Rankin525web

V115

525

Always

a Reason

Strong Genes

Strong Bond

Kellye Smith,

BlueHealth Baptist Patient

“When I came to BlueHealth Baptist, it was

as if I was the only patient they were going

to see that day. I felt loved. And I felt like my

life mattered. I felt like it was going to be

okay. Even just the act of listening seemed

to be so healing for what had been a really

traumatic, health experience thus far.

Within an hour of visiting with Dr. Chen,

telling him my story, I had a phone call for a

follow up appointment to actually be treated

for the condition, which, as I stand today, is

the reason why I’m able to stand.

This was different than any Provider I’d ever

seen before.”

SCAN TO

WATCH

KELLYE’S

FULL

TESTIMONIAL.

bluehealthbaptist.com |

@BlueHealthBaptist

4 • MAY 2025

FROM OUR PUBLISHER

In an extraordinary display of love and sacrifice, this month we tell a story

of how Brenda Peters saved her daughter Mattie’s life, by donating her an organ.

This life-altering decision went beyond the conventional roles

of nurturing and caretaking; it represented ultimate selflessness

and a deep, unbreakable bond. The experience brought them even

closer together, highlighting the resilience of their relationship as

they navigated the journey of recovery together. The successful

transplant not only restored Mattie’s health, but also solidified their

bond, serving as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of

maternal love.

We all know the bond between a mother and her daughter often

transcends physical appearance, yet many families delight in the

striking similarities that may exist between them. From shared

facial features to matching smiles, the mother-daughter look alike

phenomenon is a testament to genetics and a shared heritage.

We thank all the mothers and daughters for submitting their

photos in our Mother’s Day look-alike contest. We had so many

submissions, it was hard to narrow them down. Please enjoy our

top six mother/daughter look-alikes that YOU voted for in Rankin

County!

In addition to life-saving gestures and great genetics, mothers

often pass down cherished traditions such as cooking. My mom is

one of the greatest cooks you’ll ever meet, and she has taught me

a lot about what to do in the kitchen. There are still some things–

such as her biscuits–that I’ll never master regardless of how many

times I try! In this issue, you’ll enjoy some recipes from a mom

who is instilling in her daughters her passion for cooking.

As always, we are incredibly grateful for the many advertisers

who put their trust in Hometown Magazines. Thank you to our

readers for your continued support, and don’t forget to shop local.

Local businesses are counting on you!

Happy Mother’s Day from all of us at Hometown Magazines!

ON THE COVER: Brenda Peters & Mattie Bozak

ACCOUNT

EXECUTIVE

Barbie Bassett

HOMETOWN STAFF

PUBLISHER

& EDITOR

Tahya Dobbs

LAYOUT DESIGN

Daniel Thomas

3dt

ACCOUNT

EXECUTIVE

Amy Forsyth

CFO

Kevin Dobbs

STAFF

PHOTOGRAPHER

Othel Anding

ADVERTISING

ASSISTANT

Amanda Livingston

CONSULTING

EDITOR

Mary Ann Kirby

STAFF

ASSISTANT

Debby Francis

CONTENT

MANAGER

Susan Wolgamott

IN THIS ISSUE

The Way We Were . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Reader Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Hometown Family . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Always a Reason . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Strong Genes, Strong Bond . . . . . . . 30

Circle of Red . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Stiring up Memories . . . . . . . . . . 56

Salute to First Responders . . . . . . . 75

The Time Coin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

...see you around town.

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.

Hometown RANKIN • 5

YOUR HOUSE

DESERVES NOTHING

LESS THAN ELITE

At Elite Roofing &

Gutters, we don’t just

meet expectations—

we exceed them.

Being elite means

setting the highest

standard in craftsmanship,

materials,

and service. It means

delivering precision,

reliability, and results

that make a lasting

impact.

Expect more.

Choose Elite.

IS NOW

601.326.2755

eliteroofer.com

is... Patio Furniture

Gluckstadt, just South of Germantown High School

Large Selection

Statewide Delivery

South's Largest & Finest In-Stock Selection of Patio Furniture

Shop online at

callawaysyardandgarden.com

ALL CERAMIC POTS ON SALE

HELPFUL EXPERT ADVICE

BULK SOILS • PINE STRAW

SHRUBS • TREES

259 Calhoun Station Parkway

Gluckstadt, MS

Just south of Germantown High School

601-859-5444

CELEBRATING

71 Years

Landscaping

Installation

6 • MAY 2025

For

all the

moments

your child

needs care

All All for for Your Your Health

umc.edu/YourHealth


Camille & Othel Anding

Camille Anding

A crowd was gathered around this

We rode off into the sunset on

Othel walked in the door with

how God can take what we think

guy in the cafeteria line at Delta

September 9, 1967, after commit-

papers for Vietnam. I cried, kicked,

is devastating and show us how

State University. My roommate

ting our love to each other at the

and struggled with the thought of

He means it for our good.

and I moved a little closer to

altar of Philadelphia Baptist

his going to a war that reported

We raised our two children,

investigate all the laughter. It was

Othel – a quick-witted, fun-loving

Church in Lafayette County.

Daddy handed me a $100 bill, and

more body bags than victories.

Othel moved me back home to

Tahya and Eli on our Etta,

Mississippi, hill that overlooked

creature that fascinated me from

Othel, then a private in the Air

live with my parents, and a kind

Anding Photography Studio,

the first time I saw him. They say

Force, remembers his only bank

principal hired me to teach English

where we would walk to work for

opposites attract; Othel and I are

account was in his pocket. That

and biology at a nearby high

the next thirty-nine years.

proof of its validity. I was subdued

amount came to a total of $170.

school.

By God’s grace and blessings,

by the culture shock of college life,

Our honeymoon was to and in

The year was the longest we

and Othel’s continued pursuit of

and Othel appeared to thrive on it.

Ft. Walton Beach, Florida – home

ever spent, but Psalm 121 was our

photography, our skills and our

Somehow in the grouping of

of Eglin Air Force Base. We would

banner over the perils of war and

business grew. I became the

our friends, we became acquaint-

live on love and a lot of round

separation. He returned safely one

assistant photographer—and

ed, and he asked me for a date.

steak (bologna) for 17 blissful

year later with a Nikon camera on

train adjuster at weddings.

Romance soon budded and our

months. Then heartbreak struck!

his shoulder – his first camera to

For LOTS of years, we shot

story began.

ever own. We learned from that

weddings every Saturday or

8 • MAY 2025

“Try to let those

offenses that

happen in every

marriage be

short-term in

your memories.

watched football scores on

They both have Othel’s personality

we both learned that God always

For that to transpire, forgive-

teachers’ TV sets during school

and “don’t-slow-down” work ethic.

provides for His children when we

ness is a necessary ingredient in

beauty reviews. My favorite part

They married the perfect spouses

are willing and able to work.

all marriages. Othel added that

of the business was the children’s

and have given us seven spectacular

God doesn’t like whining, and

he liked the rule of never going to

photography and the challenge of

capturing smiles. Twice a year

grandchildren and eight amazing

great grandcholdren. In all, our

husbands don’t like nagging. I trust

Othel wouldn’t call me a nagger,

bed angry with one another.

