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Rankin

Hometown

V 6 #5

10.19

2 • October 2019

Hometown Rankin • 3

4 • October 2019


8 • October 2019

Rankin

Hometown

FROM OUR PUBLISHER

How cool is it to shine a

spotlight on redheads?! Facts

prove they’ve earned it, and

I’m prejudiced because I

have a gorgeous redheaded

niece. There’s a unique set

of genes connected to their

red hair, and it’s so much fun to

feature these Rankin County redheads

in our October issue.

They say, “It’s just a click away”–everything

you ever wanted to see or purchase.

Shop on a screen, add your cc number,

make a final click, your order is on the way

...and your hometown businesses are one

step closer to being extinct! The

fourth quarter of the year is here

and will determine the annual

profits for most brick and

mortar businesses. They exist

and continue to exist by means

of their customers buying their

products.

Do our local businesses make an impact

on our families other than with the goods

they sell? I don’t recall seeing any Amazon

ads in our schools’ yearbooks, or sponsoring

little league t-shirts, or on signs along the

parks’ athletic fields. It’s our local businesses

that continue to dip into their profits to

promote our great county. Big businesses

may carry everything you need at rock-bottom

prices, but someone always pays for

that so-called bargain.

Our towns survive because of the taxes

we all pay–with sales tax being a key part of

that revenue. Amazon and other large

corporations won’t fix our roads or patrol

our streets while we sleep.

Please strongly consider supporting our

local businesses in the months ahead. We

hold the power and the key to their survival

in our wallets. “Shop local” is more than just

a hashtag. It’s a battle cry.

#ShopLocal l

On the Cover / Front L-R: Taylor Grace Gunn, Ava Hutton Gregory, Ella Stringer; Middle L-R: Katie Ryan Wade, Susan Stringer, Phyllis Krebs; Back L-R: Jedd Gregory, J Perry, Ryan Wade

IN THIS ISSUE

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Tahya A. Dobbs

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Terri Riels

LAYOUT DESIGN

Daniel Thomas - 3dt

CFO

Kevin W. Dobbs

SPECIAL PROJECTS

MANAGER

Brenda McCall

STAFF

PHOTOGRAPHER

Othel Anding

CONSULTING EDITOR

Mary Ann Kirby

ADMINISTRATIVE

ASSISTANT

Alisha Floyd

Life as a Redhead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

The Sunny Side of Life 32

Vintage Market Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

I Am Making All Things New 42

Putting The Care in Car Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

A Walk in the Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Crybaby No More . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

What’s Cooking with the Junior Auxillary . . . . . . . . . 62

A Cinderella Story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

God is Our Hope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Coming into Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

www.facebook.com/hometownrankinmagazine. For subscription information visit www.htmags.com or 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.


The way

WE were

Dorothy & Gene Henderson

Camille Anding

The once white cover is showing

a tint of age from the Henderson’s

50th wedding celebration album,

but inside its pages is a God-size

story of romance, resilience, and

reliance.

Dorothy still remembers the

first time she saw Gene. He was

from the Sardis Lake area, and she

was from Marks, where she attended

a “hippy” party at the town’s

community house. Gene, along

with his brother, dropped in for

the party, and Dorothy remembers

thinking Gene Henderson was the

best looking thing she had ever seen.

They met again at Northwest

Junior College where Dorothy was

the feature twirler for the Ranger

Band, and he was a football player

and president of the student body.

Shortly into the semester, Gene

heard that Dorothy needed a ride

home to Marks. Since Gene had

planned a trip to Batesville to see a

girlfriend, he offered to drop Dorothy

by her own home, on the way.

The attraction between

Dorothy and Gene was strong and

immediate. He forgot about the

Batesville date and instead began

dating Dorothy – that gorgeous,

black-haired, blue eyed girl from

Marks. In three weeks they were

talking about marriage.

On March 31, 1961, seven

months later, the two pledged their

vows in her home. Dorothy’s aunts

decorated the house with spring

flowers and a wedding cake from

Wonder Bread Bakery. Gene still

recalls his beautiful bride in her

stunning pink dress and how reality

hit him as they were cutting the cake.

“Henderson, what have you done?”

was the question his uncertain

future and barren financial status

asked him.

They left Marks on their Good

Friday wedding night to eat steak in

Batesville, but the only eating place

open was the truck stop. After their

meal, Gene was left with $20 in his

pocket. They spent the night in his

parents’ airstream trailer where

Gene had been raised. Dorothy’s

gentle smile described her fond

memories, “We didn’t seem to know

or mind that we were poor and

homeless.”

The newlyweds returned to their

separate dorm rooms on Monday

and continued school until May

graduation. From there they moved

to Minnesota where Gene found

work pipelining, and Dorothy

learned to cook, wash, and clean as

a new wife. Things were looking

up! They lived on the third story

of a funeral home.

By January of the next year, the

couple had moved back south to

Clarksdale to live with relatives

where they were blessed with their

first child, Gina. That wasn’t the

only birth they celebrated. One

month earlier, Gene experienced

his spiritual birth when he realized

he was a dedicated church member,

but not a Christian.

Two weeks after Gene’s salvation

experience, God audibly called him

to preach. Resilience would be the

next component necessary for

their young and growing family.

In describing this new stage of their

lives Gene said, “We started ministry

together living on next to nothing.”

Fourteen months after Gina was

born, Page arrived. Fourteen months

after Page, Dawn was born, and

Chip arrived two years later. When

Chip was thirteen, God gave them

another daughter, Hope.

Gene reflects on their early

years and how he was driven to get

10 • October 2019

“We had to

learn to live

by faith.”

his education. “It was ingrained in

me that in order to break the

poverty cycle, you have to get a

good education.”

So began the cycle of education.

Gene would serve as pastor to a

total of seven churches. Through

1963 to 1976, he was at Mississippi

College and then on to New

Orleans Seminary to eventually

earn his doctorate. During many of

those weeks, he would be at school

from Monday through Friday and

return home as pastor/preacher/

husband/father for the weekend.

Meanwhile, Dorothy was the

single parent of their “quiver” plus

the stand-in pastor for her husband.

Gene describes her as the best

associate pastor he ever had. Dorothy

admits to doing a lot of the church

related tasks but laughingly added,

“I never married or buried anybody!”

Dorothy recalls finances as the

biggest challenge to their marriage.

Once during a low seminary day

she remembers talking to God

about their lack of finances, but she

thanked Him that at least they had

their health. A scream from Chip

soon confirmed a broken arm from

his falling off his bunk bed. Some

days not even health was a sure thing.

The couples’ memories are

packed with examples of their

resilience. There was never money

for vacations, but churches would

pay for their pastors to attend VBS

clinics each summer at Gulf Shores.

That was family vacation from

God. In one church, the preschool

Sunday school met in the front

room of their home. That meant

the Henderson kids had toys to

play with during the week.

The years at Mississippi College

could have been labeled “Life on

Poverty Row.” The years at seminary

also carried financial burdens. Yet

with every challenge and need, the

couple learned reliance on the God

who never failed them. For every

“wilderness” experience there were

always families or individuals that

delivered “manna.”

Gene had to constantly rely on

God to meet his biggest challenge

of being a husband, dad, and pastor.

There was always more to do than

there was time. Balancing his weeks

between the three meant he

constantly sought God’s wisdom.

He believes every church would

greatly benefit from realizing this

fact: Pastors can never live up to

every member’s expectations. An

add-on suggestion would be that

members need to realize criticism

of their pastor always impacts his

family as well as other members.

Fifty-eight years from the way

they were when they made their

marriage vows finds them still

exemplifying romance, resilience

and reliance. Their marriage has

not only survived the difficult

chapters, it has blossomed and

blessed multitudes.

Their resilience has brought a

harvest of blessings. They have

raised five children, all with degrees,

who are mission workers, and

include a pastor’s wife, a Supreme

Court judge, and a pastor. They

are blessed with godly in-laws,

seventeen grandchildren (all

saved), and ten great grandchildren

with another one on the way.

Dorothy said, “There is enough

potential in them to change the

world in a mighty way; we cannot

praise God enough for each of

them!”

As for reliance on God, the

Hendersons are the poster couple

for that. In the midst of raising five

children, and in the face of

desperate need, they can attest to

God’s faithfulness. In shepherding

seven churches as student/pastor/

husband-wife-team/parents, their

God has never failed them. Have

there been trials and tribulations?

Many. But their overarching

ideology is simply stated: “We

had to learn to live by faith.” l


12 • October 2019

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Richland Economic

Development Association

2019 Annual Meeting

AUGUST 15 • RICHLAND COMMUNITY CENTER

Guest Speaker Dr. L. Lavon Gray, Lavon Gray Consulting Group

14 • October 2019

Richla

Developm


16 • October 2019

Life as a

18 • October 18 • October 2019 2019

Redhead

The universe makes only so many redheads.

It occurs naturally in less than 2% of the world’s population.

Since they have the rarest color in the world, we celebrate the rarity and beauty

of all the redheads in Rankin County and highlight a few of our own!


20 • October 2019

Bees are more

attracted to

redheads than

any other

hair color.

What is your favorite thing about being a redhead?

Getting compliments on my hair.

What is your least favorite thing?

Being fair-skinned and getting sunburned!

From your experience, is there any credence to the

claim that redheads are hot-tempered?

No, definitely not!

Did your mother dictate your childhood wardrobe

according to your red hair?

No, because my mom thinks I look pretty in all colors.

What color do you think looks best on you?

Baby blue.

When facts state that redheads make up 2% of the

population, what would be your response?

I think there’s more redheads than that because I’ve seen a lot of

people around here with red hair.


Getting to have a red beard.


Being picked on as a kid. But now I’m often mistaken for other

people, because it seems all redheads look alike to people.



Not at all.



I don’t think so, but I never liked wearing red or orange.


Most of my shirts are a shade of blue.



That’s all? I would have thought the percentage was higher. That

makes me feel more unique.

Katie Ryan

& Ryan Wade

Katie Ryan is the daughter of Ryan and Somer Wade. Katie Ryan

resides in Brandon, is in 4th grade, and her favorite subject is math.

She enjoys singing with Rankin Performing Arts, baking, playing with

Legos, and spending time with friends.

Ryan Wade and his daughter Katie Ryan reside in Brandon. Ryan is

married to Somer and they also have a 7th grade son, Jonah. Ryan

is the community outreach pastor at Crossgates Baptist Church and

enjoys spending time with his family.



I have known redheads that hated their hair. I can remember being teased

about it. It probably toughened me up a bit. There are LOTS of nicknames

that I have had over the years due to it, but I have always loved and been

proud of my red hair. Neither of my parents are redheads and when I was a

child, people would always ask where I got my red hair. They taught me to

say that it came with my head to avoid explaining that it was on both sides of

the family and exactly who had it. My favorite thing about being a ginger is

that it is rare. For a real redhead, invisibility is impossible. I have had complete

strangers compliment my hair before.

