Clinton822-4

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Back to School
2022

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4 • AUGUST 2022

FROM OUR PUBLISHER
It’s hard to believe it’s that time of
year for another back to school
magazine to be on our stands.
Our team always looks forward to putting this issue together as
we get to include so many stories about our schools, students,
and educators. We’re proud of the young people on the cover
who represent the Clinton schools so well.
The city of Clinton has three amazing high schools. For this issue,
each high school chose their own story to “educate” our readers
a bit more about the exciting things happening. You will also enjoy
school spirit photos from Clinton High School, Clinton Christian
Academy, Mt. Salus, and Hinds CC.
As a native Clintonian, Anna Nutt needs no introduction. A graduate
of Clinton High School and Mississippi College, she’s a hometown
girl raising her two daughters alongside her husband, Jonathan.
Anna wears many hats, and her newest hat is executive director
of the Clinton Chamber of Commerce. Read more about Anna in
the pages ahead, and her passion for the city of Clinton.
When the school buses return to their routes, it’s a farewell sign
to summer. Schedules, packed lunches, carpools, and life will begin
a new year in another education chapter. The first graders will spot
their nametags on their classroom door, and the seniors will face
the significance of just a few more months until graduation. Time
may rush us through the years, but a valuable education never
leaves us. We at Hometown Magazines are behind you - faculties,
staff, and students. May you have the best year yet!
ON THE COVER Meet these 2022-‘23 seniors on page 56
HOMETOWN STAFF
PUBLISHER & EDITOR
Tahya Dobbs
CFO
Kevin Dobbs
CONSULTING EDITOR
Mary Ann Kirby
IN THIS ISSUE
Reader Spotlight 8
Kids Who Care 12
Where Are They Now? 15
Anna Nutt 20
The World of Marty Stuart 24
Superfan Families 32
Clinton Schools 42
2022-23 Senior Q&A 56
SPECIAL PROJECTS
MANAGER
Brenda McCall
SPECIAL PROJECTS
ASSISTANT
Caroline Hodges
ADMINISTRATIVE
ASSISTANT
Alisha Floyd
...see you around town.
LAYOUT DESIGN
Daniel Thomas
3dt
STAFF
PHOTOGRAPHER
Othel Anding
ADVERTISING
ASSISTANT
Lexie Ownby
www.facebook.com/hometownclintonmagazine. For subscription information visit www.htmags.com or contact us at info@HTMags.com / 601.706.4059 / 200 Felicity Street / Brandon, MS 39042
All rights reserved. No portion of Hometown Clinton be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The management of Hometown Clinton is not responsible for opinions expressed by its writers or editors.
Hometown Clinton maintains the unrestricted right to edit or refuse all submitted material. All advertisements are subject to approval by the publisher. The production of Hometown Clinton is funded by advertising.
Hometown CLINTON • 5

6 • AUGUST 2022

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Hometown CLINTON • 7

READER
SPOTLIGHT
Shae
PARKER
_____________
Why did you decide to make Clinton
your home?
When my husband, Lee, and I were dating,
I was working in Jackson and he was commuting
from Brandon to Vicksburg for work. We started
looking at houses in Clinton because of the
convenience of its location and quickly realized
all it had to offer. The school district and its
reputation played a large role in our decision,
because we were hoping wherever we settled
we could raise our family there.
How long have you lived in Clinton?
Lee bought our house in March of 2003 and
then I moved to Clinton when we got married
in 2004 - so I have lived here for 18 years
Tell us about your family.
My husband Lee and I met in 2001 and got
married in 2004. Lee has worked for the Army
Corps of Engineers in Vicksburg since 1999.
I have done lots of jobs over the years in retail,
office management, photography, etc., but my
favorite job has been being a mom to our two
boys. Luke just turned 16 and Charlie is 13.
Currently, I homeschool both boys and keep
my 2-year-old nephew during the week. I have
been keeping him in “SheaCare” since he was 4
months old. He is so much fun and keeps us all
busy and entertained.
Luke loves anything that has to do with
computers or engineering, is learning to play
the guitar, and runs cross country as well as
track. Charlie enjoys all things creative and
animating, he also throws discus and shotput
for Victor’s track & field. We are members
of Morrison Heights Baptist Church where
I work with the student ministry and Luke
and Charlie are both a part of it. Both of my
boys are members of Rankin Performing Arts
and enjoy all aspects of musical theatre. They
most recently played Willy Wonka and Charlie
Bucket in RPA’s production of Willy Wonka Jr.
Our whole family loves RPA and what it
teaches us all. My husband helps build sets
and transport things when needed and my
boys and I enjoy helping with anything that
needs to be done!
What is your favorite memory of living
in Clinton?
We love visiting parks and Mississippi College
to take walks, but some of our favorite memories
were during lockdown when we would draw
obstacle courses on our sidewalk or draw
pictures on our fence and we would watch out
the window as people would come walk through
all the obstacles or admire our pictures. It was
fun to see families slowing down and taking
walks and enjoying the little things.
8 • AUGUST 2022

Where are your three favorite places
to eat in Clinton?
Froghead Grill, The Bank, and 303 Jefferson.
What are some fun things to do
in Clinton on the weekends?
We love Indian Lanes bowling alley and going
to the brick street markets that are held every
few months in Clinton that highlight local
vendors and craftsmen. We also love the nature
center and parks in Clinton.
Share some things you enjoy doing
in your spare time.
My two boys keep us very busy and I love being
involved in their activities with their theatre
groups, homeschool groups and friends. Lee and
I enjoy spending time with the boys when we
all have some down time and watching movies
or cooking. We also all enjoy playing games.
What are three things on your bucket
list?
1. To take Luke and Charlie to a “real” concert.
Neither have ever been to a real concert and
want to go. Both of them love classic ‘80s and
‘90s rock, so we have been looking for the
perfect concert to go to.
2. To have a successful garden in my backyard.
We have tried some container gardens with
small vegetables and herbs the last two years,
but I want a real, in the ground garden and
grow fruits and veggies.
3. To go on a 10-day Disney Cruise. Our 4-day
Disney cruise has been my family’s favorite
vacation to date, but it wasn’t long enough!
Who is someone you admire and why?
My mom was the person I admired most on
this earth. She was an amazing mom, wife,
sister, daughter and her favorite was being a
grandmother. She taught me so many things
about life and how to live it to the fullest while
honoring God in all you do. It has been almost
10 years since she passed away unexpectedly,
and I still think of something just about daily
that I would love to share with her or ask her.
Where do you see yourself ten years
from now?
Probably still in Clinton, I don’t think we will
leave unless one of our boys, someday, buys us a
house on the beach! That would be one reason
we would consider leaving our home in Clinton!
My sister and I have always dreamed of one day
having a party planning business, so if we ever
had the opportunity to do that, I think we
would love to do it. I will still be supporting
Lee and Luke and Charlie in whatever they are
doing. I will always be their biggest cheerleader
and prayer warrior in all that they do.
What is your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memories are trips
with my mom, siblings, aunt, and cousins to my
grandmother’s house on the beach. We lived on
Otter Pops and stayed on the beach building
sandcastles and searching for “butterfly” shells
and sand dollars for hours! We would also go to
the library there and rent old musicals and
watch them over and over. That is where my
love for musicals began that I have passed on
to my boys.
If you could give us one encouraging
quote, what would it be?
Not a quote but my favorite Bible verse is
Exodus 14:14 – “The Lord will fight for you,
you need only to be still.”
What is your favorite thing about
Hometown Magazines?
I love that they highlight local families and
businesses that many people might not know
anything about until seeing them in the
magazine.
Hometown CLINTON • 9

