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Pet Parade 

Fishing & Family 

Central Mississippi Turtle Rescue 

V104 

423

2 • JANUARY 2023

Giving care made just for kids and 

teens at Children’s of Mississippi. 

All for Your Health 

umc.edu/YourHealth 

Hometown RANKIN • 3

THE CHAMBER OF FLOWOOD'S 2023 

Mudbug Bash 

Apr. 27 | 5:30 - 8 PM 

Sponsored by 

Flowood Nature Park 

SCAN HERE FOR TICKETS 

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4 • JANUARY 2023 

FREE CONCERT & FUN 

SPACE JUMPS, KIDS' KARAOKE, PETTING ZOO, FAIR FOOD, & MORE!


6 • JANUARY 2023

PEARL DAY 

SATURDAY, MAY 6TH | TRUSTMARK PARK 

CONCERT 

GATES OPEN AT 5:00PM 

6PM 

7PM 

HEADLINER 

8:45PM 


BUYING, BUILDING, 

OR REFINANCING 

WE ARE COMMITTED 

TO YOUR HOME. 

8 • APRIL 2023

FROM OUR PUBLISHER 

Our staff is definitely convinced that there are a lot of people 

who delight in ownership of animals of all kinds! 

We had a tremendous response from our readers with the pet 

photo contest. So, pet lovers, this issue is sure to please you! It should 

also remind you that pets can teach us a lot about unconditional love, 

devotion, and in some cases, just always being there in our lives. 

Our three kids grew up with dogs, an occasional dropped-in cat, 

goldfish, hermit crabs, and rabbits. The rabbits were my favorite. They 

became such tame pets that they roamed free in our enclosed backyard. 

If we left for a weekend, they didn’t miss their regular feedings 

– they seemed content with our variety of grass. Their only flaws 

were their ability to dig escape holes under our fence and their short 

life expectancy. At least that was the experience in our household. 

As for this chapter in my life, pets will have to come later. Grandchildren 

are our present pastime, and they do require constant care 

and feeding. However, they are another form of “pet” that always 

extends unconditional love. I’ll have to show you some pictures 

sometime! 

ON THE COVER Our pet photo contest winner, Nada. 

PUBLISHER & EDITOR 

Tahya Dobbs 

HOMETOWN STAFF 

CFO 

Kevin Dobbs 

CONSULTING EDITOR 

Mary Ann Kirby 

ADMINISTRATIVE 

ASSISTANT 

Alisha Floyd 

IN THIS ISSUE 

The Way We Were 12 

A Pawsitive Improvement 18 

Pet Parade 24 

Hometown Family 36 

Kids Who Care 42 

Full House Exotics 46 

Fishing & Family 66 

Central MS Turtle Rescue 74 

Shop Local 78 

The Time Coin 90 

SPECIAL PROJECTS 

ASSISTANT 

Caroline Hodges 

SOCIAL MEDIA 

MANAGER 

Lexie Ownby 

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE 

Nikki Robison 

...see you around town. 

LAYOUT DESIGN 

Daniel Thomas 

3dt 

STAFF 

PHOTOGRAPHER 

Othel Anding 

STAFF 

ASSISTANT 

Debby Francis 

ADVERTISING 

ASSISTANT 

Melissa Kennon 

www.facebook.com/hometownrankinmagazine. 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 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. 


10 • APRIL 2023


Virginia & Jim Hughes 

Camille Anding 

College campuses are obvious 

centers for education, but they’re 

also prime institutions for budding 

romances. Virginia Haynes and 

Jim Hughes found that to be their 

experience when they met at 

Mississippi College in 1956. She 

was a freshman, and he was a 

sophomore. 

In December of her freshman 

year, the two joined other BSU 

students to attend a Billy Graham 

crusade in Nashville. After the 

crusade, Virginia and Jim had their 

first official date when they sat in 

the nosebleed section for an evening 

of entertainment at the Ryman 

Auditorium. 

Their mutual attractions were 

obvious. “I really liked him,” Virginia 

said, recalling those college days. 

“He was so outgoing with his 

winsome personality.” 

Jim was smitten by Virginia’s 

physical as well as intrinsic beauty. 

“I admired her quiet way of 

handling situations and especially 

her relationship with the Lord,” 

he added. 

Virginia graduated in 1959 and 

accepted a position as an English 

teacher at Columbus High School. 

Her fiancé was in his first year of 

medical school at Wake Forest 

School of Medicine in North 

Carolina. The two were attentive 

to their new roles in life after 

college, but they never lost sight 

of their future wedding date – 

June 10, 1960. 

Family and friends gathered at the 

First Baptist Church in Columbus 

to witness the wedding vows that 

the couple promised each other– 

to have and to hold from this day 

forward. In remembering that 

celebrated day, Virginia shared 

how she and Jim had given major 

thought and planning to keep the 

location of their going-away 

vehicle hidden. They decided on a 

spot in the back of the police 

department. Who would figure 

that to be the place of their 

get-away car? 

Much to their shock, the entire 

wedding party, along with most of 

the guests, were waiting for them 

when they rushed to their 

undisclosed location. Amid a lot 

of laughter and joy, the couple 

pulled away to their first home, a 

rental house in Winston Salem. 

Their vehicle left with a “Just 

Married” sign along with everything 

the young couple would 

need to set up housekeeping. In 

fact, the vehicle was so crampacked 

that neither Virginia nor 

Jim could see each other for the 

wall of boxes between them. 

Jim’s internship carried them to 

Roosevelt Hospital in New York 

for two years. The Vietnam War 

interrupted their future plans 

when Jim was sent to Ft. Rucker 

and then on to the 173rd Airborne 

Brigade followed by 7th Surgical 

Mash Hospital. 

Their next home as a family 

was in Baltimore, Maryland, at 

Johns Hopkins Hospital. Virginia 

adapted well to the demanding life 

of a surgeon as she maintained her 

role as mother to their three young 

daughters. 

12 • APRIL 2023

“Learn to be 

content in Him. 

No externals 

are needed.” 

Through a series of God’s 

sovereign appointments, Jim got 

confirmation that orthopedic 

surgery would be his life’s calling. 

He became intrigued with a 

new concept, internal fixation of 

fractures, and traveled to Switzerland 

with his family to study for a 

year with the medical personnel 

that formulated the new method 

for stabilizing broken bones. That 

was the beginning of a career of 

surgery and teaching that would 

carry him to faraway places. 

In 1976, he was invited to visit 

Methodist Rehab which brought 

all the Hughes to Mississippi and 

would become their lifetime home. 

Through additional paths opened 

by God, Jim became the chairman 

of orthopedics at University 

Hospital. 

His winsome personality is still 

a part of his makeup. That, along 

with his renown record in the field 

of orthopedics, has taken him 

throughout the world to teach on 

internal fixation of fractures. 

He retired from that position 

in 2012 but continues to serve in 

advisory and research capacities 

on several medically related boards. 

Hughes still affirms, “Orthopedics 

is filled with joy - the healing of 

broken bones.” 

Throughout their travels, 

they’ve made friends from around 

the world. There were those under 

Dr. Hughes’ teaching who were 

always welcomed in their home as 

well as his patients. Virginia said, 

“When we would fly out of 

Atlanta, it felt like going through 

a receiving line with all the 

greetings they received from 

former patients and old friends. 

Anyone in the Hughes’ 

presence soon senses the warmth 

of Jesus’ love that’s made an evident 

and lasting imprint on their lives, 

conversations, and countenances. 