What’s your least favorite?

My least favorite has got to be how careful you have to be in the sun and

knowing that you will never have that beautiful tan that others have. I once

joked that if all my freckles ran together, I would have a good tan!

From your experience, is there any credence to the claim

that redheads are hot-tempered?

I guess that depends on the redhead. I have those days when I feel like God

gave me red hair because he knew I needed a warning label. Usually though,

it really takes a lot to make me mad and when I get really mad, I cry. I think

strong willed, protective, feisty and fiercely loyal are better descriptors.



I don’t remember it really being discussed. As a matter of fact, I asked her

about it recently and she said that she just always tried to dress me in colors

that complimented it. I never really thought about it until I got to the teen

years. I do remember I did not wear certain pinks and rarely wore purple.

I had to wear a fuchsia bridesmaids’ dress in my brother’s wedding. That was

a sight to behold, not in a good way. I looked like a neon sign. I love that

color, but I admire it from afar.


Warm colors, but I have to say my absolute favorite is teal.



I remember studying in biology about recessive chromosomes and altered

proteins and other factors that must come into play to cause one to have red

hair. My response would be that it must have been the way God intended it

because he does not make mistakes.

Phyllis Krebs

I live in the Shiloh community where I grew up. I attend Shiloh Methodist

Church. One of my joys is helping in the nursery. I have been married to

Tommy Krebs for 31 years. We have two sons, Jarod and Jacob. I recently

got my first “daughter”, Whittney McKenzie Krebs, when Jarod married this

past December. I taught math at Brandon High from 1987 to 2015, when I

retired. I went to work at Hartfield Academy in the fall of 2015 and have been

there ever since. Two of my other passions are working out and cooking.

During the school year, I get up around 3:30 at least four days a week and

go to The Club to work out before I go to school. It just gets my day off to

a good start. Cooking is like my therapy. We live on a farm and I also love all

things sports!

22 • October 22 • October 2019 2019


I like being different than everyone else, but I don’t like the

stereotypes that come with being a redhead.



I think most of us are “hot tempered.” Maybe there is an exception,

but I haven’t met them yet.



She just insisted that I didn’t wear red.


Green or blue. NOT RED.



It’s great to be part of such an elite group!

J Perry

I am an 8th grader at Pearl Jr. High.

I enjoy being involved in activities such

as choir, drama, and BETA club.

If you spot a blue-eyed redhead,

you have seen the rarest color

combination in the world!



My favorite thing about my red hair is the exact same thing I used to

hate as a child—it makes me different and stand out in a crowd. I do

love and appreciate my red hair.


My least favorite thing about being a redhead is that we get sunburned

so easily, and this comes from someone who loves the sun!



I will neither confirm nor deny that redheads have a “fiery”

temperament!



Yes, my mother always dressed me in yellow as a child and I’ve done

the same thing with my redheaded daughter. I cannot wear pink

and orange – I think those colors just clash with my red hair.


I look best in green and purple.



Well, I do think redheads are a rare breed and that makes us pretty

special. I was so excited that my daughter, Ella, was born a redhead

like me.


My favorite thing about being a redhead are the compliments

I receive.


My least favorite thing is the sunburns I get and being called silly

names like “freckle face.”



No.



Yes.


Kelly green, blue/turquoise, and purple.



I find it hard to believe that out of the whole world, we make up only

2% of the population. Also, they say that redheads with blue eyes are

very rare. My mom and I have blue eyes and most redheads I know

or have seen have blue eyes.

I am 12 years old and in the 7th grade at Brandon Middle School.

I play soccer for BFC. My favorite colors are yellow and turquoise.

I was born and raised in Brandon. I have 3 children, Ella (12), Harlan

(6), and our guardian angel, Cole. I work at GI Associates for the

research department. I love spending time with my family and

friends, Mississippi State Bulldogs, traveling, shopping, and reading.

Susan & Ella

Stringer

24 • October 2019

Redheads will

never have to deal

with grey hair.

Their hair will

simply fade into

a blonde or

silvery white.


26 • October 2019

People with red hair are

more likely to be left-handed.


I like being one of only a few redheads at my school.

What is your least favorite?

I don’t like having fair skin and getting sunburned easily.

From your experience, is there any credence to

the claim that redheads are hot-tempered?

Yes!



I guess she did.


Green.



I think there are probably more than 2%.

Jedd is a smart, funny, talented, kind 16-year old who is also

an honor student. He enjoys hunting, fishing, archery, drawing,

and playing guitar in his school’s chapel band and the student

worship band at his church. Jedd also likes spending time with

friends and going to the country with his dad.


It’s nice and it’s weird!

What is your least favorite?

Nothing!



No. Although mom, who is also a redhead, would tend to disagree!



Yes!


Pink.



There are a lot of redheads!

Ava Hutton is a sweet, funny, spunky, loving 12-year old whose

mom, dad, and brother are also redheads. She likes to swim, watch

family vlogs on YouTube, and sing karaoke! She loves people with

all of her heart and everyone she meets loves her. If she gives you

a nickname, you know you’ve made a friend for life!

Ava Hutton &

Jedd Gregory



My favorite thing about being a redhead is the people that I meet!

Many people will stop me and comment on the color of my hair!

What’s your least favorite?

I have fair, sensitive skin and have to wear sunscreen all the time!



Well, if you ask my parents, they will tell you that when I was little

it was definitely true! As I have gotten older, I don’t think so.



Yes, she did. There are certain colors that just look better with my

red hair and blue eyes.


Royal blue and turquoise are definitely two of my favorite colors and

look good with my hair.



Best 2% there is! We are rare!

Taylor Grace

Gunn

Taylor Grace Gunn is the daughter of Trey and Catie Gunn of

Florence. She attends Florence Elementary and is in the fourth grade.

She has a younger sister, Livi, that she adores! She enjoys swimming

and taking care of her many pets which includes a goat, turtle, and

two cats. She is a member of First Baptist Church Florence where

she is an active part of their children’s choir, Bible Drills, and FBC

Kids. Taylor is a witty nine-year-old that is artistic and enjoys learning

new things. Taylor Grace is a beautiful red head, but even more she

has a beautiful heart for others.

28 • October 2019


30 • October 2019


32 • October 2019

The

Sunny

of

Side

Life

Camille Anding

It’s a real place –

actually fifty-four acres

tucked back in a corner

of Rankin County.

Ronnie & Glenda Pennington

call it home and named it

“The Sunny Side of Life.”

Any guest visiting their happy acres would agree

with the name, but there could be other names.

“Peaceful Pagoda” might be fitting. Their charming

and spacious home sits among stately trees and

overlooks a lake. There are no city noises – only music

that the owners relish: birds singing, occasional

crowing and clucking from Ronnie’s upscale chicken/

turkey house and yard, and lazy grunts from the pet

pig quarters in the edge of their forest. Peace is a

perceived quality in their surroundings.

Glenda is proud to remember her mother’s family

roots in Japan by adding Oriental touches that make

a unique enhancement to their Mississippi home.

After all, it was the marriage of her army dad to his

Japanese bride that eventually settled them in Rankin

County. “Peaceful Pagoda” would be fitting.

“Fearless Farm” could be another name that

would fit the Pennington’s place. Ronnie’s want list

has always included employment in law enforcement.

It wasn’t until he was thirty-seven that he applied for

Brandon police work. When that didn’t materialize,

he applied for work in the sheriff’s department. The

only opening was for a jail officer, but with a wife

and two children to support, Ronnie didn’t turn

down the job.

His strong attitude to climb the ranks in law

enforcement was obvious from his first job in 1985

to his running for sheriff of Rankin County in 2004,

which he won with 71% of the votes in a three-way

race. Fearless was a motto he needed all those years

when he served in the positions of patrolman,

investigator, narcotics officer, task force of DEA,

chief investigator, and undersheriff. Ronnie recalls

numerous life and death situations and middle-ofthe-night

phone calls with threats, “You’ll be dead

by morning.”


34 • October 2019

Glenda had to be fearless in recognizing the danger surrounding

her husband’s law enforcement jobs. She was also

fearless when she decided she would finish her college work at

Hinds, earning an associate degree in nursing while continuing

her role as wife and mother of Clint and Christy, who were

elementary school age.

“Satisfied Sanctuary” would be another well-timed name.

Ronnie retired from law enforcement in 2012 and began

devoting his time to clearing and building on their prized acres.

After thirty-nine years of marriage he and Glenda still refer to

themselves as workaholics. “It’s all we’ve ever done,” Ronnie

says as he wipes the sweat from his forehead. However,

exchanging his badge and pistol for a hammer and shovel has

been a refreshing change.

Glenda still works as a surgical assistant at Rankin Merit

Health but loves pulling into their “slice of heaven” after a day’s

work. For her, it’s the sunny place to recover from some of the

sad situations she sees as a nurse.

Their work continues, but it rewards with a different level

of satisfaction. This year they switched from their usual garden

plot to raised beds. A wide choice of vegetables now grow about

forty yards from their back door. A giant man-shed stores all

Ronnie’s farming and grounds equipment along with a tiny

apartment where the Penningtons lived while their home was

under construction. Glenda refers to the attractive man-shed

as his toy box.

Ronnie then points to her she-shed – one of Glenda’s

recent requests. The miniature greenhouse/planting shed is

made of recycled materials and furnished with sentimental

antiques. The builder is none other than the former sheriff of

Rankin County, himself.

The well-groomed rolling lawn is an eight to ten hour job

with Ronnie’s riding mower, but he never complains about the

constant upkeep for their sanctuary. It brings the couple great

satisfaction.

The kitchen island is double-stacked with canned vegetables,

gathered and processed from their garden. Glenda is responsible

for the canning. Ronnie has already cut and stacked long rows

of firewood for the winter months. Then there’s always time

to spend with their granddaughter, Sawyer, who leaves her

child-size John Deere Gator parked near the back door.

Crossroads Baptist Church is just up the road from their

home – the church where they worship and where they’ve

served as 5th and 6th grade Sunday school teachers.

“The Sunny Side of Life” is definitely an appropriate name

choice for the Pennington estate, but somehow that special

name doesn’t quite encompass its full worth. l


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36 • October 2019


38 • October 2019

Melanie McMillan

Any HGTV fan knows that home

decorating hasn’t been the same since Chip

and Joanna Gaines came on the scene and

made “shiplap” a household word. Their

unique style has inspired a multitude of

do-it-yourselfers and home decorators, alike,

with folks scouring flea markets to find the

perfect piece to salvage and make their own.