That’s a great rule but not always

during specials, our studio looked

“sunset ride” has been responsible

but I have learned to take any

an easy one. Just keep up your

more like a circus. We’ve chased

for growing our family to sixteen

“issues” to God before “harping”

efforts.

runaway rabbits, corralled baby

to twenty-four.

on things I’ve wanted to change in

Othel and I are in unanimous

ducks, and bottle-fed bleating

We’ve never led a marriage

him. Listen to experience; God

agreement that the formula that

lambs. (Add a heap of pooper-

seminar, but we can pass on some

can work in ways a wife can never

puts the happy-ever-after in all

scooping to those days!)

valuable nuggets from our 57 years

work, and God’s changes are more

marriages is: Jesus, first; spouse,

Our two offspring have always

of marriage. Othel would suggest

long-term! Also, try to let those

second; and self, last.

given us bragging rights. Tahya’s

to the groom a small bank account

offenses that happen in every

left a positive impact in every place

before adding another person to

marriage be short-term in your

she’s lived, and Eli has “raised the

your income tax form. However,

memories.

bar” with all of his sales jobs.


Congratulations,

CLASS OF 2025!

10 • MAY 2025

Cypress Point Resort

Drive-Thru Safari & Petting Zoo

Hours:

Tuesday- Sunday

10:00 AM - 5:oo PM

Looking for an experience everyone

will love? Contact us or visit our

website to plan your adventure!

Ideal for family outings, field

trips, corporate events, and

birthday celebrations

Safari and petting zoo

experiences available

Private bus tours and jeep

rentals offered

1949 Highway 80 East, Flowood, MS 39232

601.939.9306 / rossfurniturems.com

601-829-1101

cypresspointms.com

874 Holly Bush Road Brandon, MS 39047


12 • MAY 2025

READER

SPOTLIGHT

Erika

BYRD

Why did you make Rankin County your home?

I moved to Pearl from Brownsville, Texas,

when I was 12 years old. When I reached

the milestone in life where getting married

and having children became a consideration,

I knew Rankin County was where I wanted

to stay.

How long have you lived in Rankin County?

Almost 28 years.

Tell us about your family.

I am blessed to be the wife of Daniel Byrd

and the mother of four wonderful children.

Brodie, the oldest, is 19, currently a senior

at Brandon High, and enlisted in the Navy.

Eliana is 11. She is my aspiring prima ballerina.

Adriana is seven. She is definitely my

mini-me and the do-er of all the activities

and sports! Juliana, our little caboose, is

three, and her current aspiration is to be a

Disney Princess when she grows up.

What is your favorite memory of living in

Rankin County?

Going to Rapids on the Reservoir with

my friends and cheering on Friday nights

at Pearl Pirate Stadium.

Where are your three favorite places to eat

in Rankin County?

The Crawfish Shack in Florence. Amerigo

(that Tuscan Ribeye just can’t be beat!),

and Chick-fil-A is always a winner!

What are some fun things to do in Rankin

County on the weekends?

Catch a Mississippi Mud Monsters baseball

game. Take the kids to a fruit stand or local

outdoor market. We need to support our

Mississippi farmers. If the sun is shining

and the weather is pretty, our bunch is

outside! It’s amazing what a little vitamin

D can do to your soul!

Tell us about your occupation.

I am a branch manager/bank officer for

Cadence Bank.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

It’s not often that I have any spare time, but

I love to go plant shopping with my mom.

I could spend all day at Rivers or Donna’s!

Any time we can find to get down to “the

coast house” is probably at the top of my

list. I love a good boat day ride to Horne

Island!

What are three things on your bucket list?

Visit Jesus’ tomb in Jerusalem. Officiate

someone’s wedding. Sail all the Disney

cruise ships.

Who is someone you admire and why?

I would have to say my mom. She always

made sure to teach me how to take care of

and support myself. She is the strongest

woman and hardest worker I know. She

will do anything for her children and

grandchildren.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

The first thing that comes to mind having

an adult child who will be 29 in 10 years,

is hopefully becoming a grandmother.

I pray to be healthy and happy, still raising

and chasing after our own children on a

farm somewhere.

What is your favorite childhood memory?

Charro Days in Brownsville, Texas. It’s a

local holiday there where schools let out

early. Think Mardi Gras but with a Mexican

twist. It’s a weeklong celebration consisting

of parades, festivals, international celebrities

and lots of good food! My grandmother

always hand-sequined traditional skirts

for our costumes. I particularly remember

finally being old enough to wear a blue one

that belonged to my older sister that was

completely covered in sequin designs.

It was so heavy but let me tell you, I felt

like somebody wearing that skirt! I am sure

my mom still has that thing tucked away

somewhere.

Give us one encouraging quote.

Be intentional! With your life. With your

habits. With your energy. With your words.

With who you surround yourself with.

With how you show up daily. With what

you’re working towards. With the steps you

take. Above all, with what you really want.


More Than A Symbol.

It’s Our Commitment.

We Are Now

St. Dominic Health

For generations, St. Dominic’s has served Central

Mississippi with compassionate care rooted in faith. Now

as St. Dominic Health, we honor our legacy while evolving

our logo and name fully within the Franciscan Missionaries

of Our Lady Health System.

Our new logo features the Tau, a cross symbol which

represents values that have guided us all along: reverence

and love for all of life, joyfulness of spirit, humility, justice

and service. The Tau, along with our new name — St.

Dominic Health — reflects who we are: a ministry inspired

by healing and strengthened by the pursuit of excellence

in healthcare. Our healing ministry continues.

stdom.com/health

14 • MAY 2025

SUMMER CAMPS

REGISTRATION

NOW OPEN

Over 50 camp options!

FOR MORE INFO


16 • MAY 2025

TheWiggleys


Bo (45) and Morgan (43), are active members of Savage Possum

Fitness. Bo and Morgan are members of FBC Florence where

Morgan helps with the kids ministry and Bo serves on the budget

and finance committee.

Sarah Spencer (16) is also an active member of Savage Possum

Fitness and the FBC Florence youth group. She spends most of

her time with the athletic training team at Florence High School.

Harper (12), loves to dance and is a member of the Studio Sole

Collaborates and Florence Middle School dance team.

Harrison (10) enjoys playing basketball, riding his four-wheeler

and playing with friends.

How did you and your spouse meet, and how long have

you been married?

We met at Mississippi State and have been married for 18 years.


18 • MAY 2025

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

We definitely try and prioritize time for just the two of us.

Whether it’s a dinner date or walks in the neighborhood, we feel

this time alone to reconnect with one another is very important.

What are your favorite things about Rankin County?

Top performing public schools, proximity to work, low crime,

a life-long network of friends are some of the reasons we love

living here. We’re always proud to call Rankin County home.

What brings you the greatest joy as a parent?

We believe in raising our children on biblical principles and seeing

them grow in their faith is one of the greatest joys of being a parent.

Who is the financial manager in your home?

I manage paying the bills while Bo handles investments and

long-term planning.

When your children were younger, what was your

discipline philosophy?

We have always believed in sticking to a routine and schedule.

It helped create structure for our children. When it comes to

discipline, we equally share the responsibility.

What do you see in your role as the greatest benefit

to your family?

It’s a great benefit having parents that can balance each other out.

Morgan is great about planning trips and making the kids have

positive experiences.

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

And who does the cooking?

We do lots of cooking at the house. Bo handles the grill while

I’m known for making sweets. The kids often request steak.

How long has Rankin County been your home?

Bo grew up in Florence as his parents moved there in 1977.

I moved here when we got married in 2007. My family, however,

have been residents of Florence since the turn of the century as my

grandmother, Mumsie, was born in Florence in 1923.

How do you spend your summer breaks?

Sarah Spencer, Harper, and Harrison love going to summer camp.

We also enjoy going to the beach. Everyone loves relaxing and

playing in the ocean.

What drives you to have the job that you have?

And what do you do for a living?