Virginia believes Roman’s 8:28 is a 

wonderful verse for newlyweds to 

believe and adopt, but to be careful 

to follow it up with verse 29. 

Jim also offered godly advice: 

Know this – 1) Contentment is 

divine. 2) It is intrinsic. 3) It is 

habitual. “Learn to be content in 

Him. No externals are needed,” he 

affirms from experience and from 

1 Timothy 6:6. 

Their gift of hospitality is still a 

fundamental part of their lives as 

they open their home to friends 

and international guests who are 

stateside for surgeries and visits. 

Since 90% of their guests are 

Christians, the Hughes’ hospitality 

allows them and their guests to 

refresh each other. 

Their three married daughters, 

Wendy Glover, Kathryn Long, 

and Ann Le Roux live in the area 

and have blessed their parents 

with thirteen grandchildren and 

one great grandson. 

One might agree that Dr. Jim 

Hughes, with the dedicated 

support of his wife, has spent a 

major portion of his life putting 

broken bones back together. 

More importantly, in the midst of 

their contentment, they continue 

to faithfully acknowledge and 

share about the One who puts 

broken lives back together. 


14 • APRIL 2023

With over 

90 different 

options, our 

Pathways are 

designed to take 

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out of your future. 

hindscc.edu 

JACKSON | NAHC | 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: Associate Vice President Student Services, Title IX Coordinator , Box 1100 Raymond MS 39154; Phone: 601-857-3353 or Email: TitleIX@hindscc.edu 


16 • APRIL 2023


Advertiser Spotlight 

Mistie Desper 

Someone once said, 

“A dog is the only thing 

on earth that loves you 

more than it loves itself.” 

Christi Kirby-Baron sees the love of dogs in a way that not many get 

to experience. She is a professional service animal trainer using her skills 

to be able to enrich the lives and needs of others. 

She began training dogs to 1990 and her passion quickly evolved from 

training her own dogs into becoming a professional trainer. With behavioral 

and psychology courses under her belt, she began an apprenticeship 

with an organization that specialized in guide dogs for individuals with 

disabilities. There, her entire view changed into helping others have a 

better quality of life. 

She said, “Through this apprenticeship, I learned so much about the 

daily lives and struggles for people with disabilities that most people never 

think about. I saw how these dogs helped them regain independence 

and I quickly realized that this is my calling, this is my purpose, and 

what I was put here to do.” 

In 2016, Christi continued her “calling” by opening A Pawsitive 

Improvement where she offers a wide variety of training options. From 

basic obedience and behavior modification to training for pet therapy 

certification, she puts her heart and soul into everything she 

does. “Training takes lots of dedication and consistency. Most 

dogs don’t begin task training until around 18 months with 

an additional year or more to train proficiency.” 

Task training varies greatly based on an individual’s needs 

and can include helping someone with vision and hearing 

needs to aiding someone who struggles with mobility. 

Christi’s program differs from others in that she trains the 

owners as well as the animal. “The moments where the dog’s 

lightbulb flips on is so rewarding. The owner and dog truly 

blossom together as a team. When they have completed 

training, I do turn them loose as a trained pair—but I have a 

lifetime commitment to them.” 

Christi is there for the long haul for support for both dog 

and owner. Reflecting back, she said, “Those that come 

18 • APRIL 2023

through the program become lifelong friends and we connect on such 

a deep, personal level. I know my purpose is to use my skill and talent 

to enrich the lives of others.” 

“It’s so easy to get caught up in our own world and not realize the 

challenges that others face each day. Being in this field has broadened 

my overall worldview and I see the world differently. I think of what 

others have to navigate and the difficulties from that and I just try to 

see ways to always help people.” 


20 • APRIL 2023

Christi explains that one of the problems plaguing 

the service dog community are pets being unjustly 

“certified” usually by using online sources. Although 

service animals are trained to ignore the usual distractions, 

the problems arise when a pet in public is not 

under control. There have been instances of attacks 

leaving a trained animal wounded and unable to 

continue working to help their owners. They can also 

become distracted from their owner and any impending 

medical needs that should arise. They need to be alert 

and aware and able to perform their jobs. “It is getting 

more and more common for individuals to have their 

pets illegally certified often so they can take them 

with them wherever they go. It is really becoming an 

epidemic and can be so harmful to a professional 

working animal who has spent years training.” 

“Over the years, I have heard so many 

times that ‘I could never give a dog 

up after I have trained them,’ but it’s 

not about you. You have to be selfless 

enough to help someone else, 

to put someone’s needs above 

your own to help them have a better 

quality of life.” 

Christi is truly changing the world one wagging tail 

at a time. 

A Pawsitive Improvement is also in the process of 

forming a charity to assist in the costs to help those 

in need get the necessary specialized training for 

their animals, which they may otherwise not be 

able to afford. 

For more information, visit www.doghelp.net 


22 • APRIL 2023

READER 

SPOTLIGHT 

Emily 

MILLS 

Why did you decide to make Rankin 

County your home? 

In 1998, I moved here for a job. As I continued 

to follow God’s plan for my life, it has kept me 

here. By now Rankin County is home, and I 

could not imagine living anywhere else. 

How long have you lived in Rankin County? 

I have lived here for 25 years. 

Tell us about your family. 

I have a 16-year-old son, Mason and a 

14-year-old daughter, Mauri! 

What is your favorite memory of living 

in Rankin County? 

It would be tough to name just one. And I’m 

thankful for the wonderful friendships I’ve 

made throughout the years. 

Where are your three favorite places 

to eat in Rankin County? 

Panera Bread, Panda Express, and McAlister’s 

What are some fun things to do in Rankin 

County on the weekends? 

Oh, there is always something fun to do on 

weekends. We love shopping in the many 

boutiques in Rankin County and spending 

time with friends. 

Share some things you enjoy doing in your 

spare time. 

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with 

my children, working out at the gym, watching 

movies, and reading vintage cookbooks. 

What are three things on your bucket list? 

Traveling is always on my bucket list! I would 

love to visit Italy, Israel, and the Caribbean. 

Who is someone you admire and why? 

My mother is someone I admire. She was 

driven, dependable, and tough. She was never 

afraid to do whatever she needed to do for 

her family. 

Where do you see yourself ten years 

from now? 

I’m looking forward to seeing my children’s 

lives unfold. So, I hope in ten years I’m able to 

spend lots of time with them. Ultimately, it’s 

in God’s hands and I can’t wait to see what 

else He has planned for my life. 

What is your favorite childhood memory? 

My favorite memory is spending Sunday 

afternoons after church with my family. 

I just remember how wonderful my mother’s 

cooking was and how much fun we had 

spending time together. 

If you could give us one encouraging 

quote, what would it be? 

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be 

dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen 

you and help you; I will uphold you with my 

righteous right hand.” -Isaiah 41:10 

What is your favorite thing about 

Hometown Magazines? 

I absolutely love the way the magazine 

spotlights the local people, businesses, 

and community events. 


Pet 

Parade 

Fewer things bring more joy than 

the bond between a pet and its owner. 

When you have a pet, whether it’s a 

dog, cat, hamster, chicken, or goat, 

life is filled with belly rubs and 

shared moments that remind you 

how good it feels to be loved. 

Hometown Rankin Magazine 

wanted to celebrate all the pleasures 

that make having a pet in your 

life such a treat. We conducted a 

photo contest and enjoyed all the 

wonderful submissions received. 

