Hometown Rankin - October & November 2017

volume 4 number 5 

October 2017 

Little Engine. Big speed 

_________________ 

Good Rogue Hunting 

_________________ 

Cruisin’ for a Cause

2 • October 2017

Hometown Rankin • 3


PUBLISHER & EDITOR 

Tahya A. Dobbs 

CFO 

Kevin W. Dobbs 

CONSULTING EDITOR 

Mary Ann Kirby 

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES 

Dacia Durr Amis 

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS 

Camille Anding 

Dan Armstrong 

Dani Edmonson 


Susan Marquez 

Melanie McMillan 

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER 

Othel Anding 

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER 

Lea Anne Culp 

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT 

Alisha Floyd 

SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER 

Brenda McCall 

STAFF WRITER & GRAPHIC DESIGN 

Leah Mitchener 

LAYOUT DESIGN 

Daniel Thomas - 3dt 

• • • 

When your son buys a puppy that grows into a relationship 

reminiscent of Old Yeller and Travis, there’s seldom a good ending. 

I knew that, so I appreciated the training time Carson spent with 

his canine friend, Thatcher, but I distanced myself from any 

long-term attachments to the brown lab. 

Isn’t it strange how dogs don’t know how to talk or possess a 

single word in the dictionary but they still possess skills that can 

weave themselves into human lives? That was the case with 

Thatcher. He became Carson’s constant companion and became a 

four-footed member of our family. We all fell in love with Thatcher. 

When Carson moved to Oxford to become an Ole Miss Rebel, he took Thatcher with him. 

The off campus apartment with the room-to-run backyard was the model set up for the two devoted 

companions. Life was good—the perfectpicture of carefree college days. 

Then we got he call. Thatcher had been hit by a car after breaking out of his fence. The inseparable 

were now permanently separated. We were all heartbroken and miss Thatcher to this day. He will never 

be replaced, but Carson does have a new companion....a German Short-haired Pointer named Bambino. 

Hopefully this month’s outdoorsy magazine theme won’t be an overload of nostalgia but will invoke 

memories of happy, fall days from your own memory banks. As for all you dog lovers; we’ve got some 

beauties. Almost as good-looking as Thatcher. 

www.facebook.com 

/hometownrankinmagazine 

For subscription information 

visit www.htmags.com 

Contact us at info@HTMags.com 

601.706.4059 

26 Eastgate Drive, Suite F 

Brandon MS 39042 

• • • 

All rights reserved. No portion of Hometown Rankin 

may be reproduced without written permission from 

the publisher. The management of Hometown Rankin 

is not responsible for opinions expressed by its 

writers or editors. Hometown Rankin maintains the 

unrestricted right to edit or refuse all submitted 

material. All advertisements are subject to approval by 

the publisher. The production of Hometown Rankin 

is funded by advertising. 

On the cover: Greg Stanton and his Pudelpointer, Rogue 

In this issue Little Engine Big Speed 8 

Van’s Sporting Goods 20 

Be the Light 26 

Cruisin' for a Cause 46 

Good Rogue Hunting 52 

The Hunting Dog 62 

For the Love of the Outdoors 66 

Giving Back 78 

Whitetails Unlimited 82 


Champions 

of Service 

In sports, the goal is to be the best. 

The same is true for Alfa Insurance®. 

We work to make every quote, 

claim or call a highlight. That’s why 

customers consistently give Alfa® 

high marks for service. Call Alfa®, 

and let us help you save on home, 

car and life insurance. 

Auto Home Life 

www.AlfaInsurance.com 

Call Alfa®. The best agents in the business. 

Jerry Brewer 

5412 Lakeland Drive, Ste. 1A 

Flowood, MS 39232 

(601) 992-3013 

jbrewer@alfains.com 

AO16 


Shop local. 

Save local. 


Little 

Engine. 

Big 

Speed. 


The spectator sport of racing has been around since 

before the ancient Greeks and Romans. Crowds of 

thousands have gathered for over two millennia to 

watch as speedsters whiz by on the track, cheering 

them on with fervor. Not much has changed over the 

years except for the technology. From horse-drawn 

chariots to high-octane engines, the passion remains. 


Children have long-imitated the excitement of the track 

using toys like slot cars since they first hit the market in 1912 

in Lionel model train kits. Specially-designed model cars 

could be placed on a track that carried an electric current, 

and a small hand-held controller would give kids the power 

of ‘driving’ the vehicles around the track. Having its boom 

in popularity in the late 1960s and early 1970s, slot car 

racing has held onto its biggest enthusiasts and made a 

local resurgence since the opening of Charlie’s Garage, LLC 

in the fall of 2016. 

Evolved from his interest in drag racing as a child, slot 

car racing has become a new business venture for Garage 

owner Charlie Murray. Charlie’s is chock-full of different 

types of tracks, parts, and accessories that any slot car lover 

would covet. Charlie will even give you some pointers on 

what makes a racer look authentic! He has examples from 

his personal collection on-hand which features racers from 

his childhood and a few professional builds. 

Several racing tracks are available for a spin including a 

1:24 scale drag strip, road course, and a tri-oval. Rental cars 


are available, or you can bring your own from home and 

strut your stuff on the tracks! With these little roadsters, 

patrons can watch as they zoom around at impressive 

speeds of 60-75 miles per hour! That’s so fast that a car 

can complete one lap around the 105 foot road course 

in 2 seconds flat! 

It’s a great way to spend a Friday evening and makes for 

a great venue for a fun birthday party for the kids. Though 

it is a draw for all ages, the weekly competitive races usually 

appeal more toward an older generation who remember 

the excitement of participating in the heyday of scale 

racing. NASCAR and super-modified races are held on 

Friday nights, while drag and wing car races are held on 

the first and third Saturday of each month. On the second 

and fourth Saturday, drag races take place. Participants 

who claim the glory in races are awarded with a prize of 

either “Garage Bucks”, which can be redeemed in Charlie’s 

shop, or track time to get in some extra laps. 

Whether you are a long-time fan or new to the idea, 

slot car racing at Charlie’s Garage is a great way to get 

out and meet some new friends while having some good 

old-fashioned fun. A quick trip over to his shop in Pearl is 

a guaranteed to thrill! 


Check out photos, videos, and upcoming events anytime on 

Facebook @charliesgaragellc. 


Patient comfort close to home. 

• Dental Implants 

• Wisdom Teeth 

• Sedation 

• Facial Trauma 

• Jaw Surgery 

• Oral Pathology 

American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons 

American Dental Association 

American Medical Association 

Accepting All Major Medical 

& Dental Insurances 

Chad Van Meter, DMD, MD 

SERVING THE HINDS AND RANKIN COUNTY AREA 

601-825-0021 • www.vanmeteroralsurgery.com 

300 Maxey Drive 

Brandon, MS 39042 


BRINGING THE BEST OF JACKSON DINING TO YOUR SPECIAL EVENT 

B A R T E N D I N G 

P R I V A T E D I N I N G 

Custom packages 

provided by CHAR|Bar 

Rehearsal Dinners & Showers 

C A T E R I N G 

Full-service catering options 

for receptions & events 

4 t o p c a t e r i n g . c o m | i n f o @ f o u r t o p c a t e r i n g . c o m

PEARL CHAMBER 

OF COMMERCE 

GIRLS’ 

NIGHT 

OUT 

Fashion Show 

September 16 

Clyde Muse Center • Pearl , MS 




SMILE 

www.drsarahlangston.com 



1/2 PRICE WING TUESDAYS® • 21 SIGNATURE SAUCES & SEASONINGS • BONELESS THURSDAYS® 

BIG SCREEN HD TVS • ALL THE SPORTS ACTION • DINE-IN OR TAKEOUT • KIDS MEALS • HAPPY HOUR 

©2014 Ergon, Inc. All rights reserved. 

ergon.com 

808 LAKE HARBOUR DRIVE // RIDGELAND // 601.856.0789 

COMING SOON TO 766 MACKENZIE LANE // FLOWOOD 

©2016 BUFFALO WILD WINGS, INC. BWW2016-4063 



SPORTING GOODS & DEER PROCESSING 

A Commitment to Succeed 


“Fear of failure drove me,” Van Allen said 

as he considered the catalyst responsible for 

turning a one-man deer processing room into 

the largest gun selection store in Mississippi. 

Game hunters know it as Van’s Sporting Goods 

in Brandon, and it’s made its run of success in 

just twenty-five years. 

Van credits his parents for the work ethic 

that they molded into his life before school age. 

Now octogenarians, they continue to choose 

hard work over retirement and continue to 

challenge their son with their own work ethics. 

When Van reached kindergarten age, it 

only took a few days to tell his mother that 

kindergarten wasn’t for him. He already knew 

how to add, subtract, and multiply – skills 

that he learned in the small country store that 

his dad ran. So he skipped kindergarten! When 

he reached second grade, he stood on a Borden 

milk carton so he could reach the cash register 

that he operated in his dad’s store. 

“In those days, cash registers weren’t 

equipped to add sales tax or show amount of 

change, so I learned to figure the 2% in my head 

and give correct change,” Van says of his early 

business training. “I wanted to participate in 

sports as a teenager, but I wanted that change 

in my pocket more,” he continued, describing 

the make-it-on-your-own philosophy to which 

his parents adhered. 

Van’s dad added deer processing to his 

grocery store amenities due to the large 

demand of deer hunters in the area. In 1987, 

Mr. Allen got tired of “messing with the deer 

meat,” and Van volunteered to take over the 

job – at night. 

With an uncommon drive to grow his 

new business, he came up with a plan: 

“Capture the wife.” He knew most wives hated 

cleaning, deboning, and cutting the deer meat, 

so he began doing it for them and wrapping it 

in neat, labeled portions. It didn’t take long 

for the wives to insist that their hunters take 

their deer to Van’s. 

In five years, the business outgrew his 

space, and he built a larger operation. Bobby 

Cleveland, sports writer for the Clarion-Ledger, 

wrote an article on Van’s Rankin County wild 

game processing business, and as Van said, 

“It put us on the map.” Before the article, 

Van was processing two thousand deer a year. 


In the following year after the article, he 

processed six thousand deer. 

As an employer who insists on taking care 

of his employees, Van didn’t have enough work 

for them after deer season, so he began selling 

sporting goods. By this time, he was working 

in his daddy’s grocery and in his processing 

plant as well as in his pool hall he had opened. 

The dedicated work paid off! 

This marks the 25th anniversary of Van’s 

Sporting Goods and Deer Processing. The 

sprawling hunter’s paradise stocks close to ten 

thousand guns and processes twenty thousand 

deer per year. 

Van takes confidence in the operation of 

his business because of his scrutiny in hiring 

its employees. Todd Sarotte began work 

behind Van’s gun counter in 2007. 

Due to his occupational skills 

and commitment to the 

business, he was promoted 

to manager in 2014. 

When not on the floor dealing with customers, 

Todd sits at his desk covering a major 

responsibility of stocking while he monitors 

a screen showing coverage from ninety-six 

cameras in and outside the store. Todd 

describes Van as a “really good employer and 

always accommodating.” 

Todd shared an amusing story about 

his boss’s first dog that he would 

bring to the store – a black 

schnauzer that Van named 


TK. The kids loved petting TK and he 

became another friendly face among the 

customers. When TK died, Van bought 

another black schnauzer and named him TK. 

TK the II was followed by TK the III. For 

years of returning customers, TK was an 

amazing, long-lasting pet! 

Sam Moore is another employee that Van 

considers an exception in work ethic. He 

manages the deer processing department and 

works seven days a week for the entire deer 

hunting season. Van said that his own work 

ethic pales in comparison to Moore’s. 

Van believes customer service is the key to 

what makes the store. When he hires, he 

looks for friendly personalities who can relate 

with people and show initiative during the 

trial time that he initiates before hiring. 