I’m a registered nurse and work in women’s health. I love having

the personal interaction with clients and improving their quality of

life. Bo is VP of a construction firm and enjoys the challenges of

solving problems for his clients.

QUESTIONS FOR THE CHILDREN

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

Harper Going on vacation

Harrison Go to the beach

Sarah Spencer Go to the beach

What’s your favorite restaurant?

Harper Outback

Harrison Chick-fil-A

Sarah Spencer Keifers

What’s your favorite TV show?

Harper Victorious

Harrison YouTube

Sarah Spencer Grey’s Anatomy


Taste

Weekly

Rotating weekly menu of 325+ flavors

JOIN US AT THE

MISSISSIPPI TRADE MART

JACKSON, MS

June 5, 2025

9:00 am - 5:00 pm

June 6, 2025

9:00 am - 4:00 pm

The Mississippi Market

Wholesale Show is

Mississippi’s premier

wholesale show to find

or sell unique, must-have

products! Homemade

soaps, candles, gourmet

treats, the latest fashions,

unique home décor,

beautiful jewelry, and

much more!

The two-day show is open

and FREE of charge to

credentialed buyers and

retailers from Mississippi and

surrounding states.

Follow Us on Facebook at MSMarket and Instagram @mississippimarket

Visit mercantilems.com to register as

an Exhibitor or Buyer.

20 • MAY 2025

Expanding our care in

Madison County

Now open in Ridgeland, UMMC Colony Park South brings expertise

from Mississippi’s academic medical center to a new state-of-the-art facility

with direct access from I-55. With more than a dozen specialties including

orthopaedics, internal medicine, plastic surgery and others plus imaging

services, it’s a community-based clinic with the care you need.

See our full list of specialties and schedule appointments

at umc.edu/colonypark

UMMC Colony Park South

326 Commerce Center Drive

Ridgeland, MS 39157

NOW OPEN


22 • MAY 2025

Always

a Reason

Camille Anding

“Mattie’s coloring is not right. She needs to see a

doctor”, was the comment an uncle made to Brenda

Peters, Mattie’s mom. It wasn’t what a mother wants

to hear at her child’s birthday party. Yet, Brenda had

realized Mattie’s health wasn’t as good as her older

sister’s, Michaela. Mattie had spent her first five years

with so many doctor appointments that going to

them felt normal. “She was sick constantly,” Brenda

said. Every cold and virus germ always sent her to

her pediatrician which meant more medicines.

Matt and Brenda were raising their two

daughters in Amite, Louisiana. Their small-town

lifestyle had provided jobs and a happy home-life.

That was about to change with the next doctor visit.

From a urine sample, Mattie’s physician

suspected that diabetes was the problem and told

her parents to bring her back the next day for

bloodwork. Shortly after the lab visit, Mattie’s

doctor called and said she needed to go to New

Orleans Children’s Hospital immediately. Tests

showed that Mattie had a kidney malfunction.

In Brenda’s mind that probably meant another

infection.

She called her husband at work while she and her

mother, Carol Ann Cleveland, hurriedly packed for

a two-day stay. A nephrologist met them when they

arrived at the hospital. Mattie’s parents soon realized

their five-year-old had a serious health issue.

After an ultrasound, their physician told them

Mattie was in kidney failure – one kidney was the

size of a pea, and the other kidney was covered in

cysts. She would need a kidney transplant and must

be placed on dialysis immediately. The news was

staggering. That’s when their strong faith stepped

in and Brenda began her journey, along with Mattie,

learning that there was a reason for everything that

God brought or allowed into their lives.

Mattie was admitted to the hospital and went

into surgery to prepare her for peritoneal dialysis

(the placement of a catheter into a large vein in her

abdominal cavity) which would allow Mattie to get

dialysis at home. That surgery resulted in a bleed

that made a second surgery necessary to stop the

bleeding. After six blood transfusions and two

weeks of training for Brenda and her sister to learn

how to execute home dialysis, Mattie was released.

In those two weeks, Brenda realized one of the

first reasons they were in the hospital. She and

Mattie made friends with other kidney patients,

and Brenda made friends with the chief resident

physician who came to her room and asked her to

pray for her brother who had disappeared. Brenda

remembers the two of them kneeling in Mattie’s

room and asking God to find that brother. He was

found (after surviving a mugging), and Brenda

understood more about God’s sovereignty.

The life lessons were just beginning.


24 • MAY 2025

Fourteen hours a day for dialysis meant major life changes for the entire family. Mattie

couldn’t be left alone due to her growing dislike to being tethered to a machine and her not

being able to sleep beside her big sister. Brenda’s mom and dad helped change Mattie’s food

intake by keeping the family in fresh vegetables from their

garden. Every meal had to be cooked with no salt and there

were very strict limitations on what Mattie could eat. Their

local fire department kept constant watch with power outages

to the Peters’ home due to Mattie’s dialysis machine that had

to keep power for the fourteen hours.

During those three months of dialysis, Brenda was tested

for a kidney match and three out of five tests made her a

matching donor. The transplant was scheduled but a request

from a child that would die without an immediate transplant

was given an okay by Mattie’s family. The next date

was March 17,2003. “We celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a

lot more meaning than most people,” Mattie emphasized.

The transplant was a success for Mattie, but Brenda

began having excruciating pain. Her husband and mom

knew Brenda’s pain tolerance and were convinced something was

terribly wrong. They insisted she be examined. An x-ray revealed

a sponge that had been left in her body. Infection had already

begun spreading. Brenda remembers, “Everything went into

chaos mode as they rushed me to surgery again.”

Now both patients needed extra recovery time and at their

request, both were moved into the same hospital suite. The

Peters assured the hospital staff that they would not sue but had

only one request: the assisting surgical individual that had left

the sponge would not be fired. The staff agreed to their terms.

The family’s “always a reason” philosophy underwent major

challenges. After the transplant, Brenda was fired – her

working from home, which was now necessary to be with

Mattie, was not allowed. Matt’s company transferred him to

Richland as manager of the company. That led the family to

move to Brandon, providing quicker access to the medical

community. The “reasons” continued to prove true!

A major health issue raised additional concerns for Mattie.

She was diagnosed with a rare liver disease and was sent to

Cincinnati for further testing. Not only did she have liver

fibrosis, but the tests also found a brain stem malformation.

The liver condition worsened until her doctor put her on TB

meds. Now at the age of fifteen, she was told that she would

need a liver transplant within six months to a year. That was

ten years ago, and her liver has remained in stable condition.

Mattie is now wife to Eli Bozak, happily

married with their seventeen-month-old son

Bennett James. With her seriously complicated

health status, they were told that having their

own child would be an impossibility. Morning

sickness was a shock to all Mattie’s family,

including her physician, Dr. Wagner. After 34

weeks, delivery was scheduled for their baby.

Nine doctors were on standby for the delivery

and a healthy but premature son spent twenty

more days in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Since the transplant, Mattie continues to take

daily steroids along with 27 pills a day. Monthly

monitoring of her health is routine. Even though

they were told that a kidney transplant lasts an

average of twelve years, their faith remains strong

that God is in control.

Her favorite Bible verse is the same –

I praise you, for I am fearfully and

wonderfully made. Wonderful are your

works; my soul knows it very well.

–Psalm 139:14.

She and her family have certainly experienced

the wonderful works of their Creator and firmly

stand by their assurance that there’s a reason for

everything.


26 • MAY 2025


28 • MAY 2025

CROSSGATES

AT VBS K5 - 5TH GRADE | JUNE 2 - 5 | 9 AM - 12 PM

SIGN UP AT EVENTS.CROSSGATES.ORG


30 • MAY 2025

Strong Genes Strong Bond

Mother/Daughter Look-Alikes

The mother-daughter bond is special in every way.

