While tours can begin in any of the buildings, the Louisiana Memorial Pavilion provides an important orientation and history lesson on the significant events that set the stage for World War II. Exhibits explain the political debates, the attack on Pearl Harbor, rationing of consumer goods, America’s internment camps, segregated military units and the dramatic economic response. Building 3, Campaigns of Courage, is divided into two parallel exhibits—the Road to Tokyo and the Road to Berlin. Each brings to life the hard-fought victories and the devastating losses on the long journey to end the war. Battles in the Pacific are recounted in a gallery that places visitors in grueling conditions from Guadalcanal and the Philippines to the haunting scenes from

Request permission to come aboard With their sailing days long behind them, a few of America’s World War II ships continue to serve their country. Today, the mission is to honor those who served and educate about a time that is slipping away from living memory. Here are a few treasured museum ships that welcome visitors to come aboard.

USS Lexington Corpus Christi, Texas Commissioned in 1943, the ship was the Navy’s oldest working carrier when decommissioned in 1991. In 1980, it became the first aircraft carrier in U.S. history to have women stationed aboard as crew members.

USS Alabama Mobile, Alabama After earning nine battle stars, the Mighty A battleship and its crew of 2,500 led the American fleet into Tokyo Bay on Sept. 5, 1945. The ship is joined at Battleship Memorial Park by the USS Drum, the oldest American submarine on public display.

USS North Carolina Wilmington, North Carolina The battleship served in every major Pacific naval offensive during World War II, earning 15 battle stars. It is the state’s official memorial to the more than 11,000 North Carolinians who died during the war.

USS Kidd Baton Rouge, Louisiana Learn the story of how the Kidd became the only U.S. Navy ship allowed to fly the Jolly Roger flag of piracy. Check before planning a visit, as the Kidd has been in dry dock for repairs and was awaiting a higher water level to return home.

USS Yorktown Mount Pleasant, South Carolina The Navy’s 10th aircraft carrier, the Fighting Lady, was commissioned on April 15, 1943. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is also home to the USS Laffey, the most decorated World War II-era destroyer still in existence.

The National WWII Museum in New Orleans gives many opportunities for visitors to learn about the war and its impact on the world.

A display at the Arsenal of Democracy exhibit details the role of the media in sharing information about the war.

Adobe Stock image by Ryan Conine

the aftermath of the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. European battles are revisited with landscapes ranging from fortified beaches and bomb-torn villages to frozen forests and unimaginable death camps. Other buildings include the Solomon Victory Theater with the 4D movie experience “Beyond All Boundaries,” narrated by Tom Hanks. The Liberation Pavilion explores the postwar years and the war’s continuing impact. At the US Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center, visitors can get up close with WWII tanks, trucks and planes. Building 7, the John E. Kushner Restoration Pavilion, may be the last on the list, but it is worth including to see the museum’s ongoing restoration work. The space is dominated by the patrol torpedo boat PT-305. With so many stories to tell, it is difficult to tour the entire museum complex in just one day. Two-day passes are available, and memberships include unlimited regular admission. Learn more at nationalww2museum.org. 

Photos courtesy of The National WWII Museum

Memorials

During USS Lexington tours, visitors can explore 11 decks along five routes. Volunteers are on hand to answer questions.

New Market Volunteer Fire Department keeps its trucks in top shape.

Ready for Service Trained volunteers equip New Market fire department Story by MELANIE JONES

hen a call comes into the New Market Volunteer Fire Department from somewhere within its 110-squaremile service area, firefighters quickly hit the road, lights flashing and sirens wailing, to extinguish a blaze or save a life. And not one of them receives a penny for their service. The New Market VFD’s personnel roster includes 64 firefighters, 43 of whom are certified for both fire and emergency medical services. While that may seem like a large number, especially for a rural community, Fire Chief Wendell Jones points out that not every volunteer is available to respond to every call. “I feel like we have enough volunteers. It’s just that during the day, people have jobs. All these people have jobs and a family, so they’re tied up a lot. So, we’re shorthanded during the day,” Wendell says. “That’s why we have multiple departments that are paged out automatically when it’s a reported structure fire.”