CALL NOW: 601-401-3299
©2022 JEA
10 • AUGUST 2022

12 • AUGUST 2022

KIDS WHO CARE
Alena TrotterSusan Marquez
Standing straight and tall, Alena Trotter
exudes grace and poise. The rising senior at
Clinton High School answers questions
confidently, and her warm smile puts others at
ease. As the Hinds County representative in
the Distinguished Young Women scholarship
program, Alena has worked on her leadership
skills, talent, scholastics, and community
involvement to prepare for the state level
competition July 14, 15, and 16 in Meridian.
Alena had never heard of the Distinguished
Young Women before her high school counselor
encouraged her to register for the program.
“Six other girls signed up along with me,
however, I am the only one from my city who
is still involved with the program.” Most of the
local programs around the state have a director
and a committee. As Alena and her mother,
Natalia Trotter, discovered, there was no support
for the program in Hinds County. “There used
to be a great support system,” says Natalia.
“Over the years, it has faded away.” Natalia has
reached out to the past director and has gotten
great support. “Distinguished Young Women
is an amazing program for high school girls.
We are determined to build this program back
in Hinds County,” she says.
It is no wonder why Alena’s school counselor
tapped her for the program. “I related to all five
levels of the Be Your Best Self outreach program
so much,” Alena says. “It was only natural that
I made the decision to participate in the
Distinguished Young Women program.”
As the Distinguished Young Woman of Hinds
County, Alena says she hopes to sow seeds for
future participation so that young women can
raise their self-esteem. “I believe this program,
and the Be Your Best Self outreach, can change
lives for the better. I believe every opportunity
teaches us something new. I know for sure if
some of my female friends and family members
were exposed to this program early enough,
they would not have dropped out of school due
to teen pregnancy.”
The five pillars of the program include
being healthy and fit, being involved and being
studious, responsible, and ambitious. Alena
checks all the boxes. She is a member of the
marching band at Clinton High School, and she
plays trumpet in the Morrison Heights Baptist
Church orchestra for two services each Sunday.
Her talent for the competition is a performance
of “Yesterday” by Paul McCartney on the
trumpet. “With so many wars and economic
depression, I want to focus on today instead
of fixating on yesterday’s troubles.”
Alena is a member of the Clinton Chamber
of Commerce’s Youth Leadership Program,
where she will be running for chairwoman this
fall. “I love public speaking, and I would like to
implement a life skills workshop I am calling
“Goal Getter.” It will be six to eight weeks long,
one time a week.” She also volunteers as one of
Canopy’s youth ambassadors. “Because of Covid,
we have been unable to do work in person, so
instead we spread the message of Canopy on
social media. I also volunteered at a 5K run to
benefit the organization.”
A serious writer, Alena’s poem, “What
Times are These” was published in Write for
Mississippi in 2021. The poem was a response to
the prompt, “What gives me courage?” Out of
the 200 poems submitted, only 75 were published.
One of Alena’s favorite quotes is by Winston
Churchill. “Success is not final. Failure is not
futile. It’s the courage to continue that counts.”
Another favorite quote is from her mother,
“God has not given you a spirit of fear. An
attitude of gratitude is what’s going to get you
from point A to Point B, no matter the struggle.”
Alena takes those words to heart. “I believe that
life is not made up from one experience, but
how we handle a series of experiences that will
compile who we ultimately are in life. My vision
is to give hope to those who don’t believe things
are possible for them, even if there is a lot of fear
involved. My mission is to give back to the
community by speaking about the five levels of
the Be Your Best Self outreach to as many
people as possible and actively demonstrating
all levels.”
With an eye towards going into orthopedics
one day, Alena says she will most likely attend
college in-state, where she will major in pre-med.
“I have learned so much from this process,”
says Natalia. “And I have learned so much from
my daughter. She has been passionate about her
involvement. I am so impressed with her, and
with the Distinguished Young Women
program.”
At the state program in Meridian July 16, Alena was
awarded the overall Be Your Best Self award. She also
won a preliminary talent award with three others for
her trumpet solo. There were 34 contestants in this
year’s program.
Hometown CLINTON • 13

Hinds Community College is
committed to moving people
and communities forward
by helping develop their purpose,
passion and profession.
hindscc.edu/success
One College – Six Locations
Countless Career Opportunities!
Discover YOUR pathway forward!
SCHEDULE A TOUR
REGISTER FOR CLASSES
JACKSON-Academic-Technical Center | JACKSON-Nursing/Allied Health Center | RANKIN | RAYMOND | UTICA | VICKSBURG
In compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX, Education Amendments of 1972 of the Higher Education Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and other applicable Federal
and State Acts, Hinds Community College offers equal education and employment opportunities and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability or veteran status in its educational programs and
activities. We recognize our responsibility to provide an open and welcoming environment that fosters a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion for employees and students to collaboratively learn, work and serve our communities. The following
have been designated to handle inquiries regarding these policies:
EEOC Compliance: Marquise Kessee, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion , Box 1100 Raymond MS 39154; Phone: 601-857-3458 or Email: EEOC@hindscc.edu.
Title IX: DeAndre House, Associate Vice President Student Services, Title IX Coordinator , Box 1100 Raymond MS 39154; Phone: 601-857-3353 or Email: TitleIX@hindscc.edu.
14 • AUGUST 2022

Lauren von Foregger
Where
AreThey
Now? Amia
Edwards
Amia Edwards was born in
Bolton, Mississippi, on a street called
Success Drive. Now, as an accomplished
full-time actress and founder of a non-profit,
Edwards is giving back to the community
that helped her
become who
she is today.
Hometown CLINTON • 15

Edwards is a product, start to finish,
of the Clinton Public School District.
“As a young child, I was always attracted to the
arts and public speaking,” Edwards said. “I did a
lot of church plays and speeches, and I had natural
talent for that. I was always interested in being in
front of a camera. But Mr. Anthony Thaxton’s
program called Arrow Vision, in junior high school,
is really what pushed me to test the waters when it
came to getting in front of an audience.”
Edwards was a bit of a self-described loner in
middle school. But one day, Thaxton approached
her in the cafeteria and told her she would make a
great news anchor. “He asked me if I could show
up early the next morning to try it, and I was there
before anyone else. It was just me and the custodians
until he arrived. I was hooked after that day.”
Edwards was the anchor for Arrow Vision
every Friday of her eighth-grade year. She thought
she wanted a career as a news anchor and enrolled
in the cooperative education program with Mrs.
Barbie Ferguson. She also joined the DECA club
and did public speaking with the group. One day,
Mrs. Ferguson let her students know local news
anchor Mellissa Pace of WLBT was coming to
Clinton High School to speak for career day.
Edwards introduced herself and Pace invited her
to come see the studio. Edwards quickly became
an associate producer there, and later, during her
years as a student at Jackson State University, she
became a full-time producer for the station.
16 • AUGUST 2022

After college, Edwards moved to
Birmingham, Alabama, to briefly work
for a news station before moving back
home and procuring her real estate license.
Edwards knew, though, that something
was missing from her life.
“I was running from my real dream
of becoming an actor,” she said. “I thought
there was no place for me in Hollywood,
and I never thought I could be successful.
But I made a promise to myself that I
would stop running, and I went to the
very next audition I found.”
Edwards auditioned for J. Lee’s “Karma”
and was awarded the part on the spot.
The rest, she says, is history. Edwards says
she has had a wonderful career so far,
performing in the Hallmark film “Every
Time a Bell Rings,” and the 2021 film
“Card Counter.” She’s done numerous
plays and productions, and even wrote,
produced, and performed her own short
film, “Got a Light,” which won awards in
several U.S. states, along with Germany
and Korea.
More recently, she’s been busy founding
her non-profit, the Amiable Arts Foundation.
The organization seeks to prepare
students for vocation, college and careers
in film, theatre, and performing arts. 3.2.1
Action! is a part of the foundation, a
program dedicated to teaching students
about the writing, production, editing and
marketing of their own films. The students
showcase their productions at an annual
film festival in Jackson. The ultimate goal
of the Amiable Arts Foundation is to
prepare students to enter into higher
education or any career field within
performing arts with the tools, resources,
connections and confidence they need to
succeed.
“I really wanted to offer a place for
parents and students to not only learn
about performance arts, film, and theatre,
but also to learn how to start a career,” said
Edwards. “This is my calling – this is the
way I want to give back to my community.
I want to nurture these gifted artists and
give them everything they need to succeed.”
With a curriculum comprised of scriptwriting
workshops, stage and screenmakeup
application, and casting calls,
Edwards has worked tirelessly to give these
aspiring creatives a taste of what the industry
has to offer. Through her accumulated
relationships in the entertainment
industry, Edwards has brought in several
high-profile industry professionals to
share their knowledge and experience
with 3.2.1. Action! students.
Ultimately, Edwards would like to open
a full performing arts center in Jackson,
where students would have access to everything
from refurbished instruments to free
lessons to visual art creation. This summer,
the Foundation will be offering a program
where students can learn to write, produce,
and edit their own music videos. It will also
serve as an outlet for students to express
their feelings about current issues they
may face in their homes or in their city.
“What keeps me motivated are the
smiles of these kids,” Edwards said. “I don’t
have any kids, but after this program I’ve
got at least 60. To know that I am adding
just a little glimmer of hope, that I am
providing something positive for them to
be a part of—that keeps me motivated.”
To learn more about
3.2.1 Action! or the Amiable
Arts Foundation, visit
amiableproductions.com
and on Facebook at
@amiableartsfoundation.
Hometown CLINTON • 17

18 • AUGUST 2022

JOINTLY TREATING
ORTHO-SPINE WALK
IN PATIENTS AT NEW
CLINTON LOCATION
745 Clinton Parkway
Clinton, MS 39056
601-987-8223
M-F, 8am - 5pm
Hometown CLINTON • 19