The winners are included here. 

Teddy 

Easton Smith 

24 • APRIL 2023

NADA 

Hunter Isbell 

Pollyanna 

Davis Edwards 

K9 Teun 

Coty Hamilton 


Thelma & 

Louise 

Patrick Wall 

Harriet 

Hutson Barnett 

Snickers 

Harper Hastings Barnett 

PEPPER 

Sarah McCurley 

26 • APRIL 2023

Buster 

Madelyn 

Ready 

Patches 

Audrey Hipp 

Jack 

Kip Smith 

SNOWFLAKE 

Elizabeth Purvis 


Gunner 

Addison Walsh 

Bandit 

Mason Sullivan 

Walker 

& Poppy Nobles & Tucker Herrin 

POPPY 

Caroline Harris 

28 • APRIL 2023

Charlie 

Allie Thompson 

Ellie 

Josh Sabins 

Abby 

Rylee Moore 

MerryEliza Rein 


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30 • APRIL 2023

Founded to serve Mississippi’s petroleum industry 

back in 1954, Ergon is trusted today by customers 

in more than 90 countries around the world. 

We offer innovative solutions for asphalt and 

pavement preservation, specialty oils, specialty 

chemicals, transportation and terminaling, industrial 

and commercial construction and much more. 

Students are explorers. Our 

job as educators is to help 

them FIND THEIR WAY 

academically, athletically, 

artistically, and spiritually. 

Amanda Slack 

Head of Lower School 

jacksonprep.net 

PreK-3 through grade 12 


Why should your pet be featured 

in Hometown Rankin? 

Maren Kristie Armstrong Maren is not 

only beautiful, but she has such a fun personality 

- much like Rankin County! Her favorite treat is 

peppermint. 

Bo Donna Lott Bo is more than a 

pet, he is our family member! He’s 12½ 

years old and has a heart full of love. 

Bo starts to bark as soon as he hears our 

garage door going up, and he always 

meets us at the door wagging his tail 

with lots of love licks to welcome us 

home. We are so thankful for Bo. 

Bonnie Madison Perry-Null 

Three year old Houston Null loves all of 

his farm animals. He is a COVID baby and 

has three older siblings who love to speak 

for him. Even though he doesn’t speak 

much, when he does it is about his “oinkoinks” 

or “baa-baas.” Loving and caring 

for his pets has made him expand his 

education and socialization. 

Tuff & Ruby Mallory Gurley 

Not having kids, Tuff and Ruby are my babies and 

the highlight of my life. We would be so happy to 

be in Hometown Magazines! 

Lucy & Heidi 

Carrie Cook English Cream 

Golden Retrievers are the perfect 

combination of the classic golden 

retriever personality with the 

unique solid white color. They’re 

perfect family pets–super loyal, 

gentle with children, and get 

along great with all of our other 

animals. We sure love our Heidi 

and Lucy. 

32 • APRIL 2023 

Hubert 

Abbey Hemphill Hubert attends 

all pet friendly events at McLaurin 

High School with me. He has 

ridden in the class float at our 

homecoming parade for the last 

two years and attends football, 

softball, and baseball games. He 

is the unofficial softball mascot! 

Dawn Jennifer Muse 

Dawn is a beautiful smart lab 

and is the best of friends with 

her owner Brunson. 

Pepper Charlee Hipp 

Pepper deserves to be in the 

magazine because she is a sweet 

little girl and she is so cute!

Mina Ron Johnson A classmate of my wife reached 

out to her via social media after reading we were looking 

for a miniature dachshund, and told us about a lady in 

Carthage who raises the breed. We were so happy, as it had 

been so quiet around our house since our previous pup 

passed away. We are so excited to have Mina. She has the 

sweetest personality, loves sitting in my lap and playing 

outside! 

Tate Sydney Rhodes 

Tate is beautiful, loyal, and sometimes 

a little spunky. Her personality is the 

best! She brings me and my family 

so much joy!! 

Tator Chip Bailey Key 

A year ago I joined Rankin County 

4H and became one of the youngest 

members of the Pelahatchie FFA. 

I started showing Red Angus for 

Gabbi Walters and Hilltop Cattle and 

found a love I never knew existed. 

Since I started showing Red Angus, 

I have learned so much and formed 

a bond with these animals that few 

can relate to. I get up early, stay up 

late, balance school and show life, 

and enjoy every moment. 

Waylon Hunter McGraw 

Waylon is the definition of “Man’s 

Best Friend.” Two years ago, I found 

him wandering on a farm while I was 

working for someone, and I instantly 

knew he was the dog for me. I couldn’t 

let him be taken to the shelter, so I 

took Waylon in. Waylon has always 

been there for me, and loves taking 

pictures! 

Rolex Ann Cole Hammons My steer, Rolex, and I 

won the 2022 Mississippi State Fair! If you know him you 

know that he is quite the character and full of sass! He lives 

up to his luxurious name and knows he’s one fancy boy. 

Skittles Aubriana Key 

I believe Skittles deserves to be recognized in 

Hometown Magazines because of the hardship she 

has faced. She was very malnourished and left alone 

with no one to love or to love her. Seven months ago, 

that all changed when we embarked upon a journey 

of barrel racing together where we have formed 

a bond full of trust and love. She is the horse 

I’ve always wanted and more. 


34 • APRIL 2023


36 • APRIL 2023

The Jacksons 


Drew - 38 Hobbies include music, building cabinets and furniture, 

golf, and CrossFit. 

Sarah - 38 Enjoys music, camping, and CrossFit! 

Mallory - 11 Loves music, soccer, and drawing. 

Owen - 7 Likes baseball and playing outside. 

How did you meet and how long have you been married? 

This year we will have been married for 15 years. I was the lead singer 

of an all-girl Christian rock band and Drew was the lead guitarist of 

a Christian rock band from Meridian. Our bands ended up at the 

same show one night and Drew told his friends he was going to marry 

the lead singer of the girl band. We became best friends and eventually 

we started dating and have been together ever since. 

Do you allow time to be with your spouse for a date night? 

We do try and make time for date nights. With our busy schedules, 

it’s important for us to be able to spend one on one time together and 

connect. 


What brings you the greatest joy as a parent? 

We love watching our kids do the things they love to do. 

It’s always fun to watch them learn new things! 

Who is the financial manager in your home? 

Drew is the financial manager in our home. I am thankful 

he is willing to keep up with and take care of the financial side 

of things. He is good at making sure I am kept in the loop. 

When your children were younger, what was your 

discipline philosophy? 

We have always tried to just be consistent with our discipline. 

We make sure to talk with them and help them to understand 

what they did wrong, and not just punish them. 

What do you see in your role as the greatest benefit 

to your family? 

As a mom, I try and makes sure everyone is happy and taken 

care of. 

What’s a quick go-to meal that isn’t fast food? 

And who does the cooking? 

Tacos are a favorite at our house. I am usually the one 

who cooks, but Drew isn’t a stranger to stepping in and 

cooking for everybody. 

How long has Florence been your home? 

We have lived in Florence for 10 years. 

What are some of your favorite things about 

Rankin County? 

We love all the great restaurants, small businesses, 

fun family events and our schools! 

38 • APRIL 2023

How do you spend your summer breaks? 

We spend our summers swimming, playing outside, and hiking. 

What drives you to have the job that you have? 

And what do you do for a living? 