In 2006, Van opened a second location in 

Cullman, Alabama, his wife’s hometown. 

With a hands-on attitude in his businesses, 

Van doesn’t have time for hobbies but does 

enjoy the days when the crappies are biting. 

The store’s generous parking lot is always 

filling with customers that can shop six days 

a week from 9 am to 6 pm and Sundays, 

noon to 6pm. With those hours of returning 

and new customers, Van doesn’t entertain any 

thoughts of retirement. As for the fear of 

failure, Van’s Sporting Goods totally targets 

that thought as “out of season!” n 




26 • October 2017 

Be the Light


Once you find the light at the end of the tunnel, 

become that light for others . . . 

There are very few times in my life that I can recall thinking 

to myself, “that was an absolutely terrible week.” An occasional 

bad day? Sure. But a whole week? Not that I can remember. But 

recent events have started to erode my optimism a bit and make 

me wonder if this is the new normal. Hurricanes and wildfires, 

earthquakes and epic flooding, the threat of nuclear conflict, 

24-hour doom-and-gloom news cycles, and a general sense of 

civil and political unrest have all played their part in undermining 

my broader sense of well-being. Frankly it’s becoming more 

and more challenging to stay above the fray in the midst of 

such negativity. 

While I’m usually a pretty positive person, I once made 

the critical social-media misstep of commenting on what 

seemed like a fairly benign political discussion among friends 

on Facebook, only to be completely hijacked and eventually 

eviscerated by a complete stranger. It took me days to get 

over it as I had never been the recipient of such a hostile and 

unprecedented lashing out by a keyboard warrior. And I’m no 

shrinking violet mind you . . . but nor am I able to function in 

a way that brings me joy while trying to think of the meanest 

thing I could possibly say in retaliation—all while salvaging 

my own sense of self-respect. 

I might should just stick to pictures of puppies and kittens. 

And baby goats. And Pinterest recipes. 

People just seem so angry. Maybe it’s a sign of the times– 

and finding the best during difficult times can, no doubt, be a 

daunting task. But here are a few things I’ve learned while trying 

to do it, nonetheless, despite what’s happening around me: 

You gotta take the bad with the good. They say that bad days 

make you appreciate the good days more. It’s that whole 

Yin-Yang thing, I suppose. It takes negative space to create 

balance with positive space. What would it be like if all we 

had was good days? Would we any longer know they’re good? 

So, even on your worst day, try to find something good. Life 

is always going to contain a little darkness. We have to focus 

on the light that will follow. 

Life’s not always fair. There are so many things that happen 

that we may never understand, or can explain, that seem 

completely unfair. Like, why do some people retain their health 

despite their poor lifestyle choices while others that live “by 

the book” are blind-sided with a life-changing diagnosis with 

no apparent reason or warning? Why do some enjoy great 

success without significant effort while others seem to struggle 

their entire lives? Why do some good people die young? These 

are all challenging questions to which I don’t know the answer. 

Sometimes life just hits you so hard it knocks your helmet off– 

but what defines us is how well we rise after falling. The point 

is to rise. Get back up, every time. 

Every day is a do-over. The best part of this life is that we are 

given the chance to start over every single day that we wake up. 

Don’t drag the negative with you from day to day like a dead 

body. You’re not obligated to give it a free ride. Move forward 

with thoughts and actions that empower you, not the ones that 

weaken you. This is your opportunity to begin again, so be 

intentional. This is your do-over. 

Make a “good things” list. One of the best ways I’ve found to 


stay optimistic when times are tough is to focus on 

what I have rather than what I don’t. Gratitude is one 

of the best tools for overcoming any difficulty and, as 

counter-intuitive as it may seem, it’s particularly 

beneficial when things aren’t going well. The incredible 

thing about gratitude is that once we realize all the 

things we have in our lives and all the things we can 

do, it unlocks a fullness of life and turns what we have 

into enough. 

Learn to harness your opinion–or should I say, 

“articulate your thoughts and views in a more 

constructive way.” Lordy! Never in my life have I seen 

so many opinions shared about things that either have 

absolutely nothing to do with the person sharing them 

or are communicated in such a way that it creates 

complete divisiveness and hostility. And when did it 

become acceptable to rebuke someone because they 

happen to think differently? We live in the Universal 

Age of Sharing. Let’s commit ourselves to doing it 

nicely. Otherwise it will be the downfall of civility. 

Find a place for faith. If you’re Christian, faith is not 

only the belief that Jesus Christ can save you, but it’s 

actually knowing that He’s on his way to do it—and 

that promise alone provides hope for many. But 

regardless of your religious beliefs, the point is that it’s 

important to believe in something. It’s been proven 

that people of faith have a greater sense of optimism 

than those without it. 

They say that how we respond to life ultimately 

defines our character. There are plenty of days I want 

to crawl under the coffee table and hide from the news 

and the mean people and the storms of life. But then 

I remember that I have a job to do. We all have jobs 

to do. Our jobs are to be the light in a dark world. 

To spread hope and joy any way we can. To show love 

when no one else does. 

So when it rains, look for rainbows—when it’s 

dark, look for stars! And when you can’t find the 

sunshine, BE the sunshine. That would go a long way 

toward making the world a better place. n 

(L-R): Karen Stockton (Oxford), Robby Carr (Madison), 

Warner Cannada (Highland Colony - Ridgeland), 

Daniel Barham (Jackson), Johnny Beck (Flowood) 

CHECKING THAT WORKS IN 

YOUR INTEREST 

You work hard for your money. 

Don’t you deserve a checking 

account that will help you make 

a little extra? Origin’s Trust Plus 

Checking account has up to 2.02% 

APY* for balances up to $30,000 

and free ATMs nationwide. It’s accessible and flexible, 

with no minimum balance to open and unlimited check 

writing, so you can relax and let your wallet pull its weight. 

www.Origin.bank 

Bank Original 

*Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate as of July 13, 2017. 2.02% Annual 

Percentage Yield (APY) on balances up to $30,000; for balances above $30,000, APY 

ranges from 2.02 APY - 0.10% depending on the balance in the account. To qualify 

for the 2.02% APY, you must sign up for Online Banking with Origin Bank, have 12 

posted (POS or signature based) debit card transactions per qualification cycle, make 

1 ACH debit or credit per qualification cycle, and receive a monthly eStatement. This 

monthly requirement will be calculated 3 days prior to the end of your statement cycle. 

If qualifications are not met, you will earn .10% APY. Rate may change after the account 

is opened; fees may reduce earnings. Available for personal accounts only. No cycle 

service charge. If account is closed within 90 days of opening, a fee of $25.00 will be 

charged to account holder. Limited to one account per depositor. Offer only available at 

Mississippi Origin Bank banking centers. 

MEMBER FDIC 


17ORIGIN204_HR_HP-V_R1.indd 1 

7/28/17 4:27 PM




Surely it has to be one of the most unusual occupations 

in Mississippi – a horologist who makes house calls! 

Some readers are thinking – what’s a horologist? 

Billy Fortenberry could answer any questions concerning horology – the study and 

measurement of time. That’s because he is a horologist, and he makes house calls to 

repair broken clocks. Whether he’s called a clock doctor or clock mechanic, he appears 

to be a master at his trade since 1990 when he began dabbling with clock repair. 

The hobby/occupation had its roots in a visit to an auction where Fortenberry 

purchased an antique clock in nonworking condition. He proceeded to try his hand 

at fixing it by removing its working parts, oiling them, and putting it back together. 

The clock regained life, and Fortenberry discovered a new love. 

When Fortenberry left his “real” job at Siemens to pursue other jobs, he said about 

horology, “It was my getaway from the world.” It was also the perfect fit for a man with 

brains, patience, and steady hands. 

Fortenberry lists Tom Isbell from South Jackson as being his first mentor. This was 

a major boost for Fortenberry’s education because at that time, elderly clock repairmen 

didn’t like sharing their knowledge for fear they could lose their business to upcoming 

repairmen. Isbell was a locksmith, owned a motorcycle shop and a clock repair business. 

His expertise in “clockwork” gave Fortenberry valuable information and knowhow in 

beginning his quest in horology. 


Three semesters in night school at Jones Junior College added to 

Fortenberry’s clock skills along with knowledge gleaned from his second 

mentor, Joel Dunipace of Ocean Springs. His philosophy concerning 

watch repair describes the value of his expertise: 

“If man made it, man can repair it.” 

Within time, news of Fortenberry’s talent spread due to connections 

he made through word of mouth and the National Association of Watch 

and Clock Collectors. He also joined the state’s Magnolia Chapter 41 

where he has written the newsletter for the last eight years and contributed 

numerous articles. Billy also served as chairman of the restoration 

committee that restored the tower clock in the Lyceum Building at the 

University of Mississippi. 

A native of Tylertown, Fortenberry has lived in Brandon for the past 

thirty-six years and is married to Judy Fortenberry, the Rankin County 

tax collector. They have ten grandchildren, but none seem to show a 

serious interest in carrying on their grandfather’s trade. 

Time-keeping has carried his business, Old Time Clock Shop, 

to multiple states and allowed him to bring life to valuable time 

pieces. His favorite challenges are grandfather clocks. His oldest 

repaired piece was a Lantern clock built in the 1600s. 

Fortenberry’s workshop in his backyard is small – perfect for 

all the small, myriad of pieces that he uses to put the “tick” back into 

clocks. Coils, springs, chiming tubes and delicate instruments line 

the table and shelves. His rule for any visitor, including the 

grandchildren, is: Don’t touch. I know where everything is! 

The phone rings often for this house-call horologist. The Delta is 

his favorite nearby area for his services. The homes along the river 

usually house the most valuable clocks – the works of art that need 

to return to their design of time-keeping. 

“And can you always repair a broken clock?,” I ask. Quicker than 

the swing of a grandfather clock’s pendulum, the accomplished 

doctor of clocks replied, “Oh yeah!” It’s obvious that time never 

stands still for long, once Horologist Billy Fortenberry touches the 

time piece. n 





Corkscrews & 

How Do You Do’s 

August 31 • Table 100 • Flowood, MS 

An evening of wine, hors d’oeurvres, 

music, and silent auction 








Pastor 

Appreciation 

October is Pastor Appreciation Month, and Hometown Rankin wants to 

celebrate those in our community who dedicate their lives to leading 

people to Christ. The work of a pastor surpasses simply preaching on Sundays– 

they invest in their congregations and communities to help facilitate love and 

peace for those in need, as well as celebrate with them in times of triumph. 

So take some time this month to show appreciation for everything 

your pastor does for your community and the Kingdom! 


Pastor Vic Bowman - Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church 

Bro. Vic Bowman has a true servant’s heart for God and for missions. 

He and his wife Martha are true blessings for Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church. 

– Sherri Hollingsworth 

Pastor Terry 

Hickory Ridge Baptist Church 

What I love about Bro. Terry is how 

well he can take the Bible and the word 

that God has given him and preach it 

in a way that is so easy to understand. 

- Dawn Frazier 

Pastor David Hertel 

Hope Fellowship 

From the day I met my Pastor David Hertel 

almost ten years ago, he has loved and 

supported my family. T here is not one part 

of him that doesn’t believe every word of the 

Bible to be true and he lives it out every 

single day! He is a treasure to us. 

– Wendy Ford 

Pastor Kevin Jones 

FBC Richland 

I love my pastor because he is a man 

that chases hard after the heart of God. 

He studies and preaches God’s word 

with passion and faithfulness. He has 

a burning desire to see the lost saved 

and the saved nourished and challenged 

towards greater maturity. He feeds us 

God’s word, loves us unconditionally, 

supports and protects us, and challenges 

us to walk in complete obedience. 

My pastor, my friend….we love 

and appreciate you Kevin Jones. 