Sarah Rein
CLINTON CHAMBER
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Anna
Nutt
“There are two ways
of getting home; and one
of them is to stay there.
The other is to walk
‘round the whole world
‘til we come back to the
same place.”
In this celebrated quote, G.W.Chesterton is
referencing a person who might express doubts
about Christianity only to work their way
through those and return to faith. But, to her
credit, Anna Nutt seems to have figured out
that the same principle holds true for her quite
literally. Anna has lived in Clinton her whole
life, attended Clinton’s public schools and
Mississippi College, married a hometown guy,
and is now creating a similarly cozy life for her
own family - and never seems to have even
considered leaving. “Clinton has such a warm
hometown feel. It’s large enough that I am
regularly meeting new people but still has all
the charm of a small town.”
Anna’s father owns a law firm in Clinton,
and she fondly remembers watching him during
her childhood as he poured himself into his
work and their community. While that might
lead some to think that Anna was inspired to
become a business owner herself one day, she is
quick to dismiss that idea. “Honestly, I had no
idea what I wanted to do. If you’d told me that
I would end up with my own store…I couldn’t
have pictured that.” In fact, the way Anna talks
about it, the whole thing practically fell into
her lap.
Her modest story is clearly glossing over a
great deal of hard work and natural aptitude.
She was working at her father’s firm after
college in 2012 when her husband, Jonathan,
recognized that her love of shopping and the
rising popularity of social commerce might be
a perfect fit. In social commerce, the merchant
is able to sell directly to buyers online via social
media. Anna gave it a try in her spare time and
the response was overwhelming. Her online
boutique, dubbed James & Leigh after her and her
husband’s middle names, led to the establishment
of a brick-and-mortar store in Old Towne
that was a Clinton staple for eight years.
Anna and Jonathan, who also has a very
full-time position at Mississippi College,
poured all their extra time and energy into
their small business. “There is so much work
required to get a store off the ground and make
sure it’s successful. You’re never not thinking
about the store - making sure shifts are covered,
selecting new merchandise, going over the
financials. I remember when we first started,
we couldn’t afford to pay my sister cash so we
would let her pick out clothes instead.”
James and Leigh’s storefront was open
until 2021. During that time, the Nutt family
grew with the addition of two daughters and
Anna’s “third child,” as she referred to her store,
was taking up more of her time than she was
comfortable with. “It was hard because the girls
and Jonathan would have the traditional
Saturday and Sunday weekend and I would have
the store on my mind or I’d have to go in and
work.”
During COVID, the store went back to
online sales and Anna, like so many people in the
last couple of years, got a chance to reevaluate.
“It was such a hard, uncertain time for small
20 • AUGUST 2022

“Anna is not only
one of the hardest
working people
I’ve ever met,
she’s also one of
the most caring.”
businesses. Fortunately, I had a great customer
base and my sales stayed pretty steady.”
Anna was considering James and Leigh’s
future when she decided, almost on a whim, to
apply for the position of executive director of
the Clinton Chamber of Commerce. “Had I
been in my regular store routine, busy all day
long, I might not have ever applied. But I was
at home, with time to think.” And what she
found herself repeatedly thinking was that it
might be time for a new chapter for her family.
James & Leigh is now back to its roots as a
fully online boutique, and Anna is enjoying her
new role as the executive director of Clinton’s
Chamber of Commerce - very much still
woven into the fabric of Clinton business. Her
background makes her intimately familiar with
the challenges facing business owners and her
personality has brought fresh energy to the
Chamber’s role. Nathan Cummins, Clinton’s
Chamber board president agrees; “As a small
business owner herself, Anna knows the ins
and outs of operating a successful business and
how the Chamber can be a value-add to the
businesses in the community. She is a native
Clintonian, which is important in understanding
our city and its residents as well as how
both new and old businesses can service it.
Additionally, she brings a new perspective and
energy that will help the Chamber grow.”
Already, the office has been visibly
revitalized with new paint and decor. It’s
meant to be a manifestation of the refreshed,
modern Chamber of Commerce that Anna
envisions. “We want to begin hosting new
types of events that business owners will really
look forward to. There is nothing wrong with
lunch and a speaker, but we hope to plan some
less conventional experiences as well.”
And what is the message Anna hopes
to spread as a voice to Clinton’s business
community? “That there is room for everyone.
We want your ideas and livelihoods to flourish.
Clinton is big enough to support more than
one clothing store because we have a variety of
demographics and styles represented here. We
want to encourage a business community that
is less focused on competition and more
focused on encouraging each other.”
It’s a sentiment that is clearly informed by
Anna’s own character. David Parker, one of her
oldest friends, puts it this way, “Anna is not
only one of the hardest working people I’ve
ever met, she’s also one of the most caring. I’ve
always admired her ability to do everything at
once. She manages to run a business, help with
Clinton events, invest in her family and friends,
and now - the Chamber too. She can do it all
and make it look easy. Truly, no one could give
back to Clinton more joyfully than Anna.
I’m excited to see the city flourish under her
leadership.”
Hometown CLINTON • 21

Wishing Students
a Happy & Healthy
Return Back to
School!
703 Clinton Parkway, Suite B, Clinton
P: 601-708-4205
Clinic Director: Matt Thomas, PT
For more information, or to schedule, visit myelitept.com
Elite Physical Therapy is proud to provide
athletic training services to Arrow Athletes!
22 • AUGUST 2022

a community
UNITED in
SPIRIT
XAVIER
BLACK
Xavier Black hopes to become a Foreign Service Officer
one day and thanks to his dedication to his course work
in International Studies and French, he’s well on his way.
On campus, he’s surrounded by classmates who share his
interests and his peer mentor is always just a text away.
Come see
for yourself.
Scan the QR code to schedule your visit.
From a warm smile on the morning walk to class, to a jubilant
“Hotty Toddy!” during a football game, students at Ole
Miss will find a welcoming, safe community constantly in
motion. We invite you to visit our campus and experience our
community that is united in spirit, passion, and purpose.
Hometown CLINTON • 23

24 • AUGUST 2022

Country Music’s Legacy
in Mississippi
When people think of classic country music, they think of the 60s and 70s and the likes
of country greats Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Merle Haggard, and Hank Williams.
This year is the time to discover the golden age of country music
through the eyes of someone who lived it. Grammy-winning musician
Marty Stuart has partnered with the Mississippi Department of Archives
and History to tell the story of country music with emphasis on its lasting
role within Mississippi. The World of Marty Stuart exhibit covers his life and
legacy of preserving country music’s stories, photographs, instruments,
costumes, and more.
In his hometown of Philadelphia, Mississippi, Stuart began playing
music at a young age. He first joined The Sullivans, a family bluegrass
gospel group based in Alabama, and played guitar and mandolin with
them until he eventually met bluegrass musician Roland White, who
invited Stuart to back Lester Flatt’s band. After touring, Stuart recorded
his first solo album, With a Little Help from My Friends, and went on to
perform with various artists like Vassar Clements and Doc Watson
before joining Johnny Cash’s band in 1980. Over time, Stuart collected
memorabilia from shows played by fellow musicians, many of whom were
friends and mentors of Stuart. His ultimate passion to preserve the legacy
of country music strengthened as he continued to produce solo albums.
Stuart later returned to his hometown of Philadelphia and began to
cultivate his large collection of memorabilia. Hundreds of these priceless
artifacts are currently housed at the Two Mississippi Museums in Jackson
as part of The World of Marty Stuart exhibit, which launched in May.
The exhibit features pieces of the golden age of country music including
Stuart’s first guitar; original manuscripts from Hank Williams; guitars of
Merle Haggard and Pops Staples; and costumes worn by Porter Wagoner,
Dolly Parton, and Johnny Cash, including Cash’s “Walk the Line”
performance suit. Stuart and MDAH have curated a timeless exhibit,
which includes personal pieces from his childhood.
Hometown CLINTON • 25