For those who aren’t so handy and prefer to

benefit from the creativity of others, searching

for home decor items that give them the

vintage look they want without the work

can be as simple as heading to the Mississippi

Trade Mart. Whether you’re a DIY veteran,

or just looking to spruce up your home with

some vintage inspired decor, Vintage Market

Days ® of Mississippi is sure to have what

you’re looking for.

Founded by Amy Scott and Dianna

Brown, the first Vintage Market Days ® event

was held in 2012 in Bixby, Oklahoma. The

success of that first event led to licensing in

other communities, and by 2014, Vintage

Market Days ® was a franchise business. The

business continues to expand, and there are

currently Vintage Market Days ® franchise

events in 26 states.

Vintage Market Days ® was introduced to

Mississippi two years ago, and this year’s

event promises to be the best yet. Continuing

the tradition of Vintage Market Days ® of

Mississippi is a family affair for local franchise

owners Chris and Jana Fuss, and Betty Fuss,

Chris’s mom. Chris and Jana have lived in

the metro area for 25 years, and are the

parents of two sons, Matthew and Jonathan,

who will also be involved in this event. The

combination of sales, marketing, and vendor

relations experience in this family makes for

a smooth transition into the franchise.

Betty first experienced Vintage Market

Days ® as a vendor and was the one to

introduce the family to the event, taking

Jana along to help with her booth at Vintage

Market Days ® of Mobile. Chris has been in

sales since his early days peddling produce

from his parents’ garden, and currently

serves as regional manager of Sunrise Fresh

Produce. As a marketing director with Merit

Health, Jana is no stranger to coordinating

events, big or small, down to the last detail.

She’s also an avid shopper who loves helping

others find the perfect gift or home décor

item, making this the perfect venue for her.

Having promoted other events in the

southeast for years, including the Murfreesboro

Antiques show in Tennessee, when the

opportunity presented itself to acquire the

Vintage Market Days ® franchise, the Fuss

family knew it was the right move. “We are

excited about continuing to grow this event,

and look forward to adding new features

such as children’s activities, DIY demonstrations,

and more.”

Much more than a flea market, Vintage

Market Days ® of Mississippi hosts vendors

from all over the country, offering original

artwork, antiques, clothing, jewelry, home

decor, outdoor furnishings, and much more.

In addition, there will be live entertainment,

food trucks, and, thanks to a partnership

with the YMCA, children’s activities will

be provided every hour.

Vintage Market Days ® of Mississippi will

be held at the Mississippi Trade Mart, Friday,

Saturday, and Sunday, October 25 - 27. The

Fuss family is always on the lookout for high

quality vintage home goods dealers, and

welcomes vendors to visit www.mississippi.

vintagemarketdays.com for more information

on this one-of-a-kind event. l


SMILE

www.drsarahlangston.com

40 • October 2019


I Am

Making

All

Things

New

Mary Ann Kirby

FEBRUARY, 2019

My phone flashed Robert’s

name across the screen. We’ve

been friends for 25 years, and

it’s been a while since we’ve

actually talked. Until 2009,

he was my coworker–a real

friend, actually–like a “cameto-my-hospital-room-thenight-my-son-was-born”

kind of friend. He always

had a cheerful word and will

forever be one of my favorite

people. I smile anticipating

hearing his voice.

42 • October 2019

Photo by Edward Wall


“Hey, Roberto!” (That’s what I’ve

always called him.)

On the other end, sobs. I wasn’t even

entirely sure that’s what I was hearing.

It took me a second to get my bearings.

“Robert? Is that you?” I asked.

Then I heard his voice. “Hey, Doll.”

(That’s what he always called me–and most

every other female he ever knew. It was

“Doll” for the girls and “Doc” for the guys.

If he called you one or the other then you

could count yourself among his favorites–

of which everybody seemed to be. He

absolutely loved people.)

Ã¯ Ã¯ Ã¯

DECEMBER, 2009

Robert had the first of what would

be a series of crippling, diabetes-related

amputations to come over the course of the

next decade. He was getting ready to take

a shower and was running the water to let

it heat up. The tub stopper kept the water

from draining. When he stepped into the

tub, the standing water was scalding hot

and he suffered third-degree burns on

both his feet. And because he’s diabetic, and

has a certain amount of diabetes-related

neuropathy, he couldn’t feel them burning.

My phone rang back then, too.

“Hey Doll, I burned my feet,” he said

as casually as if he was telling someone the

time. You can’t keep a good man down.

“They got my toes.”

“Oh no! Robert, I’m so sorry! What do

you mean they got your toes? How many?”

I asked.

“All of ‘em.”

My heart broke. The brutality of his

disease had finally come into full view. The

time required for his recovery would certainly

prohibit him from working–at least

for a while. He was in his mid-50s and in

what should have been the prime of his life.

44 • October 2019

He never worked again.

After that, we kept in touch. We’d talk

every few weeks, and then months–and

then every year or so–and then, next thing

you know, I’d forgotten how long it had

been. One year became many. I’d send

him a Christmas card every year. Life had

separated us.

Ã¯ Ã¯ Ã¯

But I’d never heard Robert so upset.

He was absolutely inconsolable. Once he

was able to compose himself, he just started

apologizing and saying he didn’t know who

else to call. I grabbed my keys and went to

him, immediately.

Robert was calling from the hospital.

Unbeknownst to me, he was one day

post-op from his most recent surgery that

claimed all of his fingers–with the exception

of a thumb on one hand and a single

digit on the other. Since I had last seen

him, he’d lost both his feet and a leg below

the knee. His kidneys had long-since failed.

He requires dialysis three times a week.

Diabetes had ravaged his body. And when

I walked into his room, he burst into tears,

once again. He was a fraction of his former

physical self. It was all I could do to hold it

together.

What had him so upset, though, was not

so much the fact that his body was failing

him, but rather that he could contribute

so little at home. It tested his spirit. He’d

had too much time to lie there and think

about all the things he could not do. He

wanted to provide for his family and yet

he couldn’t–all while he was in a fight for

his own life. “I’m a proud man,” he sobbed.

“It’s not supposed to be like this.”

It turns out that his home was deteriorating

at the same rate his body was. The

roof was old and riddled with holes as water

poured through his kitchen ceiling with

every rain. His fence had been destroyed

by a tree that had fallen many years ago

and had laid there, in shambles, ever since.

There were plumbing fixtures that were

no longer functional and the house provided

little accessibility for someone with Robert’s

particular mobility challenges.

I couldn’t imagine where to begin–but

I knew I had to do something. So, I came

home and posted it online, tagging the people

that I thought could help. Maybe if we all

put our heads together we could come up

with a plan. I created a GoFundMe page

and raised $4,000, right off the bat. People

were sharing my updates, multiplying the

message, casting a wider net.

We immediately started to make

improvements. In May, The Heart of

Mississippi Missions youth group from

Lake Harbor Church of Christ and Siwell

Road Church of Christ, who had seen our

plea for help on social media, descended

upon the Robinson’s home like a flock

of angels! They had taken us on as their

summer project.

All the rotten siding on the home was

removed and replaced by new treated

siding which got a fresh new paint job.

The old destroyed fence was replaced.

Years’ worth of dysfunction and brokenness

was removed and restored. Ramps

were built for his scooter, an interior door

was widened for easier accessibility. We

repaired and replaced plumbing fixtures

in his shower, installed motion sensor lights

for added safety, and secured it all with

homeowners insurance.

It gave me a renewed sense of purpose.

I particularly enjoyed spending time with

Robert and Pat, his wife, in their home

while we tackled our projects. It was

wonderful reconnecting with my friend.

Over a period of several months, we

accomplished most everything on our list

to help bring Robert and Pat’s house up



to snuff–except for the roof. It was a huge

budget item that we simply didn’t have the

resources to tackle. And the more it rained,

the more it leaked, the more damage it did

to the inside. It was overwhelming.

Ã¯ Ã¯ Ã¯

JUNE, 2019

One afternoon, while doing a few

touch-ups, I walked into the backyard to

survey all the work that had been done.

I’d been on summer vacation with my

family and it was my first time back on the

property since the mission group had left.

I looked over at the old tree stump in the

corner of the yard, a defiant reminder of

what had created all this mess. It had been

carved into the shape of a book. Upon

closer inspection, it said, “I am making all

things new.”

I froze. Someone had carved a Bible out

of the very tree stump left from the very

tree that fell causing so much damage and

creating so much heartache–damage and

heartache the Robinsons have been living

with all this time. I could not believe my

eyes. I cried. I knew that this was all part of

something bigger–something completely

Divine in nature.

“I am making. . . ”

It indicates a continuation.

We still had work to do.

That was the night I went home and

found that a local roofing company was

accepting nominations for a roof to be given

to one needy family–and I could think of

no one more needy than my friend Robert.

I said a quick prayer (I literally claimed

that roof, out loud, in the name of Jesus)

and then I got to work trying to win it.

I worked my social media like a second

job. The promotion entailed garnering

votes during a specified period of time

with the recipient of the most votes

winning a roof.

Ã¯ Ã¯ Ã¯

AUGUST, 2019

Over a thousand votes were cast during

the six-week voting window–and Robert

received over half of them, out of four

finalists. Eight weeks after Robert had

been nominated, Michael Dier, owner of

Watkins Construction and Roofing, along

with members of his team and a camera

crew from the local news station, walked

up to the Robinson’s home, just like the

Publisher’s Clearing House Prize Patrol,

and knocked on the door. Robert had won

the roof! We’d all won that roof!

One week later, on August 28th, the

Watkins team rolled into the neighborhood

with a crew of two dozen members.

In less than six hours, they installed a

state-of-the-art roof that will provide

decades of protection from the elements

and some much-needed peace of mind for

Robert. And by the time the day ended,

Robert and Pat had made new friends

for life.

Ã¯ Ã¯ Ã¯

TODAY

Robert continues to navigate the

challenges that come with the crippling

effects of diabetes –but he never complains.

He’ll tell you, with a quickness, that his

only gripe in life is when his TV signal goes

out and he can’t pick up ESPN. He’s got a

remarkably positive attitude and is loved

by many.

I can’t imagine a greater blessing to

this wonderful friend than to be able to

encourage his independence by helping

him through this difficult time. It’s blessed

me more than anything–not to mention

has restored my faith in humanity in these

mighty dark times. Amazing things happen

when people come together for the greater

good. I thank God for that.

“Behold, I am making all things new.”

Then He said, “Write this down, for these

words are faithful and true.”