But when it comes to the following mother/daughter duos,

one thing is for certain–their gene game is strong.

“Mothers of daughters are daughters of mothers and have

remained so, in circles joined to circles, since time began.”

– Signe Hammer


Hilarie Sullivan Carsyn Sullivan

FLOWOOD

32 • MAY 2025

What do you enjoy doing together?

We enjoy doing a lot together! From going to Sephora and picking

out new makeup to eating lunch on Sundays after church!

What’s your best advice to your daughter?

Always stay true to yourself and keep God at the center of your life.

When you don’t know what to do, ask yourself what would Jesus do?

What do you admire most about your mom?

My mom is always there for me and gives me good advice. She is a

hard worker and always takes care of me and my family.

Vanessa Bland Qustyn Bland

FLORENCE


We enjoy dancing, riding bikes, enjoying the outdoors, reading,

church and shopping.


Know that your mom will always be there for you and know that you

can be anything you want to be.


I admire that my mom is strong and always there for me.


Alyssa McCurley Jennifer Lovett

BRANDON


We enjoy going to the nail salon together!


Live life to the fullest!


She is the best friend to anyone and she is strong!

34 • MAY 2025

Kayla Beaver Madison Zachary

BRANDON


Traveling, concerts, and all things baseball.


Learn from my mistakes rather than making your own and always

honor and serve the Lord!


I admire her love for Jesus.


Heather Clark Payton Clark

BRANDON


Taking walks, doing crafts, watching movies, traveling, and shopping.


You are amazing, so just be yourself.

Always give your best effort and know that you have done your best.


My mom is caring and understanding. I know I can depend on her.

36 • MAY 2025

Kristi Parker MaryClayton Parker

BRANDON


Eating sushi, shopping, and binge watching “When Calls the Heart.”


Know who you are in Christ before. Your worth isn’t defined by what

you do, what you look like, or what others say. It’s defined by who

God says you are.


Her strength and unwavering faith. She has shown me what it looks

like to live like Christ. I truly see Christ in her.


38 • MAY 2025

FINANCES

MADE SIMPLE

WITH OUR

STUDENT

CHECKING

ACCOUNT


40 • MAY 2025


42 • MAY 2025


Should Mom Be Living Alone?

Feeling overwhelmed caring for an aging

loved one? With over 20 years of experience,

Plainview Richland is here to support you and

your family!

• Medication Assistance

• 3 Meals a Day

• Personal Care Plan

• Activities

• 24 Hour Staffing

• Peace of Mind

Call Now: 601-202-4811

www.hickoryseniorliving.com

44 • MAY 2025


What’s

a valuable

life lesson

your mother

taught you?

Michelle Adcock

CIRCUIT CLERK

Get an education.

No one can take that

away from you.

Mom instilled a

great work ethic.

Margaret Henderson

CHIEF DEPUTY CLERK

If you work eight hours

a day, work as if you

gave them nine.

Jennifer Hammons

CHIEF DEPUTY OF FINANCE

Anytime something

is on my heart,

my mom simply

reminds me to

“Pray about it.”

Zoe Peevy

COUNTY DEPUTY CLERK

Always do

the right thing.

46 • MAY 2025

Kim Jamison

COUNTY DEPUTY CLERK

Treat others as

you would have them

treat you.

Allayna Jolley

DEPUTY CLERK & ELECTIONS

Be bold and brave.

Kirby Henderson

SENIOR DEPUTY CLERK

Take care of those

you love, but don’t ever

forget to take care

of yourself!

Dana Swilley

PART-TIME DEPUTY CLERK

Spaghetti sauce has

to simmer all day.

You don’t make it and

eat it within thirty

minutes. And don’t

forget the bay leaf.

Abbie Childers

COUNTY DEPUTY CLERK

Never judge a book

by it’s cover. She never

judged anyone on

their appearance or

where they came from.

She truly loved everyone

and always saw

the good in people.

Anna Claire Haddon

CRIMINAL DEPUTY CLERK

Never leave

the house without

lipstick on!


48 • MAY 2025

THIS IS

YOUR

MOMENT

TO SMILE

Fine & Performing Arts Department

Montage Theatre of Dance

Summer & Fall Registration is happening now!

Whether you’re starting your college journey or

returning to advance your career, this is your

moment! With the hundreds of opportunities

Hinds offers, this is the perfect place to learn,

grow and succeed. You can become who you

want to be! Enroll today at Hinds Community

College. Your future is waiting.

1-800-HINDSCC | hindscc.edu

SCAN

HERE

TO GET

STARTED!

JACKSON | NAH | 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: Office of Campus Culture and Diversity, PO Box 1100 Raymond MS 39154; Phone: 601-857-3569 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.


Circle

of RED

Since 2004, Go Red for Women has addressed the awareness

and clinical care gaps of women’s greatest health threat,

cardiovascular disease. Moving forward we will meet the

evolving needs of women now, and at every age, every stage,

and every season of their lives as their trusted, relevant source

for credible, equitable health solutions.

Life isn’t lived through the lens of a monthly theme or

measured by what happened from 18 to 24 years of age.

From adolescence to adulthood, life is measured by ages,

stages and seasons. From the transition into early adulthood,

and motherhood for many, to the struggle to keep up while

nature slowly decreases our physical ability to do so, as the

milestones of a woman’s life change, so do our unique risks

for developing cardiovascular disease.

Heart health isn’t just numbers and tests, self-discipline and

denial. It’s feelings, it’s focus and it’s balance. But what it isn’t

– is fair. Women are juggling more than ever – and we’re tired.

We’re stressed; navigating work, family, and simply keeping

the balls in the air and waking up to an ever-growing mental

to-do list; our health is rarely at the top.

Health is personal, confounding, difficult to navigate, and

often lonely - but it doesn’t have to be. It’s no secret that

women have been underrepresented, undertreated, and

undercounted. And while many feel unseen or abandoned

by the system, there’s one source of support we can always

count on – each other. Women have an unmatched ability

to connect with each other for information, motivation, and

inspiration. To drive real change…together.

Women motivate each other, educate each other, and inspire

each other. We are deep wired for connection. When we

Go Red for each other, we can create a paradigm shift that

moves away from using health issues to create community to

building communities that foster better health. Women haven’t

been counted, but now, we’re making it count because the

one thing we can always count on is each other.

We’re in the midst of a health revolution and our charge is

clear – together, we can ensure every woman is counted and

that no one has to go it alone. It’s time to Go Red for health,

to Go Red for life, to Go Red for good, to Go Red for Women.

Circle of Red is a society

of passionate individuals

who are in the fight against

heart disease and stroke

in women to win.

In communities throughout

the United States, Circle

of Red members use their

influence, generosity, and

passion to help increase

awareness of cardiovascular

disease – the leading cause

of death in women – and

to inspire women to take

charge of their health.

Circle of Red members are

leaders in their communities

and families. For many

members, the fight against

heart disease is personal.

As some of our greatest

champions of the Go Red

for Women movement,

our Circle of Red members

not only help save lives,

but they are the heart of

our mission.

Why Join Circle of Red?

As a member, you are a

champion for women’s

health. Members enjoy:

• Special social events and

VIP experiences both

locally and nationally,

with a national holiday

experience in December

• Exclusive mission updates

• Recognition as a

Circle of Red member

• Membership in a

meaningful community

of women

Join us and become a part

of an exceptional group of

women.