– Mandi Boyanton 

Pastor Chip Henderson - Pinelake 

One of the things I love most about Pinelake Senior 

Pastor Chip Henderson is his ability to relate to his 

congregation. He delivers God’s word in a way that 

reaches everyone. Each time I leave church, I feel like 

the words he’s spoken that day were meant just for me. 

– Ruth Gullette 

Pastor John Dawson 

Brandon Presbyterian 

I appreciate my pastor, 

John Dawson, because he’s a 

real guy. He’s quick to point out 

that he has the same everyday 

struggles that I have: kids are 

tough to raise right, he hates to 

lose at anything (especially tennis), 

we have same barber, etc. He’s a 

friend as well as a spiritual leader. 

– Nat Whitten 

Pastor 

Mitchell Hedgepeth 

Brandon First United Methodist 

What I love most about 

my pastor is that he’s 

very relatable and he always 

makes everyone feel welcome. 

– Austin Bourne 

Pastor Chris Cumbest - Crossgates Methodist 

Chris Cumbest is a true asset to Crossgates Methodist Church. His devotion to Christ, in addition to the 

members and guests of the church, is above and beyond. When my wife and I went into the hospital for the 

scheduled delivery of our twins, we were all alone in the intake/prep area nervous about the arrival of not 

one but two babies. Unexpectedly, Chris walked in about 5:45am and said he just wanted to pray for us and 

our family along with the doctors and nurses that would be providing care for us. Chris Cumbest has truly left 

a permanent impression on our lives from his unselfishness, commitment to serve others, and his humble 

approach all while teaching us to serve as Jesus served. – Brian McGairity 

Father Gerry Hurley 

St. Paul Catholic Church 

We enjoy going to mass 

at St. Paul because Father Gerry 

Hurley is welcoming of everyone, 

open, down to earth, and very 

relatable. – Kelly Weissinger 

Father Lincoln Dall 

St. Jude’s Catholic Church 

It has been just a few months since our 

pastor, Father Lincoln Dall, came to St. Jude 

in Pearl. However, during this short period 

of time, I have come to recognize and am 

most inspired by his strong and deep faith, 

his dedication to the church and its people 

as well as his mission of proclaiming the 

Good News of our Lord Jesus Christ. I see 

him as a good shepherd for our flock. 

- Aggie Cunningham 

Rev. George Smith Jr. 

True Light 

Baptism Church 

Rev. George Smith, Jr. 

is a man of God that 

loves and cares about 

his members. 

- Ronnie Moore 

Pastor Jeremy Nottingham 

First Baptist Brandon 

What I love most about my pastor 

is that he’s very involved, driven, 

and relatable, but most importantly 

he’s extremely passionate about 

bringing people to Jesus Christ. 

- Jeremy Rushing 


Pastor Keith Grubbs 

Park Place Baptist 

What I love about my pastor is 

that he is genuine and strives 

to live his life above reproach. 

Pastor Keith is a great teacher 

of God’s word and exemplifies 

Jesus Christ in all he does. I am 

blessed to call him my friend.” 

– Michael Pollard 

Pastor Shannon Pullen 

The Tabernacle 

Every church and every saint 

believe, as they should, that their 

pastor and pastor’s wife are the 

best. The Tabernacle of Brandon 

is no exception to that rule. For 

the past eight years, Pastor 

Shannon Pullen and First Lady 

Melissa Pullen have nurtured us, 

cried with us, rejoiced with us, 

and been an unwavering rock 

for us. They exemplify the model 

given in Jeremiah 3:15, ‘And I will 

give you pastors according to mine 

heart, which shall feed you with 

knowledge and understanding.’ 

The saints and members of The 

Tabernacle are eternally grateful 

for the leadership, dedication, and 

the ‘banquet’ our hearts receive 

every time our pastor steps to 

the pulpit to preach. We love, 

appreciate, and pray for you, not 

only during Pastor’s Appreciation, 

but always. 

– Your Tabernacle Family. 

Pastor Ron Bird 

First Baptist Fannin 

Bro. Ron Bird is a very dedicated and 

passionate pastor. His love for the 

church and his congregation shines 

bright. We are most definitely blessed 

to have him as our pastor.” 

– Tiffany Best 

Pastor Jim Taylor - The Pointe Church 

Bro. Jim Taylor is genuine and sincerely cares. 

He doesn’t preach at you. He shares the word 

of God with you. – Barry Bean 

Pastor Bret Nettles 

River of Life AG 

Jim and I love Pastor Bret and 

Brittany because they have ears 

that listen to the Holy Spirit, 

hearts filled with compassion, 

hands eager to serve the community, 

and mouths filled with grace and 

wisdom. They love well and promote 

a culture of honor and gratitude 

in the congregation. We are blessed 

to call them out pastors and friends. 

– Chrystal Peery 

Pastors Jamane and Alecia Williams 

The Bridge Church 

Jeremiah 3:15 says, ‘And I will give you pastors according 

to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and 

understanding.’ Pastor Jamane and Pastor Alecia are the 

epitome of this verse. From the moment I entered The 

Bridge Church in 2013, love and acceptance were given 

to my daughter and me unconditionally. They have truly 

blessed our lives. I am a better believer, giver, mother, 

employee, friend, aunt, sister and the list goes on because 

of their love, leadership, teaching, support, prayers, and 

the true example they are as the ‘Pastors according to 

mine heart.’ - Brenda Watt 

Rev. Dr. Clifton Boggans 

Rock Star Missionary Baptist Church 

What I love about Pastor Boggans is his passion and 

love for the Word of God. It shows in his preaching, 

teaching and his living. – Naomi Pack Quite 

Pastor David Jett 

Crossgates Baptist Church 

God’s mark is evident on Brother David, 

and that makes him such an effective witness. 

He often speaks about raising his now-grown 

sons, and how he helped them understand God 

wants the best for them and He deserves the best 

from them. Brandon and Crossgates are blessed 

to have a Pastor that leads and directs us 

like he did his own children. 

– Hunter Hudson 

Pastor Guy Hughes 

Pelahatchie Baptist Church 

Guy Hughes is a pastor in every sense of the word. His love for the church is evident 

in the way that he interacts with everyone, from the youngest member to the senior adults. 

From Vacation Bible School to senior adult trips, he is an active participant, not just a 

spectator. He is passionate about serving outside the church as well, 

participating in many community events. Brother Guy is truly a man of God who 

lives out his faith every day....Neal and Scottii Mashburn 

Pastor Brad Randall - First Baptist Church Florence 

I love my pastor! Bro. Brad is young and forward-thinking, and he and Natalie bring fresh 

ideas to the ministry. God is using them to strengthen families and to help us grow deeper 

in our walk with the Lord. As a former youth pastor, Bro. Brad is able to open the scripture 

in a way that is particularly relevant for today’s culture. And he constantly challenges us 

toward a greater compassion for others. His love for all people reflects the heart of our 

Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave His life for all who come to Him in faith. We 

appreciate you, Brad Randall! - Janet Green 



“How could you not smile when you’re sitting in one?” 

laughed Mississippi Corvette Club President Freddie Jones. For him and other 

members of the club, anytime they get to talk about Corvettes is a good time. 

The club has been getting together to swap stories and go for cruises for over 

25 years with no end of the road in sight. With the first generation hitting the market 

in 1953, ‘America’s Sports Car’ has had nearly 65 years to gain a world-wide 

following, and it has definitely made its mark in Central Mississippi. 


Membership is granted to all who apply. Currently, the club has 

150+ members, including any spouses or family members that want 

to be involved with monthly meetings or activities. “It’s a social club,” 

Freddie said. Members get together about once a month to drive to a 

restaurant in different Mississippi towns; usually somewhere they 

can drive there and back in about 100 miles. They share a great meal, 

cover some business matters, and just enjoy the ride. 

In addition to their local and state drives, the club also 

participates in caravans and trips to see other Corvette clubs around 

the United States. “Several of us drove to Corpus Christi, Texas, to 

take part in an event on the deck of the aircraft carrier, Lexington,” 

said Tom Gerity, vice president of the club. “We parked nearly 

300 Corvettes on the flight deck and it was an absolute hoot!” 

he explained. 

Other trips have included laps around Texas Motor Speedway, 

Talladega, and a special drive up to the Corvette manufacturing 

plant and museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Unfortunately, 

the great Corvette sink hole of 2014 took a few show room beauties 

down to the depths of its pit, but some were able to be restored 

and put back out for future viewing pleasure. 


The Mississippi Corvette Club car show is held annually at the 

Jackson Convention Complex. Participating vehicles can be entered in 

the Sponsor’s Choice Awards as ‘stock’ or ‘modified’ meaning they are 

like new from the factory, or they have had after-market modifications. 

Some interesting alterations have been made to the cars over the years 

including a Corvette that was airbrushed and decorated to commemorate 

all things Tweety Bird, and another called “The Time Machine” which 

had custom paint everywhere, including inside the hood, on the engine, 

and in the trunk. There is even a Batmobile! Plaques and trophies are 

awarded to those selected as 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in their car 

generation category. 

The club has partnered with the Diabetes Foundation of Mississippi for 

the past three years to raise money for diabetes research. They’ve had a 

lot of help from major sponsors like Central Mississippi Chevy Dealers 

and Rogers-Dabbs Chevrolet. Funds are also raised through entry fees 

for contestants, rented booth space for vendors, and the sale of donated 

items in a silent auction. Their contributions have grown exponentially 

throughout the partnership starting with a $25,000 donation the first 

year, $27,000 the next, and this year’s donation came in at a whopping 

$33,000. All proceeds from their car shows (less the cost of expenses) 

are donated directly to the Foundation. 

Choosing a charity to support was an easy decision for the group. 

“We’re real sold on this organization,” said Tom. “We wanted someone 

who would partner with us in hosting the event and not just show up 

when the money was counted to get a check.” Freddie added that the 

club wanted to find a partner where all the money that was raised 


would stay in Mississippi and help Mississippians. The Foundation was 

a perfect fit. During one of their monthly meetings, the group was asked 

to raise their hand if they themselves, a family member, or even a close 

friend had diabetes. “Every hand in the room went up,” exclaimed Tom. 

That really resonated with the group, so they have put a lot of work and 

effort into supporting the cause while having a good time. 

With seven generations worth of models to consider, each club 

member has their own specific preferences as to what makes one 

Corvette more desirable over another. Some are only interested in 

fifth-generation models, while another might be infatuated with the 

original C1 model. Many enthusiasts have spent countless amounts of 

time and money on customizing their vehicles to suit their personalities 

and other interests. Freddie tends to like the newer generations himself. 

“It does bother me, but I’ve adjusted,” he said concerning the tail light 

redesign the Corvette has undergone the past few years. “The thing that 

kind of wins me over [about a newer model] is the way it handles and 

drives.” What once was a jerky and bumpy ride has been re-engineered 

to be smooth and comfortable. 

The Corvette has left a set of scorched tire mark on the historic 

road of classic American sports cars. It makes a bold statement, and 

growls with a raw fury of energy raring to get up and go. The members 

of the Mississippi Corvette Club are passionate about that history, and 

about leaving a legacy of philanthropy. Whether they love the old or new, 

these Corvette enthusiasts are cruising in style for a great cause. n 



Compassionate, 

Professional Home Care 

Extensively screened. Carefully matched. 

Learn more about our detailed 

personnel selection process by calling 

601-933-0037 or visiting our website. 

www.SouthernHealthcare.com 

301 New Pointe 

Ridgeland, MS 39157 

At Southern Healthcare we evaluate our future team members 

with one of the industry’s most rigorous screenings, involving 

in-depth pre-employment interviews. We know our employees 

are the best of the best. And for each assignment, we look closely 

at both patient needs and employees’ special skillsets, including 

using RN assessments for all home care cases to insure 

a meticulous match. 