– Revelation 21:5

A VERY SPECIAL

THANK YOU TO:

The Heart of Mississippi Missions Youth

Groups from Lake Harbor Church of

Christ and Siwell Road Church of Christ;

Ryan Windham; Barney Davis of Davis

Plumbing and Gas; Coburn’s Supply

Company; Brittany and Brad McHann,

The McHann Team of Godfrey & Ivy

Real Estate; Clinton Refrigeration;

Watkins Construction & Roofing;

Mississippi Roofing Supply, Owens

Corning, and all that donated to help

bring this project to fruition.

46 • October 2019



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50 • October 2019

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52 • October 2019

Feasts

holiday

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54 • October 2019

Melanie McMillan

ince the creation of the first dog

park in the late seventies, the

popularity and number of dog parks

in the United States has grown dramatically.

The size and layout of dog parks varies but

the purpose is the same: to provide a safe,

open space for our four-legged friends to run

and play. Residents of Rankin County are fortunate

to have two such parks, Lakeshore Dog

Park at the Reservoir and the Pavilion Dog Park

in Brandon. Both parks are fairly new, having

been completed within the last 18 months,

and the number of visitors continues to grow.

Lakeshore Dog Park is part of the Lakeshore

Park at the Reservoir, and was the first of the

two parks to open. There is a large fenced

space for dogs to run and play, with separate

areas designated for small and large dogs.

Open daily from sunrise to sunset, the park

offers a place for dogs and their humans to

interact with friends and get some exercise.

The Pavilion Dog Park is located at the

Rankin County Multipurpose Pavilion on

Marquette Road in Brandon. The pavilion has

been in operation for 20 years, hosting multiple

annual events, among them dog shows and

dog agility trials. “Sheriff Bryan Bailey, whose

department oversees the property, saw the

need for a dog park in the area for both the

citizens and the people who travel in and stay

for the events,” says Lieutenant Ken Sullivan

of the Rankin County Animal Shelter. “Dogs

were the first animal domesticated by man,

thousands of years before sheep, cattle, goats

and horses, so it fits perfectly into an agriculture

center.”

The Rankin County Sheriff’s Department

also needed a location to exercise and train

their law enforcement K-9s, so the first part

of the dog park constructed was an area that

includes an agility course for this purpose.

This section is available to the public when

it is not being used for K-9 training. Like the

Lakeshore Park, the Pavilion Park is open daily

from sunrise to sunset and the number of

people using the park is steadily growing.

The two Rankin County dog parks would

not be possible without the work of the

Rankin County Animal Adoption Foundation.

Formed approximately eight years ago, the

foundation’s focus is to rehabilitate, and find

homes for, abandoned pets. Community

members Nancy Branton, Robert Angelo,

June Hollis, Sharon Hoffman, Gloria Windham,

and Sheryl Kennedy serve on the board of

directors for the foundation. Led by Board

President Jim Anderson, DVM, these board

members spend countless hours investing

in the community and caring for animals.

“This is a great group of people to work with,”

says Dr. Anderson, who is retired from the

Crossgates Veterinary Clinic.

Thanks to the fundraising efforts of the

Rankin County Animal Adoption Foundation,

both dog parks were completed at no cost to

the taxpayers of Rankin County, with ownership

being turned over to the Pearl River Water

Supply District and the Rankin County Board

of Supervisors, respectively.

With fall approaching and cooler weather

on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to make

plans to explore one of Rankin County’s dog

parks. For more information on dog parks or the

Rankin County Animal Adoption Foundation,

visit them on Facebook. l


56 • October 2019

For ten weeks, Renasant Bank and Hometown Rankin Magazine honors school personnel throughout Rankin County for outstanding

work in their fields. Nominations are accepted through Facebook each week and those receiving the most nominations are

awarded gift baskets from our sponsor. We are pleased to be able to celebrate with these amazing school employees

that were voted on by their peers. Thank you to all who participated and congratulations to our first four winners.


58 • October 2019

Camille Anding

Crybaby

No More

As the youngest of seven children, Alisha Redd

remembers capitalizing on being the “baby.” Crying

was the easy and natural way to get her mother’s

attention and a lot of babying from her siblings. Her

mother even referred to Alisha as her little crybaby.

Then, in a few years, the adult world found her

married to her high school sweetheart and the

University of Southern Mississippi’s star football

player. She was a valued employee at Bancorp-

South in Dogwood, and husband Eric Redd was

employed with the Brandon Police Department.

Three daughters completed their “perfect” family

setting, but time and a lab report were to drastically

change their lives.

In May of 2008, even though Alisha’s mammogram

was clear, a perceptive breast specialist, Dr.

Christina Dial, wanted further testing for Alisha.

A few days later, Dr. Dial called with the devastating

news. Alisha was diagnosed with invasive ductal

carcinoma, and the cancer was in her lymph nodes.

Alisha describes the news as “mind-blowing.”

“I had been going to the gym, taking spin classes

and felt better than I had ever felt, and there was

no cancer on either side of my family.” She recalls

the first question she asked her doctor, “Am I

going to die?”

In 2018, Alisha celebrated a clean bill of health

declared by her oncologist, Dr. Tammy Young, but

the road to being a survivor was the most difficult

the entire family had ever experienced.

The couple maintained a positive attitude and

refused to listen to any negative talk. Alisha credits

Eric as a star caretaker while she was taking chemo

treatments and recovering from her mastectomy.

He cleaned house, washed clothes and tended to

Alisha’s every physical need. He also instructed

their daughters not to ask their mama anything

unless they were dying! Meals were lovingly

furnished by the couples’ mothers.

Eric remained strong for Alisha and only

remembers asking God, once, why he allowed Alisha

to get cancer instead of the people he saw who were

throwing their lives away with addictions. He said

he distinctly sensed God tell him that He couldn’t

use those people like he would Alisha.

Eric drew needed encouragement from his

sister who he would occasionally talk to about

Alisha. Something his aunt told him still stands out

in this chapter of life, “You married for better or

worse. You just don’t know how bad worse can be.”

Hopefully the “worse” is behind the Redd

family. Eric enjoys his position as assistant police

chief for Ridgeland, and Alisha is branch manager

for the Flowood BancorpSouth. They are presently

planning for the American Cancer Society

fundraiser, Real Men Wear Pink, on October 6 at

The Vault. Eric has been selected as one of the “real

men” to raise funds so Alisha says it’s her turn to

be his cheerleader.

They could write some insightful chapters on

what they’ve learned and how God has taught

them. For any facing the same report that Alisha

received she says, “Listen to your doctors and do

exactly what they say. Do NOT google. That and

well-meaning advice from friends will not cure

cancer. Listen to favorite hymns.” (One of their

daughters downloaded a selection of uplifting

songs that ministered mightily to Alisha.)

As for faith – there was no choice but to

believe in beating the disease. The strength of that

faith and their marriage has grown remarkably

during this cancer combat. Alisha’s smile lights the

room as she turns for affirmation from her

husband and asserts, “I’m not a crybaby anymore.”


Congratulations

Laurie Cutrer

on being selected

Signmark, Inc

www.signmark.us

N. Pearson Road | Pearl, MS 39208

Phn: 601-932-6699 | Fax: 601-932-6441

60 • October 2019

LIFE CHANGES

AND SO DO YOUR

INSURANCE NEEDS.

Steven Wallace

601-825-5242

swallace@insassociate.com


62 • October 2019

What’s Cooking

with the Junior Auxiliary?

The Junior Auxiliary of Rankin County is a charitable, non-profit

organization that has been serving the needs within our community

for more than thirty years. Our members have a passion for service

and making a lasting impact throughout our community

with an emphasis on child welfare.

We currently have fourteen service projects that provide various needs

in Rankin County. Members have the opportunity to work with other

organizations in our areas such as The Mustard Seed, Rankin County

Juvenile Detention Center, Whitfield, and both Rankin and Pearl schools.

In the last three years, Junior Auxiliary of Rankin County has awarded

over $30,000 in scholarships to deserving high school graduates.

In order to continue our service mission and fund our projects,

Junior Auxiliary of Rankin County hosts our annual Children’s Benefit

Gala. Please join us at The Westin Hotel and spend An Evening at

the Oscars in Old Hollywood on March 7th, 2020, at 7pm.


HOLLY WILLIAMS

President

French Quarter

Green Beans

• 2 packages of frozen French-cut

green beans

• 2 tablespoons of margarine

• 3 ounces of cream cheese

• 1 teaspoon of garlic salt

• 1 teaspoon of pepper

• ½ cup of cheddar cheese

• 1 can of cream of mushroom soup

• 1 8 oz. can of sliced water chestnuts

• 1 cup of toasted almonds

Simmer green beans in boiling water until

slightly done. Drain and set aside. In a large

saucepan, melt margarine on low heat

and then add cream cheese, garlic salt, and

pepper. Cook until you have a smooth sauce.

Add shredded cheese and mushroom soup

and mix. Add water chestnuts and green

beans, mixing well. Cover tightly and bake at

350 degrees for 30 minutes. When serving,

sprinkle toasted almonds, if desired.

64 • October 2019

HADLEY EISENBERGER

Vice President

Cornbread

Casserole

• 1 (15.25 ounce) can whole kernel corn,

drained

• 1 (14.75 ounce) can cream-style corn

• ½ cup of sour cream

• 1 cup of butter or margarine-melted

• 2 eggs

• 1 (12 ounce) package of sweet corn

muffin mix

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Combine

whole kernel corn, cream-styled corn, sour

cream, melted butter, beaten eggs, and corn

muffin mix. Mix well and pour into one 9x13

inch baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for

35-40 minutes.


ASHLEY MOOREHEAD

Provisional Trainer

Shrimp Deviled Eggs

• 1 dozen eggs

• ½ cup sweet pickle relish

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 1 teaspoon of yellow mustard

• 1-2 pounds of seasoned boiled shrimp

(peeled and chopped)

• salt and pepper to taste

• Paprika

Place eggs in a single layer at the bottom of

a large saucepan. Add enough water so the

eggs are covered by at least 2 inches. Add a

teaspoon of salt. Heat on high and bring to

a boil. Turn off the heat, leave the pan on

the burner, cover and let sit for 10-12 minutes.

Peel the eggs, cut in half, and scoop out

the yolk into a medium bowl. Add the

mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and sweet

pickle relish. You want the mixture to be

creamy but not too thin. Add chopped

shrimp. Salt and pepper to taste. Use fork

until well combined. Using a small melon

scoop, fill each egg white with a generous

amount of filling. Lightly sprinkle with

paprika to garnish.

66 • October 2019

TATUM SMITH

Scholarship Chair

Squash Supreme

• 2 cups of squash

(cooked, drained, and smashed)

• 2 beaten eggs

• ¾ cup of mayo

• 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese

• 10 green onions and tops, chopped

• ½ stick of oleo

• 1 teaspoon of salt and pepper

• ½ cup of crushed Ritz crackers

Sauté onions in oleo. Add other ingredients

(except for the crackers). Pour into buttered

casserole dish and top with crackers. Bake at

400 degrees for 25-30 minutes.