For more information

on joining, please contact

Go Red for Women Director

Katherine Byrd at

Katherine.Byrd@heart.org

or call 601-321-1211.

For more information, please visit GoRedforWomen.org

50 • MAY 2025

Abby Brann

MS Baptist Medical Center

Alissa Hebert-Wallace

Veterans Health Administration

Amanda Fontaine

MS Association of Broadcasters

Amanda Keith

Blog, Red Lips and Vino Sips

Amber Sukhbaatar

The Sunray Companies

Ame Berry

Laurel Fuel

Amy Lampton Walker

Ergon

Amy Ramsey

FitSoul

Ashley Swain

HORNE

Bethany Culley

Keller Williams Realty

Betsy Latham

Betsy Latham Fine Art

Brenda Barron

Professional Staffing Group

Brian Johnson

Fisher Brown Bottrell

Brittany Walker

BankPlus

Carla Kirkland

The Kirkland Group

Carol Cooper

Cindy Carraway

Carraway Construction

Crystal Moore

Debbie Saxon

Debra McGee

BankPlus

Donna Bruce

Forvis Mazars, LLP

Dr. Amanda Greene

MS Neurololgy Care Clinic

Dr. Analise Douglas

Jackson Heart Clinic

Dr. Ardarian Pierre

UMMC

Dr. Catherine Lowe


Dr. Debbie Minor

UMMC

Dr. Elizabeth Chastain

Pathology Assc. of Central MS

Dr. Janet Harris

UMMC Professor Emeritus

Dr. Joyce Wade-Hamme

Tri-County Pulmonary & Sleep Clinic

Dr. Julia Thompson

Merit Health Heart

Dr. Myrna Alexander Nickens

UMMC

Dr. Natasha Hardeman

Lakeland Premier Women's Clinic

Dr. Patrica Lawson

Internal Medicine

Dr. Samantha Redfield

Pathology Assc. of Central MS

Dr. Sandra McCearley


Dr. Terica Jackson

Baptist Premier


Dr. Wendy Lewis

The Winning Smile Dental Group

Dr. Yolanda McElroy

M3 Architecture

Elee Reeves

First Lady of Mississippi

Emily Carpenter

Shackleford Construction

Evelyn Copeland Gail Manton

Gail Manton Florals & Special Events

Jamie Higdon

TempStaff

Jamie Woods-Dull

All Pro Clean

Jan Collins

Madison County Business League

Janie Jarvis

The Bridal Path

Janie Maloney Jeanhee Kang

Asahi Sushi & Sake

Jeanne Hamil

Mama Hamil's

Jeannie Robinson

EMC Insurance Companies

Jennie Simmons

Simmons Erosion Control

Jennifer Boydston Johnson

Roberts, Bridges & Boydston

Jennifer Hall

Baker Donelson

Jennifer Studebaker

Forman Watkins

Jim Blackwood

Johnson & Johnson

Julie Davis

Karen Roberts-Curtis

ProTel Inc

Kathy Smith

City of Flowood, Mayor-elect

Kim Stonecypher

Stonecypher Consulting

Kimberly Buford

Gabby Strong Foundation

Kimberly Jones Merchant

MS Center for Justice

Lance Davis

Forvis Mazars LLP

LaToya Redd Thompson

Attorney; JSU First Lady

Laurie Cutrer

TempStaff

Leah Edwards

LeAnne Brewer

Southern Farm Bureau Life

Libby Sims

Professional Staffing Group

Lin Bobbitt Linda Bobinger Lisa Alsobrook

Mockingbird Marketplace

Liz Torricelli

Children's Advocacy Centers of MS

Lori Sanders

52 • MAY 2025

Macie Malone

Malone Roofing

Maggie Clark

Maggie Clark Media Services

Mallory Hemphill

Wound Management Associates

Mary Johnson

Happy Heart Healthcare Services

Melody Prisock

Mike Fink dba Cock of the Walk Restaurants

Meshelle Rawls

Foundation for the Mid South

Mike Espy

Mike Espy, PLLC

Missy Massey

Premier Fabrics

Missy McMullan Misty Gaskamp

Dolly Chic Boutique

Monica Harrigill

The Sunray Companies

Pam Gordon

First Commercial Bank

Pam McGee

Compliance Advice & Training Solutions

Pat Barber Patty Clark Paul McNeill

MAG CAP

Peder Johnson Philip Holman

The Mattiace Company

Rebecca Haas

Talking With Toddlers, Ltd

Rebecca Martin

Prudential

Rhonda Moore

Moore's Pharmacy

Rica Lewis-Payton

Robin Maberry

BankPlus

Samantha Lofton

Barnett's Body Shop

Sandy Stonecypher

Shannon Warnock

Strongbox Strategies

Sharon Jernigan

CABI Clothing

Sheila Morrison

Morrison Welding

Sheramie Shore

New York Southern Style

Tammy Phillips

Community Bank

Teresa Edens

Tina Clay

State Farm Insurance

Tina Lakey

Whitney Gladden

Gladden Ingram Attorneys at Law

Dr. Kellan Ashley

UMMC

Dr. Teri Dyess

St. Dominic Hospital


Help a child

While you shop.

Friends of Children’s Hospital Debit Card

The Friends Card cost $12 per year, 100% of which is donated to Friends.

BankPlus makes a donation to Friends each time the card is used.

Available via instant issue. Since inception, the Friends debt card has

raised over $4,000,000.

Creating Blooms by Design for

all of your special occasions.

To Order:

769-308-7176

6155 Hwy. 25, Bldg. 1, Suite C

Brandon, MS 39047

Business Hours:

Mon. – Thurs.: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Fri.: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Sat.: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Sunday: By Request

© Copyright 2023 BankPlus.

Member FDIC.

54 • MAY 2025


56 • MAY 2025

Inga Lehman

Stirring Up

Memories

Heartfelt Recipes from

Mother to Daughters

I’m a Christ follower, wife to Matthew Lehman, and mother to

two beautiful daughters, Emelia and Madilyn. We make our home

on a 12-acre homestead in Rankin County, where we strive to

embrace a slower, more intentional way of life. This land has

become a space not only for growing vegetables, flowers, and

livestock–but also for nurturing deeper relationships and

cultivating a greater awareness of God’s goodness.

Over the past five years, I’ve homeschooled our daughters

with the intention of teaching far more than just facts. My focus

has been on building strong foundations in Christ and truth,

nurturing a genuine love of learning, and equipping them with

practical life skills–like cooking, homemaking, and homesteading.

In a world that moves quickly, I’ve tried to give them the gift of

time: time to wonder, to explore, and to simply remain children

a little longer.

Alongside homeschooling, I’ve continued my work as a civil

engineer specializing in roadway design–a field that challenges

me to balance creativity with precision. I work with Benchmark

Engineering & Surveying in Flowood, where I count it a blessing

to use the gifts God has given me to shape the communities we

live in through thoughtful, purposeful infrastructure. Whether

I’m designing transportation systems or milking a goat on our

homestead, I strive to approach each task with the same heart

for excellence and intention.

When I’m not working or homeschooling, I love serving with

our faith family at Crossgates Church, tending our land, or simply

soaking in the quiet moments at home. It’s in these simple, sacred

spaces that I’m reminded: a life lived with the intention to serve

the Lord–wherever He places us–is a life well-lived.

The Lehman Family enjoys the following recipes that bring them together

in the kitchen, satisfies their appetites, and creates cherished memories as

they mix ingredients, share stories, and enjoy the fruits of their labor

around the dinner table.