Quality outcomes depend on quality care. That’s why when you 

choose Southern Healthcare, for quality care that provides 

Learn more about our detailed 

personnel selection process by calling 

601-933-0037 or visiting our website. 

www.SouthernHealthcare.com 



Good RogueHunting 


A man and his dog are some of the 

best friends you’ll find in this world. 

In addition to providing unconditional love 

and companionship, dogs work hard for their 

owners. Whether it be on a farm rounding up 

livestock, or in the wilderness sniffing out prey, 

a good dog will always get the job done. 

Greg Stanton was a lifelong Labrador 

retriever fan and owner, but four years of hunting 

trips with his friend Hugh and his dog, Cricket, 

opened Greg’s eyes to a whole new kind of 

four-legged friend: the Pudelpointer. “I had 

never even heard of them,” he said. Hugh had 

researched dog breeds for years trying to weed 

out the best hunting companion and decided 

that this wiry-haired, honey-eyed pooch met 

all of his criteria. 

Out of hundreds of different breeds - each 

curated for specific traits and abilities - the 

Pudelpointer is perhaps one of the rarest and 

most adaptable. Originating in Germany in the 

mid-19th century, the Pudelpointer is a mix of 

the German hunting poodle and an English 

pointer. The breed was not brought to America 


until 1956, and has had a slow but steady 

growth in popularity. Categorized as a versatile 

breed, these are a kind of “all purpose” dog that 

possess traits like high intelligence, a love of water 

and retrieving, pointing instinct, trainability, 

and a generally happy disposition. “They’re just 

awesome!” said Greg enthusiastically. 

Because he was friends with the owner of 

Cricket, the stud dog, Greg was able to hop to 

the front of a 70+ name list of people hoping to 

adopt from the breeders at Juniper Creek down 

in Florida. Their rarity and growing popularity 

is putting Pudelpointers in high demand. Greg 

believes that, according to the North American 

cracklin business my entire life,” laughed Greg, 

so it was easy to come up with a middle name 

like Cracklin. Greg also attributes his role as a 

“rogue salesman” for Rudolph Foods to his dog’s 

mysterious-sounding name. 

“He is a clown” said Greg. “He’s happy 

100% of the time and always doing goofy things.” 

Rogue loves to chew on a circle bone and play 

around with his forever family. But when it 

comes time to hunt, Rogue gets serious and down 

to business. Aiding in nearly 50 hunts in his first 

year alone, Rogue retrieved approximately 

60 ducks, and pointed, flushed, and retrieved 

almost 30 pheasants. “It’s definitely the breed 

Versatile Hunting Dog Association, there are as 

few as seven Pudelpointers in the state of 

Mississippi. With that sort of availability, it’s good 

to have friends in high places! 

Juniper Creek Cracklin Rogue, or Rogue for 

short, has been by Greg’s side for two years now. 

While having four names for a single dog might 

seem a bit silly, dogs are traditionally named 

first for the kennel where they were bred, second 

to correspond with what alphabetical litter they 

were a part of (Rogue being a member of litter C), 

and third by a name of the owner’s choosing. 

“I have actually been in the pork rind and 

and not training,” said Greg. Rogue’s natural 

ability to concentrate on the task at hand has 

made him an indispensable part of Greg’s hunting 

arsenal. But bring him back home from the 

fields, and Rogue is back to his playful self. 

“He’ll sit in your lap and just love you,” said Greg. 

The right dog is like the right fit of blue jeans; 

you find it and you know it’s a winner for life. 

Rogue has become as dependable and loved 

as a good pair of Levi’s in the Stanton household. 

A glance into his kind eyes shows the warmth 

of his personality and the goodness of a hunter 

and friend. n 


“ 

He is 

a clown. 

He’s happy 

100% of the 

time and 

always 

doing goofy 

things. 

” 




R.E.A.L. 

Christian 

FOUNDATION 

WELCOMING 

RECEPTION 

AUGUST 31 

OLD CAPITOL INN 





The 

Hunting 

DOG 

Happiness is a good 

gun, a great dog and 

just the right spot. 

Rylee 

Labrador Retriever 

Owner: Brandon Johnston 

Gage 

Yellow Labrador Retriever 

Owner: Chelsa Jones 

RAINEE 

Chocolate Labrador Retriever 

Owner: Chris Hopkins 

Willow 

Black Labrador Retriever 

Owner: Greg Owen 

Rogue 

Pudelpointer 

Owner: Greg Stanton 

Ava 

German Shorthaired Pointer 

Owners: Ryan & Haley Collins 


Hometown Rankin recently hosted a photo contest on our Facebook page 

asking for your best shots of your hunting dog. There was a great 

response and we had tons of pooches and pups submitted. 

Some posed next to their hunting trophies while majestically staring 

off into the middle-distance, and others just played around and smiled 

for the camera. After deliberating over all of the submissions, 

these are a few of our favorites! 

Beau 

Chesapeake Bay Retriever 

Owners: Jennifer & Shelby Warren 

Bailey 


Owner: Katie Watson 

REBEL 

Black Labrador Retriever 

Owner: Lindsey Kirkland 

Gabby 


Owner: Melissa Shanks 

Teal 

American Lab 

Owner: Peyton Sharplin 

Gus 

Deutsch Drahthaar 

Owner: Andrew Forrest 


UNDENIABLY 

NEW 

FACILITIES 

It’s no secret--we’re growing! 

Coming fall of 2018, Hartfield 

will open the doors to a 

new, state of the art 

facility including 2 

collegiate level 

science labs, an IT 

center, new high 

school building, 

theatre, and a new 

practice gym. 

Schedule a tour of our campus today! 

ENROLLMENT BEGINS FEB. 1, 2018 

601.992.5333 | HARTFIELD.ORG 


DECK the 

Table 

Order today! 

We have you covered from whole meats starting at $49 95 to complete meals starting at $89 95 

Brandon 

1323 W Government St 

769.241.5151 

Flowood 

268 Dogwood Blvd 

601.992.4200 

Madison 

175 Grandview Blvd 

601.605.4025 

Richland 

1201 Hwy 49 S #5 

601.487.8139 

©2017 Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. Pricing and participation may vary. 



For the 

Love of the 

Outdoors 

DANI EDMONSON 

If someone were to say to Kristy 

Halle, “Outdoor sports are best suited 

for a man,” her reply might be, “I beg 

to differ. Come spend a day on the 

water or in the woods with me!” 

She was born on August 31, 1981, 

to a family that spent most of their 

time outdoors which embedded her 

addiction to outdoor living very early 

on. “We raised cattle and grew large 

gardens to help support our family,” 

she recalls. Living in the country, off a 

gravel road without access to cable 

TV or internet meant she needed to 

find other ways to fill the days. “The 

outdoors was my entertainment,” she 

states without regret. As early as five 

years old, she thinks back when it 

began: “One of my earliest memories 

was my dad building a pond on our 

land, and I would put on my rubber 

boots and go play in the bottom of it 

as it was just beginning to fill up. I 

remember thinking, ‘I can’t wait for 

this pond to be full and the fish to be 

big enough so I can fish in it.’” It took 

years for that pond to become a 

fruitful fishing site, but once she knew 

throwing a bait would result in catching 

fish, she said she spent countless hours 

on their pier fishing for bream without 

help from anyone. 

Living off the grid had its challenges, 

but Kristy made the most of it. 

“Although I longed to have neighborhood 

friends like many of the kids at 

school, there was something about 

that alone time that allowed me to just 

ponder all of life’s questions, and find 

security in who I was.” 

Being an only child until she was 

five (when her sister Kimberly was 

born) led her to seek the company of 

those who, too, enjoyed the outdoors. 

“I would go to my grandparents’ 

house and spend time with my 

cousins who happened to both be 

boys.” This is when she added hunting 

to her list of preferred activities. “My 

grandfather hunted and fished, and he 

would let us tag along if we were quiet 

and behaved. He was a strict man, so 

you knew if you went you had better 

be ready to sit quietly and for quite 

some time,” she added. Being seen 

but not heard during these hunting 

and fishing trips helped her to learn 

about the value of being still and just 

listening to nature. “We deer hunted, 

rabbit hunted, squirrel hunted, and 

fished. We did it all,” she said. “I 

learned about all sorts of guns, and at 

10-years old, probably knew more 


than most boys about different calibers 

and ballistics.” 

“My first real gun, other than my 

Daisy BB gun, was passed down from 

my dad who had it himself as a child, 

although he never really hunted. It was a 

bolt action 410 shotgun,” she explained. 

“I quickly graduated from that gun to 

a single shot 20 gauge - the gun I 

killed my first deer with.” Talent 

should be rewarded, so eventually her 

father bought her a Remington Model 

Seven 7mm-08. Deer hunting from 

a stand became a norm for her. 

Her weapons’ skills gave her the 

freedom to hunt alone at a young age. 

“When I was 11-years old, mom and 

dad began letting me go sit on our 63 

acres of land and hunt by myself from 

the ground.” She states this was a 

life-changing year for her. “I surrendered 

my life to Christ that year, which 

was the most important decision I 

believe one can make.” This lifealtering 

commitment was coupled 

with her first successful deer hunt. 

Something only a true outdoorsman 

(or woman) can understand. “I killed 

my first deer, and I was pumped 

because I was on my dad’s land, and it 

was all by myself,” she proclaims. After 

that “adrenaline rush of killing my 

first deer,” she said she was hooked 

with the outdoors and loving it even 

more because, “it became a time when 

I could talk to God and admire His 

creations.” 

“During my childhood summers, 

I would stay with my grandparents 

out in Simpson County with my 

male cousins while my parents were 

working,” she said. “We played in 

creeks, fished, played baseball, rode 

our bikes, and even built clubhouses 

when our grandparents didn’t have us 

picking watermelons, and shelling 

butterbeans and peas.” 

When she started high school, she 

tried to spend time with friends going 

to church socials or the movies, but 

the call of the wild still embraced her. 

“I still had it in my bones to be 

outside,” she said. “I picked up playing 

basketball and developed a love for 

sports both indoor and outdoors,” 

Halle said. “I recall during my senior 

year my best friend Laura and her 

dad would go turkey hunting at my 

parent’s land before school. We 

would hunt, and then her dad would 

drop us off at school right before 8 a.m. 

just in time to change out of our camo 

and head to class.” 

College then called. “I remember 

asking God for a man that had a 

passion for Him and people, and 

please help it be someone that loves 

the outdoors as much as I do!” God 

answered that prayer her freshman 

year at Hinds Community College. 

As if it happened yesterday she recalls, 

“I was sharing my testimony with a 

group of students at the Baptist 

Children’s Village in Jackson with 

our Baptist Student Union (BSU).” 

It happens another BSU group joined 

them that day. “A handsome, blue-eyed 

guy had shared a message of the 


Gospel just before I shared my 

testimony. I thought hmmm...he’s 

really cute and he definitely cares 

about God and people.” Since she 

had asked for such an opportunity, she 

knew she had to follow through. “After 

the service was over, we all walked out 

to his truck to ride together to eat 

lunch. He had a big Chevy truck 

with 4x4…he really had my attention.” 

Then the dream was realized. “He 

opened the door for us to get in, but 

had to move all his hunting clothes 

and stuff. Basically the back seat 

looked like a Wal-Mart sporting goods 

section.” So he’s a godly man, drives a 

4x4, and likes to hunt? Yes, God is 

indeed good. Time for the deal-breaker 

question, “How many deer have you 

killed?” 

They became friends–and then 

more than friends while she was 

attending MSU. “We hunted together, 

fished together, watched MSU games 

together, and rode four wheelers 

together,” adding those were typical 

date nights. They married in July of 

2003, and after almost 15 years of bliss, 

she said their “dates” are still the same. 

“We hunt, kayak fish, or just check 

wild game cameras–it makes for a 

great date.” She felt compelled to add 

an encouraging side note to females 

intimated by hunting and fishing: 

“Until recently, I had killed more deer 

than Kevin. Now he’s ahead of me.” 