LYNN WEST-WALKER

Treasurer

Crock Pot

Mac & Cheese

• 3 cups of shredded cheese

• 2 ½ cups of milk

• 12 oz. of evaporated milk

• 8 oz. of cream cheese

• 1 box of elbow macaroni

Throw all of the ingredients into the crock

pot. Cook on low for up to 2 ½ hours or

until it looks like the mac and cheese is

done. You can add more milk or noodles

to even it out if it is too thick.

68 • October 2019


70 • October 2019

Thank you, Brandon and Rankin County, for believing in us as we

opened our doors at The Club at Crossgates 15 years ago this September.

We have been humbled by your kindness. We have been overwhelmed

with your graciousness. Your friendship is beyond description. Forty-two

years in the fitness business but never have we loved being a part of any

Club like The Club at Crossgates. We are told in scripture to “keep our

eyes on the things above, not on the things on earth.” We’ve tried to

do that as we have built this business in Brandon. A full generation

of families have passed thru our doors during these 15 years–

starting in our nursery and now in college. We’ve been blessed far

beyond what we deserve. The Club exists to serve your recreational

fitness needs in any manner we can, regardless of age.

Thank you again for your loyalty to the Club.

Cordially, Chuck Miner

15 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

72 • October 2019

August 22 • The Vault


74 • October 2019


An evil stepmother? No.

Hateful stepsisters? No.

Rayne Deuel, in her thirteen years,

has never known those trials, but

Cinderella

A

trials have come other forms.

Story

Camille Anding

She exhibited all the characteristics of a healthy,

normal baby and grew into a happy, active preschooler.

Her spiritual heart, under the nurturing of

Christian parents, seemed to mature more rapidly

than her physical one.

At age five, she asked her mother if all mothers

read the Bible to their children like she was blessed

to experience. Mrs. Deuel explained that there were

many who didn’t share that blessing. “Why?” she

asked. Her mom described several reasons, not

owning a bible being one of them. Rayne thought

that obstacle was fixable.

Rayne began making bracelets and selling them

for $1 each. News spread of this five-year-old’s

commitment to donating Bibles. Her story made

the newspaper and TV, and Rayne was able to

donate over 3,000 Bibles.

What was in store for a child with such a heart of

love? Something they would never have imagined.

At age seven, Rayne began routinely getting

sick. She experienced bouts of vomiting and loss

of weight. Her parents carried her to doctors who

began tests and screenings. Within two months

Rayne couldn’t remember anything in her past

twenty-four hours, and her heartrate could race to

220 beats per minute.

An MRI showed a brain tumor. Operable and

benign was the good news. New information showed

the voices and music that Rayne was hearing weren’t

actually there but manifestations of the 500 plus

seizures her body was experiencing over the course

of the tumor’s growth. The bad news was the

post-op long-term effects. Her short-term memory

would continue to be affected and her brain’s auditory

receptors could make tones and music difficult.

None of the negatives touched Rayne’s young

faith. When her parents tried to share the sensitive

news, she nodded her head and said, “God’s got this!”

Rayne shared her faith with the hospital staff

and joked about her “tu-mor” and looked forward

to calling it a “no-mor.” She never lost her joy

throughout the tremendous test, but her parents

didn’t find comfort or peace until they prayed,

“If You want to take her, she’s Yours.”

Enter the miracle! Under stage lights on July 20,

2019, Rayne, as Cinderella in the opening production

of Rankin Performing Arts’ Cinderella Kids, never

missed a line or cue. Her solo voice was amazing

– totally nullifying the loss of tone prognosis while

wowing the audience.

It’s obvious by Rayne’s strong faith, she is and will

be an overcomer, but the testing continues. After her

surgery, she was diagnosed with connective tissue

joint disorder which would mean physical limitations.

Her love for and superior talent in ballet, soccer, and

gymnastics, were forced to end. Even with therapy

three times a week, she appears limited to the stage

for extracurricular activities.

It’s the lyrics in her Cinderella solo that mirror her

faith and strength. No wonder she could sing them

so beautifully – her life has given them new meaning.

“No matter how your heart is grieving

If you keep on believing

The dream that you wish will come true.” l


Life

is

full of

CHOICES

My Best Decision!

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Services, Box 1003, Utica, MS 39175; Phone: 601.885.7002 or Email: EEOC@hindscc.edu. Title IX: Randall Harris, Vice President for Advancement and Student Services, Title IX Coordinator, Box 1100 Raymond MS 39154; Phone: 601.857.3889 or Email: TitleIX@hindscc.edu.

78 • October 2019

Move into a new home

before the leaves start to

fall!!

Bobby Palmer

601-540-4994

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601-942-6583

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80 • October 2019

God is Our Hope

Finding Hope, Help, & Peace in the Breast Cancer Journey

Myrna Gregory

It is impossible to capture the full gamut of

emotions experienced when your doctor calls

you and says, “I am so sorry, but you have breast

cancer.” I can remember my mind racing to

multiple places with many questions. What does

this mean? What are my options for treatment?

Is this a bad dream? Can I be cured? Will I need

chemo and radiation? God, is this really happening?

It was overwhelming. It was scary. It was a time

I will never forget.

For me and two friends, Debi and Melinda,

that phone call came in July of 2017. We were

all diagnosed within three weeks apart. I had

followed Debi’s story on Facebook. And yes, I

took the time to lift a prayer. But her story had

new meaning when I received my phone call

about two weeks after her. And then, before I

could even meet with my own oncologist, I was

told that yet another friend, Melinda, was also

diagnosed.

To be honest, we had all been friends for

almost 20 years, but we were all in different

seasons of our life and did not socialize or

communicate, often. But boy did that change!

We are walking this journey together.

God, in His faithfulness, provided us with an

amazing support group of women to come around

us. Many had already been through their own

treatment and surgery. Some were still receiving

intense care. It was helpful, informative, and an

absolute blessing to have these woman embrace us.

While my family and friends were incredibly

supportive, they could not fully understand the

journey because they had not walked the path.

One in eight women will be diagnosed with

breast cancer, and our little support group of

8-10 has now grown to 45+ women. We call

ourselves BFF’s–Breast Friends Forever.

Despite the great medical teams and our

support group, this journey is by no means easy.

The struggle is real. My hope is that as you read

this article you will take away several nuggets of

wisdom applicable to women currently in

treatment, breast cancer survivors, and women

in general. This is a message to family and friends

of breast cancer patients.

First, to all women, please do not neglect your

yearly checkups and self-exams. My cancer was

found in a yearly mammogram. I did not feel it,

nor did my doctor. By comparing my mammograms

from one year to another, a difference

was noted and further testing confirmed it was

cancer. Testing and technology have allowed for

major strides in the area of early detection. It is

imperative women take advantage of these

advances.

Second, be diligent with self-exams. And

I’ve heard all the excuses: “I just can’t feel

anything.” I offered those same excuses before

being diagnosed. But now, I am meticulous. I

check often when lying in bed or when taking

a shower. As you allow this to become routine,

you know your body and you will usually

recognize something out of the ordinary.

To the family and friends of breast cancer

patients, do not try and fix it. Sometimes the best

thing you can do it just be there and cry with us.

Try and understand that this diagnosis is not a

3-month, 6-month, or even a one-year thing

that will pass. It is a diagnosis that changes our

life-view and we need your consistent prayers

and support.

To friends and acquaintances that want to

help during treatment and surgeries, please be

sensitive to the patient. Often, they will not feel

like talking about treatment nor the diagnosis.

And please remember how susceptible to germs

patients are during treatments. Refrain from

hugging. Chemo destroys the immune system

and germs are a no-no.


Often people want to bring a meal to the

family, which is a huge help. However, do not

expect the family to chat at the door. One of the

best suggestions many of us acted upon was

leaving a cooler at the entry door. If one person

could coordinate food delivery and text the

patient or family member the schedule of who is

bringing what, it helps them to plan accordingly.

When the person brings the food, simply place

it in the cooler and text the family member that

the food has arrived. I asked the person that

coordinated my food to give me a list of who was

bringing it. On my good weeks, I would go ahead

and write thank you notes and place them on the

cooler before the person arrived. Another good

idea is to send the family gift cards to local eateries

so that the spouse or a close friend could pick up

food for them. These practical acts of kindness

relieve some of the everyday stresses of home life

responsibilities.

Finally, to those women recently diagnosed,

currently in treatment, or even breast cancer

survivors, do not try and fight this battle alone.

The breast cancer community is, unfortunately,

large. But fortunately, for those in the battle,

there is someone who has the same type of cancer,

has received the same or similar treatment, and

has usually experienced or is experiencing almost

identical symptoms and side effects. Knowledge

is powerful. Many times, I would text one of my

BFF friends asking if they had experienced a

specific side effect or what they had done to

counteract some of the aches and pains. Their

firsthand understanding was priceless. We have

walked and are still walking this path and we

understand the pain and the fear associated with

the cancer battle. Our BFF group not only offers

support of women on the same journey, but we

also have some practical resources with chemo

tips and inspirational materials.

But the most powerful resource we provide

by our network of friends is prayer–and these

women are prayer warriors! There is a rarely a

day that passes that I do not see a prayer request

from someone in our group. It could be about

upcoming scans or treatments. Or it could be

about struggles in the home or at work. Yes, the

struggle is real, but we know in our hearts, and

have experienced firsthand, that God is our Hope.

82 • October 2019

It is hard to understand life. It is hard to wrap

our minds around illness and disease. I do not

pretend to understand why some experience

healing and others do not. But I cannot imagine

walking this journey without the Lord in my life.

From day one, I cried out to the Lord. I asked for

the cancer to be instantly removed so that I would

not have to deal with surgery and chemo. But

that was not the path God had for me. Because

I had to take the path of traditional medicine, I

now have new empathy for women in the same

boat. I would not have understood the effects of

chemo if I had not experienced it myself.

The physical battle is tough–but I actually

believe the mental battle is tougher. The battle of

the mind is constant. One of my BFF’s, Heather,

suggested that I create notecards with every Bible

verse I could find related to fear. I am almost two

years out from the cancer removal and I still use

these cards. When fear tries to creep into my

mind, and I begin to feel overwhelmed, I pull

out those cards and begin to read all the verses

one by one. I begin to pray for peace and hope.

I send out text messages to my closest friends,

family, and my breast cancer friends asking for

prayer. I read these verses and pray until I find

the peace that passes all understanding–the

peace of God that is bigger than cancer–the

peace that HE alone is my hope and my future.