Drew is a realtor with Havard Real Estate Group. He loves to 

help people through the process of buying and selling homes 

and tries to make it easy through what could be a stressful 

event. I am an assistant schoolteacher. I enjoy seeing my 

students progress through the school year, and love having 

the same schedule as our own kids. 

What are some accomplishments you are proud of? 

We lead worship at Move Church in Pearl. As a family, we 

took on the task of flipping a camper, which became a complete 

rebuild of a camper. We have flipped two homes in Florence, 

and are currently working on a third. 

QUESTIONS FOR THE CHILDREN 

What’s your favorite thing to do as a family? 

Mal Go on trips 

Owen Go to Spinners 

What your favorite restaurant? 

Mal Ichiban 

Owen Sushi Village 

What’s your favorite TV show? 

Mal Dance Moms 

Owen Power Rangers 


40 • APRIL 2023

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42 • APRIL 2023

KIDS WHO CARE 

Addison Lindsey 

Sarah Rein 

ELEANOR ROOSEVELT 

IS CREDITED WITH THE 

SAYING, “I AM WHO 

I AM TODAY BECAUSE 

OF THE CHOICES 

I MADE YESTERDAY.” 

Pelahatchie senior Addison Lindsey is well 

on her way to being able to say the same one 

day. Society is often dismissive of teenagers 

as being self-absorbed or shallow (a phase 

we have likely all gone through). But could it 

also be that, collectively, we just don’t expect 

enough of them? Could it be that they 

would rise to the occasion if given greater 

responsibility? Addison seems to think so. 

Addison grew up on three acres of land 

with a family that breeds, trains, and sells 

horses in addition to owning a variety of 

other animals - dogs, rabbits, cows. “My 

brother and I have always had responsibility 

for the welfare of our animals. We spent our 

childhood feeding and caring for our livestock, 

and that taught me personal responsibility. 

I had to make sure they had water, food and 

were warm at night. Being in charge of these 

animals I cared for - it’s a lot for a young kid, 

but it pays off.” 

Being successful at those simple, early 

duties gave Addison a sense of confidence 

in herself. That confidence, along with an 

impressive work ethic, has opened some 

exciting doors for her these last few years. 

Addison is involved in her school student 

council, BETA club, FCA, and volleyball. 

Perhaps most impressively, she has been able to 

represent her school as the Mississippi FFA 

(former Future Farmers of America - now 

known as the National FFA Organization) 

state reporter, one of six students in the state 

to be elected to that level. 

Pelahatchie’s FFA sponsor, Mr. Bob 

Robinson, emphasizes what an honor that is. 

“She set her mind on the goal of serving as an 

FFA state officer and she never backed down 

from the challenge! It is literally a year-long 

process to be chosen as a state officer and when 

she was announced, it was one of my biggest 

personal thrills. She has had an incredible year 

of experiences across the state representing 

our school and RCSD.” 

Specifically, she had the opportunity to 

lead FFA’s Summer Leadership Camp, 

which is intended to teach its members 

about responsibility and cooperation. She has 

visited classrooms across the state to speak to 

students about the many opportunities 

available through FFA. Addison even had 

the chance to travel to Indiana for the 

National FFA Convention where she spent 

the day building wheelchair ramps alongside 

state officers from all over the country. 

Addison is keenly aware of how much of 

an impact her adult mentors have had on her 

- knowing she might not have gotten those 

opportunities but for their effect on her. 

“Mr. Bob Robinson has always taught his 

students to care for the community and to 

help when you see a need arise. When we have 

had families go through hardships, he and his 

students have been on the side of the road 

selling lunch plates to raise money for them.” 

Her oral communications/Spanish 

teacher, Ms. Kimberly Watson, has also been 

influential in her success. “Before I earned 

the title of Mississippi FFA state reporter, 

Ms. Watson stayed countless hours after 

school helping me learn how to do interviews 

and speak extemporaneously. ‘Lesson 1’ was 

exactly what that word meant! But she gave 

me the knowledge I needed to reach my goal. 

I will remember the lessons she and Mr. Bob 

taught me long after I’m done sitting in their 

classrooms.” 

But it is her family, more than anyone, who 

has instilled in Addison the vital importance 

of service. Over twenty years ago, her 

grandparents established a group called the 

Heart and Hand Organization. Its purpose 

is to welcome adults in nursing homes or 

with special needs to enjoy a day on their 

farm in Morton. Participants could ride 

horses, interact with the animals, and enjoy 

time in the country as a community. “Growing 

up, my entire family would gather for this 

event each year and my brother, cousins, and 

I would greet them as they got off their 

buses. It was my job to walk them over and 

introduce them to the horses, and it was the 

highlight of the year.” The family had to 

pause this event during the pandemic, but 

Addison is eagerly awaiting the return of 

their 25th “Day at the Farm.” 

Addison hopes her love of learning and 

past experiences will propel her forward into 

a career in veterinary medicine. She plans to 

attend MSU in the fall to begin that journey 

and her goal is to end up in a community 

that needs her skills - a place where she can 

invest her drive and energy just as others have 

invested in her. “One day, I hope to become 

an ag instructor as well so that I can educate 

the children of that community about the 

things that have been so important to me.” 

And perhaps one day, she will have the 

privilege of shaping another generation of 

youth.....encouraging them to find their own 

giftings and use them well, just as Addison 

plans to. 


44 • APRIL 2023

Princess Reid 

Derek Dunn 

Chisako Oga 

Julia Rust 

Photography by 

Michael J. Moore 

JUNE 

10 – 24 

2023 

TICKETS: 

USAIBC.COM/ATTEND 

OR 601.973.9249 


Advertiser Spotlight 

Susan Marquez 

In a house located in a neighborhood in the suburbs off Highway 471, 

a family lives happily with their pets. But the pets aren’t what you’d expect. 

Not dogs or cats. “I admit, I’ve been fascinated with exotic animals for a long 

time,” says Tami Hillman. “It started with our kids. We got rabbits. Different 

kinds of rabbits. Like big French lop-eared rabbits.” 

Then the Hillmans got guinea pigs. “People found out that we had guinea 

pigs, and when they got tired of taking care of theirs, they would drop them 

off with us. We had eight guinea pigs at one time. Hamsters, too.” 

While rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters aren’t exactly exotic, wallabies 

certainly fit that description. “My wallaby was my first exotic animal,” says 

Tami, who did extensive research before getting it. 

Word got out that Tami was passionate about animals, and people began 

contacting her when they wanted to re-home their exotic animals. “People 

don’t always know what they are getting into when they get an exotic animal,” 

she says. “I do the research and then try to educate others. Before you decide 

to buy that Tamarin monkey, come see me first!” 

Tami says it takes a lot, both physically and financially, to deal with her 

animals. With a USDA certification that allows ownership of exotic animals, 

Tami and her husband currently have 42 animals. “That does not include our 

reptiles. We have about twenty of those.” Tami’s menagerie includes cavies, 

wallabies, a Sulcata tortoise, anteater, kinkajous, small spotted genets, 

ring-tailed lemurs, Tamandua, spider monkeys, and more. 

“My husband is a flight paramedic and I spent 14 years as an EMT at 

UMMC,” Tami says. “We used to have friends and co-workers who would 

come out to see the animals on weekends. I put it on Facebook and did free 

Saturdays, but it was a lot to work full time then host people in our home. 

Strangers started showing up. Since people loved it so much, we decided to 

46 • APRIL 2023

make a business of it.” Tami started an LLC, and had a court hearing with the 

board of supervisors in Rankin County to get the proper zoning permits. 