If they find themselves bored with 

freshwater fishing, or just to add some 

spice to the marriage, they jump in a 

kayak and saltwater fish. “I remember 

one Valentine’s Day morning when I 

walked in my classroom at Brandon 

Middle School where I teach, and 

Kevin had purchased a new fishing rod 

and reel!” If only all women were that 

easy to please. 

“We spend a lot of time camping 

with our four-legged child Maddie, a 

black lab,” she said. “We find enjoyment 

in that because we like it better 

than traveling and staying in hotels 

because, once again, we are able to 

be outdoors.” 

She appeals to others to get outside. 

“I love the smell of the outdoors from 

fresh cut hay, to pine trees, to a good 

campfire blowing across the lake that 

I can smell from my kayak. I love the 

sound of the outdoors: the crickets, 

the frogs on a summer night. The 

hoot owls early in the morning. The 

birds singing. It relaxes me, it revives 

my soul. It gives me those moments 

that I connect with my Creator.” 

Although she enjoys hunting and 

fishing, trophy catches or hunts are not 

on her agenda. “It is not my goal to 

always kill the biggest or catch the 

biggest, but to spend another moment 

enjoying God’s creation.” 

She is passionate about hunting 

and fishing to the point she will share 

any secret she has. You can ask her 

about a preferred weapon, be it a 

certain firearm or a favorite rod/reel 

and bait, and she does not see that as a 

threat to her place in the great outdoors. 

“I would encourage everyone, male or 

female, to turn the TV off, put the cell 

phone and computer away, and get 

outdoors. Find a place of solitude and 

listen to the birds singing and smell 

the outdoor aroma. There is nothing 

like it.” 

Halle insists you do not have to be 

a man to enjoy the outdoors, nor do 

you have to be the best at fishing or 

hunting. “Find an afternoon just to go sit 

and watch a sunset. Just get out there and 

enjoy the solitude. God created it for 

us to see His glory–and I see it each 

time I spend time in His creation.” n 





Identity 

Theft Today 

Keeping Your 

Family Safe?

Identity theft’s origin goes back 

in time to Genesis, the 27th chapter, 

where Jacob stole Esau’s identity. 

Esau did not have a social security 

number or credit cards, yet his 

identity was taken by his brother; 

causing him much agony. 

Today, the Federal Trade Commission, 

along with other federal 

agencies, classifies identity theft as 

the “fastest growing white-collar 

crime in America today”. 

When speaking at functions, I ask 

people to give me their definition of 

identity theft. Most will define it in 

terms of credit cards and banking. 

However, depending on the statistics 

you read, financial identity theft 

only makes up around 23-27% of the 

crime. In addition to financial, there 

are six other areas that furnish this 

crime: 

• Character/Criminal 

• Driver’s License 

• Social Security 

• Medical 

• Synthetic 

• Children 

Identity theft reminds me of 

cancer; hitting you from multiple 

angles. It could be a lost purse or 

billfold/wallet, stolen mail, or 

someone going through your trash 

or stealing your personal information 

from your place of work. 

A lady in Mississippi was stopped 

for speeding on I-55. When the 

trooper ran her driver’s license he 

came back and told her, “You’re 

under arrest for DUI evasion in San 

Diego”. Shocked she replied, “I’ve 

never been to San Diego”. The 

trooper said, “Yes ma’am,” and took 

her in accompanied by a warrant for 

her arrest. Would a monitoring 

product have helped her in this 

situation? What she needed in this 

event was legal advice; not credit 

monitoring. More than 50% of the 

time, identity theft can become a 

legal issue. And while I do believe 

that credit monitoring is important, 

I also recommend a product with 

restoration benefits that has options 

for legal counsel. 

Is your family safe? 

Texting has become a way of 

communication for every age. Cyber 

criminals are increasingly targeting 

victims through smartphone’s with 

a scam called “smishing” that can 

infect your mobile device and allow 

thieves to steal your personal 

information. Thieves send out 

millions of these text messages 

every single day from children to 

grandmothers and everybody in 

between. 

Today, when a newborn child 

enters the world, they leave the 

hospital with a social security 

number. According to different 

statistics, children are 51 more 

times vulnerable to victimization 

than adults. 

Their identities are a hot commodity 

in the underground market 

for stolen IDs. In fact, a recent study 

by Debix, shows the number of 

young victims is steadily growing. 

Thieves have discovered that an 

unused social security number is 

particularly valuable. In a moment, 

they can choose any name or 

birthday they want, making it 

incredibly flexible. The worst part is 

it can be years before the crime is 

ever detected. When a child turns 

18, their risks get higher as they 

embark on a journey of firsts: 

Getting a job, applying for credit 

cards and student loans, and moving 

out on their own. 

In one case, a 17-year-old Arizona 

girl found herself $725,000 in debt 

with 42 open accounts including 

mortgages, car loans and credit 

cards. Her social security number 

was linked to eight suspects. 

So what can parents do? 

Social sites that our kids use, like 

Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, 

should be monitored by a parent or 

adult. How much information should 

be put on Facebook? As little as 

possible. I guarantee you identity 

thieves are looking in any place they 

can to gain personal information. On 

most Facebook pages I can find out 

where each parent works, how many 

children they have and where those 

kids attend school. I can also find out 

if they have a dog and what size, and 

also when they are going on vacation 

and how long. 

There are several red flags that 

you can look for: If your children 

start getting credit card applications 

or magazine subscriptions, there’s a 

good possibility that their personal 

information has been compromised. 

If parents notice any of the red flags 

or become suspicious they need to 

seek legal advice and not ignore it. 

Parents should safeguard their 

child’s personal information as 

fiercely as they would guard their 

own. The three exceptions for giving 

out your children’s social security 

number are healthcare, taxes and 

school. 

There is no product or silver 

bullet that will protect you from 

all levels of identity theft. In my 

research, I have found several 

programs that I recommend. For 

information on my findings, please 

email me at dancarmstrong@aol.com 

and I will send you information 

and a link. 

_________________________________ 

Dan Armstrong is certified by the Institute of 

Fraud Risk Management as a Certified Identity Theft 

Risk Management Specialist. You may contact him at 

dancarmstrong@aol.com 

Dan will be leading an ID Theft Seminar on November 17th 

at Brandon Municipal Complex. 


Why take your business or your skills anywhere 

else? As the leading independent staffing agency 

in the market, we consistently attract the 

finest candidates and match them with the best 

companies in the area. And because we’ve always 

been locally owned, you’ll be dealing with staffing 

experts who are invested in, and responsive to, the 

local business community. 

STAY LOCAL. SEE RESULTS. 

As the largest independently owned 

staffing service in Mississippi, we 

can customize a wide range of 

solutions for our clients and provide 

a plethora of opportunities for our 

employees. We’re large enough to 

provide services to big corporations 

but just the right size for smaller 

companies, too. 

Whether you’re looking 

for work or need 

employees, we can 

assist you with a variety 

of positions, including: 

- forklift 

- assembly 

- warehouse 

- janitorial 

IF YOU’RE 

READY TO GET ON 

BOARD, CONTACT 

US TODAY! 

- administrative 

- call center 

- accounting & finance 

- marketing & sales 

and much more... 

JACKSON 601-353-4200 | CANTON 601-859-8860 | MCCOMB 601-250-0800 

www.tempstaff.net 


• LASIK VISION 

CORRECTION 

• COMPLETE 

EYE HEALTH 

Anh Giang Edwards, OD 

Melissa R asmussen, OD 

Michael Phillips, OD 

Julie Dawson, OD 

Jimbo Bearden, OD 

• DISEASES OF 

THE EYE 

• EYE INJURIES 

• DRY EYE 

THERAPY 

• CATARACT 

SURGERY 

• DIABETIC 

EYE CARE 

Brandon Office: (601) 825-8300 

Canton Office: (601) 859-3464 

Madison Office: (601) 605-2259 

Ridgeland Office: (601) 957-9292 

Yazoo City Office: (662) 746-4312 — WWW.OPTICAL2000.COM — 


Giving 

Back 

Melanie McMillan 


“To whom much 

is given, much is 

required”, a familiar 

quote to most, could well be 

the motto of Rankin County 

businessman Don Wynne and 

his wife Beth. The couple has 

lived in Rankin County since 

1998, but Don’s story begins 

in Lexington, Mississippi, 

where he was born. The second 

of six children, he learned the 

value of hard work helping in 

the family restaurant along 

with his siblings. Growing up, 

there wasn’t much downtime. 

“Between working at the 

restaurant, replacing roofs, 

and getting in the hay on the 

farm,” Don says, “there wasn’t 

much time for anything else!” 

After high school, Don was 

awarded a basketball scholarship 

to Holmes Community 

College, performing so well 

that he was recently inducted 

into the Hall of Fame. He 

went on to Mississippi State 

where he earned a business 

degree. While at State, Don 

met the love of his life, Beth, 

and they have been married 

since 1970. Their family has 

grown to include a son, 

Ryan, his wife, Jessica and 

two grandchildren, Summer 

and Jackson. 

Don and Beth have been 

blessed to own not one, but 

two successful restaurants in 

the metro area. Their 

partnership with the Sonny’s 

chain began in 1985 when 

they purchased the Sonny’s in 

Jackson with their friend Bill 

Haddox. Twelve years later, 

they opened what is now a 

Brandon landmark, their 

second Sonny’s location. 

The restaurant has been very 

successful, in more ways than 

one, earning the first 

“Humanitarian Award” in the 

Sonny’s chain. Don takes the 

success in stride, however, 

graciously giving credit where 

he feels it is due. “We feel so 

blessed to have the support 

from our local community 

and the surrounding cities,” 

Don says, “The city has a 

great staff of people to work 

with you and to protect you 

and your business.” General 

manager Robbie Martin has 

been with the restaurant from 

the beginning and is Don’s 

right-hand man. “Robbie, 

his wife Ginger, and their 

two boys have been a part 

of our lives for a long time. 

Robbie has allowed Beth 

and me the opportunity to 

spend a lot of time at our 

lodge in Holmes County.” 

The Wynnes have hosted 

many people at “WestWynne 

Farms” over the years, including 

close friend and founder of 

Sonny’s, Sonny Tillman, and 

wanted to extend that 

hospitality to those who might 

not have an opportunity 

otherwise. Having a soft spot 

for young people, Don and 

Beth joined with an organization 

called “A Hunt Above”, 

which provides hunting 

experiences for children with 

special needs. For several years, 

the couple has used their lodge 

and timberland to host hunts 

for these children. 

Don and Beth had no idea 

the impact that the children 

would have on them. “We 

didn’t realize that this experience 

would be so rewarding 

and inspiring to us,” Don says, 

“These kids all seem to have a 

great outlook on life, in spite 

of their hardships. I have never 

had a bad day in my life since 

hosting these kids. I shed many 

tears, but they were tears of joy.” 

One young man in 

particular made quite an 

impression on Don. Nick 

Santonastasso was fourteen 

years old when he hunted 

with Don. A New Jersey 

native, Nick was born with 

Hanhart Syndrome, a very 

rare condition causing him 

to be born with no legs and 

one arm. Now 21 years old, 

Nick is a fitness athlete, 

model, motivational speaker, 

and the CEO of Raw Mettle 

Motivations. He has accomplished 

many things in his life, 

thanks to a supportive family 

and his sheer determination. 

Nick has been fortunate to 

be able to travel all over the 

world but remembers well 

his trip to the hunting lodge 

in Mississippi. “Mr. Don’s 

place is incredible, like a big 

playground. From the moment 

my dad and I walked in, he 

treated us like family. Mr. Don 

generously shares what he has 

with others. He is an amazing 

human being.” One thing 

Nick remembers vividly is the 

shooting house, which was 

built large enough to accommodate 

wheelchairs. Nick 

harvested an 8 point buck 

weighing over 200 pounds, 

and Mississippi Outdoors was 

on hand to film the hunt. 