This is just the tip of the iceberg. In reality, Stuart has over
twenty thousand pieces of country music nostalgia, which will
one day settle in the future home of Marty Stuart’s Congress of
Country Music in Philadelphia. This Congress will be a celebration of
country music and a culmination of the musician’s lifelong goals.
As a young boy, Stuart first experienced rhythm and blues at
the Busy Bee Café, now the Busy Bee Suites in Philadelphia.
Virgil Griffin and Rhythm Kings frequently played there, and
now the group’s original bass drumhead can be enjoyed by guests
at the Two Mississippi Museums. Eagle-eyed visitors will
recognize the namesake for Stuart’s second solo album from 1982.
A school essay also hangs in the halls of the exhibit. A young
Stuart was asked by his teacher, “What do you want to be when
you grow up?” to which Stuart wrote, “a musician.” Now his
answer has come full circle.
The World of Marty Stuart will be open to the public at the Two
Mississippi Museums through December and has a slew of events
on the calendar for this fall. On September 1st, a “Country Music
Trivia Night” will be held to celebrate the exhibit. Cost of entry is
$12 (cash only) per person and will include food, beer, and wine.
The first-place team will win a cash prize. A few weeks later,
women country performers from Mississippi will gather for
“Women in Country Music: Songs and Conversation” on
September 15th. The musicians will share their musical inspirations
and favorite artists and perform a few songs for guests.
On October 20th, the Two Mississippi Museums will host
Manuel Cuevas, the “Rhinestone Rembrandt,” celebrity fashion
designer, for a “Country Music Fashion Show.” Cuevas began
sewing at age seven and is responsible for hundreds of modern
country music outfits including those worn by Marty Stuart,
Johnny Cash, Porter Wagoner, and more. Manuel will discuss
pieces on display in The World of Marty Stuart exhibit as well as
additional pieces from his private collection. Visitors can be a part
of preserving country music by attending these nostalgic events.
More details can be found at worldofmartystuart.mdah.ms.gov.
Coinciding with the opening of the exhibit was the publication
of Stuart’s memoir, The World of Marty Stuart. The book covers his
life with photographs and artifact reproductions straight from his
collection. It was published by MDAH and distributed by the
University Press of Mississippi. The World of Marty Stuart is
brought to you by the title sponsor, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of
Mississippi, as well as by AT&T and Visit Mississippi. It runs
through December 31, 2022, with regular exhibit hours:
Tuesday - Saturday, 9am - 5pm and Sunday, 11am - 5pm
For more information, visit mdah.ms.gov.
26 • AUGUST 2022

“What do you want to be
when you grow up?”
... “a musician.”
Hometown CLINTON • 27

SALUTE
to First Responders
Why did you decide to be a first responder?
I wanted to help protect and care for my community. Growing up
as the oldest in a large family I have been looking out for others for
what feels like my whole life. It started out with me looking out for
my siblings and their friends when I was a young man and then for
my wife, children, and fellow Marines when I was older. Having a
servant’s attitude instilled as a child, coupled with my capabilities
with weapons and fighting, thanks to the Marines, made the choice
seem like a good fit.
How long have you been with the Clinton Police Department?
I have been a police officer for the city of Clinton since 2009 after
graduating from Mississippi Law Enforcement Training Academy
(MLEOTA) in July of that year.
Tell us about your family.
I am the oldest of ten children. I have three adult children from my
first marriage and a lovely wife and stepdaughter who have recently
immigrated to Mississippi from Honduras. My adult children are all
graduates from the Clinton School District from K-12 and I expect
my stepdaughter will be as well.
School Resource Officer
Sergeant
Michael
EVEN
CLINTON PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT
What is the toughest thing you have experienced in your job?
The toughest things I have experienced are loss of life and various
tragedies I have responded to in the course of my time as a police
officer. Being present for someone’s last breath after a traffic accident,
notifying next of kin and responding to homes where families have
just had the worst day of their lives is a deeply saddening experience.
The sense of hopelessness at being unable to “fix” the situation is the
most difficult feeling ever.
Share some things you enjoy doing in your spare time.
I enjoy woodworking and furniture repair in my shop, spearfishing,
hunting, fresh and saltwater fishing, competitive long-range shooting,
and traveling.
What are three things on your bucket list?
Spearfishing a bluefin tuna, getting SCUBA certified, and going
skydiving.
Rodric McClain got out of the car to take a photo
of his best friend, Tia Denise Cook of Jackson.
28 • AUGUST 2022

Who is someone you admire and why?
My grandfather. He was a great father, grandfather, Marine,
engineer, and gardener. He was the battalion commander of the
unit I joined after his retirement. He fought in WWII and Korea,
he took good care of his family, and retired to work in his shop
and cultivate a huge garden that fed half the neighborhood.
If you could give one piece of advice to a young person,
what would it be?
Listen first, speak later. Listen to all the facts, gather as much
information as possible and then speak or act. Responding with
only partial information makes one appear ignorant. Taking
action without all the information can lead you in the wrong
direction.
What is your favorite thing about the City of Clinton?
It is home. It is a great community for families with a great
school district. The school district is the reason I moved here.
The community and feeling of being at home kept me here.
I can go to work, go shopping and find pretty much everything
I need without leaving.
Hometown CLINTON • 29

30 • AUGUST 2022

32 • AUGUST 2022

Andrews
the
Tell us about your family.
Clint (43), Emily (38), Anna Carol (9), and Gabe (7). Our family is a big outdoors family.
We love hunting, fishing, and camping. We are very active in the Morrison Heights Baptist
Church. Clint serves as a deacon, and Emily helps with the women’s ministry. Anna Carol
dances with Exalt Dance and Cheer in Clinton and has been on their competition dance
team for a year. She also loves singing, piano, and baking. Gabe is a big-time baseball
player who plays travel ball and is always anxious to hold an “Andrews Family Wiffle Ball
Tournament” in the yard.
How did you meet and how long have you been married?
Clint and I met on a blind date in October of 2008. The very first question I asked Clint
was, “Do you like Mississippi State or Ole Miss?” When he answered Mississippi State
I said, “Proceed!” Ha! We were married August 28, 2010, and cut our honeymoon short
by one day so we could make it back in time to watch the first Mississippi State football
game that year with our family and friends.
What brings you the greatest joy as a parent?
Watching our kids excel in the things they love. When Gabe makes a great play in
baseball or gets a good hit, the smile on his face makes all the practices and hot days
worth it. Watching Anna Carol glow as she dances across the stage brings her mama to
tears. We love watching them grow in their faith at our church and watching them serve
others through service projects and in their own lives.
What are some of your favorite things about Clinton?
We love Clinton schools; they are the main reason we chose to live in Clinton. We love
going downtown to the brick streets for yummy popsicles or petit fours from Meme’s
Bakery. We love community events like the flea markets, the Caterpillar Parade, farmers
market and the big Christmas parade. Our children enjoy all the different kids’
playgrounds available in different areas around Clinton.
What drives you to have the job that you have?
Clint has always loved the outdoors, so he works in the forestry industry with Red River
Specialties. He works with landowners and farmers to help control overgrowth and
unwanted vegetation. Emily works as a protocol specialist for the U.S. Army Engineer
Research and Development Center in Vicksburg. She loves people and this job gives
her the opportunity to show true southern hospitality to visitors and her teammates.
What do you love about your team/school?
Mississippi State has been a part of our family since Emily’s Papaw graduated from there
in 1961. He even gave her his university class ring. We have many engineers in our family
and a long-running history of family working for the Corps of Engineers. Mississippi State
is the best engineering school, so naturally it’s where all our family has gone to earn their
degrees. Besides that, the sense of family among Mississippi State is the absolute best.
The fans treat each other, and even opposing teams, with respect and hospitality. Going
to home baseball games, seeing cookouts in the left field lounge, going to home football
games, walking among those tailgating and being able to stop at so many friends’ tents
to eat and hang out is what Mississippi State is all about.
QUESTION FOR THE CHILDREN
What’s your favorite thing to do as a family?
Gabe - Fishing and hunting with my dad and Pop (and sometimes mama).
Anna Carol - Going camping! I love sleeping in our camper and spending time
around a campfire and making s’mores.
FAVORITE TAILGATE RECIPE
Artichoke Dip
• 8 oz. cream cheese
• A dollop of sour cream
• ¼ cup of mayonnaise
• ¼ cup chopped spinach (either
fresh cooked, or frozen, thawed)
• 2 cans artichoke hearts (in water,
not marinated), drained and roughly
chopped
• Garlic salt and chili powder to taste
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• A handful of shredded mozzarella
cheese for the top
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Warm
the cream cheese in the microwave
for 2 minutes on 50% heat to soften it.
Pre-microwaving the cream cheese will
help you mix it with the other ingredients,
so I recommend not skipping this step.
Mix all ingredients in a baking dish.
Be generous with the chili powder!
The cream cheese and sour cream will
act to “cool” the dip, so you can sprinkle
away with the chili! Bake 30-45 minutes
until heated through. Sprinkle on a bit
more mozzarella, then broil until the
cheese is browned.
Hometown CLINTON • 33