“Thankfully, all of our neighbors are on board. They support us fully.” 

Now Tami runs Full House Exotics out of her home. “We offer one tour 

daily, by appointment only, Wednesday through Saturday. The tour lasts up 

to two and a half hours. People love it. They can get up close with the animals 

and it’s an opportunity for me to educate them on what it takes to raise an 

exotic animal.” The tours help with the food and bedding for the animals, 

as well as the vet bills. “And yes, there are vets in the area who know how to 

care for exotic animals,” Tami says. 

It takes about an hour and a half every morning and evening to feed and 

clean all the cages. “On Monday and Tuesday we have volunteers come in 

and help with deep cleanings. Many of the volunteers are juniors and seniors 

in high school who are interested in going to veterinary school.” The animals 

each have their own enclosures. “The spider monkeys have their own room 

where they can play, as well as an outdoor enclosure. When they were little, 

they would go to the grocery store with me. I still take them with me everywhere 

I can. They even sleep in the bed with us at night.” 

The business has taken off, and Tami says the next step is to find some 

land. “We would love to have an event space where we can do events for 

adults. Right now, we are busting at the seams.” 


48 • APRIL 2023

A summer camp is held in July at Full House Exotics. “We usually have 

ten to twelve kids and a long waiting list. They learn all about the animals.” 

Tami says they also love to cater to kids with disabilities. “We often do events 

at The Mustard Seed. I love to see the smiles on their faces.” As part of her 

business outreach, Tami will take a few animals to birthday parties and 

other events. 

First and foremost, Tami says she is thankful to God that she is able to 

do this. While her husband still works full time, she is devoted to the animals. 

“While they are not therapy animals, working with them is therapeutic for me.” 

For more info, visit the Facebook page for Full House Exotics. 

To book a tour, call Tami at 662-299-2987. 


May 6 

6pm - 9pm 

 

 

 

 

 

Night on the Town 

at the Ag Museum 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

50 • APRIL 2023


Brandon Garden Club 

Tablescapes 

Luncheon 

February 24 

Brandon Municipal Complex 

52 • APRIL 2023


54 • APRIL 2023


56 • APRIL 2023

SPRING CLEANING? Let us help! 

DONATE TO: 

All donations are 

tax deductible. 

We accept: 

Appliances 

furniture 

tools 

building supplies 

And more! 

we offer free, 

easy pick-up! 

615 STONEWALL STREET | JACKSON - 39213 | 769.209.5100 

TUESDAY - FRIDAY | 9:30AM - 5PM SATURDAY | 9:30AM - 4PM 

HABITATMCARESTORE 

HABITATMCA_RESTORE 


Lynn’s Green Beans 

• ¾ cup brown sugar 

• 1 stick margarine 

• 3 cans cut green beans, drained 

• 3 Tbsp. soy sauce 

• ½ tsp. garlic powder 

• Bacon bits 

Mix brown sugar, margarine, 

soy sauce, and garlic powder in a 

saucepan and melt. Place drained 

green beans in casserole dish. 

Adding bacon bits to your taste. 

Then pour brown sugar mixture 

over beans and bacon bits. Bake 

at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. 

Lemon Ice Box Cake 

• 1 Duncan Hines lemon supreme 

cake mix 

• 2 cans condensed milk 

• 8 oz. lemon juice 

• 8 oz. Cool Whip 

Cook cake as directed on box. 

Let cool. Cut two layers into four. 

Mix both cans of condensed milk 

with lemon juice. Reserve 1 cup. 

Pour mixture in between each layer. 

Mix Cool Whip with reserved cup 

and ice cake. Keep in refrigerator. 

Corn Casserole 

• 2 cans cream styled corn 

• 1 pkg. Mexican cornbread mix 

• 4 eggs 

• ⅔ cup oil 

• 1½ cups grated cheddar cheese 

• 1 small, chopped onion 

Mix all ingredients together and 

bake in a 9x13 pan at 350 degrees 

for 40-45 minutes. 

Marinated Brisket 

• 4 to 5 lb. beef brisket 

• 1 tsp. salt 

• ⅛ tsp. garlic salt 

• ⅛ cup Worcestershire 

• ½ tsp. sugar 

• ¼ cup soy sauce 

• ½ tsp. liquid smoke 

• 1 tsp tabasco 

• 1 tsp. pepper 

• ½ tsp. Accent 

• 1 Tbsp. minced onion 

Mix above marinade and pour 

over brisket in an oblong dish. 

Marinate in refrigerator overnight. 

Cover with foil and cook fat side up 

at 250 degrees for 4 to 5 hours. 

Turn oven off and let roast continue 

to cook for a couple of hours. Let 

stand for a while before slicing 

against the grain. Serve with large, 

hot rolls for sandwiches 

or as a meat dish. 

58 • APRIL 2023

Vegetable Casserole 

• 1 can shoepeg corn, drained 

• 2 cans French style green beans, 

drained 

• 1 (8 oz.) package cheddar cheese, 

grated 

• 1 can cream of celery soup 

• ¼ cup onions, finely chopped 

• 1 (8 oz.) container sour cream 

• ½ pkg. (4 oz.) slivered almonds 

• Pepper to taste 

• 1½ tubes of Ritz crackers 

• 1½ sticks butter melted 

Mix vegetables with onion, cheese, 

almonds, and pepper. Mix soup and 

sour cream. Combine with vegetable 

mixture. Add toping and bake at 

350 degrees for 30 to 40 minutes 

until bubbly. 

Cherry Berries on a Cloud 

• 6 egg whites 

• ½ tsp. cream of tartar 

• ¼ tsp. salt 

• 1¾ cup sugar 

Filling 

• 2 pkgs. (3 oz each) cream cheese, 

softened 

• 1 cup sugar 

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract 

• 2 cups whipping cream, whipped 

• 2 cups miniature marshmallows 

Topping 

• 1 can (21 oz.) cherry pie filling 

• 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries 

• 1 tsp. lemon juice 

In a mixing bowl, beat egg whites, 

cream of tartar and salt until foamy. 

Gradually add the sugar, beating on 

high until stiff peaks form (do not 

under beat). Spread evenly in a 

greased 13x9x2 inch baking pan. 

Bake at 275 degrees for 1 hour; 

turn off oven (do not open door). 

Let cool overnight or at least 12 

hours. Beat cream cheese, sugar, and 

vanilla until smooth; gently fold in 

cream and marshmallows. Spread 

over meringue. Chill for 4 hours. 

Cut into 16 pieces. Combine topping 

ingredients; spoon ¼ cup over each 

cup over each serving. 

Spinach & Artichoke 

Casserole 

• 2 10 oz. packages frozen chopped 

spinach 

• ½ cup mayonnaise 

• 2 Tbsp. butter or margarine 

• ½ cup sour cream 

• 3 cups sliced fresh mushrooms 

• 3 tsp. fresh lemon juice 

• 1 14 oz. can artichoke hearts, 

drained and chopped 

• ⅓ cup grated fresh parmesan 

cheese 

Cook spinach according to package 

directions, drain well. Melt butter in 

skillet and sauté mushrooms over 

medium heat until tender. Set aside. 

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. 

In a 1½ quart casserole, place chopped 

artichoke hearts. Top with sliced 

mushrooms. Place spinach on top. 

Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, 

and lemon juice, spread over spinach. 

Sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Bake, 

uncovered about 20 minute or until 

bubbly and lightly browned. 