Over the years, Don and 

Beth have hosted almost 20 

children, partnering not only 

with “A Hunt Above” but also 

with Bass Pro and Mississippi 

Wildlife on the Kids Super 

Hunt. It’s hard to say who 

enjoys the hunts more, the 

kids or Don. “Most of us get 

so frustrated and discouraged 

when everything doesn’t go 

perfectly, but these kids all 

have smiles on their faces 

and are grateful for the 

simplest things. I have been 

so blessed to be a part of 

these kids’ lives.” n 



Hometown Rankin 

READER 

SPOTLIGHT 

Terri 

Wood 

Why did you decide to make Rankin County 

your home? 

I married into Rankin County and quickly made 

Richland my home. 

How long have you lived in Rankin County? 

I have lived in Rankin County for 36 years. 

Tell us about your family. 

I am married to Jack Wood, who is the most 

selfless man I know. He loves doing things for 

people and his family, he has such a servant’s 

heart. God has blessed me with a wonderful 

husband and two beautiful daughters Emily and 

Katie. Emily is married to Ryan Chance and they 

have two precious boys, John Parker (4) and Eli 

(9 months). Katie is married to Chris Allen and 

they have one beautiful daughter, Kennedy Claire 

(2). They both live in Richland which means we 

get to see our grandchildren almost every day and 

we love that. We love sports, playing games and 

enjoy going to see the MSU Bulldogs play. We 

are active members of First Baptist Church 

Richland. We love our church and our church 

family. 

What are some fun things to do in Rankin 

County on the weekend? 

There are many things to do in Rankin County; 

Braves game, Reservoir, shopping, etc. I like our 

hometown events as well–Richland’s Movies 

under the Stars, being one of my favorite. I love 

seeing all the families come out for this. 

What is your favorite memory of living 

in Rankin County? 

It is hard to think of one favorite memory in 

Rankin County as I have had so many through 

the years. Many of my favorite memories have 

centered around 49 Fest, formerly known as 

Richland Day. I love watching our community 

come together for a day of fun. The many Lawn 

Mower Races we have had in past years have been 

so fun to watch—from the stock class where it is 

all about the costumes and performance to the 

outlaw class where it is all about the speed. They 

brought joy and a smile to everyone’s face and 

those memories are forever etched into my mind. 

The Lawn Mower Races will hopefully make 

another appearance in the years to come. 

Where are your three favorite places to 

eat in Rankin County? 

We love to go to the Half Shell Oyster House, 

Jerry’s Fish House, and I like to support our local 

Richland restaurants as well. 

Share some things you enjoy doing in your 

spare time. 

Spare time is often hard to find, but I love to go 

fishing with my husband. It’s relaxing to me. 

What are three things on your bucket list? 

Go snow skiing just one more time (the first time 

I was terrified and really thought I had broken 

my ankles when I took off my ski boots), travel 

on a Viking Riverboat Cruise, and a month-long 

beach trip. 

Who is someone you admire and why? 

I admire my two sisters, Andrea and Judy. I admire 

them for their strength and faithfulness to 

overcome life’s adversities. We laugh, we cry and 

they inspire me to be a better person. They love 

the Lord. We are very close and our families are 

very close. That is how our parents raised us. 

I mean, who goes on vacation every year to the 

beach with about 32 family members...for a week! 

We do. This is us. 

Where do you see yourself ten years 

from now? 

Hopefully retired...but I love my job so much they 

may have to make me leave. 

What is your favorite childhood memory? 

My grandparents had a farm in the country. 

I loved going there for Christmas and staying 

weeks with them in the summer–playing 

outside all day in the hayloft. I would wake up 

every morning to the smell of bacon, eggs and 

cinnamon toast. It was such a simple life back then. 

If you could give us one encouraging 

quote, what would it be? 

Do everything for the glory of God. 

– 1 Corinthians 10:31. 

What is your favorite thing about 

Hometown Magazines? 

The articles are so heartfelt and the colorful 

pictures are just so refreshing. The magazine just 

makes you feel good. n 




Hunters around the country wait anxiously for the opening of deer 

season every fall. With rifles and bows at the ready, they head out into 

the woods to bag their prey. While some outside of the hunting culture 

may see it simply as a sport to collect taxidermy trophies or put 

sausages on the breakfast table, the work of these hunters is actually 

contributing to conservation efforts of the white-tailed deer population. 


Whitetails Unlimited, established in 1982 in Sturgeon Bay, 

Wisconsin, is a national nonprofit conservation organization 

that aims to dedicate their resources “to the betterment of the 

white-tailed deer and its environment.” They have over 600 

chapters nationwide, most of which are in the northeastern 

United States. In the past five or six years, though, chapters in 

Mississippi have been forming rapidly, and the membership 

numbers keeps growing. In fact, over 650 people recently 

attended one of their events in Brandon. 

People wishing to join Whitetails Unlimited can do so by 

filling out their online application and sending in the annual 

membership fee of $23 or by attending one of their banquets 

and registering there. Volunteers help by selling tickets to these 

banquets, selling sponsorships, and collecting donations for live 


and silent auctions. Booths are 

also set up at events like the 

Wildlife Extravaganza. Funds 

raised by the organization go 

toward researching deer populations, 

health, diseases, bag limits, 

education, and sustaining herds. 

A visit to their website at 

whitetailsunlimited.com will 

provide a plethora of resources on 

conservation efforts, educational 

pamphlets, upcoming events 

calendars, hunting tips, and even 

places to enter contests to show 

off your hunting skills! Whether 

it be for sport or for food, these 

hunters are doing their part to 

help sustain a healthy deer 

population all over the country. n 


A cutting-edge bank makes your day 

more efficient and easier than ever. 

• The technology you need to put all your day-to-day 

banking activities on-screen, right in front of you. 

• The CB2GO mobile app allows you to check account 

balances, pay bills, make deposits, transfer funds and 

get a wealth of important and helpful information 

wherever you are, whenever you need to. 

• Apple Pay makes payments simple and convenient. 

W. GOVERNMENT ST / 601-825-4323 

SPILLWAY RD / 601-203-2500 

FLOWOOD / 601-919-4200 

PEARL / 601-939-7979 

• COMMUNITYBANK.NET • MEMBER FDIC 


IS YOUR 

INSURANCE AGENT 

TIED DOWN 

TO ONE COMPANY? 

INDEPENDENT AGENTS 

HAVE FREEDOM OF CHOICE. 

Trusted Choice ® Independent Agents have the freedom to shop many reputable 

companies at once. You get the benefit of competitive pricing with the convenience 

of a one-stop shop. The only one they’re tied to is you. 

Find your independent agent. Find a better deal at trustedchoice.com 

Free to do what’s right for you ṢM 

LET’S TALK ABOUT WHAT 

FREEDOM OF CHOICE CAN DO FOR YOU. 

Insurance Associates 

of Rankin County 

Steven Wallace | 601-825-5242 

1301 West Government Street, Suite 105 

Brandon, Mississippi 




AUGUST 21 

McCLAIN LODGE



It’s not your run-of-the-mill doctor’s office. 

There’s no receptionist. No non-descript waiting room. Instead, it feels more like 

stepping into a luxury spa. Smiling faces greet those who walk in like valued clients. 

NewCare MD is the new look of how medical care is delivered, and patients are loving it. 

“We offer a totally different way of getting primary healthcare than you get at a regular clinic,” 

said Dr. Micah Walker. “Everything is centered around the patient-doctor relationship. For too long, 

we seem to have accepted healthcare as impersonal. There are just too many people between 

the patient and the doctor. Doctors, myself included, went to school to care for people, but our 

medical system has made that increasingly difficult. Where, along the way, did doctors end up 

having to deal with so many levels of management?” 

For a guy from the small town of Tchula, Walker has always had big dreams. He started his own 

computer company when he was a sophomore in college, and graduated from Delta State with a degree 

A New Kind of 

Patient-Doctor 

Experience 

Susan Marquez 

in business administration. 

Marriage, children and working 

for a huge international company 

never stopped Walker from 

dreaming big. 

At age 30, he started his 

journey into medicine at the 

University of Mississippi Medical 

Center and became a family 

physician. While there, he 

befriended Dr. John Vanderloo, 

an attending physician at UMMC 

who was becoming increasingly 

burned out. 

A conversation between Walker and Vanderloo developed into an idea and then a business plan and 

finally, the first location of NewCare MD. “In October 2016 we had no building, no lease, and no loan. But on 

January 3, 2017, we opened the location in Madison,” Walker said. 

Located on Fountains Boulevard, NewCare MD offers patients a personal level of care that far exceeds 

other healthcare experiences. “We spend a great deal of time with our patients – about thirty minutes, which is 

something they’re not used to,” said Walker. “We develop relationships with our patients. We want to know about 

their families, what’s important to them, things that a ‘normal’ patient-doctor relationship doesn’t allow time for.” 

The financial end of the business is different for patients as well. There is a monthly fee of $69, less than 

most cell phone bills, and no co-pay for office visits. “We don’t take insurance,” Walker explained. “Our costs are 

very low. For example, a normal CT scan may cost $1200 or more. We charge $300. The co-pay on a Z-Pak 

may be $10 or $15 or more, but we only charge $3 and you don’t have to go to a pharmacy to pick it up.” 

Walker said they have most prescriptions at the clinic, and they explain how to take it when they dispense 

medications to the patient. 

“I feel fortunate that I was able to partner with Dr. Vanderloo on this clinic,” said Walker. “We have the same 

vision, and this has afforded both of us to be the kind of doctors we really want to be. This is working well in 

Madison, and now we want to solve problems everywhere.” Another NewCare MD clinic is set to open in Flora in 

early September, and Walker and Vanderloo are seeking a doctor for another clinic in Brandon. “We want to 

replicate this model all over.” n 



Honors @ Rankin 

•Scholarships 

• Leadership Development 

• Specialized Advising 

• Special Recognitions & Awards 

• Access to International Studies 

High School Seniors are invited to join us for Honors Day Friday, October 20, 2017 

from 8:30-11:30 a.m. At Honors Day, seniors can visit the Honors Center to learn about 

requirements, classes, and scholarships, and meet the faculty and staff. 

Get more information at hub.hindscc.edu/rankinhonors. 

In compliance with the following: Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX, Education Amendments of 1972 of the Higher Education Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and other applicable Federal and State Acts, Hinds Community College offers equal education and employment opportunities and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national 

origin, religion, sex, age, disability or veteran status in its educational programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Dr. Tyrone Jackson, Vice President for Utica Campus and Administrative Services and District Dean of Student Services & Title IX Coordinator Box 1003, Utica, MS 39175 . Phone: 601.885.7002 or Email: titleIX@hindscc.edu 

1 

print 

2 

graphic design 

• Booklets • Color Copies, Flyers • Trade Show Displays 

• Brochures • Stationery • Event Printed Materials 

• Business Cards • Mailing Services • Banners, Posters 

• Business Plans • Post Cards • Promotional Items 

1 

1 

2 

2 

3 4 

+ 

print print graphic design graphic design 

marketing 

3 3 4 4 

+ + 

601.933.9550 

marketing marketing signs signs 

signs 

115 METROPLEX BLVD 

PEARL MS 39208 

www.us646.alphagraphics.com 


ankin 

RECIPES 

Louisiana 

Duck Gumbo 

• Flour 

• Oil 

• Celery 

• Bell pepper 

• Onion 

• Garlic 

• 3 duck breasts 

• Andouille sausage 

• Tony Chachere’s seasoning 

• Bay leaf 

• Tomatoes 

• Rice 

• Chicken stock 

First make a roux by cooking 3 tablespoons of 

flour and oil in bottom of pan. This should be a 

slow process as not to burn your roux. The longer 

you cook it the darker your gumbo will be. When 

roux is ready, in separate pan cook one onion, 

4 stalks chopped celery, one chopped bell pepper 

and pepper and 5 cloves of garlic. When done, 

brown chopped duck breast and andouille sausage. 