The department shares equipment among three stations, including four pumper trucks, two wildfire trucks, a command unit, a special response unit and five first responder vehicles. The department sees its fair share of fires, but the majority of its calls—about 75%—are for medical emergencies. Wendell believes the department’s volunteers can cover the territory well when they’re not at work. However, new members are always welcome. Much of the department’s recruiting efforts are run through Facebook and other social media platforms, thanks to the department’s Cornerstone Connectivity internet service. New Market VFD members also visit local schools and offer a mentoring program. Attracting younger volunteers is important to ensure the community has qualified firefighters for decades to come. “Everybody ages out at some point,” Wendell says. Cornerstone Connectivity

Wendell has been with the department since 1978. “My wife’s family led me to volunteer,” he says. “My wife’s father and brother were both in the New Market Volunteer Fire Department when I met her. I’ve been here ever since. My father-in-law has somewhat retired from it, but my brother-in-law is still active in the fire service.”

EVERY SECOND COUNTS

Photos courtesy of New Market Volunteer Fire Department

Many new homes’ smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are linked to monitoring systems that notify the fire department when an alarm sounds. “We have a lot of calls for smoke detectors going off,” Wendell

says. “That’s a good thing, because if the homeowner isn’t there, that gets them help.” And timing is everything. “The difference now from 34 years ago is that there’s a lot of man-made products in your homes,” Wendell says, adding those synthetic materials can burn faster. “There’s plastics, foams, just all kinds of stuff. There’s not a whole lot of natural wood inside homes. It gets very hot, very quickly.” That means a fire can fully engulf a home in minutes. “Years ago, you had 10 minutes to get out of your home,” Wendell says. “Now, you may have three to five minutes to get out because everything is so volatile.” 

With a large team of volunteers and modern equipment, the New Market Volunteer Fire Department is ready for action.

EXPERT FIRE SAFETY ADVICE The holiday season and colder weather bring their own fire risks. But New Market Volunteer Fire Department Chief Wendell Jones says you can help ensure a safe Christmas with just a few simple precautions, like checking your HVAC system for any problems, especially if you have a gas furnace. If you have real Christmas trees, make sure they stay watered. “Live trees will dry out very quickly if you’re not monitoring and checking the water level regularly,” Wendell says. Check each strand of lights for shorts or signs of damage before you hang them. Dispose of any damaged lights, and make sure to keep the tree at least 3 feet away from any type of heat source.

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One bit of advice is good all year—regularly test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. “I know it’s a trend to check them once a year, but they should check them periodically and not just once a quarter,” Wendell says. “If it starts chirping, don’t let the chirping continue because that’s a sign of something not working correctly.” That persistent chirping noise may be a battery issue, or it could be something else wrong with the system. And don’t just remove the battery to make it stop. Homes that don’t have hardwired detectors are in danger if the smoke detector doesn’t have batteries. If the detector is hardwired, it still has battery backup. If you remove the batteries, the device is no help if the power goes out.

Have a Holly Jolly Kitchen Smart gifts can make holiday cooking easier Story by DREW WOOLLEY

he holiday season means warm family gatherings, pulling out favorite recipes and sharing memorable meals. But it can also bring crowded kitchens, packed schedules and stress over that perfect entree overcooking. Fortunately, smart kitchen devices can take the pressure out of home cooking. Whether you need to monitor food remotely, automate routine tasks or just get rid of some of the guesswork, there are tools to help experienced chefs and culinary newbies alike. That makes these connected kitchen gadgets the perfect gifts that continue paying off long after the holidays are over.

SMART COFFEE MAKER Holiday mornings often begin before sunrise, and a smart coffee maker can have a fresh pot waiting before anyone reaches the kitchen. Many models allow users to schedule brewing from a smartphone, create recurring routines and integrate with voice assistants for hands-free operation. Consider brewing capacity, programmable schedules and compatibility with whole-pot or single-serve brewing preferences when comparing options.

KITCHEN DISPLAY A smart display serves as a digital recipe book, cooking timer, entertainment hub and communication center all-in-one device. It can display step-by-step recipes, manage multiple timers, stream music or video and answer cooking questions without requiring users to touch a phone with messy hands. When selecting a model, compare screen size, voice assistant compatibility and integration with other smart-home devices. Displays that support video calling can also help families connect with relatives during the holidays.