34 • AUGUST 2022

Comleys
the
Tell us about your family.
We are Rusty and Ali Comley. We have two children: Kyleigh (23) and Briggs (22).
Both our children were born in Hanau, Germany, due to Rusty being in the Army.
We made Clinton our home in 2003 after moving from Fort Rucker, Alabama. Rusty
attended MC Law and is currently an attorney at Watkins and Eager. I’ve spent that last
nineteen years in Clinton Public Schools. We, as a family, enjoy traveling, game nights,
cooking, and watching the Ole Miss Rebels.
How did you meet, and how long have you been married.
We met at Chastain Junior High in Jackson. Soon after, Rusty moved to California,
but we kept in touch. In Rusty’s freshman year at UC Santa Barbara, he visited me at
Ole Miss and transferred a year later. We have been married for 25 years.
What do you love about your college team?
We have so many reasons to love Ole Miss. My mother worked for Ole Miss (UMMC
School of Nursing), which allowed my siblings and me to attend college with no college
loans, along with an Ole Miss Rebelette scholarship. Rusty was in Ole Miss Army ROTC
on a full scholarship. Both of our children also had academic scholarships that allowed
them to graduate from Ole Miss with no college debt. We will forever be grateful for our
Ole Miss educations, and the lifelong friends we met there. One of our favorite things to
do is watch Ole Miss sports. If ever you are at the Grove, you will see us at our longtime
family spot, across from the pharmacy building under the tent that says “Allen Family and
Friends.” Hotty Toddy!
What brings you the greatest joy as a parent?
Seeing our children happy and reaching the goals they set for themselves.
What are some of your favorite things about Clinton?
The small-town feel, the diversity, and the school system. It is a great place to raise a
family. We feel very lucky that we ended up in Clinton.
What accomplishments make you proud during your time
living in Clinton?
We were involved in Clinton Soccer Association where Rusty was the president. We
were also involved in Brilla soccer for many years. I’ve taught for nineteen years at
Clinton Junior High, Clinton High School, and the Career Center. Both Kyleigh and
Briggs graduated from Clinton High School where they both played soccer, were
singer/dancers in Attache’, and Kyleigh was a cheerleader. Briggs went on to play
soccer at Northwest Community College and then transferred to Ole Miss.
What motivates you to have the job that you have?
I love being involved with the students in Clinton. I feel very blessed to have had the
opportunity to work with great teachers, administrators, and students. My favorite thing
about teaching in Clinton is watching my students learn, grow up, and helping them to
become productive young adults. I also hope to help students have a love of mathematics.
I treasure all the students I had the pleasure of teaching over the years.
What’s your favorite thing to do as a family?
Kyleigh – Traveling and visiting new places.
Briggs – I enjoy eating together and playing board games.
FAVORITE TAILGATE RECIPE
Hotty Toddy
Spinach Artichoke
Dip
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 6 cloves fresh garlic (diced)
• 1 large container of fresh spinach
(roughly chopped)
• 2 cans quartered artichoke hearts
(drained)
• 1 jar Bertolli Alfredo sauce
• 1 lemon (seeds removed)
• 1 bag shredded Italian cheese
• 1 bag shredded Parmesan cheese
• 4-5 Tbsp. Tapatio hot sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a large
skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and spinach.
Add the quartered artichoke hearts for
the last minute or two. Put skillet contents
in a bowl and pour in Alfredo sauce.
Squeeze in one whole lemon. Add cheese,
Tapatio sauce, and salt and pepper. Stir
together well and pour into a 3-inch-deep
baking dish coated with non-stick cooking
spray. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes,
or until bubbling all over. Serve with your
favorite tortilla chips.
Hometown CLINTON • 35

36 • AUGUST 2022

Golden Eagle Logo is not available for use on all
munications materials. Beyond the Department of
etics, use of this logo is limited to gameday-related
otions, promotional items for student recruitment
oses, and Student Affairs.
ission to use this logo on any communications
erials, advertisements, social media graphics
romotional items must be granted by both
hern Miss Athletics and the Office of University
munications.
Barhams
the
Tell us about your family.
Benjie, 57 - Pam, 55 - Benjamin, 28 - Brennan, 26 - Barrett, 23
How did you meet and how long have you been
married?
Pam and I met at Southern Miss on a “blind date” set up by fraternity and
sorority friends in 1986. We’ve been together since and married 33 years.
What are some of your favorite things about Clinton?
We lived in Hattiesburg from 1989 ‘til 2002, when a career move brought
us to the Jackson Metro/Clinton. We were attracted to Clinton by friends,
school system, college town atmosphere, and church family, among other
things. We enjoy the chamber and main street activities, the many
family-oriented events throughout the year, well run government body,
safe environment, and history of Clinton.
What brings you the greatest joy as a parent?
As parents, our greatest joy is witnessing our children growing up,
succeeding in their endeavors, being happy in their relationships,
careers, and lives in general.
What drives you to have the job that you have?
Pam and I have had the opportunity to enjoy jobs in our time living in
Clinton and they have all provided different things that have introduced
us to lifelong friends, helped us make a difference in others’ lives, and
provided us professional growth. Our motivation has always been to
provide for our family, enjoy the fruits of our labor, and see what a positive
difference we can make in others’ lives.
What do you love about your team/school?
I grew up a Southern Miss fan, so “it’s in the blood.” Pam inherited the
black & gold love as a student. Our children grew up Golden Eagles
attending events and games with friends and family. Southern Miss
is an institution that started in 1910 as Mississippi Normal College grew
to Mississippi Southern College, and finally to the Univ. of Southern
Mississippi. She has endured many obstacles and in spite, has grown
into a one of the Gulf South’s premier research institutions. It boasts one
of the best K-12 educational, business, nursing, polymer engineering,
ocean engineering, computer engineering, and construction engineering
schools in the nation. It has the 3rd best family military support programs
in the country. As a recent, July 2022, new member of the Sunbelt
Conference, our athletes compete for championships in 17 D-1 sports.
Southern Miss is in a vibrant, growing region of Mississippi, but it also
has an intimate feeling on both the Hattiesburg and Gulf Coast campuses.
There is a sense of pride, loyalty, and tradition at Southern Miss that we
experience and that makes it a special place for students, alumni,
faculty, and staff.
FAVORITE TAILGATE RECIPE
Tailgate Dip
• 1 can refried beans
• 8 oz. cream cheese
• 1 can turkey chili
• Diced jalapeños
• Grated sharp cheddar cheese
Layer all ingredients except cheddar and
microwave 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle cheese on top
and serve with tortilla chips.
Hometown CLINTON • 37

38 • AUGUST 2022

Jordans
the
Tell us about your family.
Derrick, Sr. 47 - working out, watching football.
Shivon, 44 - listening to music, shopping, watching football
Derrick II, 21 - working out, running track, watching movies and football
Daylen, 6 - watching YouTube, swimming, watching football
We are a blended family of four that consist of two boys. Our oldest
is a recent college graduate of William Carey University and the
youngest is preparing for 1st grade in the Clinton Public School District.
We are state employees in the public service area. We are active in the
community and attend Agape Fellowship Church.
How did you meet and how long have you been
married?
We originally met at JSU and reconnected when we both worked
for the police department. We have been married for six years.
What brings you the greatest joy as a parent?
Being able to provide for our children and show them what a successful
family structure looks like—along with seeing them succeed and
accomplish their goals as productive citizens.
What are some of your favorite things about
Clinton?
Clinton is a great place to raise a family with great schools, great
neighbors, and a great community setting.
What accomplishments make you proud during
your time living in Clinton?
Seeing our son graduate from Clinton High School and college and
buying our first new home together.
What drives you to have the job that you have?
Derrick, Sr. - As the newly appointed assistant chief of Capitol Police,
my passion for safe communities drives me. I’m motivated to provided
service that all citizens can feel safe in their communities.
Shivon - As a team member with the Mississippi Department of Education,
I am motivated to provide technical assistance to all school districts in
Mississippi to maintain a safe school environment.
What do you love about your team/school?
THEE I LOVE, we love the academics and culture of Jackson State
University. The rich history of our football team is like none other. We
have the best band in college football. We are overjoyed with current
attention that we are receiving. We are truly a family at JSU.
QUESTION FOR THE CHILDREN
What’s your favorite thing to do as a family?
Derrick II - Spending time together, watching movies, and football.
Daylen - I like going on vacation and having fun at football games.
FAVORITE TAILGATE RECIPE
Southern Fried Catfish
• 4 catfish fillets, a little over a pound, total
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1½ cups oil - vegetable, canola, or peanut
• 2 cups cornmeal yellow (not self-rising)
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 Tbsp. cayenne pepper
• Lemon pepper seasoning, to taste
Pat fillets with paper towel. Place in a large baking dish
or plastic storage bag and pour in buttermilk. Coat well
and allow to sit 10 minutes in the refrigerator. In a large
bowl, add cornmeal, salt, cayenne, and lemon pepper;
stir with fork until blended. Using a cast-iron or heavy
bottom skillet, heat oil over medium heat. While oil is
heating, take a fillet directly from the buttermilk and
place it in the cornmeal. Pat the cornmeal on the fillet,
coating it twice. When oil is around 350 degrees,
begin cooking in batches of two fillets. Do not move
until they’ve cooked for 2½ - 3 minutes. After 2½ - 3
minutes, use tongs and flip the fish over and cook an
additional 3 minutes. Use a thermometer to measure
internal temperature – it is done when the internal
temperature reaches 145 degrees. Remove from oil
and place on a paper towel. Plate fillets and serve
with lemon and tartar sauce.
Hometown CLINTON • 39