Combine all in one pot add one quarter of the 

chicken stock, 2 cans of chopped tomatoes 

and 2 bay leaves. Season with Tony’s to taste. 

Simmer 30 minutes to one hour while stirring 

occasionally. 

Serve over rice and add file seasoning for taste. 

Dove on a Stick 

• 12 dove breast filets 

• Worcestershire sauce 

• Italian dressing 

• Garlic 

• Salt 

• Wood skewers 

Marinate dove overnight in one part Worcestershire 

and three parts Italian dressing. Put dove 

breast on skewers and season lightly with salt 

and garlic powder. Cook medium on grill over 

low heat. 

Pan Fried Elk 

Steak & Gravy 

• Tenderized elk steak 

• Garlic powder 

• Salt and pepper 

• 1 egg 

• Flour 

• Oil 

• Milk or buttermilk 


Soak meat for a short time in buttermilk and egg 

mixture. Season flour with salt, pepper, garlic 

powder, and Tony’s. Sprinkle meat with a little 

extra Tony’s. Roll meat in seasoned flour, fry in a 

black iron skillet until golden brown. Remove 

meat and add 1 tablespoon of flour to remaining 

oil in pan. Brown flour, add one cup of milk bring 

to a slight boil; turn down heat to simmer, season 

to taste. Spoon over elk steaks. 

Louisiana 

Redfish 

on the Half Shell 

• 2-5 lb. Redfish filets with scales left on one side 


• Garlic powder 


• Lemon 

Season fish with Tony’s, salt, and garlic powder. 

Place fish scales side down on grill. Cook on 

medium heat until fish is white and flakey. 

Squeeze ½ a lemon 

Bacon-Wrapped 

Deer Tenderloin 

• Deer tenderloin 



• Worcestershire 

• Italian dressing 

• Cream cheese 

• Jalapeno peppers 

• Bacon 

Slice tenderloin in ½ inch thick strips. Marinate 

tenderloin overnight in one part Worcestershire 

and three parts dressing. Season with salt, pepper 

and Tony’s. Lay tenderloin flat. On top of each 

piece put a dab of cream cheese and a jalapeno 

pepper, roll into a ball, wrap each piece with a ½ 

piece of bacon and stick with a toothpick. Cook on 

medium heat until bacon is done. 


Wild 

edition 

Recipes from the kitchen of 

Kenneth Lancaster 

Elk Chili 

• 1 lb. of ground elk 



• Onion 

• Garlic 

• Petite diced tomatoes 

• Yellow mustard 

• Chili powder 

• Red kidney beans 

• Pinto beans 

• Water 

Brown elk and drain excess liquid off. Slice ½ 

onion and 5 garlic cloves, cook until soft. Add 

ground meat back in pot along with two cans of 

petite diced tomatoes, ½ can drained kidney beans, 

½ can drained pinto beans, one teaspoon of salt, 

teaspoon of pepper, teaspoon of Tony’s, one cup of 

water and two tablespoons of chili powder. Bring 

to a boil add 1 teaspoon of mustard and stir. Let 

simmer for about 20 minutes and serve with 

crackers or over rice. 

A native of Lake Providence, Louisiana, Kenneth Lancaster has an 

exceptional reputation in the hunting industry. His background in 

archery and his work as a guide, videographer, and hunter, have 

enhanced his popularity as a devoted outdoorsman. 

Kenneth's respect for the great outdoors began as a child, having 

a father who was a trapper and hunter, and a grandfather who was 

a commercial fisherman on the Mississippi River. At an early age 

Kenneth developed a love for archery, shot in 3D tournaments, 

and worked in a local archery shop. 

His background includes nine years with Primos Hunting Calls 

and his passion for hunting continues through his work with 

Michael Waddell's Bone Collector and with Antler Insanity. 

Kenneth has hunted elk, whitetail deer, mule deer, moose, 

woodland caribou, barren ground caribou, black bear, waterfowl, 

and all species of turkey. 



OUR DOORS ARE ALWAYS 

OPEN FOR YOU! 

PRINT 

DIRECT DIGITAL GREEN CROSS MEDIA DESIGN 

247 Industrial Drive N Madison, Mississippi 39110 

601-853-7300 1-800-844-7301 

www.hederman.com 


Leesburg Baptist Church 

Ladies Tablescapes 

AUGUST 26 



Turning your hopes 

into a home. 

As a leading mortgage 

lender in Rankin County, 

I will work to close your 

loan on time and make 

the experience stress-free. 

• My primary goal is to 

make the process easy 

for you. 

• All processing, 

underwriting and 

closings are done inhouse, 

which allows 

us to quickly get you 

answers. 

• Conducting business 

at your convenience 

– 100% online, face-toface, 

or somewhere in 

between. 

Melissa Usry 

Mortgage Loan Originator 

(C) 601-906-1921 

(O) 601-203-2222 

NMLS #839635 







The CHALKBOARD 

RANKIN COUNTY SCHOOLS 

Brandon Elementary 

Brandon Elementary School recently held a celebration 

breakfast to honor its top scorers on the Mississippi Assessment 

Program (MAP) language arts and math tests that were completed 

Spring 2017. Honorees were commended for their excellent 

performance and received certificates from BES principal, Lisa 

Hudson. Parents were also applauded for their hard work and 

dedication to their children. Students and parents enjoyed 

breakfast as well as a fun photo booth. 

The Mississippi Assessment Program measures students’ 

knowledge, skills, and academic growth from elementary through 

high school. In order to qualify for top score recognition, students 

must obtain the highest scale score possible. 

Congratulations, BEST & Brightest of BES!! 

McLaurin 

“All in. Every student. Every day. Whatever it takes.” These 

words have become the law that new McLaurin High School 

Principal Tammy Crosetti believes and stresses every, single, day 

at MHS. Mrs. Crosetti, the administrative team, teachers, and 

parents believe that every student at McLaurin High School will 

be successful and it is our job as teachers, parents, and a community 

to be a support system for our students. 

On August 31, students new to the McLaurin family were 

treated to breakfast provided by the administration and teachers. 

Students from as far away as Alaska and the Philippines were 

elated to be recognized and were excited to introduce themselves 

and tell everyone a little background information about himself 

or herself. Zion Wood, MHS senior and one of the newest 

McLaurin family members commented, “I have never been to a 

school that has welcomed me and made me feel like family. I love 

this school.” 

In addition to the 

new students, Coach 

Danny Lewis and Coach 

Stephen Atkins joined 

the MHS family as new 

assistant principals and 

received the monthly Crown Trophy “All In” award for August. 

Although we are one of the smaller schools in Rankin County, 

we have the best students. When new families move to the area, 

many are surprised that a smaller, family-oriented school has such 

big goals and bigger expectations for our students. According to 

Principal Tammy Crosetti, “As we move “From Great to Best” at 

McLaurin High School we need to remember it is about the 

passion and having joy in the journey. 

The support we receive from RCSD Superintendent Dr. Sue 

Townsend and the curriculum specialists are vital pieces of the 

foundation we need for every student to be successful, every day. 


Northwest Middle 

One of the newest programs at Northwest Middle School is 

Project Lead the Way (PLTW), a program that engages 

students’ interest in the engineering field and prepares them for 

the engineering academy at Northwest Rankin High School. 

There are currently 80 seventh- and eighth-grade students 

participating in the program. 

“After surveying the needs of our students, we saw a tremendous 

gap in our students’ ability to start a problem and think critically,” 

said Sarah East, PLTW instructor. “Project Lead the Way has 

provided a curriculum that builds the confidence of our students 

to solve problems independently. 

The students engage in the engineering design process with 

every activity. The first project students were asked to design and 

create was an ankle boot orthosis for a child with Cerebral Palsy. 

A professional orthotist from the community spoke to the 

students about how to properly assess patients and create a brace 

that takes into account all of the design constraints. 

In automation and robotics, students use VEX EDR robotics 

kits to explore the principles of gear ratios and mechanisms. Each 

project engages students in the learning process by applying 

content. Near the end of 

the semester students 

will reach the “assembly 

line” project. 

“In this project 

students use their 

knowledge of coding, 

mechanisms, and wiring 

to create an assembly line 

that will produce a 

manufactured product,” 

said East. “At that point 

students are no longer 

looking to me for 

guidance and inspiration 

for solutions to their part of the project. They have built skills to 

communicate and collaborate as a classroom community to 

solve problems.” 

During the 2016-17 school year, three students participated 

in the MDOT TRAC Bridge competition and were invited to 

participate in the American Association of State Highway and 

Transportation Officials Bridge Competition. 

Submissions provided by local officials from each individual district and not to be considered editorial opinion. 




Florence Middle 

When you walk inside an English class or the library, 

probably the last thing you expect to see is robots, 3d printers, 

Legos/K’NEX, and slow motion animation. However, that is 

exactly what you will see at Florence Middle School. Faced with 

lower circulation numbers and less teacher collaboration when 

the district went 1:1 with laptops, librarian Debbie Martin, 

decided to think outside the box to get students and teachers 

back into her library. That’s how the library evolved into a 

Makerspace where students gather to create, invent, and learn. 

Students now use the space to create programs and items 

based on books they are reading while also making connections 

to the text. Shannon Price, 8th grade English teacher said, “ I 

loved how the Makerspace area made the students represent the 

journey of their character based on a narrative they had written. 

They started to really see the weaknesses in their writing when 

they had to change code on the robots, change a 3d design, or 

change a storyline in a video to represent their character’s 

journey. For the first time I saw them go back and modify not 

only what they were creating, but also their narrative writing 

which I had never seen before unless I forced them to do a 

revision. But what I loved the most is that it allowed different 

students to shine and I saw leadership and innovation among 

the students. ” 

That is just one of the ways Florence Middle School is 

moving the district from “Great to Best!” 

Pisgah Elementary 

Our faculty and staff were excited about welcoming our students 

back to school for the 2017-18 school year. Students, parents, and 

teachers were all smiles. Since school has started, we have celebrated 

Open House, Elementary Cheer Camp, Grandparents’ Day, and 

Scholastic Book Fair. Students, parents, and faculty partner 

together to move Pisgah Elementary School from Great to BEST! 

Trey Lee working on a fully functioning roller coaster in Makerspace 

during Zero Block. 


Richland Elementary 

At Richland Elementary we believe that character education is 

important because it fosters development both academically and 

socially. We are working to instill respect, kindness, compassion, 

and empathy among each other. Recently, our school was carefully 

chosen by The Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation “Buddy 

Bench Gift Program” selection committee as the recipient of the 

May 2017 buddy bench! The buddy bench is a simple idea to 

eliminate loneliness and foster friendship and kindness on the 

playground. The buddy bench also helps reinforce character 

education traits taught at Richland Elementary. Valuable traits 

such as respect, friendship, peace, generosity and many more that 

are taught align perfectly with the purpose of the buddy bench. 

The character trait for September is Friendship. In Kindergarten, 

Mrs. Sawyer, the school counselor, talked to each class about being 

a Bucket Filler or a Bucket Dipper. Being a bucket filler means we 

are filling our friend’s invisible buckets when we do kind things 

such as sharing, listening, using manners, and saying kind words 

to others. Being a bucket dipper is when we are emptying other’s 

buckets by not doing such kind things like shouting at someone 

or saying mean things to others. Mrs. Sawyer read the book, 

Fill a Bucket, and completed the lesson with a visual activity for 

students to actually see how you can fill other’s buckets. 