Cranberry-Walnut

Chocolate Chip Cookies

• 3 cups almond flour

• 1 cup monk fruit sweetener

(or sweetener of choice)

• ½ tsp. baking soda

• 1 tsp. salt

• 6 Tbsp. Greek yogurt

• 4 Tbsp. butter, softened

• 4 Tbsp. cream cheese

• 2 eggs

• 1 tsp. vanilla

• ½ cup craisins

• ½ cup chopped walnuts

• ½ cup oats

• ½ cup white chocolate chips

• 1 cup chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350. Combine all

dry ingredients. Combine all wet

ingredients. Mix wet ingredients

into dry and stir well. Fold in

craisins, walnuts, oats, and chocolate

chips. Bake 12-14 minutes. Cookies

will be soft, but will firm up as they

cool.

Our family loves these yummy

cookies because they remind us

of cozy afternoons spent baking

together, sharing laughter and

stories, as we mix the dough

and wait eagerly for the

warm, sweet aroma to fill

our home. Enjoy baking

and sharing these delightful

cookies with your family

and friends – it’s sure to be

a favorite!

58 • MAY 2025

Sausage & Mushroom

Ravioli

• 1 lb. breakfast sausage

• 2 cans cream of mushroom soup

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 1-2 Tbsp. minced garlic

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 pkg. mushroom ravioli

• 3 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup milk

• 4 Tbsp. cream cheese, cut into

small chunks (or ¼ cup parmesan)

• Salt, pepper, & Italian seasoning

to taste

Start a pot of water for the ravioli to

boil. Brown sausage in a dutch oven.

Add celery and sauté until tender.

Add garlic. Move as much of the

sausage mixture as you can to one

side of the pot and add flour to the

other side to begin a rue. Let flour

get warm, then add chicken broth

and milk, stirring to remove any

clumps. Add cream of mushroom

soup and cheese. Once it looks

warmed through, mix in the drained

and cooked ravioli and seasonings.

I threw this together on a Sunday

evening when I felt like I didn’t have

much to work with. The family thought

it was “restaurant quality” and should

be written down - and so it was and has

become a favorite go-to comfort food.

Homemade

Sourdough Pizza

• 1½ cups water

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil

• 2 tsp. salt

• 2 tsp. sugar

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ cup sourdough starter

OR 4 tsp. quick-rise yeast

• 1-2 Tbsp. Italian seasoning

• 1 Tbsp. garlic powder

Add ingredients in this order into

the bread machine and run the

dough cycle. I will use my bread

machine to get the dough prepped

while I am doing other things

around the house.

Once the machine is done

preparing the dough, preheat the

oven to 475°F. Sprinkle a cast-iron

pizza pan with corn meal and work

the dough onto it. Poke the dough

with a fork all throughout and

par-bake the dough for about 8-10

minutes. Take out of oven, then add

the pizza sauce and any of your

favorite toppings. Continue baking

for about another 8-10 minutes or

until done.

We love to change up the pizza sauce

and toppings. Sometimes it’s a

traditional marinara with pepperoni,

sausage, and fresh veggies, other times it’s

homemade alfredo sauce with chicken

and spinach! So delicious - but the secret

to the extra flavor is the Italian seasoning

and garlic powder in the dough!

Sausage & Pimento Quiche

• 1 lb. breakfast sausage

• 1 small jar pimentos

• 4-6 eggs

• 1 cup milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1- 8 oz. package shredded cheese

of choice

• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1-2 tsp. garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste.

• 2 pie crusts (optional)

Preheat oven to 375. Brown sausage

in a skillet and drain. In a medium

bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and heavy

cream. Fold in the cooked sausage,

pimentos, and cheese. Stir in

seasonings. Pour mixture into pie

crusts or pie pans for a crustless

option. Place on a baking sheet and

bake 35-40 minutes or until quiche

sets in the middle. Allow to cool for

about 15 minutes before slicking.

Serve warm and enjoy!

This savory sausage quiche is perfect for

breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.

We love this easy recipe and cherish it as

part of our family meal rotation.

One-Pan Lemon Balsamic

Chicken & Potatoes

• 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 1 lb. baby potatoes, halved

• 3 Tbsp. olive oil

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar

• Juice and zest of 1 lemon

• 1 tsp. honey

• 1 tsp. dried thyme

• 1 tsp. smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup chicken broth

• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Preheat oven to 400. Slice potatoes in

half. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in

a large, oven-safe skillet over medium

heat. Season chicken thighs with salt,

pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme.

Cook about 3-4 minutes per side,

until golden brown. (Don’t worry

about cooking them through, they’ll

finish in the oven.) Remove chicken

and set aside. In the same skillet, add

remaining olive oil and potatoes (cut

side down). Cook about 5 minutes

until they start to develop a golden

crust. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt

and pepper for extra flavor.

Lower the heat and add garlic. Cook

for about 1 minute, just until fragrant,

then pour in the balsamic vinegar,

chicken broth, honey, lemon juice,

and zest. Stir everything together,

scraping up any browned bits from

the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

Nestle the chicken thighs back into

the skillet, arranging them between

the potatoes. Spoon some of the

sauce over the chicken to coat.

Transfer the entire skillet to the oven

and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until

the chicken is cooked through

(internal temperature of 165°F) and

the potatoes are tender. Once

finished, sprinkle the dish with freshly

chopped parsley for a pop of color

and freshness.

Serve it straight from the skillet for

a rustic presentation, and don’t forget

to drizzle some of that luscious pan

sauce over everything! My family enjoys

this recipe during a busy weeknight.

This dish combines tender chicken

and crispy potatoes, all infused with

a delightful lemony balsamic glaze.

Lemon Cucumber Salad

Salad

• 2 English cucumbers, thinly sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

• ¼ Vidalia onion, cut in half and

thinly sliced

• ¼ cup chopped fresh flat-leaf

parsley

Vinaigrette

• 1 tsp. freshly grated lemon rind

• 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice

• 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

• 1½ tsp. white wine vinegar

• ½ tsp. sea salt

• ¼ tsp. freshly ground black pepper

In a small bowl, whisk lemon rind

and juice, olive oil, vinegar, sea salt

and pepper. In a medium bowl, mix

cucumbers, bell peppers, onion, and

parsley. Drizzle with vinaigrette and

toss. Serve chilled or at room temp.

We sometimes use white vinegar instead

of white wine vinegar, but it always comes

out delicious! We sometimes leave out the

red bell pepper too, and use parsley only

when we have fresh herbs at home.

Bratkartoffel

• 3-4 russet potatoes, thinly sliced

• 1 yellow onion, roughly diced

• 6-8 slices bacon, chopped

• 1-2 tsp. minced garlic

• 4-5 eggs, whisked

• ½ tsp. curry

In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon.

Once mostly cooked, add diced onion.

Cook for a few moments then add

garlic and potatoes. Cover pan to help

potatoes cook through for several

minutes and lower heat to medium low.

Cook until brown and tender. Add eggs

and let them solidify, then mix with

potatoes. Season with salt and pepper.

Sprinkle with curry powder when

serving. My kids love this with ketchup.

I learned this recipe at a young age

from my German mother, who would

make it regularly. Funny enough, it

wasn’t my favorite as a child, but over

the years it’s become a dish my family

and I truly love. The curry sprinkled

on top is a classic German touch

that brings it all together.

Hometown MADISON • 59

60 • MAY 2025

ADVERTISER SPOTLIGHT

A LEGACY OF CARE

& COMPASSION

Crossgates Veterianry Clinic

In the year 1978, Drs. Jim and Gail Anderson fulfilled their dream

by opening the Crossgates Vet Clinic in Brandon.