40 • AUGUST 2022

Turmans
the
Tell us about your family.
Grady (50) enjoys fishing, hunting, and spending time with his loved ones.
In his spare time, he sells real estate with NuWay Realty MS and cheers on
the Choctaws at Mississippi College sporting events.
Missa (50) loves to fish with Grady and spend time with family and friends.
Some of her favorite pastimes include supporting the teams her children
coach and rooting for the Choctaws.
Son Grady Jr. (29) is an assistant baseball coach and teacher at Clinton High
School. His wife, Abbey, is a registered nurse at Caring Hands, PPEC.
They have blessed us with a precious grandson, Rhodes.
Daughter Darby Dunn (24) is a teacher and head varsity volleyball coach
at Lassiter High School in Marietta, Georgia. Her husband Tripp is a project
manager for a landscape architect and engineering firm.
How did you meet and how long have you been married?
We first met in the 9th grade at Sumner Hill High School. We were Clinton
High School sweethearts, Go Arrows! Grady and I have been married for
thirty years.
What brings you the greatest joy as a parent?
Bringing our children up in a Christian home and community like Clinton has
molded them into the young, ambitious, and loving adults they are today.
The greatest joy as parents is watching our children pursue their goals in
life while remembering their core values.
What are some of your favorite things about Clinton?
Our favorite things include the family-oriented community with a small-town
feel. We love the pride of the Clinton school system and the long-standing
history of Mississippi College. The values and traditions of these schools are
part of what makes Clinton home.
What accomplishments make you proud during your
time living in Clinton?
Our greatest accomplishments will always be raising our children. We are
proud that our children graduated from Clinton High School and earned
degrees from Mississippi College!
FAVORITE TAILGATE RECIPE
Fiesta Dip
• 3 tsp. dried parsley
• 1½ tsp. ground cumin
• 3 tsp. dried minced onion
• ½ tsp. salt
• 1½ tsp. dried chives
• 1 cup sour cream or yogurt
• 3 tsp. chili powder
• 1 cup mayonnaise
Combine ingredients and refrigerate 2-4 hours
before serving with Fritos or Tortilla Chips.
What drives you to have the job that you have?
Mississippi College athletics is a second home for our family! We both
work in the athletic department at Mississippi College. Grady is head of
transportation/athletic grounds/special events (13 years), and I am the
administrative support supervisor (20 years). Athletics has always been
a part of our lives - playing sports in our younger years, watching our
children play sports, and now our children both coach sports teams.
What do you love about your team/school?
The Choctaw Family is what we love most about Mississippi College.
The memories, the support, and the growth we have been a part of have
created a special place in our hearts for Mississippi College athletics.
GO CHOCTAWS!
Hometown CLINTON • 41

42 • AUGUST 2022

Warriors Football
DATE TIME LOCATION OPPONENT
August 12 7:00 pm Home Delta Street
August 19 7:00 pm Home Central Holmes
August 26 7:00 pm Away Amite School Center
September 2 7:00 pm Home ACCS
September 9 7:00 pm Home Carroll Academy
September 16 7:00 pm Away Benton Academy
September 23 7:00 pm Away Riverfield Academy
September 30 7:00 pm Home St. Aloysius
October 7 7:00 pm Away Canton Academy
October 14 7:00 pm Away Tri-County Academy
Hometown CLINTON • 43

Coach Steve Tuttle Ms. Alisha Love Dr. Phillip Broome
44 • AUGUST 2022

Faith-Focused and
Family-Driven
Poppy Williams
Founded and opened in 2008, Clinton Christian Academy’s
mission is to educate every student for lifelong success and to enrich
them with Christian purpose. The school board, administrators, faculty,
and staff members, supported by the parents, work together to create
a Christian learning atmosphere within a physically, spiritually, and
emotionally safe environment.
Clinton Christian Academy is located at 101 West Northside Drive
in Clinton, and it’s a campus filled with happy, smiling faces – from the
administration all the way down to the students themselves.
“Our family-friendly atmosphere, close-knit teachers, and our love
for the Lord and our students make us stand out,” said Alisha Love,
who has been a kindergarten teacher at Clinton Christian Academy
since the school first opened its doors in 2008. “I love my job and my
coworkers. We are one big family who takes care of each other. If one
of us is successful, then we are all successful!”
As an independent, co-educational, self-governing, interdenominational,
non-profit, college preparatory, Christian day school for
students in grades K4 through grade 12, Clinton Christian Academy
believes that the integration of faith - as found in the Word of God
- and learning are essential for excellence in education. The administration,
faculty, and staff on campus at CCA are committed to fostering
excellent learning for all of the students, and this attitude ripples
throughout the school.
In today’s world, choosing where and how to invest in a child’s
school experience is one of the most important, and hardest, decisions
a parent has to make. Clinton Christian Academy’s objective is to
expand the heart, mind, and character of each of their students by
providing academic and personal challenges in an environment rich
with support and encouragement from a distinctly Christian perspective.
Coach Steve Tuttle teaches geometry, Algebra II, and pre-calculus/
trig at CCA, as well as being the head JV football coach and assistant
varsity football coach. He will begin his second year of teaching and
coaching at Clinton Christian Academy this August and said that the
family-atmosphere prevalent around the campus of CCA is infectious.
“The family atmosphere that we have here, and the fact that it is a
smaller school, means all the teachers and coaches know all the
students, and it makes it easier to build a relationship with our students
and instill Christian values in the lessons that we teach.”
Whether students at Clinton Christian Academy choose to start
in 4K or transfer into the school in any grade following, one thing is
certain – they, and their families, can expect a quality academic
education centered on faith.
“Here we believe that students can achieve success in everything
that they do, and we think they can achieve it from a Christian perspective,”
said Coach Tuttle. “In addition to academics, we teach our
students that if they apply themselves and keep God first, they can
accomplish anything they want to accomplish.”
Ms. Love echoed Coach Tuttle’s statement when she said, “I love
teaching my students about God and His great love for us!”
Clinton Christian Academy is SACS and MAIS accredited and
has been awarded the AA accreditation status by the Mississippi
Association of Independent Schools, which is the highest level
attainable. With a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio, students can get the
individualized attention they need to adequately grow and thrive in
all areas – academically, spiritually, physically and mentally.
“All of us at Clinton Christian Academy are optimistic about the
future of our school and are committed to providing for spiritual
growth and a quality education with support services to the students
and families we serve,” said Dr. Phillip Broome, Clinton Christian
Academy headmaster. “You’ll find that Clinton Christian Academy
is a place where you never meet a stranger.”
For more information about Clinton Christian Academy,
visit www.ccawarriors.ms or call 601-910-5990.
Hometown CLINTON • 45

46 • AUGUST 2022
PHOTOS Robert Chapman

Arrows Football
DATE TIME LOCATION OPPONENT
September 2 7:00 pm Away NWR
September 9 7:00 pm Home Brandon
September 23 7:00 pm Away Germantown
September 30 7:00 pm Home Starkville
October 7 7:00 pm Away Madison Central
October 14 7:00 pm Away Oxford
October 21 7:00 pm Home Grenada
October 28 7:00 pm Away Tupelo
November 3 7:00 pm Home Murrah
Hometown CLINTON • 47

48 • AUGUST 2022

Max Lyall,
ATTACHÉ
Robert Chapman
Max Lyall may be Clinton Attaché Show
Choir’s new director, but he is no stranger to
Clinton. A 1994 graduate of Clinton High
and former member of Attaché as well as the
Arrow Band, Lyall has roots in the community
that run to the late 1950s.
Lyall’s grandfather, Dr. Jack Lyall, moved his
family to Clinton where he chaired Mississippi
College’s music department from 1957 until
1983. “My parents still live a block from the old
Eastside school building that’s currently the
district’s central office building,” Lyall said.
With his passion for music nourished
through the Clinton Public School District,
Lyall went on to study the art form in depth
in college. “I studied percussion, piano,
guitar, and voice, which has given me a
unique skillset with teaching, writing and
arranging,” he said.
He’s spent the past dozen years as the
director of choral activities at Madison Central
High School, directing and overseeing multiple
choirs, show choirs and ensembles. When he saw that former directors
David and Mary Fehr were transitioning into their new roles as executive
directors of show choirs, Lyall felt the time was right for him to
come home and steer the national award-winning show choir towards
the future of show choir excellence.
“To say the experience has been surreal would be about right,” he
said. “I have kids in the group whose parents were in Attaché with me.”
Lyall said the move to become Attaché’s director comes with its
share of expectations, but as an alumnus, he understands why those
expectations are present.
“There’s a pretty big learning curve for
an organization of this scope. After dealing
with the pieces that made up Madison’s
program, I understand just how many things
I don’t know about the day-to-day operations
and logistics of Attaché that I’ll need to get
up to speed on,” he said. “Luckily I have the
Fehrs to help with the transition who have
already been so great through this whole
process.”
He values his relationship with the Fehrs
and says they’re all on the same page for
moving Attaché forward. “We all want the
same thing, and that’s for these students
to learn and perform at the highest level.
We want them to experience what so many
people, including myself, have experienced
before. We want them to learn what it is to
reap the benefits of hard work.”
Lyall said over the years his strongest
inspiration has been his wife, Carie, an
educator herself. “Carie is my rock,” he said.
“I can’t calculate how important her words of wisdom have been to
my career. She’s my biggest cheerleader and the most encouraging
person I know. I love her more than anything and can’t imagine
doing any of this without her support.”
With Attaché having a strong tradition that spans more than
three decades, Lyall said he plans to continue the tradition of
excellence that is synonymous with Attaché.
“I’m sure there will be a different feel or tone to some of the design
elements or song choices, but I’m not looking to make some kind
of statement or move us into the ‘Lyall Era,’” he said. “I simply want
Attaché to be Attaché.”
Hometown CLINTON • 49