Discovery Christian 

Discovery Christian School in Florence hosted its first annual 

Grandparent’s Breakfast on September 8th, 2017. With 190 

guests in attendance, the event was a huge success. The students 

and grandparents enjoyed a delicious breakfast and quality time 

together on the campus of DCS. 

“Discovery has started a campaign to reach the grandparents 

of our students, and get them involved inside the walls of our 

school,” said co-head of DCS, Michele Thames. “We have 

started a Very Important Grandparents (VIG) club whose members 

will be grandparent greeters, classroom readers, and vital 

helpers at school events. Our goal is to get grandparents excited 

about what is happening at our school and to help cultivate the 

precious God-given relationships between our students and their 

grandparents.” 

For more information about VIG or Discovery Christian 

School, please visit discoverychristianschool.org. 





Puckett Elementary 

The faculty, staff, and students at Puckett Elementary know 

that they are all on a journey from great to BEST. Students and 

teachers can be seen working together in ways that broaden 

their learning beyond the confines of their classrooms. 

Teacher Jennifer Parker and her students conduct interviews 

with published authors by using Skype. These sessions provide 

students with practical guidance that supports their writing 

more than any textbook could ever do. 

The efforts of Ms. Parker and all of Puckett Elementary are 

paying high academic dividends. Last year, four students earned 

the highest score possible on their state standardized tests. 

These students, Nolan Canoy, Cooper Wilson, Jackson Smith, 

and Macy Morrow, all embody the spirit of high achievement 

that Puckett Elementary is known for. 

Academics isn’t the only arena in which Puckett Elementary 

students excel. As part of the school’s commitment to its 

community, several students performed at a home football 

game. Mallory Lemoine, Maci Hammock, Ashley Purvis, and 

Austin Barrett performed the national anthem during pregame 

activities. While these students were performing, many of their 

schoolmates were on the football field supporting the edges of 

an American flag that exceeded 30 square feet. Puckett students 

are very proud of the community and nation. 

Homecoming is a special time in Puckett. For this community 

to be so small, the support they show for their school is amazing. 

Each day, students donned creative costumes to represent a 

different aspect of this year’s theme, “Home for the Holidays.” 

Puckett Elementary School is a very special place, filled with 

wonderful people who all share one mission: to be the very BEST 

they can be in every way. Puckett Wolves know not to lower their 

expectations to fit the world. They were born to stand out, and 

that they do! 

Nolan Canoy, Cooper Wilson, Jackson Smith and Macy Morrow all scored the 

highest possible score on their State Standardized Tests. 

Sixth grade students supported a 30 foot flag during the national anthem. 

Mallory Lemoine, Maci Hammock, Ashley Purvis, and Austin Barrett performed 

the national anthem during pregame activities. 

Ms. Parker’s fifth grade ELA classes Skyped with author Chris Tozier 

from Florida. 

Mrs. Martin’s kindergarten class dressed for St. Patrick’s Day during 

Homecoming Week. 


Pelahatchie 

Pelahatchie Elementary is keeping the main thing the main thing. 

Students are involved in engaging activities and are learning 

through working together. Teachers are facilitating lessons and 

helping students to become critical thinkers in our ever-changing 

world. Excitement is in the air with a renewed commitment to 

ensure that all students are successful. Students are given many 

opportunities to work in collaborative groups to discover, discuss, 

teach, research, and to critique various issues or topics. Research 

has shown that educational experiences that are active, social, 

contextual, engaging, and student-owned lead to deeper learning. 

The benefits of collaborative learning include increasing student 

retention, self-esteem, responsibility, exposure to and an increased 

understanding of diverse perspectives, and preparation for real life 

social and employment situations. Pelahatchie Elementary is 

striving to take these “Little Chiefs” from Great to BEST! 





Hartfield 

Hartfield Academy’s Homecoming Week was September 25-29. 

The Homecoming Court was presented Friday night, September 

29th at the football game. 

Seniors Serving at Smith Park - For a third year in a row, in 

connection with Why Not Now Ministries of Jackson, the senior 

class visited Smith Park in downtown Jackson to serve the 

homeless on Sunday, September 10th. They collected socks, 

underwear, undershirts, tote bags, chapstick, washcloths, towels, 

mints, personal hygiene products, feminine products, bottled 

water, and individually wrapped snacks to distribute. 

Hartfield freshman offer Hurricane support - On Sunday, 

September 17th, members of the HA freshman class worked to 

assist victims of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. Supplies were 

collected and students were able to assemble 68 personal hygiene 

bags. These along with extra towels, toothbrushes, deodorants, 

and soaps, will be distributed through UMCOR (United 

Methodist Committee on Relief ). 

Front to back left to right: Kennedy Montgomery-12, Julia Ashcraft-12, 

Kaylee Van Norman-12, Jaya Brown-12, Lachlan Clark-12, 

Julie Thompson-11, Gracee Wells-11, Kayla Burrell-11, 

Kaylee Collins-10, Amelia Myers-10, Jacey Calendar-10, 

Reagan Williams-9, Olivia Sallis-9, Cailey Walker-9 

College Fair - Hartfield Academy welcomed 31 college and 

universities to campus on September 7th to visit with our high 

school students. 



PEARL PUBLIC SCHOOLS 

Pearl 

For nearly a decade Pearl High School, along with the entire 

Pearl Public School District and Pearl community, has been 

committed to feeding the needy through its participation in the 

“Food for Families” Football Challenge, a friendly competition 

between area high schools organized by WAPT. Each week, a high 

school football game is named the “challenge” game, and the two 

schools hold food drives during the week to see which can collect 

the most donations for the Mississippi Food Network. 

In 2013 Pearl High School was recognized by the Mississippi 

Food Network for setting a new state record with its donation of 

nearly 190,000 food items. That was the last year PHS competed 

against another school in the Football Challenge. Despite not 

having a school to face in the Challenge in 2015 and 2016, PHS 

continued its commitment to the Mississippi Food Network, 

raising the second most canned foods in the state both years. This 

year’s Food for Families Football Challenge was held the week of 

the September 11 between Pearl High School and Madison 

Central High School. Together the schools set a new state record 

with 338,086 food items collected, but Pearl High School smashed 

all records by rallying everyone in Pirate Country to collect over 

200,250 food items. 



Town of Pelahatchie 

Prayer Breakfast 

August 26 

Pelahatchie Baptist Church 



Voted Oxford’s 

Best Hotel 2011-2015 

Legendary Hospitality and 

Uncompromising Comfort 

on America’s 

Most Beautiful 

College Campus. 

120 Alumni Drive • Oxford, Miss. 

888.486.7666 

www.TheInnAtOleMiss.com 




The Time Coin 

Brandon seems to be home to a lot of 

doves, and there are two that live 

near our back yard. I wish they would 

migrate – permanently! It’s those forlorn 

bird sounds they make that take me back 

some thirty years ago when our children 

were adolescents and the “circle of life” in 

our extended family hadn’t been broken. 

I realize now what a blessed chapter that is in a family’s life cycle 

and how different life can become in the chapters that always follow. 

I should have relished those days more. 

The family dove shoot meant a cousins and siblings reunion. 

Daddy would have the sprawling pasture harvested from the doves’ 

favorite seeds, leaving behind an enticement for hungry doves to fly low. 

My brother and sisters along with spouses and kids would circle the 

perimeter of the field, waiting for the first morning’s rays to reflect off 

the gun barrels and the arrival of the breakfast-seeking doves. 

“Here they come!” someone would shout, and the battle would 

ensue. A barrage of shoulder-pounding shotguns would bring down 

the first kill followed by cousins racing our Lab retriever to fetch the 

feathered trophies. The war zone was active until noon when everyone 

left the field to gather around our table for 

lunch. It would be light fare so there would be 

ample room for the feast that night. 

By mid-afternoon, the hunters and 

retrievers headed back to the dove shoot for 

Round II. Sometimes the doves took their 

time in returning and other times they would 

fly over in supersonic maneuvers. While we 

waited, muffled conversations among the families and random dragon 

fly chases by the kids filled the quiet until we heard it again, “Here 

they come!” 

The evening meal was fare beyond description – biscuits, a 

hundred plus with bowls of dove gravy to match the heaping platter of 

fried doves. Fresh lima beans, chilled potato salad and sliced tomatoes 

were the usual accompaniments. The fellowship was the finest but no 

finer than the taste of that once a year delicacy of fried doves. 

I seldom travel down Hwy 30 in Union County. The dove pasture 

once seen from the highway is overgrown and blocked off by roadside 

trees. The doves probably never fly low over the neglected pasture, and 

laughter amid the shotgun booms is only a memory. A nearby cemetery 

is the resting place of my favorite cook and dove hunter. 

I should have relished those days more. n 


Presented by the Junior League of Jackson 

wednesday, november 1 

Tis the Season to Sparkle 

PREVIEW GALA & AUCTIONS 

Presented by the Junior League of Jackson 

WALK THE RED CARPET | 7 - 10 P.M. 

Presented by C Spire 

SHOPPING HOURS | 7 - 11 P.M. 

SILENT AND PREMIER AUCTION | 7 - 10 P.M. 

LIVE AUCTION | 9 P.M. 

PRESENT PICK | 7 - 10 P.M. 

Presented by Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry 

thursday, november 2 

Tis the Season to savor & shop 

MISTLETOE MORNING | 8 - 11 A.M. 

Presented by Trustmark 

Tis the Season to Sip & Shop 

MISTLETOE SPIRITS BAR | 11 A.M. - 3 P.M. 

Tis the Season to be Merry & Bright 

GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT | 6 - 8 P.M. 

Presented by Belk 

general shopping hours 

ATM provided by BankPlus 

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2 | 11 A.M. - 9 P.M. 

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3 | 11 A.M. - 8 P.M. 

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4 | 9 A.M. - 5 P.M. 

friday, november 3 

Tis the Season to be Festive 

MARKETPLACE BRUNCH | 8 - 11 A.M. 

Presented by Regions 

Tis the Season to be Joyful 

LADIES’ LUNCHEON & FASHION SHOW 

Featuring Kimberly Williams-Paisley 

11:30 A.M. - 1:30 P.M. 

Presented by Baptist Health Systems | Fashions by Belk 

Tis the Season to Smile 

SANTA SNAPS | 2:30 - 6:30 P.M. 

Tis the Season to Shine 

TWEEN FASHION SHOW | 4:30 - 6 P.M. 

Presented by University of Mississippi Medical Center 

Tis the Season for Brews & Big 80's 

FRIDAY NIGHT AT MISTLETOE | 8 - 11 P.M. 

Presented by Southern Beverage Co, Inc. 

saturday, november 4 

Tis the Season to be Jolly 

CHILDREN’S EVENT | 9:30 - 11 A.M. 

Presented by Ergon 

Tis the Season to Sip & Shop 

MISTLETOE SPIRITS BAR | 11 A.M. - 3 P.M. 

Tis the Season to Smile 

SANTA SNAPS | 11:30 A.M. - 3 P.M. 

Tis the Season to be Lucky 

MISTLETOE CAR RAFFLE DRAWING | 3 P.M. 

Presented by Patty Peck 

For more information or to order tickets, please visit mistletoemarketplace.com or call 1.888.324.0027.

More than 30 practices. 

Quick appointments. 

One number: 844-MSMERIT. 

Because there’s Merit in convenient care. 

With more than 30 primary care and specialty practices in four counties across the Jackson and Vicksburg metropolitan 

areas, Merit Health Medical Group providers offer quality care for your family with your schedule in mind. From sore 

throats and fever to annual wellness visits and more specialized care, we’ve got you covered. 

To see all locations and specialties, please visit MyMeritDoctor.com 

Call 844-MSMERIT for a provider near you. 

Walk-ins are welcome at all primary care practices, 

or ask about same-day and next-day appointments.

Hometown Rankin - October & November 2017

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?