I often found myself praying the scripture to

the Lord. All the verses are valuable–but I

probably have two favorites. The first is Jeremiah

17:14, “Heal me oh Lord and I will be healed;

Save me and I will be saved, for You are my

praise.” And the second is Psalm 56:3, “When

I am afraid, I will trust in You.”

Another, source of re-focus and comfort

comes in the form of Christian music. The lyrics

of numerous songs help fight fear. I work out of

my home, so I can crank up the music and listen

to positive words of praise and hope. One of my

favorite choruses repeats the same two phrases

over and over. I guess I need repetition for it to

sink in. The verse says, “It may look like I’m

surrounded but I’m surrounded by You.” It’s

followed by the repeating of the chorus, “This is

how I fight my battles.” We tend to try and fix

everything ourselves. We try to fight our battles

in our power. Exodus 14:14 says, “The Lord will

fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.” The

struggle is real–but He can give peace.

There is an amazing story in the Old

Testament about a brave Jewish woman named

Queen Esther. She had to put aside fear to

advocate to the King for her Jewish people. In

those times, entering the presence of the King

without invitation could mean death. Plus, to beg

for the lives of her people, she had to admit to

the King that she was Jewish. The king was not

aware of her heritage. Her uncle, Mordecai, came

to her and pleaded that she would intercede on

behalf of her people. One of my favorite parts of

this story is found in Esther 4:14, at the end of

the verse. Mordecai said, “And who knows but

that you have come to your royal position for

such a time as this?”

I feel it’s important that I mention two more

people that helped me on the battlefield. Dr.

Phillip Ley is passionate about breast cancer care.

I will never forget when he told me I would

require chemo. The tears were rolling down my

cheeks. He pulled his chair right in front of me and

took my hands in his and said, “I know this isn’t

what you wanted to hear. But we are in the fight

together.” I left his office so confident that God

had led me directly to the right surgeon for me!

And Dr. Tammy Young is another godsend in

my life. She is direct but also upbeat and

encouraging. Her blend of sweet spirit but

amazing expertise in the field allows me to rest in

the confidence that she has a watchful eye on

every part of my treatment and recovery.

Maybe you are a part of the breast cancer

journey or perhaps you know someone that

could benefit from our community of Breast

Friends. It’s important to know that there is

hope, help, and peace in the journey. The BFF’s

feel God has provided us a place of influence for

such a time as this. It is not a journey any of us

would have chosen–but it is the path we had to

walk and we are still walking.

Find us on Facebook – Breast Friends Forever

or contact us at Breastfriendsforever1@gmail.com.

I choose Merit.

Phillip Ley, M.D., FACS

Board-Certified Surgeon

Specialist in Cancer Surgery

Because there’s Merit

in providing specialized care.

Surgical oncologist Phillip Ley, M.D., FACS, has joined the team at Merit Health. With more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Ley

has special expertise in breast cancer surgery. He provides minimally invasive biopsy, breast cancer management, hereditary

cancer risk assessment, and oncoplastic breast cancer surgery. An advocate for breast cancer prevention and research, he is

continually exploring new options for patients, such as genetic testing and clinical research for those with a family history of

breast cancer. Dr. Ley is also experienced in treating melanoma, soft tissue sarcoma, and thyroid and parathyroid disease.

Dr. Ley brings his patients the benefits of advanced research,

training and techniques. For more information, call 601-326-2175.

Talk with your physician about a referral to Dr. Ley.

Member of the Medical Staff at Merit Health River Oaks and Merit Health Woman’s Hospital.

1030 N. Flowood Dr.

Suite C • Flowood, MS

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84 • October 2019

214 Spell Drive Richland, MS - www.hickoryseniorliving.com - info@hickoryseniorliving.com

Hometown Rankin

READER

SPOTLIGHT

Susan

PUCKETT

Why did you decide to make Rankin

County your home?

It’s all about family for me. Growing up in Jackson,

our family would visit my grandparents, Thompson

and Audrey Webb, at their home in Rankin County

most Sunday afternoons. The property where we

built our home has been in my mother’s family

for four generations. I feel so fortunate to have

such a longtime connection to Rankin County.

How long have you lived in Rankin

County?

My husband and I have lived at our home in

Rankin County since 1983. We never plan to

leave, especially now that our children have built

their forever homes here.

Tell us about your family.

My mother, Frances Webb Shelton, our matriarch,

is 91 years old. My husband, Freddy, has worked

as an RN in several areas, currently outpatient

surgery. Our oldest son, Ryan, is married to Rachel

Porter Puckett. Ryan is facility design and project

manager with Community Bank. Rachel is the

dosimetrist for the VA Hospital. They have two

children, Kinley (7) and Jack (3 months). Our

son, Zach, is married to Kelty Bise Puckett. Zach

is an RN at the children’s hospital in the cardiac

ICU. Kelty works in the human resources

department at MDEQ.

What is your favorite memory of living

in Rankin County?

So many fun family times were centered on youth

sports on the soccer and baseball fields. Freddy

coached most of Ryan and Zach’s teams. The

players and their families will always have a close

bond. It’s always fun to see them around Rankin

County and reminisce.

Where are your favorite places to eat

in Rankin County?

We enjoy dining out with family and rarely venture

outside of Rankin County because we have so many

options. My favorites are Genna Benna, Kismets,

and Primos.

What are some fun things to do in

Rankin County on the weekends?

Freddy and I host our children for dinner most

weekends. All together we have four golden

retrievers and they love to join us, too. We enjoy

worship and fellowship at Crossgates UMC every

Sunday.

Share some things you enjoy doing in

your spare time.

A perfect day in spring or fall would be to shop for

plants at Rivers Nursery or Lakeland Yard and

Garden. My granddaughter, Kinley, and I enjoy

playing at Winners Circle Park then having lunch

at Chick-fil-A. I visit my mother in her assisted

living community here in Rankin County,

frequently. It is such a delight to talk with the

residents and help with their group activities.

Oh, and shopping Downtown Brandon and

Dogwood.

What some things on your bucket list?

As a former teacher, I have a love for children’s

literature. I’ve always wanted to publish a children’s

book. And having taught kindergarten and first

grade for 33 years, mostly in Rankin County, it has

been my privilege to teach children reading skills

at various levels. It would be such a rewarding

experience to have the opportunity to give the gift

of reading to an adult right here in Rankin County.

We have such fun memories of family trips when

our children were young. My bucket list includes

a week-long family trip with our children and

grandchildren, maybe Hawaii.

Who is someone you admire and why?

My mother, Frances Webb Shelton is my guiding

light. At 91, she remains the stability and security

in our lives. She instilled the importance of

dedication to church, family, education, and career.

She graduated from Brandon High and was to be

the valedictorian. She survived a car accident her

senior year and was bedridden. Due to a lengthy

school absence, even with the highest GPA, she

was ineligible. Mother left by a train to Columbus,

Mississippi, to graduate from “The W” with a

business degree. Her career began during a time

when the business world was dominated by men,

but she earned their respect with a strong work

ethic and intellect. And on the lighter side, I have

to say she has always presented herself in public

very well-dressed, complete with matching shoes,

bag, and lipstick. I recently counted 25 lipsticks!

What is your favorite childhood memory?

Our neighborhood was a place that any child

would love, having lots of wonderful families with

children who were all close friends. The snow

days were the best!

If you could give us one encouraging

quote, what would it be?

“I ain’t no saint, but I’ve tried never to do anything

to hurt my family or offend God…I figure all any

kid needs is hope and the feeling that he or she

belongs. If I could do or say anything that would

give some kid that feeling, I would believe I had

contributed something to the world.”

– Elvis Presley

What is your favorite thing about

Hometown Magazine?

Hometown Magazine is all about featuring

positive things people are doing here and stories

about caring for and supporting others. l


86 • October 2019

Melanie McMillan

The past few years have brought quite a

transformation to the downtown Brandon

area. With the tremendous growth of new

businesses in the area, residents and visitors

can enjoy a day of shopping, dining and

pampering without ever leaving downtown.

In July of this year, a new initiative debuted,

offering even more opportunities for getting

to know our downtown retailers. Held the

third Thursday of each month from 5:00 -

8:00pm, this free monthly event celebrates

downtown and showcases local businesses.

Pam Lantrip, owner of Downtown Giftery,

a unique home décor and gift shop says,

“Several months ago, I contacted the

merchants in Brandon and they agreed to

unite together to create a once-a-month fun

event in downtown for all customers where

they could stroll down the sidewalks of

Brandon, enjoy a cup of coffee or dinner,

and explore the unique shops downtown.

Events like these bring people to our area

and introduce them to shops they may not

have known were in Brandon.”

Just across the street from Downtown

Giftery is Liv the Salon, a trendy, upscale

salon with a hometown feel. Owner Olivia

Barrett is excited about these Thursday night

events and hopes to see a fantastic turnout

each month. “We’re excited to be in downtown

Brandon and love being a part of the community.

This fun event will be something to look

forward to each month, for the public and

business owners, alike. It’s important for the

community to get involved so that downtown

Brandon will continue to grow and thrive.”

October’s third Thursday event has been

dubbed “Boo 042” and will be a festive night

featuring candy for the kids and shopping

discounts at downtown stores. The Vault

Venue will also present a tasting event from

5:00 - 7:00pm, where local restaurants will

offer delicious menu samples for only $10

per person. You won’t want to miss this fun,

family-friendly event.

If you haven’t spent time in downtown

Brandon lately, grab a pal and make plans

to take a walk through town to see what

the buzz is all about. You may discover

a new favorite, and you’re sure to meet

some friends along the way.

Mark your calendar for 042 Night Out

every third Thursday from now through

December.


REAL MEN

WEAR PINK

Breast cancer

affects everyone.

So these men were recruited

to fight breast cancer through

Real Men Wear Pink.

This distinguished group of

community leaders is determined

to raise awareness and money

to support the American Cancer

Society’s mission and save more

lives than ever before.

BLAKE BRENNAN

HILTON JACKSON

DR. JOHN BROOKS

MEA - RICHLAND

As a Real Men Wear Pink candidate,

these leaders commit to wearing pink

throughout October, raise awareness

for the cause through their social

media platforms and contacts, and

raise a minimum of $2500 for the

American Cancer Society

to fight breast cancer.

MICHAEL DIER

WATKINS CONSTRUCTION

& ROOFING

BRANDON MEEKS

SHELTER INSURANCE

We wish them well

in their fight and

hope that you will

support these men,

and the mission,

through your

donations.