50 • AUGUST 2022

Hometown CLINTON • 51

52 • AUGUST 2022

Christ-Centered
Academic Excellence:
Preparing Students for Life
Mary Kathryn Whittle
Mt. Salus Christian School is excited to provide both engaging and
hands-on educational experiences to our students in the classroom
which enrich their education. In addition to academics, Mt. Salus
students enjoy STEM, art, and athletics, as well as opportunities to
participate in a number of leadership and service projects. Teachers
encourage and support their students as they desire to see them
grow academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. Additionally,
students gather weekly at chapel to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ
taught (and sung).
Mt. Salus Christian School was founded with the mission to partner
with parents to provide quality, Christ-centered education. The way
in which Mt. Salus strives to fulfill this mission of Christ-centered
education that is multi-faceted and not achieved by just putting
students in a Bible class or having them memorize a Bible verse.
Our desire is to provide students with a solid foundation and environment
in which they are presented with the good news of Jesus Christ.
The foundational framework, through which we provide a Christian
worldview education, is guided by God’s Word. Christian worldview
education means that every aspect is filtered through the lens of
Scripture (the infallible Word of God) to discover and learn about the
world God has created and our place in it.
Additionally, our Christian worldview informs how we engage
literature, math, science, technology, art, and athletics, as well as how
we live in relationship with one another, in light of the truth of God’s
Word, the Bible.
Christian Worldview In The Classroom: What does God have to
do with math? What does it mean to be human? How does one’s
perspective impact his or her view of events? What is beauty?
How does this author’s perspective shape this story or song?
What does the Bible say in light of … ?
The reality is every single person has a worldview–a way in which
he or she sees the world, filters all of life, and operates out of it. There
are endless competing worldviews that bombard our students each
and every day as they navigate a world that rejects truth and preaches
a message of self (discovery, happiness, indulgence, etc.) that is
directly counter to the truth of God’s Word. Christian worldview
(education) does not compartmentalize Christianity, but on the
contrary—informs every aspect of life.
As we partner with families, providing a Christian worldview
education means we strive to teach students to think critically and
creatively and to equip them to thrive wherever God calls them.
Mt. Salus Christian School is preparing students for life, not just
graduation.
It is a great privilege to partner with families in the journey of
preparing and equipping students for life. We believe that providing
students with the foundation of a strong Christian worldview equips
them to be successful wherever God calls them.
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he
will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6
Hometown CLINTON • 53

54 • AUGUST 2022

Hinds Eagles
DATE TIME LOCATION OPPONENT
September 1 6:30 pm Home Northeast
September 8 6:30 pm Home Northwest
September 15 6:30 pm Away East Central
September 22 7:00 pm Home Pearl River
September 29 6:30 pm Home Jones
October 6 6:30 pm Away Southwest Mississippi
October 13 6:30 pm Away Itawamba
October 20 6:30 pm Home Gulf Coast
October 27 6:30 pm Away Copiah-Lincoln
Hometown CLINTON • 55

CLASS
23
OF
Of all the things
you’re learning,
what will be
most helpful
after graduation?
56 • AUGUST 2022

MADDIE Bruner
CCA / Softball
One of the most beneficial things
I am learning now is how to embrace
change and keeping my priorities straight,
because life is always changing. The bad
will not always remain bad, and we
have the power to change anything.
Hayden THOMAS
Clinton / Soccer
Clinton High School has taught me that
hard work pays off in the classroom
and on the field. I am developing
a work ethic that will help me
succeed in all aspects of my life.
Drew MARTIN
CCA / Baseball
The most helpful thing for me
is going to be my faith. Sure, I could be
successful in whatever I end up doing
but I can take zero credit for the gifts
and talents that God has given me.
Accepting and showing Jesus’ love
and fully leaning on him is the most
useful thing I could ever think of.
ARROWS
Baleigh Turner
Clinton / Cheer
Being a cheerleader and learning to work
with others is setting me up for success.
There will always be someone that I may
have to collaborate with. So, practicing this
skill now will prepare me for the future.
Hometown CLINTON • 57

OliviaMcGraw
Mt.Salus / Basketball
In the past years of learning, my Bible class
has been the most helpful for my adulthood.
It has given me the knowledge on how to
treat, love, and communicate with my peers.
eagles
Griffin
Berch
Clinton / Football
Something that I have learned playing
football is that you won’t always win.
You will get hit with adversity in life, but
it’s how you push through it that counts.
That’s something Coach Morgan
always tells us, and I know it will
stick with me through adulthood.
William
PAGUE
CCA / Archery
Subjects like science and math have helped
me to better understand the world around
me and how it works. Because of what
I learned in my science classes, I was able
to grow a bountiful garden this summer.
Additionally, my math courses have taught
me how to do minor repairs and build a
bed frame from scratch. I am interested
in going into the medical field, and I know
what I have learned in these classes
will help me get there.
58 • AUGUST 2022

Kameryn Arnold
Clinton / Show Choir
The best things I’m learning
that will be helpful in the future is to
be a hard worker, and be determined.
It’s about being successful in life
no matter what challenges I face.
ARROWS
William JOHNSON
Clinton / Show Choir
The most helpful thing I’m learning is how
to work with people and leadership. Whether
it’s in the classroom, Attaché rehearsal, on
the court, or on the field, having to listen to
others and work as a team is very important.
And in the real world I will need to use those
skills in anything I decide to be.
Kyle JOHNSON
Mt. Salus / Basketball
I’ve learnedleadership. Mt. Salus instills
having faith in God, respecting one another,
and being a leader. Leadership is instilled
in every student through classes,
extracurriculars, and clubs. Being the
only senior on the team this year, it is very
important to me that I set a good example
for the younger team members by being
humble and keeping God first.
Hometown CLINTON • 59

Apple Pie Overnight Oats
• ⅔ cup milk
• ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• ½ cup diced apple
• ¼ cup chopped pecans, walnuts,
or almonds
• ¼ tsp. cinnamon
• ⅛ tsp. nutmeg
• 1 Tbsp. maple syrup or honey
In a 12-ounce jar, combine all
ingredients and stir until
well combined. Seal and
refrigerate overnight
or at least 6 hours.
Basic Smoothie
• 8 oz. milk
• 4 oz. low fat or fruit
flavored yogurt
• 1 cup fruit- fresh, canned, or
frozen berries, banana, papaya,
melons, peaches, pineapple–
whatever fruit you like.
Blend everything together in a
blender. If desired, add fresh
spinach, flax seeds, oats, vanilla,
honey, chocolate syrup, sugar free
coffee syrups, peanut butter.
Makes 1-20 serving.
Rustic Tomato & Cheese
Tart
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 Tbsp. butter
• ½ tsp. Italian seasoning
• 3 ripe tomatoes, sliced ¼ inch
thick
• 3 oz. cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 oz. provolone cheese, shredded
• 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
• ½ Tbsp. salt
• 1 tsp. black pepper
• 1 ready-made refrigerated
pie crust
• 1 egg slightly beaten
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Heat a
medium sauté pan with olive oil and
butter. Add red onion, season with
Italian seasoning and a little salt
and pepper. Cook until slightly
caramelized, stirring occasionally.
While onions are cooking, place
sliced tomatoes in a single layer on
several folded paper towels, sprinkle
with remaining salt. Let stand for
approximately 10 minutes. Once
onions are cooked, remove from
heat, and let cool.
Unroll pie crust and place on a
nonstick baking sheet. Spread with
Dijon mustard leaving about a
one-inch border on the crust.
Sprinkle half the cheddar and half
the provolone cheese on crust then
top with half the cooked onions.
Repeat with next layer keeping the
one-inch border all the way around
the pie dough. Arrange tomato slices
in overlapping pattern on top of
onion and cheese. Fold edges of
dough toward center; tucking and
pressing to seal (dough will only
partially cover tomatoes). Brush
folded edge with beaten egg. Place
in oven and bake for 35 minutes or
until crust is golden brown. Notes:
Much like a tomato pie. Makes 6-8
servings.
60 • AUGUST 2022