SMART MULTICOOKER A connected multicooker combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker and saute pan into one appliance while adding smartphone controls and guided recipes. During the holidays, it can free up valuable space by preparing mashed potatoes, soups, stuffing or desserts while the stovetop and oven are occupied. 10

Look for models that include a variety of cooking programs, delayed-start options and recipe integration through a companion app. Capacity is another important consideration, with larger households typically benefiting from 6- or 8-quart versions.

WIRELESS MEAT THERMOMETER A wireless smart meat thermometer allows cooks to monitor the internal temperature of turkey, ham, beef or other meats from a smartphone without opening the oven or smoker. Many models estimate cooking times, alert users when food reaches the desired temperature and provide guided cooking recommendations to help avoid overcooking. When shopping, consider how many probes are included. Larger families or frequent entertainers may appreciate systems that can monitor multiple dishes at the same time, while singleprobe models are often sufficient for everyday use.

SMART AIR FRYER Connected air fryers allow users to start cooking, adjust temperatures and receive notifications through a mobile app. They’re ideal for preparing appetizers, vegetables or rolls and reheating leftovers quickly during busy holiday gatherings. The basket size should match the number of people typically served. Dual-basket models provide additional flexibility by allowing two foods to cook at different temperatures simultaneously.

COUNTERTOP OVEN A smart countertop oven can bake, roast, air fry, broil and toast while offering app connectivity, automatic cooking programs and recipe guidance. These appliances are especially useful during the holidays, when the primary oven is filled with a turkey or roast and additional cooking space is needed for side dishes and desserts. Interior capacity is one of the biggest differences between models. Shoppers should also compare available cooking modes and determine whether remote monitoring or automatic cooking adjustments are important features.

CONNECTED WALL OVEN Smart wall ovens connect to home Wi-Fi networks, allowing users to preheat the oven remotely, watch cooking progress and receive alerts when dishes are finished. Some premium models

also feature internal cameras or food-recognition technology that can provide additional guidance throughout the cooking process. Because these appliances are built into cabinetry, buyers should carefully verify dimensions, installation requirements and compatibility with existing kitchen layouts before making a purchase.

SMART MICROWAVE Connected microwaves can automatically adjust cooking times, download cooking instructions through companion apps and send notifications when food is ready. They simplify reheating leftovers, preparing vegetables and handling quick side dishes while the rest of the holiday meal comes together. Capacity, sensor cooking functions and compatibility with existing smart-home ecosystems are among the most important features to compare when choosing a model.

While stand mixers have long been a staple for holiday baking, newer connected versions can guide users through recipes, recommend mixing speeds and synchronize with companion apps. They’re particularly helpful when preparing cookies, cakes, breads and festive desserts. Consider bowl capacity, motor power and the availability of optional attachments that expand the appliance’s versatility beyond baking. Holiday meals keep the kitchen busy with dozens of dishes, careful timing and plenty of coordination. Smart cooking tools can’t take care of everything on their own. But for families who enjoy cooking together or playing host, they can simplify many of the tasks that make holiday cooking stressful, so you can focus on what makes this time of year special. 

Adobe Stock image by Vadym

CONNECTED STAND MIXER

Bridging the Gap Neighbors help neighbors to meet community needs Story by MELANIE JONES

Photos courtesy of Yolandia Eubanks

here are people in every community who need help. A child without a winter coat. A student whose cafeteria tab has grown. A senior citizen who can’t afford his prescriptions, or a woman who needs a home. Neighborhood Bridges strives to meet those needs, one anonymous act of kindness at a time. A local chapter of the national group started in Ardmore six years ago, and it has continued to grow, both in requests and donors. “Helping here has definitely opened my eyes to some of the struggles that families face day in and day out,” Director Yolandia Eubanks says.

HELPING ALL AGES The nonprofit primarily serves Cedar Hill and Johnson elementary schools, Ardmore Middle School and Ardmore High School. But those aren’t the only sources of requests. Sometimes individuals ask for help, and business owners will inform Neighborhood Bridges when they encounter someone in need. That is how Yolandia became aware of the plight of an unhoused woman. “She had a job, but she’d been down on her luck,” Yolandia says. “She was able to save enough money while we were helping her to get a deposit for an apartment. I had some people donate furniture to help get her on her feet.” Neighborhood Bridges often gets requests for school-related fees for field trips or college placement exams. One counselor reached out about a student who wanted to go to technical school to be a welder, but his parents couldn’t afford the fees, so Neighborhood Bridges stepped in. “This is this young man’s way out of poverty,” Yolandia says. 12

Neighborhood Bridges volunteers finish wrapping bags of gifts that will be sent to local schools for distribution.