Makes 6 servings. 

Pam Sparks and her husband 

Richard are lifelong residents of 

Rankin County. Pam received her 

undergraduate and master’s degrees 

in music from Mississippi College. 

Before retiring, she worked over 30 

years for the Rankin County School 

District. She spent two and a half 

years at Pelahatchie and twenty-eight 

years at Rouse Elementary. 

Prior to marriage, Pam claims she 

only knew how to boil water. She 

remembers making many phone 

calls to her mom after getting 

married–and is now a fabulous cook! 

She enjoys cooking for friends, 

family, and her church. If you are 

lucky enough to be her neighbor, 

you get to taste her good cooking 

and baking all throughout the year! 


Your Life. 

Our Focus. 

For all your orthopedic and pain 

management needs, turn to Mississippi’s 

leading team of board-certified, 

fellowship-trained sub-specialists. 

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HIP & KNEE REPLACEMENT 

William Johnson, Jr., MD 


Kerk Mehrle, Jr., MD 


Trevor Pickering, MD 


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Austin Barrett, MD 

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Jason Craft, MD 

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James O’Mara, MD 

HIP & KNEE 

Jamey Burrow, MD 

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Larry Field, MD 

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Randall Ramsey, MD 


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Chris Ethridge, MD 

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James Moss, Jr., MD 

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Carroll McLeod, MD 


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Jackson • Madison • Flowood • Ruleville • Yazoo City • Brookhaven 

60 • APRIL 2023


ST. PADDY’S KIDS’ PARADE 

March 18 • Downtown Brandon 

62 • APRIL 2023


64 • APRIL 2023


66 • APRIL 2023

Fishing 

& FamilySarah Rein 

As a writer, you are sometimes asked to 

write about topics that are familiar to you. 

The questions come easily, the verbiage is 

not new. And then, occasionally, you find 

yourself writing about a world that is 

completely foreign to you. 

On the subject of crappie fishing (which I 

initially mispronounced and left my husband 

snickering at me), I am quite the novice. But, 

if you ever find yourself researching unfamiliar 

territory, I hope your guides will be as patient 

and informative as Dan and Hayden Jeffries 

were to me. 

After I began some initial digging into the 

sport, it did not take me long to realize that 

this father-son duo from Brandon is a big 

deal. In fact, their names were plastered across 

most of the sites I clicked on. Though not as 

well-publicized as bass fishing tournaments, 

crappie trails can be found at the state level 

from Oklahoma to Ohio to Florida to our own 

Mississippi. And that’s not to mention the 

national level trails boasting grand prizes in 

the tens of thousands. 

Unbelievably, in the six years since a 

friend took them crappie fishing for the first 

time, Dan and Hayden have won twenty-six 

tournaments, including four state championships. 

Hayden, a twenty-two year old with 

a calm demeanor and pleasant smile 

shares, “I have been fishing almost 

since I could walk. But once 

we were introduced to 

crappie fishing, 


68 • APRIL 2023

we just really pursued it for enjoyment….as a 

hobby at first. We decided to fish our first 

competitive tournament at Ross Barnett four 

years ago. For a few years, we would just 

enter that one annually. Then, we got the wild 

idea of chasing the state trail.” 

We pause so his father, Dan, can explain 

the lingo to me. Clubs have tournaments 

every month on a different lake in Mississippi 

and “chasing the trail” means following the 

tournament route. The Jeffries began that on 

the state level in 2020 and entered their first 

national tournament in September of 2021. 

They came in 10th out of 104 boats - a big 

confidence booster which propelled them to 

their second place win at the next national 

tournament a month later. 

I’m still not sure I had wrapped my mind 

around the staggering success these men 

experienced until Hayden off-handedly 

mentions that in 2022 they won three 

national tournaments and a total of $220,000. 

Upon further investigation, I discovered that 

this is akin to winning the Triple Crown in 

horse-racing and, as far as the Jeffries know, 

has never been done before. 

Hayden, who is one course shy of 

completing his business administration degree 

and works as a full-time fishing guide at other 

times of the year, usually heads to a tournament 

location early in the week to scout 

things out, practice, and find the big fish. 

Dan and his wife Katie then join Hayden 

closer to the weekend where Katie acts as 

“team mom,” booking VRBO’s and making 

sure everything is in order. 

This family hobby-turned-career is the 

product of decades of investment Dan and 

Katie have made in the lives of their three 

sons, of whom Hayden is the middle. Dan 

shares, “When the boys were two, growing 

up, I did everything I could to keep them 

busy and outside. We hunted, fished, and 

played every sport you can think of. In fact, 

when all three boys were playing tournament 

baseball, Katie and I often felt like we were 

just passing each other in the night.” 

Those sacrifices appear to have paid 

huge dividends—and not just in wins and 

prize money, although both men smile when 

we discuss how successful their partnership 

has been. By listening to them talk, it is 

obvious Dan and Katie took their responsibility 

as parents seriously and truly enjoy 

the sons they have raised. Finding the time 

to prioritize hobbies as a family, getting 

outdoors together more, and directing our 

childrens’ energy into productive avenues….. 

these are things that I, as a young parent, 

am glad to be reminded of. 

As Hayden encourages, 

“Just get out 

there and try 

something new. 

Get 

outside 

and 

enjoy.” 


70 • APRIL 2023


2023 

This May marks the return 

of the Mississippi Makers Fest, 

a celebration of the music and 

art of our home state, at the 

Two Mississippi Museums 

in downtown Jackson. 

This May marks the return of the Mississippi Makers Fest, 

a celebration of the music and art of our home state, at the Two 

Mississippi Museums in downtown Jackson. Last year’s 

inaugural festival was celebrated with an impressive turnout, 

including more than fifty vendors, artists, and musicians. 

Performances were enjoyed from regional musicians like 

Chapel Hart, Framing the Red, Mr. Sipp, and North 

Mississippi Allstars. It may have been warm, but the environment 

was electric. 

The Mississippi Department of Archives and History is 

thrilled to bring this free festival back to the metro area to 

honor the rich culture of its state with fellow Mississippians. 

Attendees are invited to celebrate regional artisans, live music, 

make-and-take activities, food trucks, and more this May. A 

powerhouse lineup is already slated for this year including 

headliner Cedric Burnside, the Kudzu Kings, the Bass Drum 

of Death, Track45, and 5th Child. 

It is an historical truth that Mississippi is a melting pot of 

culture, art, and music. Many renowned artists and musicians 

who have made their mark on the world hail from our state, 

including Joe Overstreet, Marie Hull, Wyatt Waters, B.B. King, 

Faith Hill, and Elvis Presley. Commemorating Mississippi’s 

rich history has always been the primary goal of MDAH, and 

Mississippi Makers Fest is the culmination of their work to 

uplift and celebrate our community. 

Mississippi Makers Fest will not be celebrated solely by 

Mississippians, but also by people across the region, as visitors 

from the southeast will come to honor our state alongside us. 

They will also be able to witness our past and present as the 

Museum of Mississippi History and the Mississippi Civil 

Rights Museum will be open and free for visits thanks to our 

sponsorship from Southern Beverage. Join MDAH and your 

community this May in recognizing and celebrating the 

vibrant art and music of our state. 

Mississippi Makers Fest will be held at the Entergy Plaza 

at the Two Mississippi Museums and along North Street in 

downtown Jackson on Saturday, May 13, from 10am to 6pm. 