TREY HERRON

SKINNY’S NUTRITION STUDIO

DR. FRED KENCY

RHO XI LAMBDA FOUNDATION

ADAM RICHARDS

ALFA INSURANCE

ERIC REDD

RIDGELAND POLICE DEPARTMENT

DR. JOHN RUCKDESCHEL

UMMC

Photos by Jay D. Johnson Photography

88 • October 2019

CHANCE CARTER

COMMUNITY BANK

REGINALD COOPER

BYRAM POLICE DEPARTMENT

KEVIN DEASON

NEW DIRECTION OUTREACH

MINISTRIES / TEAM NATCHEZ

MICHAEL GATER

ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY INC.

RHO XI LAMBDA

HAROLD HART

ELIM’S ART CONCEPTS

DAVID HENRY

ST. DOMINIC HOSPITAL

HAL LUSK

STATE FARM INSURANCE

CHOKWE ANTAR LUMUMBA

CITY OF JACKSON, MAYOR

DR. DUSTIN PAMBIANCHI

THE WINNING SMILE

WILL SIMPSON

MAGNOLIA HEALTH

DR. DAMIEN THOMAS

RESILIENCE COUNSELING

& RECOVERY CENTER

NICK WALLACE

NICK WALLACE CULINARY


6 0 T H A N N I V E R S A R Y

M E M B E R

C E L E B R A T I O N

The year 2019 marks a special anniversary

for the Rankin County Chamber of Commerce.

Sixty years ago, as Mary Ann Mobley was

beginning her reign as Miss America 1959, a

group of community leaders met to discuss the

formation of an area chamber of commerce.

Following that meeting, and with guidance

from economic and civic leaders from around

the state, the Rankin County Chamber of

Commerce was born. The original board of

directors was made up of fifteen members,

with J.C. Murray serving as president.

Rankin County has seen many changes

and experienced tremendous growth in those

60 years. A county of just under 35,000

residents when the chamber began, the

population has now grown to over 150,000.

Along the way, the chamber has worked to

promote Rankin County businesses and make

a positive impact on the community. Programs

and initiatives have changed through the

years, but the goal of growing the businesses

of Rankin County remains a priority.

Economic development is certainly an

important part of the chamber’s mission, but a

happy by-product of working together towards

a common goal is the building of relationships

along the way. “I have made so many good

friends through the chamber,” says Carolyn

Boteler, president and CEO of TempStaff, Inc.

Carolyn served as a board member for many

years, and was the president of the board in

2000. Board members and chamber staff get

to know one another and the businesses they

serve, heightening the sense of community.

Recognizing the benefit of getting involved in

the community, the chamber began a

leadership program that is an important part

of the chamber culture today.

Leadership Rankin began as a way to give

business and community leaders the opportunity

to learn more about the county and all it offers.

Participants in the program spend one day a

month visiting area businesses and schools,

and getting to know elected officials. Tammy

Phillips, chief administration officer for

Community Bank, was a graduate of the

Leadership Rankin class of 2000 and later

served as president of the board of directors.

“I found the program to be one of the best

experiences that I have had with the chamber,”

Tammy says. “I met many people whom I have

had the pleasure of getting to know and

developing strong friendships with over the

past 20 years. The program enlightened me

about so many aspects of Rankin County and

gave me access to people and things that I

would not have had without it.”

In addition to learning more about the

community, class members also give back in

the form of service projects. Every year,

participants in the Leadership Rankin program

have worked in teams to develop and

implement projects to benefit the residents

of the county. Over the years, the teams

and their projects have benefited multiple

organizations and groups in the area, and

these projects have, no doubt, been one of

the most rewarding aspects of the program.

On the heels of the success of Leadership

Rankin, a similar program was implemented

for the youth of Rankin County. Youth

Leadership, like its adult counterpart, involves

monthly field trips to various businesses and

organizations in Rankin County. High school

90 • October 2019

juniors who participate in Leadership also

participate in service projects and learn

leadership skills that will serve them well later

in life. Carter Elliott, a member of last year’s

Youth Leadership class says, “I joined Rankin

Youth Leadership not knowing what to expect.

However, from that first day in the hot August

sun to the bittersweet graduation ceremony

in April, I could not find a single negative thing

to say. As well as being an amazing social

experience, Youth Leadership provided an

excellent education on the community of

Rankin County and how young leaders, like

ourselves, can better serve it. We had several

awesome service opportunities, from singing

at the Brandon Nursing and Rehab Center, to

working the Krewe de Roux Festival. It was an

incredible time.”

This year’s Leadership Rankin and Youth

Leadership classes completed one large

project together, rather than dividing into teams.

Along with the chamber staff, the two groups

presented the first ever Krewe de Roux Festival

to Rankin County. Complete with a parade and

gumbo cook-off, the two-day event was a great

success that benefited the youth of Rankin

County through scholarships. Participants

currently in the Leadership classes look

forward to continuing the new tradition and

will be working hard planning this festival for

the community.

Celebrating an anniversary this year as well

is President and CEO Mandi Arinder, who has

been with the chamber for ten years.

Previously on staff at the Forest Area Chamber,

Mandi says, “It’s been in my blood for so long

now that I can’t imagine any other career being

so rewarding and enjoyable at the same time.

There are many memories I cherish when I

think about the time I have been blessed to

serve at the Rankin Chamber, but God’s timing

in my path to the chamber will always be one

of my favorites. I was actually on my way to an

interview somewhere else the day I first

stopped by the chamber office. I had one

extra resume and felt a nudge to drop it off

‘just in case.’ I had no way of knowing that an

events coordinator position had opened up

that very day. That experience taught me to

always pay attention to those little nudges.”

Although every chamber of commerce has

its own approach to meeting the needs of its

members, one thing that all chambers have

experienced is the social media phenomenon.

“Social media has changed the marketing and

advertising strategies of businesses,” says

Arinder. Having a social media presence

enables the chamber to better promote their

member businesses. They recently began

spotlighting a “Member of the Day” on Facebook,

introducing the community to area businesses

and what they offer.

The mission statement of the chamber is to

create an environment which promotes

business and education, develops leadership,

and enhances the quality of life throughout

Rankin County. “Our vision is to strive to connect

community and commerce in everything we

do,” Mandi says. “We seek to promote and

support area businesses through our various

programs, and our board of directors and

committee members actively look for new

ways to market and benefit our members.

My prayer is that in the years to come we

continue to be not just surviving, but thriving.”


92 • October 2019

94 • October 2019

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96 • October 2019


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98 • October 2019

Return on Relationships

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Invested in

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100 • October 2019


Help us help

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Member FDIC.

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104 • October 2019

• • • ADVERTISER SPOTLIGHT • • •

coming into focus

Mistie Desper

Welcoming, fun, and exciting, are not

typical terms associated with a gym or

fitness center. Focus Fit changes that idea.

As a family owned facility, co-owner David

Neeley prides himself on offering top notch

classes and equipment along with a friendly,

knowledgeable staff. Whether you are a

young athlete gunning for a position on

your school’s team, a busy mom staying

healthy and fit, or a professional fitness

competitor, Focus Fit offers something for

everyone. At only $30 a month, no cancellation

fees, and a free 7 day trial, Neeley strives to

give the community the best opportunity to

begin a new lifestyle and fitness journey.

Focus Fit’s mission is to provide a

fitness experience exceeding expectations,

to meet the personal needs of all its members.

This begins with a free fitness assessment,

designed to forge a customized path just

for you. Neeley expressed his desire to

constantly offer an exceptional gym

experience while maintaining its familyoriented

atmosphere.

The wide variety of services offered at

Focus Fit allows members the ability to

change up their routine, constantly, to stay

motivated and challenged to reach their

goals. From elliptical machines, treadmills,

stairsteppers, free weights, and squat

racks–to yoga, Zumba, and kickboxing

classes, there are more than enough choices

to fit your personal style. The impressive list

also includes weighted sleds, rowing

machines, and battle ropes.

If you are up for a unique challenge, try

their ninja warrior-style agility course. The

heavy lifters are not left out, either. A special

area called The Yard is dedicated to them

with top-of-line free weights and machines.

At the end of your training, relax with tanning,

the hydromassage bed, or one of the two

medical grade infrared saunas.

Members desiring a more one-on-one

experience for their needs have access to

trainers specializing in various areas. There

is someone and something for everyone.

Personal trainer, Shannon Lamoreaux,

suggests that anyone considering joining

utilize the free trial and free assessment to

seek out the perfect trainer and program to

fit their needs. With over 30 years experience

specializing in personal training, yoga,

corrective exercise, and functional strength

training, Lamoreaux has taught classes at

Focus Fit for almost two years. She said,

“The most rewarding part of my job is

seeing the impact fitness has in someone’s

daily life leading to an overall better quality

of life.”

Lester Caples of Pearl has trained with

his wife, Jackie, several times a week for

the past three years at the gym. Caples

said, “The best thing is being able to train

together as husband and wife.” The Caples

are just one of several couples who train

together. One couple in their mid 90s enjoy

all that the gym has to offer, almost daily.

Focus Fit can accommodate anyone’s

fitness needs, no matter their age or abilities.

Health and fitness is not the only priority

for Neeley as he also offers a Bible study

class for anyone interested. Giving back is

a huge priority for the gym and its owners.

Neeley explains, “With little overhead, we

are able to give to charities, local schools,

law enforcement, and those in the military.”

It is evident that Neeley and his staff have

the desire to serve the Rankin County

community and provide a well-rounded

experience that not only strengthens the

body, but also the heart and mind.

Try the 7 day FREE trial and FREE

personal trainer assessment to begin your

journey to health and fitness. Neeley said,

“We welcome all walks of life from beginner

to advanced.”

Visit www.focusfitgyms.com, the Focus Fit Pearl Facebook page, or call 601-591-7487 to start your journey today.


The CHALKBOARD

RANKIN COUNTY SCHOOLS

Northwest Middle

Northwest Rankin Middle School is proud to announce their

Unified Champion School status as of the 2018-2019 school year.

The Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools program

promotes a socially inclusive school environment. The goal is for

all students to feel accepted and respected, and to be treated with

human dignity. Although Northwest Rankin Middle has always

promoted inclusion, last year they took the necessary steps to be

more intentional with those practices. Under the leadership of the

principal - Mr. Shea Taylor - and liaisons Mrs. Tomeca Ingram,

Mrs. Melinda Porch, and Mrs. Allison Ware, the school implemented

three components: unified sports, youth leadership, and whole

school engagement. All components yielded success with one in

particular - Club Unify, which is comprised of members with and

without disabilities. The club meets once a month with various

guests from adults with disabilities sharing their success stories to

groups sharing information about the importance of inclusion.

Throughout the school year, club members engaged in activities

on and off campus. The group participated in several problem

solving/team building activities throughout the year, including

building a spaghetti/marshmallow tower and seeing how tall they

could construct it before it fell. During our field trip to the

Mississippi Children’s Museum, students were placed in pairs

while they toured the museum to explore and enjoy the exhibits.