During the holiday season last year, Neighborhood Bridges learned of a family that wasn’t on any assistance lists in the community but needed help for Christmas. There were three young children and two teenage girls. The father worked, as did an older son, but after they paid the bills, nothing was left for the holiday. Yolandia found four families to provide gifts.

“I talked to the oldest teenage girl I could communicate with,” Yolandia says. “She was crying, and I was worried something was wrong. She said, ‘You don’t understand. This is the first time we’ve had Christmas presents in three years.’ It was heartwarming, but it was also heartbreaking that they had not had anything in three years.” Stories like that make Neighborhood Bridges special, Yolandia says. “That’s when you know you’re doing something right,” she says. “You’re making a difference in someone’s life.” To learn more about the program or sign up for the newsletter, send an email to ardmore@neighborhoodbridges.org. Cash donations are also accepted, with monthly or quarterly giving plans available. Cornerstone Connectivity serves as one of the drop-off points for donations.  Cornerstone Connectivity

Choosing Trilight Mobile

Around campus and around the world, local customer care matters

STAYING IN TOUCH “Because I have family and friends overseas, I regularly use my phone to stay connected with them through calls, messages and video conversations,” Faris says. “It allows me to maintain those relationships despite the distance.” Additionally, he relies on his cellphone to access emails, manage his schedule and

TRILIGHT MOBILE FROM CORNERSTONE CONNECTIVITY Now you can enjoy nationwide coverage and hometown dependability. Learn more about the reliable coverage, smart features and local support of Trilight Mobile from Cornerstone Connectivity. View plans, special offers and details at cornerstoneconnectivity.com/trilight-mobile.

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“

Their prompt and helpful response gave me confidence that I could rely on them when I needed assistance most.” —Faris Sahawneh, Trilight customer

text messages, photographs, contacts, financial information, saved credentials, work-related information, location history and access to numerous online accounts,” he says. “In many ways, our phones have become repositories for our digital lives.” This comes with an increased need for security. “Today, losing an unsecured smartphone could expose a significant portion of my personal and professional life,” he says. “That is why we have to treat our phones much more like computers and take basic cybersecurity precautions seriously.” 

stay in touch with students and colleagues. “Whether I am on campus, traveling or away from my office, my cellphone allows students and colleagues to reach me when needed,” he says.

Photo courtesy of Faris Sahawneh

hen Faris Sahawneh signed up for Trilight Mobile in February, he was getting ready to take a group of students on a study-abroad trip. Knowing that reliable international coverage was vitally important, he trusted the local team at Cornerstone Connectivity. “I switched to Trilight because of its competitive pricing, excellent coverage and outstanding technical support,” he says. Faris, an associate professor of cybersecurity and network management at the School of Engineering at Murray State University, recalls the help he received upon arrival. “When I arrived in London, I realized that my international service had not yet been activated,” he says. “I immediately contacted Cornerstone customer service, and they responded quickly and activated my international coverage. Their prompt and helpful response gave me confidence that I could rely on them when I needed assistance most.”

THEN AND NOW Faris points out that in the late 1990s his phone contained very little personal information compared to today’s phones. “A modern smartphone can contain emails,

Faris Sahawneh takes a cruise on the River Thames while visiting London with a group of Murray State University students.

TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR PHONE • Use a strong PIN or passcode. • Enable Face ID or fingerprint authentication. • Turn on multifactor authentication, especially for important accounts. • Install operating system and application security updates promptly. • Only install apps from trusted sources like the official Apple App Store or Google Play Store. • Review app permissions. Does it really need access to your contacts, microphone, camera or location? • Avoid conducting sensitive transactions on networks you do not trust. • Be suspicious of texts and QR codes. Phishing is no longer limited to email. • Turn on Find My iPhone or Find My Device. • Back up important information. • Use trusted chargers and cables, especially while traveling. • Don’t leave an unlocked phone unattended. • Securely erase your phone before disposing of it. • Think before you click. If a message creates urgency—“Act now,” “Your account has been suspended” or “Click here immediately”—stop and verify it independently.