Their journey started when they were

pre-veterinary students at Mississippi State

University, where their passion for animals and

dedication to veterinary medicine blossomed.

The clinic’s motto, “Taking better care of

your pets,” reflected the Andersons’ commitment

to providing top-notch care for their

furry patients and their families.

Initially, Crossgates Vet Clinic operated as a

mixed animal practice, catering to both farm

animals and companion animals such as dogs

and cats. However, as the Brandon/Pearl area

experienced rapid growth over the years, the

focus shifted towards providing specialized

care for companion animals.

Fast forward to 2014, when Dr. Todd

Sullivan and his wife, Dr. Stacie Sullivan, took

the reins from Dr. Jim and Dr. Gail, marking a

new chapter in the clinic’s legacy. The transition

ensured that the values of care, compassion,

and excellence continued to thrive. Despite

the passing of ownership, the core mission of

Crossgates Vet Clinic remained unchanged -

to offer advanced veterinary care while

supporting pet owners every step of the way.

Being rooted in the heart of Brandon,

Dr. Gail’s ties to the community and her

dedication to serving its residents made

Crossgates Vet Clinic a cherished establishment.

Their dedication to excellence was further

validated by being the only American Animal

Hospital Association accredited clinics in Rankin

County, setting them apart as a beacon of

quality and trust.

“We want to go above and beyond to offer

the very best care possible. Our doctors are

compassionate, but also extremely knowledgeable.

Our entire staff wants to stay on the

cutting-edge of vet med, while still keeping a

heart for the animals and their owners,” said

Dr. Todd Sullivan.

Dr. Todd’s expertise in hospice and end-oflife

care, coupled with his recent training in

acupuncture, showcases the clinic’s dedication

to holistic and compassionate veterinary care.

Moreover, their passion for animals extends

beyond medical treatments, emphasizing the

importance of creating meaningful bonds with

both pets and their owners.

With a team of proficient surgeons, state-ofthe-art

diagnostic equipment, and a wide array

of specialized services, Crossgates Vet Clinic

stands as a testament to their unwavering

commitment to excellence. Their journey,

marked by a legacy of care and compassion,

continues to impact the lives of countless

families and their beloved pets. And with a

welcoming team consisting of four skilled

veterinarians and five certified veterinary

technicians, the clinic is well-equipped to

provide top-notch care for your beloved pets.

As they look ahead to celebrating 50

years in 2028, the legacy of Crossgates Vet

Clinic shines as a beacon of hope, love, and

unparalleled veterinary care in the heart of

Brandon.


62 • MAY 2025

Goodwill’s

Brisket & Brews

2025

April 17 - Belhaven Town Center

GOOD FOOD. GOOD BREWS. GREAT CAUSE.


64 • MAY 2025


Flowood Mayor’s

Prayer Breakfast

APRIL 25 • SHERATON FLOWOOD

66 • MAY 2025


70 • MAY 2025

April 24 • Cypress Lodge

PHOTOS Chad Robertson, Charise Wilson, John Godbold


Service Is Our Legacy

From our beginning in a one-room building in Jackson,

Mississippi, to a well-diversified organization with locations

around the world, Ergon remains committed to Doing Right

for our employees, our customers and our communities.

Learn more at ergon.com.

Energy & Specialty Solutions I Pavement & Coating Resources I Integrated Services & Logistics

72 • MAY 2025

Our Town 2025 Ad — 4x5.indd 1

4/29/25 10:23 AM


74 • MAY 2025

SALUTE

to First Responders

Patrol

Gena

Lieutenant

PEPPER

RICHLAND

POLICE DEPARTMENT

Why did you decide to be a policeman?

I wanted to be the change that I would like to see in the world. I wanted to

help people and I thought it would be a fun job.

How long have you been with the Richland Police Department?

A little over 5 years.

How long have you been an officer?

Almost 9 years.


I was an only child and grew up on a farm in Yazoo County. My dad, who

I admire most in this world, passed away in 2018. My mom lives in Carthage.

Growing up on a farm there was lots of hard work and long days, but it

definitely teaches you at a young age, you have to work hard to have nice

things in life. I’m a mom to three amazing dogs! Two boxers named Gunner

and Finley, and miniature schnauzer, Winston. They keep me on my toes but

I love them and wouldn’t have it any other way!

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

The toughest part of my job is telling people that their loved ones are gone.

It’s so difficult to do that. Also, society is so different nowadays, even from

when I started nine years ago. The media doesn’t portray us like they use to,

it’s just harder being a policeman now.

Share some things you enjoy doing in your spare time.

I like to go fishing and being outside. Also being on the water, I’m able to

enjoy my friends and family. I love watching sports and going to sporting

events, too. Anything Ole Miss is my favorite: football, baseball, softball,

basketball- ANYTHING Ole Miss!

What are three things on your bucket list?

I would like to go to England and see Buckingham Palace, stuff like that

interests me. I’ve always loved bears, so maybe go somewhere that I can

interact with them. And go to an exotic beach.

Who is someone you admire and why?

My dad. He and I were super close, and he taught me a lot about life and

how to be a good person. He also taught me how to work hard. He always

made time to put me first no matter what it was, he always took the time

to be present and a part of my life. He really was just a role model for what

I wanted to strive to be as an adult.

What advice would you give to a young person?

Stay humble and work hard because your character is all you have! When it

comes to meeting people, whether in life or at your job–in all you do, your

character is what is going to carry you places. Be somebody that someone

else can look up to.

What is your favorite thing about the city of Richland?

Richland is very much a hometown/small-town feel. The community takes

care of the police department and we, in turn, take care of them!

SPONSORED BY


The CHALKBOARD

Pelahatchie Elementary

Pelahatchie Elementary has transformed learning into an adventure this

year, weaving together academic excellence, family engagement, and

character development. The school hosted two dynamic family nights

that brought learning to life: “Fall in Love with Learning” in November

and “Spring into STEAM” in March. These events showcased innovative

ways for families to incorporate education into daily life through

interactive games and literacy activities, while also exploring the exciting

worlds of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. The newly

established Chief Champion Club has become a cornerstone of character

development, with students embracing leadership qualities and giving

back to their community. Club members showed their appreciation to the

school board through heartfelt Valentine’s Day projects and organized

care package collections for soldiers stationed in Qatar. The school’s

commitment to technological innovation shined particularly bright when

the robotics team dominated at the Nissan STEM/robotics competition,

securing top positions in an impressive six out of seven events. Through

these diverse initiatives, Pelahatchie Elementary has created an

environment where learning extends beyond traditional classroom walls,

fostering not just academic growth but also nurturing the values of

kindness, leadership, and community service.

76 • MAY 2025

Richland High

During the 2024-25 school year, Richland High School has been dedicated

to redefining educational excellence. With a commitment to holistic learning

opportunities and impactful experiences, RHS is focused on preparing students

for academic success and immediate contribution to the world around them.

Academically, this year marks a significant milestone for RHS with the expansion

of its Advanced Placement program. Enrollment has increased from 41 to an

impressive 83 students in 2024, and the percentage of students achieving

proficient scores has improved by 36.9%. Further highlighting its progress,

RHS achieved its highest-ever accountability rating for 2024-25, scoring 719,

up from 690 in 2023-24.

In response to the demands of the fast-paced advancement of technology,

RHS has launched the Cyber Security FLEX Institute, a joint venture with the

Cisco Systems Corporation that equips students with vital skills in network

security, ethical hacking, and cyber laws. This initiative prepares students for

careers in the tech industry, with graduates ready to pursue roles in IT security

analysis and ethical hacking. For 2025-26, we are expanding this offering to

more students.