It was so exciting to see all students bond during this field trip.

The culminating activity was a kickball tournament. The students

picked teams and bonded as they supported each other along the

way. Students took turns pitching, fielding, and playing the

different bases.

Northwest Rankin Middle is excited to see what this year brings

for inclusion within our school. Any opportunity to unite students

with a common purpose is a win for everyone involved.

106 • October 2019

Brandon High

Each year at Brandon High School, the administration selects a

theme that becomes the school mantra. This year, that theme is

One Heartbeat. In a school as big as BHS, for some students, it’s

easy to get lost in the shuffle. It can be hard to find your place in a

school with almost 1700 students. However, this year, BHS has

made it their mission to change that.

Dr. Akil Ross said, “If you want to inspire meaningful change,

you have to make a connection to the heart before you make a

connection to the mind.” It is our goal to make sure that each

student is connected and finds meaningful relationships. Our

students need to know that they have a safe place to turn to and

that they are deeply cared about. We have learned that we have to

empower their hearts before we can empower their minds.

Just as the heart pumps life through the body, the students at

Brandon High School are the life of our community. Throughout

this year, students will see the theme of One Heartbeat everywhere

they turn, from pep rallies to postcards from their teachers. We are

a family that stands together whether that be in the classroom on a

Monday morning or in the stands on a Friday night. Our goal at

Brandon High School is to insure that every student knows they

have a place here and that they matter. #BHS1Heartbeat


The CHALKBOARD


Park Place

Christian Academy

Lots of exciting things are happening at Park Place Christian

Academy this year. PPCA started the 2019-2020 school year with

new additions to our administration team. Park Place Christian

Academy is pleased to announce Mr. Jason Cook, former secondary

principal, was named head of school this past August. Mr. Stacey

Sykes was announced secondary principal, and Mr. Bobby Barrett

was named assistant athletic director and administrator. PPCA is

beyond blessed to have these godly men’s outstanding leadership

guiding our students, faculty, and staff each day.

Our elementary Crusaders recently celebrated PPCA’s Super

‘Sader Summer Reading program. At PPCA, our goal is to help

our students instill a love for reading. One of the ways we do this is

through our Super ‘Sader Summer reading program which provides

opportunities for all students to enhance their reading skills and

discover books they want to read. Students who participate in the

Super ‘Sader reading program and complete the requirements for

their grade are rewarded with a day of fun celebrating what they’ve

accomplished. This year’s theme for our Super ‘Sader Summer

Reading program was Camp WannaRead! This year we had 100%

participation in our Super ‘Sader Summer Reading Program.

All first thru sixth grade students accomplished their reading goals

and two students, third grader, Caleb Hinton, and sixth grader,

Joseph Crawford, doubled the maximum reading requirements.

Park Place Christian Academy will host homecoming on Friday,

October 4, at Shepherd Field in Pearl. This year’s theme is ‘Saders

around the World. Each day PPCA will have a theme day where

‘Saders will dress up according to various places around the world.

Theme days include Mexico, Kenya, USA, Australia, and Welcome

Home PPCA day! PPCA will host a community pep rally on

Thursday, October 3, at Shepherd Field. Each grade, K3-12, will

decorate a tailgate tent and serve food according to the country

of their choice. The homecoming court will be presented at the

community pep rally and again during Friday night’s half-time

ceremonies. Mr. Jason Cook and 2018 Homecoming Queen,

Sybil Roberson, will crown the 2019 PPCA homecoming queen

during the half-time homecoming ceremonies.

108 • October 2019

2019 - 2020 Homecoming Court

Back L-R: Freshman Maids Jacee Dellapenna & Whitney Bishop, Sophomore

Maids Emma Katherine Moore & Makaela Rummells, Junior Maids Sarah Kate

Grice & Emma Grace Roberts. Front L-R: Flowers girls Madison Wooten,

Lydia Grace Reynolds & Remy Rushing, Senior Maids Raegan Shaw, Lauryn

Jones, Margaret Moss &Gracie Hammons, Crown Bearers Aaron McCullough,

Lincoln Pratt & Ben Jacobsen.

Pelahatchie

The Pelahatchie student body kicked off the school year with its

first annual “Chiefs Day” celebration. The event was created to

acknowledge the great work of our entire student body (grades

7-12) during the 2018-2019 school year. Last year, our students

made tremendous strides academically through growth in nearly

every area of the MDE accountability model. This growth has

led to an increase in our accountability rating as well as positive

momentum to begin our current school year. Regarding the “Chiefs

Day” experience, our students were able to prosper through the

elements (lots of sun and a little rain) while participating in several

leadership and team building exercises such as goal setting, tug of

war, relay races, and human foosball. Great things are occurring at

Pelahatchie High School! Thank you all for your continued

support of “All Things Pelahatchie”...Go Chiefs!

Puckett High

Being a member of a wolf pack means working as a team to

succeed in life. This year, the Puckett High School Wolves are

committed to the #wolfpackLIFE. The Wolfpack’s 2019 mission

statement states, “We will develop a growth mindset by intentionally

challenging ourselves and others to be courageous leaders,

to get involved in service projects through school/community,

focus on our vision/goals, and be academically, athletically,

behaviorally and socially educated.” The Wolves are starting the

school year strong by intentionally becoming contributing

members of the #wolfpackLIFE.

LEADERS: Mrs. Daniels, the school’s counselor, received the

Outstanding New Counselor Award by the Mississippi Counseling

Association, and she continues to model effective leadership

qualities for the school’s students.

INVOLVED: The PHS arts programs are continuing to

grow as more students get involved in band, show choir, chorus,

and even photography.

FOCUSED: Literacy is a main focus for all students, and

classrooms around campus show students working to increase

reading skills every day.

EDUCATED: Even though classes are still in their early

weeks, students are hitting the books hard and learning valuable

content. Students, teachers, staff, and administrators are all

working to contribute to the team, because all wolves know,

“the strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf

is the pack.” - Rudyard Kipling


The CHALKBOARD

PEARL PUBLIC SCHOOLS

10th Annual

MAAP Mania

A NIGHT WITH THE STARS

Honoring the Best of the Best

September 23, 2019

Clyde Muse Center

MAAP Mania! was held on September 23, 2019, at the

Clyde Muse Center on the Rankin Campus of Hinds

Community College. With the theme “A Night with the

Stars,” 170 students were recognized for scoring in the

highest performance level (PL 5) on both the language arts

and mathematics components of the Mississippi Academic

Assessment Program and/or for earning one of the top

scores on fifth and eighth grade science tests. This year

marks the tenth anniversary of Pearl Public School District’s

recognition banquet, as well as the largest number of

students to be honored to date.

Honorees and guests were treated to dinner followed by

a motivational speech delivered by Jamie Wier, graduate of

the Pearl High School Class of 1994, principal partner in

WBA Architecture, and entrepreneur. In his speech,

Mr. Wier shared his personal motto of “Dream... Create...

Experience” to inspire the students as they establish the

foundations of their futures now while in Pearl schools.

Students were also recognized individually with a MAAP

Mania! certificate and picture. Three students were

honored with special recognition for having participated in

the celebration each year from third grade through eighth

grade: David Adams, Emma Alley, and Genevieve Moore.

Members of the Pearl High School Key Club, Beta Club,

and Mayor’s Youth Council assisted with the meal, and the

PHS NJROTC Color Guard presented the Colors. This

event was possible through generous donations made by

the following sponsors: BancorpSouth, Kiwanis Club of

Pearl, McAlister’s Deli of Pearl, Members Exchange Credit

Union, Pearl Chamber of Commerce, Pearl Educational

Foundation for Excellence, Prairie Farms Dairy, and TE21/

Certica Solutions.

110 • October 2019


The CHALKBOARD


Pisgah Elementary

On Wednesday, August 7th, we welcomed students into the halls

of Pisgah Elementary School to the sounds of their favorite songs

and the principal and faculty dancing in the car rider line.

Students were greeted with smiles and hugs as they walked

through the hallway to class. We loved seeing the faces of

students who have been with us for years, our new bunch of

Pre-K and kindergarten students, and also the numerous new

students who transferred to our school from other places.

We were so excited for the Scholastic Book Fair over the week

of September 3rd. The library was decorated for an arctic

adventure by our librarian, Tracy Lofton, and our students.

grandparents, moms, and dads arrived at the school in droves,

eager to share in the joy of literacy with their children while eating

tasty treats provided by the school.

Football season has started with a bang, and our elementary

school students are thrilled to be a part of the excitement! Our

first walk-through, where the high school football team, drum

line, dance team, and cheerleaders, walk through the halls of the

elementary school, was August 23rd. The school was full of

Dragon pride! We can’t wait to see what else the school year

will bring.

112 • October 2019


The

Time

COIN

Camille Anding

The garden hose has finally

gotten a rest. I was growing

tired of watering plants, shrubs,

and small trees that lived just

one day’s watering away from

the compost pile.

Two of my four peonies gave up the

ghost in spite of my daily care, but the

rest of my flora is “holding on” in the

throes of intense heat.

The only advantage to the lengthy

dry spell and the scorching temps was

the loss of vigor that I noticed in the

weeds that attack my flower beds.

Weeding almost came to a standstill.

That’s an added blessing for any gardener

because weeds never surrender.

Gardening rewards me with

contentment and relaxation but always

at a cost. The bulk of that cost is weeding.

It takes a strong back, strong hands,

serious gloves and Herculean knees.

Weeding is a humbling and solitary

chore that’s best accomplished on one’s

knees and far more attractive than the

“booty” bend.

I like getting nose to nose with the

weeds and plants. It’s a close way to

observe the beauty of the blooms, and

I’m better able to distinguish weeds

from tiny seedlings that might be

hatching in the garden.

For my rock paths, I’ve used Round-

Up – the jungle machete in a can, but I

wouldn’t dare spray the poison near my

plants. A single drop on the wrong leaf

could mean death to a peony! And

besides, the instant gratification of

weeding versus waiting on herbicides

always brings me back to my knees for

serious weeding.

I believe serious praying requires

strong knees, too – knees bent in

submission to the Creator while He

weeds my heart of sins that always

begin as tiny seeds but can root deeply

unless tended to. Time spent on my

knees in prayer reminds me that the

Father’s “weeding” is far more important

than the weeding I perform in my garden.

I’m convinced that the blooms and

fruit my life can produce are of much

greater importance than that which

comes from my garden.

That’s why in the midst of the

pleasure that my garden brings me,

I’m reminded how essential it is that

my weeding posture never substitutes

for my praying posture. It’s imperative

that my Heavenly Father be allowed

“heart-weeding” time. ●

114 • October 2019


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