SOUTHEAST KITCHENS MIDWEST KITCHENS

Snacks Worth

Sharing

Crowdpleasing recipes for festive gatherings

he holiday season is full of opportunities to gather with family, friends and neighbors, but hosting doesn’t have to mean spending hours in the kitchen. Just a few simple, shareable dishes can help guests mingle while keeping the cook out of the kitchen, so everyone can be part of the celebration. Whether you’re hosting an open house, pitching in for a potluck or serving appetizers before a holiday meal, these easy recipes are big on flavor and short on prep time, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules. 

Photography by Mark Gilliland Food styling by Rhonda Gilliland 14

HOT SPINACH ARTICHOKE DIP 1 1 8 ½ ½ 1 ½ 2

10-ounce package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry 14-ounce can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped ounces cream cheese, softened cup sour cream cup mayonnaise cup shredded mozzarella cheese cup grated Parmesan cheese cloves garlic, minced Salt and pepper to taste Crackers, sliced baguette or tortilla chips

Preheat the oven to 350 F. In a large bowl, combine the ingredients until well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the dip is hot and bubbly with lightly browned edges. Serve warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices or tortilla chips.

BAKED BRIE IN PUFF PASTRY 1 8-ounce wheel brie 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed ¼ cup cranberry sauce or your favorite fruit or jam ¼ cup fresh or dried cranberries or fruit of your choice ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans 1 tablespoon honey 1 egg, beaten for egg wash Fresh rosemary or fruit, for garnish Assorted sliced fruit and crackers for serving Preheat oven to 400 F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unfold the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Place brie in the center. Spread cranberry sauce, jam or fruit over the top of the brie. Top with cranberries or fruit and nuts. Drizzle with honey. Fold pastry over the brie, sealing the edges. Place seamside down on the baking sheet. Brush with the beaten egg. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is soft and melty. Garnish with rosemary and serve warm with sliced fruit and crackers. Tip: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving, so the cheese sets slightly.

BRUSCHETTA

Fresh, ripe tomatoes, any color Sourdough bread, fresh or day-old 2 garlic cloves, skin removed Extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Fresh basil (optional) Thoroughly wash the tomatoes, then chop roughly into small pieces and place in a bowl. Save any juice. Add a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, one clove of crushed garlic and fresh basil, breaking up the leaves if desired. Mix and leave to rest for 10 to 20 minutes at room temperature or in the fridge. Slice up to two pieces of bread per person. Heat a skillet on high and cook bread on both sides for a few minutes, until golden. You can also heat the bread in a toaster or oven. Once ready, immediately rub a clove of garlic over the top of the bread. Using a tablespoon, drizzle any remaining tomato juice over each slice of bread, then add the tomato mixture and a few pieces of fresh basil. 15

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID HILLSBORO, OR PERMIT No. 66

P.O. Box 549 • Ardmore, TN 38449

ONE GREAT SERVICE. TWO AMAZING OFFERS! Plans start at FREE!

Save $600. Then Save More!

Every new Trilight Mobile customer will get their first line FREE for a year!

Up to $600 in credits on your first line and $400 on eligible devices for additional lines. *Restrictions may apply.

Mobile promotions are available to both new and existing Cornerstone Connectivity internet customers. FIRST LINE FREE option requires By the Gig or higher service for 12 months plus enrollment in AutoPay, Paperless Billing and an active leased Cornerstone Wi-Fi router. $600 CREDIT option available for first line and $400 off eligible devices for lines 2 through 10 added and requires the Unlimited Max Plan

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cornerstoneconnectivity.com Cornerstone Connectivity is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

+ Command Wi-Fi. Cannot be combined with First Line Free offer. Credits are spread over 36 months. Disconnecting service stops credits, and remaining device balance must be paid. Taxes on financed devices must be paid up front. $10 per month discount for AutoPay, Paperless Billing and Cornerstone router participation continues beyond 12 months. Offers available 10/1/26 – 12/31/26