NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
CONNECTION
Darkhorse Lodge Turning loss into a place of sharing
Rural Connections By Mike Romano, CEO NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association
Broadband Powers AI
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System Reset
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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
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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
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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
What It Means to Be a Smart Rural Community Provider
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eing a Smart Rural Community (SRC) provider is a responsibility we take seriously at Cornerstone. It means believing in the power of connection and building the kind of networks that help rural life thrive. From community efforts in agriculture and economic development to education and telehealth, rural broadband providers support their every day operations.
Cornerstone is proud to be part of the SRC network because it reinforces the values that guide our work every day. It underscores the importance of collaboration, shared progress, and community advancement. Most importantly, it affirms that rural communities deserve the same opportunities found anywhere else—and that strong broadband is KAREN one of the most powerful tools to make that possible. JACKSON-FURMAN To earn the Smart Rural Community designation from The Chief Executive Officer Rural Broadband Association, rural telecoms must meet several community‑focused benchmarks, including offering at least 100 Mbps broadband to half of their service area and maintaining 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. Communities that earn the Smart Rural Community designation often choose to celebrate it in ways that highlight their pride. Many towns, like our community members in Dresden, Tennessee, display SRC signs throughout town to honor their designation. Other communities celebrate their SRC designation by sharing the news with local media or hosting community recognition events. These moments help residents understand the significance of the designation and show visitors that the community values connection, innovation, and opportunity. They also create a sense of shared accomplishment. When a town becomes an SRC, it is a reflection of everyone who calls that place home. If your community is interested in pursuing the designation or planning a celebration in honor of being a Smart Rural Community, we are here to help. The process is straightforward, and we can walk you through what it means to join the network of Smart Rural Communities. We can explain the requirements, share examples of how other communities have celebrated, and help you plan how to showcase your designation once it is earned. Honoring your community with the SRC designation is a meaningful way to highlight progress, celebrate connection, and show pride in the place you call home. If you would like to learn more or begin the process, reach out to us. We would be glad to support you.
CONNECTION NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
Connection is published by Cornerstone Connectivity ™, © 2026. It is distributed without charge to all members of the cooperative.
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 equal opportunity employer and provider.
Send address corrections to: Cornerstone Connectivity 100 WK&T Technology Drive Mayfield, KY 42066 Telephone: 844-997-5433 cornerstoneconnectivity.com
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Tony Goodman President Ricky Littleton Vice President Jerry Holloway Secretary/Treasurer Kate Bynum Evelyn Causey Jeff Davis David Griffo Melanie Thompson
Produced for Cornerstone Connectivity by:
On the Cover: After the tragic loss of their son in Afghanistan, Kirk and Gretchen Catherwood established Darkhorse Lodge for combat veterans of all military branches. See story Page 8. Adobe Stock image by Oksana
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VOL. 18, NO. 6
CORNERSTONE CONNECTIVITY NEWS
FOR REFLECTION AND CELEBRATION We wish you a safe and happy holiday season, filled with friends and family, good health and joy. Cornerstone Connectivity’s offices in Mayfield, Martin, Murray and Dongola will be closed in honor of the following holidays:
Wednesday, Nov. 11
Thursday, Nov. 26
Friday, Dec. 25
Pause before clicking Unexpected package alerts, tracking links and urgent holiday messages can be phishing attempts.
Verify before giving Research charities before donating and make sure you know where your money is going.
Inspect the app Holiday apps can be fun, but some may collect personal information or carry malware.
Spot a scam? Report suspected scams and find consumer tips through the Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker at bbb.org.
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. 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.
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Museums and M TRAVEL
Remembering the war that changed the world Story by LAURA McGILL
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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.
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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.
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Each of the five cabins at Darkhorse Lodge has five rooms. The 25 rooms are named for lost members of the Darkhorse Battalion.
Honoring the Fallen While Supporting Survivors Darkhorse Lodge offers combat veterans a place of peace Story by MELANIE JONES
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Marine Lance Cpl. Alec E. Catherwood died in battle in Afghanistan.
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lec E. Catherwood was a 17-yearold high school student when he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. The future lance corporal gradu‑ ated high school at 18 and shipped off for boot camp. In 2010, less than a month after arriving in Afghanistan for his first tour of duty, Alec was killed in action. The 19-yearold was one of 25 Marines from the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines—also known as Darkhorse Battalion—to die during the seven-month tour, one of the bloodiest of the war. About 200 other Marines from his battalion were wounded, many losing
limbs, and the ones who weren’t physi‑ cally injured carry emotional scars, Alec’s mother, Gretchen Catherwood, says. While visiting Camp Pendleton in California for a remembrance ceremony honoring the fallen, Gretchen looked into the eyes of surviving battalion members. “There was some real, real pain there,” she says. The memory of that pain stayed with her. A few years later, when she traveled back to California to attend a monument dedication ceremony, she had lunch with some of Alec’s friends who discussed the war and the battles they faced since coming home. Cornerstone Connectivity
Visiting combat veterans are not pres‑ sured to talk. They can play cornhole or toss horseshoes. They can work out. A fellow combat veteran is a boat captain, leading fishing trips on Kentucky Lake. Gretchen says she’s looking for another combat veteran to be a second boat cap‑ tain. That’s important, she says, because the men and women often open up while on the water, and they’re less likely to do that when someone who hasn’t been in combat is around. Gretchen and Kirk are adding another building to serve as a gathering place where guests from different cabins can watch movies and play darts or cards.