The festival is brought to you by the Mississippi Department 

of Archives and History. Sponsors include Southern Beverage 

Company, the Foundation of Mississippi History, StateStreet 

Group, Visit Mississippi, Regions Bank, LUCID INK, 

Mississippi Tent & Party Rental, and radio stations Y101, Your 

Country US96, Mix 98.7, 93.5 The Legend, Blues 93.1, and 

102.1 The Box. 

More information can be found at 

msmakersfest.mdah.ms.gov. 

72 • APRIL 2023


When a neighbor knocked on 

their door one day in 2006 holding 

a little three-legged box turtle, 

Christy and Luke Milbourne 

never dreamed that that moment 

would be the beginning of a 

monumental effort to save turtles 

and tortoises all around the state 

of Mississippi, but that’s exactly 

what happened. 

That one little turtle that needed rescue ignited a 

passion in Christy and Luke that would one day lead 

to the formation of the Central MS Turtle Rescue – 

the state’s only state-permitted turtle and tortoise- 

specific wildlife rehabilitation center. 

Caring for that one turtle soon turned into two 

turtles, then three, and then before they knew it, 

Christy and Luke were stopping on roadsides to 

check every single hit-by-car turtle they’d come across. 

Realizing that most of those turtles weren’t dead but 

only injured, Christy and Luke began taking them in 

and nursing them back to health with the help of 

their veterinarian, Dr. Rick Kirby of Hometown 

Veterinary Hospital in Brandon. Soon after, Dr. 

Kirby started referring other clients to the Milbournes 

when they would find injured turtles, and just like 

that…a rescue/rehab was born. But it would be a few 

more years before that rescue/rehab would become 

official. 

In 2010, a badly deformed Redfoot Tortoise named 

Booboo made his way to the Mid Atlantic Turtle 

and Tortoise Society in Maryland. Their adoptions 

coordinator was a friend of the Milbournes and knew 

instantly who the right people would be to care for 

Booboo. In August of that year, Booboo came to live 

with Christy and Luke. They knew their time with 

him would be short but were determined to make his 

life as happy and comfortable as possible. 

The improper care he received during the first 

seventeen years of his life had already had an impact 

on his health, and they knew every minute with him 

was precious. His previous owners had loved him so 

very much but had not had access to information 

about the proper care of his species, and they therefore 

made many mistakes. Christy and Luke knew they had 

to find a way to help disseminate proper care information 

so that no turtles or tortoises would have to suffer the 

way that Booboo did. 

Booboo passed away just after Christmas in 2012. 

Christy and Luke knew then that they had to continue 

helping other turtles and tortoises in Booboo’s name. 

They had to realize their dream of starting an official 

turtle and tortoise rescue, and to help as many other 

turtles and tortoises in Booboo’s memory. 

Wanting to make sure they were helping these 

wild animals legally, Christy and Luke sought out 

information on how to obtain a state permit in order 

to become licensed wildlife rehabilitators. The first 

step was to work under an existing organization, so 

they became sub-permitted with Mississippi Wildlife 

Rehab, Inc. in Jackson, and worked under them for 

three years. In 2013, they finally applied for their 

individual permit, which was granted in September 

of that year. 

With permit in hand, Christy and Luke ramped 

up their rescue and rehab efforts, eventually taking in 

30-40 turtles per year. They started a Facebook page 

and reserved the business name “Central MS Turtle 

Rescue.” It was initially assumed that there were 

other turtle rescues in the state and the Central MS 

Turtle Rescue would service just the central area; 

however, Christy and Luke soon learned that they 

were the only state-permitted turtle/tortoise-specific 

rescue in the entire state, so despite the name, the 

Central MS Turtle Rescue services the entire state 

from the Gulf Coast in the south to the foothills of 

the Appalachian Mountains in north Mississippi. 

In 2017, the Milbournes and were granted 

501(c)3 nonprofit status by the IRS. In June of that 

year, a young box turtle made its way to the rescue, 

but unfortunately too late for help to be given. The 

people who had rescued him didn’t know that the 

Central MS Turtle Rescue existed, and it was almost 

two weeks before they learned of it and took the 

turtle to them. By that time, there was nothing that 

could be done to save him. 

Christy made a plea to their Facebook followers, 

begging them to share information about their rescue 

so that no other turtle had to suffer that way. That 

post quickly went viral. In two days, the story had 

74 • APRIL 2023

een seen over 800,000 times, shared over 43,000 

times, and the rescue had gained over 5,000 new 

followers. Christy and Luke suddenly went from 

taking in 30-40 turtles per year to over 400 per year 

and their numbers have ranged between 450 and 600 

turtles each year since. Of the turtles that make their 

way to the rescue, the average percentage of turtles 

saved is over 85%. 

The Central MS Turtle Rescue continues to grow 

and expand their services. Not only do they take in 

and help native turtles, but they also take in unwanted 

non-native/exotic pet turtles from all over the country, 

and by phone and email they assist people with their 

pet turtles in countries such as India, the UK, and 

Pakistan. 

The goal of the Central MS Turtle Rescue is 

always to release any wild, native turtle back to the 

wild once it has been rehabbed, but some turtles 

cannot be released for various reasons. For these 

turtles, the Milbournes operate an adoption program 

to place non-releasable turtles in well-qualified 

permanent homes or educational institutions. They 

also offer a foster program where people can help the 

rescue by housing turtles temporarily until they can 

be released, or until the non-releasable turtles find 

forever homes. 

In 2018, they began offering free educational 

presentations and informational exhibits, which 

continue to this day at schools and community events 

around the state. And in 2022, they began teaching 

a Turtle Shell Repair Lab to veterinary students. In 

partnership with the NationalVeterinary Association, 

they are bringing this free program to universities 

across the southeast in an effort to give future 

veterinarians hands-on training and instruction on 

the proper way to repair turtle shells. 

2023 is off to another busy start, and Christy and 

Luke are gearing up for another crazy turtle season. 

Several projects are planned to make upgrades and 

build new enclosures around the facility that they 

operate on their property in Florence. They’re always 

looking for volunteers, fosters, and adopters, as well 

as donations. 

The Central MS Turtle Rescue is completely 

donation funded and volunteer staffed. They receive 

no money from the state or federal government, and 

no one involved with the rescue receives any kind of 

salary or compensation. It is truly a labor of love, but 

unfortunately one that doesn’t come cheap or easy. 

The rescue has only two full-time volunteers 

(Christy and Luke), a few friends that come by once 

a week to help, and much of the current facility was 

built with their own hands and their own funds. 

Vet bills, food, medication, building materials, and 

husbandry supplies are all very expensive, and it can 

be very difficult to keep up with the amount of work 

that is necessary to keep the rescue running (all while 

juggling jobs as well!). 

Turtles may seem insignificant to some, but the 

Central MS Turtle Rescue has made it their mission 

to be their champions, and to show people just how 

important and special these animals are. They play a 

huge role in our ecosystem, they feel pain just like any 

other animal, and they tend to be overlooked or just 

downright disliked more than any other species of 

wildlife. Many people dismiss them because they 

have scales instead of fur, some think of them as 

nuisance animals when it’s actually other animals 

to blame, and some think turtles don’t need help 

because they appear to be plentiful, when in reality 

their numbers are dwindling. 

Mississippi is prime habitat for turtles and other 

reptiles due to our warm, humid climate, and our 

short, mild winters, but that doesn’t mean they don’t 

face insurmountable challenges here in our state. 