Additionally, RHS was chosen as one of the first 12 schools to participate in

this year’s inaugural season of girls’ flag football, another joint venture between

the New Orleans Saints and the Mississippi High Schools Activities Association.

This new sport promotes athletic opportunities for female students while

fostering essential life skills and teamwork.

Looking ahead, RHS plans to expand its innovative Flex Block schedule in the

2025-26 school year, after being awarded a School of Innovation distinction from

the Mississippi Department of Education. This program will provide customized

support for all students while enhancing their college and career readiness.

RHS is at the forefront of transformative growth and opportunity as the school

year progresses, committed to preparing every student for a successful future.


The CHALKBOARD

Northwest Rankin

April Nicholson

It’s spring, and Northwest Rankin High School is bustling

with activity! This is the time of year when activities students

have invested in all year come to a climax with conventions,

competitions, and recognitions, and students from all aspects of

our school have shown the fruit of a school year’s worth of labor

and growth!

Just after Spring Break, Northwest Rankin held a luncheon

honoring our National Merit Scholars and STAR student, along

with teachers chosen for their significant impact on these students.

On a breezy Saturday morning, students from Mu Alpha

Theta, National Honor Society, and Beta Club met on campus to

participate in school beautification, planting flowers, cleaning

scuff marks on walls, and working on other projects to keep our

building and grounds appealing and well cared for. Meanwhile,

as an on-going project this spring, the business academy is

fundraising to help a Make-A-Wish Foundation dream come true:

a trip to Disney World for Swazie, an elementary school student

battling leukemia. NWRHS loved hosting Swazie on campus for

a meet-and-greet and some face-painting fun!

Northwest Rankin’s academic team recently took top honors,

winning the Rankin County School District’s Academic Competition.

Our show choirs also put their ample talent on display at the

Brandon Elite Competition. The Allure won 1st place in the Single

Gender Division, while The Ambitions took 4th place in the same

division. The Ambassadors were named Grand Champion Overall,

also winning 1st place in the AAA Mixed Division, Best Vocals,

Best Visuals, and Best Overall Production. Our Esports team was

ranked in USA Today’s Top 25 Poll, the only Mississippi team on

the list. Northwest Rankin’s tennis team won the regional

championship, and our symphonic band scored All-Superior

Ratings in Concert and Sightreading at the Central Mississippi

Concert Band Festival. And, representing Mississippi in the

Southeastern Theatre Conference, Northwest Rankin’s competition

theatre troupe traveled to Baltimore, Maryland to compete with

their award-winning show, The Velveteen Rabbit.

78 • MAY 2025

SHOW CHOIR PHOTOS Jan Smith & Donna Phillips

Pearl Public School District

Farm Day at the Early Childhood Education Center featured hands-on games,

a petting zoo, and fresh roasted corn–bringing farm life to campus

for a day of learning and fun.

From rhymes to hands-on activities, Pearl Lower Elementary’s Dr. Seuss

Literacy Night brought readers of all ages together in creativity and learning.

From ancient fossils to aquatic tanks, Northside Elementary students turned

curiosity into learning at the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science.

Fourth-graders became “living legends” at Pearl Upper Elementary’s

Famous Mississippians Wax Museum, wearing creative costumes and

delivering portrayals of the state’s most iconic figures.

Pearl Junior High Beta Club members showcased their academic,

artistic, tech, and service talents–while sharpening leadership skills–

at the Mississippi National Beta State Convention.

Pearl High School’s Hall of Fame Class of 2025 was honored with a luncheon

sponsored by Community Bank and the Pearl Chamber of Commerce.


The CHALKBOARD

East Rankin

STUDENTS TURN STOCK MARKET SKILLS INTO BIG WINS

Searching for financial advice? You might just find the best advisor at your

local school! These students elevated their learning to new heights, earning top

honors in the Spring 2025 Mississippi Stock Market Game. Students from East

Rankin Academy, coached by Gary Harris, were named First Place winners in the

High School Division.

ERA seniors Truitt Lewis (from Brandon), Gabe Nutt (from Morton), and

Jonathan Soto (from Forest) captured the top position among 542 teams from

public and private schools across the State of Mississippi. The winning team’s

portfolio outperformed the S&P 500 by 23.05%.

“I’m very proud of Truitt, Gabe, and Jonathan on rising to the top spot against

so many teams from around the state. To my knowledge, this is the first team from

East Rankin to garner the 1st place designation in more than 30 years,” said Harris.

“I’m also proud of all our teams who learned so much about a difficult sector of the

financial arena. We also had three other teams finish in the Top 100.”

The Stock Market Game is an educational simulation that allows participants

to experience the dynamics of the market in a risk-free environment. The game is

used in Mississippi 4th-12th grade classrooms as part of investment education.

Through this interactive experience, players learn about investment strategies,

risk management, and the factors influencing stock prices. It is not only a tool for

teaching financial literacy but also fosters critical thinking and decision-making

skills in a dynamic and engaging way.

The benefits to students playing are financial literacy, critical thinking,

risk management, math and analytical skills, decision-making skills, real-world

application, teamwork and collaboration, and long-term perspective.

80 • MAY 2025


TheTime COIN

Camille Anding

This generation has selected a large variety of grandmother names

– younger sounding titles and more creative ones. My grandfather’s mother was

my Mammaw. There aren’t many of those around these days, but it was a beautiful

name to me.

I knew her in her senior years, confined mostly to her bedroom in my grandparents’

home. She was either in her rocking chair or resting in the soft hollow of her feather

bed. I still remember going into her room and her inviting me to sit on her lap. She

would share stories about my grandfather and his two brothers and the hearty meals

she would prepare for her family. She was no stranger to work because the majority of

their food came from their garden and wild game her husband brought home.

Her arms cradled me on her thin frame, and the weathered skin on those

arms rolled like soft dough as I would stroke them. Lemon drops were always

on a nearby table, kept in a crystal bowl. We would indulge together!

Hers were simple “sunset” years, but she left me an appreciation of

quiet moments and the value of time spent with loved ones. In today’s world,

Mammaw would shake her head at the rush, noise, and pressure of life.

I’m certain she would offer us a quiet visit as we shared the taste of lemon drops

and conversation.

We called my mother’s mother Mama. She left the city life of Oxford, the prestige

of a successful real estate dad and a mother who enjoyed the luxuries of city life to

become a wife on a sprawling farm. I loved and appreciated her for sharing a bit of

luxury lifestyle with us. I still relive her pushing aside the buckets of peas to shell to

entertain her grands with strawberries in crystal bowls in her flower garden. I don’t

remember much about her demanding work in the produce season, but I can still see

those crystal bowls of strawberries and whipped cream.

My dad’s mother was another Mama. She was an industrious housewife, raised a

large family, and always kept fried pies in the dining room “safe.” Her gray hair was

long when I watched her brush it, but she always wore her hair braided and rolled

into a tight bun at the back of her neck. I never knew what family member claimed

the safe, but I’m certain the aroma of fried pies remained.

My mother had a mama bear love for her family. She was a vacation Bible school

guru and taught us how to “behave” in church - it was a sacred place and gathering.

I could never list all she taught me. However, I never learned how to do one of her later

favorite pastimes – quilting. Her stitches would be enviable by accomplished quilters,

and she took pride in giving all the family her works of art. I still enjoy studying those

love stitches, as I do I think more about how much love she stitched into my heart.

Mothers with wonderful mothers are doubly blessed!

82 • MAY 2025

Hometown MADISON • 83

Rankin525web

Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!

Delete template?

Save as template ?