‘IT DOESN’T MATTER WHAT WAR’
FREEDOM TO HEAL
Any combat veteran can stay five days and four nights at the lodge at a time. “It doesn’t matter what branch of the military—Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy, Coast Guard,” Gretchen says. “It doesn’t matter man or woman. It doesn’t matter what age. It doesn’t matter what war, whether it’s Vietnam or the Iraq war. It only matters that they’ve been there, wherever there was.” There is a main building for meals, but the real talks begin in the five cabins, each with five bedrooms. The 25 rooms are named for members of the Darkhorse Battalion who died on that tour.
The lodge provides everything its guests need for free, including food, fishing licenses and fishing equipment. While there’s no charge to stay, the lodge does require a deposit that’s refunded as soon as the guests arrive. There have been some cancellations over the years, which makes it tough when Kirk and Gretchen have already paid for food and supplies. Gretchen thinks some people may back out because they’re afraid of discussing their experiences. “I think there’s quite a bit of, if not straight-out, fear, maybe nerves, trepidation,” she says. “They don’t know what to expect.”
The operation is funded strictly by donations, which come in regularly. The lodge has received a couple of $100,000 donations from across the country, but most contributions are much smaller. A local girl donated $1,500 she made run‑ ning a lemonade stand. A neighbor sends over $3 or $4 at a time, and Gretchen says she cherishes those dollars even more. The lodge exists, Gretchen says, to save lives. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs estimates 22 veterans die by suicide daily. They die, Gretchen says, because of war, not in war. And if one per‑ son comes to Darkhorse Lodge planning to die but leaves choosing to live, Gretchen says the lodge has served its purpose. To learn more about Darkhorse Lodge, apply to attend or donate, visit the website, darkhorselodge.org.
The pin marking Alec’s place in the Darkhorse Battalion was one of his prized possessions.
Photos courtesy of Gretchen Catherwood
Gretchen realized something that day. “The only way they were going to discuss what they’ve been through is with some‑ one who’s been there,” she says. So, she and her husband, Kirk, Alec’s father, decided to create a space where combat veterans could help one another process what they have experienced. In 2023, after collecting donations and doing much of the work themselves, the Catherwoods opened Darkhorse Lodge in Springville. The retreat, with 5 cleared acres, is open to combat veterans. Some people question why other service mem‑ bers are not invited, but Gretchen says the shared experience of combat is important.
Kirk and Gretchen Catherwood built Darkhorse Lodge in memory of their son, Alec, and other members of the Darkhorse Battalion killed in Afghanistan.
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Have a Holly Jolly Kitchen Smart gifts can make holiday cooking easier Story by DREW WOOLLEY
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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
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Choosing Trilight Mobile
Around campus and around the world, local customer care matters
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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 cov‑ erage was vitally important, he trusted the local team at Cornerstone Connectivity. “I switched to Trilight because of its com‑ petitive pricing, excellent coverage and outstanding technical support,” he says. Faris, an associate professor of cyber‑ security 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 imme‑ diately 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.”
STAYING IN TOUCH Faris’ cellphone helps him connect with family and friends. “Because I have family and friends overseas, I regularly use my phone to stay connected with them through calls, messages and video conversations,” he says. “It allows me to maintain those relationships despite the distance.” Additionally, he relies on his cellphone to access emails, manage his schedule and stay in touch with students and colleagues. 12
“
THEN AND NOW
Their prompt and helpful response gave me confidence that I could rely on them when I needed assistance most.” —Faris Sahawneh, Trilight customer “Whether I am on campus, traveling or away from my office, my cellphone allows students and colleagues to reach me when needed,” he says. “It is particularly critical when I am traveling with students, because I need reliable service to com‑ municate with them, coordinate activities, handle unexpected situations and ensure everyone is accounted for and safe.” When work is done, Faris turns to his cellphone powered by Trilight Mobile for information and entertainment in his personal life. “I primarily use it to listen to podcasts and music, especially when I am traveling, driving or have some down‑ time,” he says. “Podcasts are a convenient way for me to stay informed, learn about topics that interest me and keep up with current issues, while music provides enter‑ tainment and relaxation.”
Recalling his first cellphone in the late 1990s—an analog Nokia—Faris says the device was just that, a phone. “I used it mainly to make and receive calls, partic‑ ularly when I was away from home or the office. Texting was either very limited or not something I used regularly, and the idea of using a phone for email, video calls, navigation, music or accessing infor‑ mation was still in the future.” Today, his cellphone is an essential part of his life. “In the late 1990s, I could eas‑ ily function without having my phone with me all the time,” he says. “Today, it serves as my communication device, camera, map, source of information and entertain‑ ment and an important tool for my work.” Faris points out his first phone contained very little personal information compared to today’s phones. “A modern smart‑ phone can contain emails, text messages, photographs, contacts, financial infor‑ mation, 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 por‑ tion 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.” Cornerstone Connectivity
TRILIGHT MOBILE FROM CORNERSTONE CONNECTIVITY
Photo courtesy of Faris Sahawneh
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.
Faris Sahawneh cruises the River Thames while visiting London with 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
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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?
View plans, special offers and details at cornerstoneconnectivity.com/ trilight-mobile.
• Back up important information. • Use trusted chargers and cables, especially while traveling. • Don’t leave an unlocked phone unattended.
• Avoid conducting sensitive transactions on networks you do not trust.
• Securely erase your phone before disposing of it.
• Be suspicious of texts and QR codes. Phishing is no longer limited to email.
• 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.
• Turn on Find My iPhone or Find My Device.
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SOUTHEAST KITCHENS MIDWEST KITCHENS
Snacks Worth
Sharing
Crowdpleasing recipes for festive gatherings
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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
100 WK&T Technology Drive Mayfield, KY 42066
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
877-866-7228
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