Turtle populations have been steadily on the decline 

thanks to land developments that wipe out their 

habitats, the ever-increasing number of vehicles that 

drive through their homes, domesticated carnivores 

that think turtles are fun chew toys, our misconceptions 

of them as pests, and our human need to destroy 

that which we fear or dislike. 

The Central MS Turtle Rescue hopes to change 

public perceptions about turtles to lessen the fears 

and misconceptions surrounding them. And they 

ultimately hope to undo the damage we inflict upon 

them through rescue and rehabilitation to help 

ensure that these magnificent animals are still here 

and plentiful for 

our children and 

grandchildren to 

enjoy with their 

children and grandchildren— 

and they’ll do it one shell 

at a time. 


free admission 

SATURDAY, MAY 13, 2023 | TWO MISSISSIPPI MUSEUMS | 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM 

76 • APRIL 2023


SHOP LOCAL SHOP LOCAL SHOP LOCAL SHOP LOCAL SHOP LOCAL 

Cockrell’s Farmers Market 

Pennington Farms 

Mississippi Wildflower Honey 32 oz. - $13 

Chapman’s Florist 

The Porchview collection 

all metal 30” tall lamp - $230 

Lakeland 

Yard & Garden 

Large selection of 

Corinthian Bells Chimes 

Rankin County 

Co-op 

Ceramic Glass Bunny - $17 

Vintage Wash Royce Poncho Shorts - $30 

Pink, Violet, Baby Blue, Light Blue, Yellow 

78 • APRIL 2023

Doris Berry 

Farmers Market 

Amish Made Bartlett Pears - $9 

Boudreaux’s 

Devotional Journal - $27 

Rivers Greenhouse & Garden 

Sun loving Bougainvillea Hanging Baskets 

Polk’s 

Drugs 

Giant Butterfly 

Garden - $32 

Watch the life cycle 

of the Painted Lady 

Butterfly! 

Mockingbird 

Marketplace 

Julie Vos Jewelry 

Top to Bottom: 

$285 - $285 

$345 - $210 

Apple Annie’s 

HOBO Wristlist - $78 / Crossbody Bag - $258 


80 • APRIL 2023


SALUTE 

to First Responders 

Why did you decide to be a detective? 

Being a detective was just part of the plan. I knew it would help 

me advance and expand my knowledge in my career. 

How long have you been with the Brandon Police Department? 

I have been with the Brandon Police Department for eight years. 

I started in 2015 when I was just 19 years old as an inmate 

supervisor. Currently, I serve as the sergeant of investigations. 


I have large family with lots of aunts, uncles, and cousins. I also 

have four siblings - three brothers and one sister. And of course, 

I have a 10-year-old fur child named Beau. 

What is the toughest thing you have experienced in your job? 

You see a lot of terrible things in this line of work. I’d say for me 

it’s tough to see a child/children suffer the consequences of their 

parent’s actions. 

Share some things you enjoy doing in your spare time. 

I like to be outside, whether it is something productive or just 

hanging out with friends and family. 

What are three things on your bucket list? 

I really don’t have an extravagant bucket list. I have a few places 

I’d like to visit, like Montana and Boston. But other than that, I 

just want to be successful in everything I do and live life happy. 

Sergeant 

Paige 

RAMAGE 

BRANDON POLICE DEPARTMENT 

82 • APRIL 2023

Who is someone you admire and why? 

My grandfather. Unfortunately, he passed away in 2020, however, 

he was the best grandfather a grandchild could ask for. He was 

tough, smart, funny, and had a big heart. He strived every day to 

give his grandchildren everything we could have possibly asked 

for. He instilled a lot of common-sense knowledge into every one 

of us. I am super thankful that I had him every day of my life 

until he passed. I’ll forever cherish him and the memories he 

gave me. 

If you could give one piece of advice to a young person, 

what would it be? 

Life is not fair, so figure out what you want from it. YOU are the 

only one who can make it happen. 

What is your favorite thing about the city of Brandon? 

The community is always showing up for whatever may be 

going on in the city. 

What is your favorite thing about Rankin County? 

Rankin County is just an easy place to live. 


84 • APRIL 2023


The CHALKBOARD 

Pearl Public School District 

Read Across America 2023 

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” - Dr. Seuss 

86 • APRIL 2023

East Rankin Academy 

East Rankin Academy cross country and track coach David Hopper was named the Mississippi Girls Cross Country Coach of the Year by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country 

Coaches Association. He was also once again named the MidSouth Association of Independent Schools 5A Girls Cross Country Coach of the Year following his team’s back-to-back 

state titles. 


88 • APRIL 2023 

581 Loflin Road Florence, MS 39073 

601-624-6605

SALADS 

SANDWICHES 

SOUPS 

SMOOTHIES 

SCAN TO 

VIEW MENU 

162 Market Street • Flowood, MS 39232 

601-891-0091 

THEBIGSALAD.COM 


TheTime COIN 

Camille Anding 

“They don’t make them like they used to.” 

How many times have we heard that statement? But that’s the appropriate description of the 

salad bowl I got as a wedding gift some fifty-five plus years ago. I was closing out my days as a 

student/employee at the Ole Miss infirmary. It was a great experience working in the lab and 

sorting files along with making sweet friends among the nurses and doctors. 

They celebrated my engagement by giving me a shower on my last day with them. It’s a mystery 

how our minds work because I can’t remember any specific gift I opened except for the apple 

salad bowl that the senior doctor gave me. For some reason it has stayed in our kitchen cabinets 

wherever we’ve lived. If you were to eat salad at our table now, you would almost positively eat 

from that salad bowl painted in red apples. It’s very lightweight - not exactly plastic but a cousin. 

Anyway, it’s been more than serviceable and still is perfect for what it was designed. 

Another go-to item in our kitchen is a set of aluminum measuring cups with handles. They’ve 

rested in a kitchen cabinet drawer since the wedding day gifts. I have several other measuring cups 

– various sizes, made from a variety of materials. However, the one cup container is washed more 

than all the others combined. Its measurement is accurate; it’s lightweight and easy to pick up with 

its handy handle. 

Last week I reached for it, and it wasn’t in its usual place in the drawer. I scanned the 

countertops. Not anywhere. Then I checked the dishwasher. Wasn’t there either. Where 

could it be? Surely, I wouldn’t have put it in the refrigerator, but I looked! No, I hadn’t 

been that confused, yet. I went on with my cooking wondering where it could be and 

wondering where I could go to replace it. It was just a very plain aluminum measuring 

cup but so convenient for me. 

The next day I was baking and stirring and reached under the counter for my flour 

container. There peeping through the floured glass was my measuring cup. I was elated. 

Inadvertently when measuring for my last baking episode, I had left it in the container. 

It’s just a very old aluminum and very plain measuring cup, but it’s very valuable to me. 

Sometimes as a Christian I have wanted God to use me in ways I would know, ways that would 

benefit others, ways when I felt like I wasn’t just “waiting on a shelf.” My apple salad bowl and 

aluminum measuring cup answered all those questions. God is not so much interested in our 

abilities as He is our availability. My bowl and cup are readily available and always meet my needs 

for what they are designed. They are both lightweight – easy to use without necessary care or fear 

of my hurting them in use. And they are always ready, just waiting to meet their owner’s specific 

needs. 

I know God is never limited in what or who He needs. However, isn’t it an endearing thought to 

think He would always have a need for us and for that specific need He would know just where we 

were - ready, willing, and available. 

90 • APRIL 2023

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