Ricotta Peach Tart
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 eggs divided
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 Tbsp. lemon zest
• 2 Tbsp. honey
• 3-4 ripe peaches cored and sliced,
or plums or nectarines
• 1 sheet puff pastry thawed
according to package instructions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a
large-rimmed baking sheet with
parchment paper. In a medium mixed
bowl combined ricotta, egg and next
three ingredients. Set aside. Roll out
puff pastry onto the prepared baking
sheet. Use a paring knife to score a
line around the perimeter of the
pastry, about 1 inch from the edge.
Spoon the cheese mixture over the
dough inside the scored edges,
spreading out to an even layer. Place
the sliced peaches in vertical rows,
overlapping just slightly until the
entire tart is filled. Brush edges with
egg wash. Bake for 25 minutes, or
until crust is golden and edges are
puffed up. Makes 8 servings.
Strawberry Frozen Yogurt
Bars
• ¼ cup raw almonds
• 8 whole graham crackers
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 Tbsp. butter
• 16 oz. plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup fat-free sweetened
condensed milk
• 1½ cups fresh strawberries,
chopped or can use blueberries
or peaches
Line an 8-x-8-inch baking pan with
parchment paper so it comes up a
couple inches above the rim. This will
make it easy to remove from the pan.
Place almonds and graham crackers
in food processor and pulse until
finely ground. In microwave-safe
bowl, melt butter and peanut butter
in microwave for approximately 30
seconds. Stir to combine. Add crumb
mixture, stirring until well combined.
Pour mixture into pan, patting down
evenly and firmly to create the crust.
Place in freezer to set for about 30
minutes.
Clean strawberries and remove stems.
Cut into bite-size pieces. Combine
yogurt and sweetened condensed
milk, stir until well combined. Gently
fold in strawberries. Pour yogurt
mixture in to crust, spreading evenly.
Cover with plastic wrap and place in
freezer for eight hours. Allow to sit at
room temperature for approximately
10-15 minutes. Cut into 16 squares
with a sharp knife.
As a registered dietitian, I’ve always stressed the importance of a balanced diet.
I work for The Dairy Alliance to educate and promote one of the most nutritious
foods–milk. Studies show that after elementary school, our tweens and adults
very seldom consume enough milk or dairy. Dairy foods, such as milk, yogurt,
and cheese, provide much of the calcium, potassium, and vitamin D that is often
missing in our diet as we grow and become adults. The absence of these nutrients
increases the risk for developing osteoporosis and heart disease as well as other
health concerns.
Milk gives you the best value for your dollars spent in the supermarket. For less
than 25 cents per serving, milk provides eight grams of protein, along with other
essential nutrients needed. Plus, for the athletes, chocolate milk is rated as the best
recovery beverage in sports.
We all need three servings of dairy foods every day. Some ways to add this into
your diet are:
• Make grits/oatmeal with milk in the morning
• Have overnight oats in the fridge for a breakfast on the go
• Use plain or Greek yogurt as a protein-packed base for dips instead of mayonnaise
• Make playful salad “kabobs” alternating fresh vegetables with cubes of your
favorite cheese for the kids
• Have an afternoon snack of a fruit smoothie full of yogurt, milk, and fruit
• Keep cheese sticks in your fridge for a healthy and delicious snack
• Freeze yogurt tubes for a creamy summer treat
• For those with a sensitivity to lactose, use lactose-free milk. Most individuals
can still enjoy yogurt and hard, natural cheeses, such as cheddar and Swiss,
which have little or no lactose.
For other dairy delicious recipes visit www.thedairyalliance.com
– Donna Speed
Hometown CLINTON • 61

Enroll at Clinton
Christian Academy
"The mission of CCA is to
educate every student for
lifelong success and to enrich
them with Christian purpose."
Please call admissions at 601-910-5990
to schedule a tour.
62 • AUGUST 2022
www.ccawarriors.ms

Hometown CLINTON • 63

The CHALKBOARD Clinton Schools
Clinton High
Class of 2022 graduates 335 students
Clinton High School’s graduating class of 2022 closed out
their senior year under the lights of Arrow Field. This year’s
senior class of 335 saw 104 seniors accept scholarships
to 28 different colleges and universities, with a total of
$4.3 million in scholarships awarded to the class of 2022.
Abhay Cheruku served as this year’s valedictorian and
Abigail Vargheese as salutatorian.
Others listed in the academic top ten were, in ascending
order, Julia Moller, Tabitha Hewitt-Rafferty, Jared Miller,
Amber Amis, Gracie Roberts, Mallory Morris, Anna Grace
Brister and Nathan Heard.
With the weather cooperating perfectly on a Friday night,
the CHS Class of 2022 celebrated together to close out their
time as high school students.
CHS Class of 2022 by the numbers:
• 18 seniors scored 30 or higher on the ACT
• 2 seniors scored a perfect 36 on the ACT
• 4 seniors were named National Merit Finalists
• 12 seniors were members of the Phi Theta Kappa,
Beta Psi Upsilon chapter
• 3 seniors were named STAR Students
• Abigail Vargheese was named Mississippi’s
TOP ALL STAR Student
• 89 seniors were members of the National Honor Society
• 60 seniors earned the President’s Award for Educational
Excellence
• 27 student athletes signed letters of intent to 14 different
schools.
• Kimani Hamilton was named MS Gatorade Player of the
Year for boys’ basketball
• 3 MHSAA 6A championships, boys’ basketball, boys’ track
and field and girls’ track and field
• 16 seniors earned band scholarships to 6 different schools
Clinton Public School District’s Superintendent Dr. Andy
Schoggin applauded the graduating class of 2022.
“These students have demonstrated resilience and
perseverance throughout their high school experience,”
Dr. Schoggin said. “Through all the uncertainties and
challenges, they chose to press on and pursue excellence.
They have represented our district with pride and class,
and I expect they will continue to do so in whatever
endeavors they choose.”
64 • AUGUST 2022

Hometown CLINTON • 65

TheTime COIN
Camille Anding
I remember the first-grade teacher with a
rocking chair in the corner of her classroom.
We must have still been lap-babies, because I remember everyone getting a consoling rock
in the lap of that teacher who knew the separation from our mothers bordered on traumatic.
She taught me a lot about empathy.
I remember the student in elementary school who I was drawn to and wanted a childhood
friendship. She taught me what “fickle” meant when I realized her friendship ran hot and cold.
It was a difficult lesson to learn.
I remember seeing other elementary students at lunch time open their brown paper lunch
sacks and pull-out food I never dreamed of finding in my lunch bag. One lunch that’s still etched
in my memory was a cold, fried egg sandwiched in a leftover biscuit. I still remember watching
the girl chomp into the biscuit as I nearly gagged seeing the bright yellow yolk squirt out of
the biscuit and down her chin. She taught me thanksgiving.
I remember a sixth-grade teacher that definitely had her favorites, and it was a blessed day
when I determined that I was one of them. She was a no-nonsense teacher and gave lots of
homework that she expected to be turned in daily. The woman got my attention the first week.
She demonstrated what happened from skipping homework or talking without permission
with the aid of her wooden paddle that looked like a boat oar to me! That teacher taught me
a blend of fear and respect.
I remember a math teacher that taught me to think and find the answers to “why.” I knew he
wasn’t making an envious salary and that he drove the school bus before and after his full day
in the classroom, but he modeled for me the love of teaching and the fulfillment of seeing his
students comprehend and excel. He taught me the beauty of sacrifice and dedication.
I remember the clatter of electric typewriters in high school and the fun our teacher made the
class time. She trained me in a tool that I would never outgrow and would consistently use over
the years. I never imagined that the clatter of the typewriter keys would turn to the clicking of
computer keys. She taught me the joy of learning.
I remember riding the school bus with no seat belts and few restrictions. Our driver covered
a lot of miles in that yellow, overgrown transport and never complained about the frosty rides in
the winter and the stifling trips in the early fall. He was adept at watching the road while seeing any
bully cross known boundaries in the back of the bus. He taught me about patience and endurance
while performing a necessary but thankless job.
I remember a lot about my school days—the variety of teachers that leave impressions on
our lives along with a storehouse of experiences, most of which are antiquated. I consider the
difficulties of the changing times and the obstacles facing those dedicated teachers in today’s
classrooms. Lord, strengthen them with wisdom and unwavering perseverance so that their
students will have wonderful remembrances.
66 • AUGUST 2022

Hometown CLINTON • 67

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