By Bob Garver What has happened to the “Ghostbusters” movie franchise? For over a quarter century Hollywood resisted the temptation to spoil the one-two punch of the 1984 comedy classic and its decent-enough 1989 sequel. Then there came the 2016 reboot, which was controversial for its female cast, and the controversy is all anyone remembers. The 2021 legacy sequel didn’t always nail its humor, but there were some charming new characters and a nice kick of nostalgia at the end. But now with “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire,” this once-mighty property has officially become, well, a ghost of its former self. After the bold decision to set the last movie in Oklahoma, this movie finds the Spengler family living in New York City busting ghosts in an urban metropolis. Mom Callie (Carrie Coon) oversees overzealous daughter Phoebe (Mckenna Grace) and saner son Trevor (Finn Wolfhard), and Phoebe’s teacher Gary (Paul Rudd) is along as an unofficial husband/father figure (“step-teacher” he calls it). They’re living in the Ghostbusters’ old firehouse (an NYC landmark, to be sure) with the financial backing of Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson) and spend their days going on supernatural adventures with occasional help from classic characters Ray Stanz (Dan Aykroyd), Janine Melnitz (Annie Potts), and Peter Venkman (Bill Murray). Also back are Oklahoma friends Lucky (Celeste O’Connor) and Podcast (Logan Kim) as assistants for Winston and Ray, respectively. Oh, and their exploits constantly get under the skin of Mayor Walter Peck (William Atherton). I know on paper this sounds like a good setup. You’ve got the likeable old characters mixing with the likeable old characters and one unlikeable old character to be their foil. But all likeability and even unlikability has been stripped away. Phoebe and Trevor have become unpleasant and rude, Gary brings nothing new to the “unsure step-parent” architype, Lucky and Podcast were never memorable in the first place, the shine is off the returning Ghostbusters (the movie lets Venkman make a grand re-entrance late in the movie, seemingly forgetting that he was used in an earlier scene), and personal grudge or not, it’s clear from minute one that Peck is right to think that the operation is a danger to the city. One night while sulking, Phoebe plays chess with humanoid ghost Melody (Emily Alyn Lind), who is stuck on Earth until she can cross over via unfinished business. This part of the movie is relatively tolerable, though I will say that Callie and Gary letting a teenager hang out alone at the Washington Square Park chess tables after dark is worse parenting than anything that occurs while ghostbusting. Meanwhile, Ray buys an orb with ghostly energy off the money-hungry, but unambitious Nadeem (Kumail Nanjiani). Shared recklessness leads to the unleashing of an ice demon, and Ghostbusters young and old have to band together to save the city from a danger that is 100% their fault. I couldn’t latch onto anything enjoyable about “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.” The jokes aren’t funny, the action sequences and special effects are all cheap CGI, and the heart-tugging moments are badly missing the sensitivity they had in the last movie. But I did hear laughing and cheering in my theater. It came from very young children. Maybe this movie is onto something there. Maybe the next “Ghostbusters” movie should shoot for a PG rating (and not the “80’s PG” of the original, which frankly is less family-friendly than this movie) so it can better play to kids. None of the “PG-13 humor” here is really doing the movie any favors. Of course, I don’t think any of this movie’s humor is doing it any favors, but cleaning it up so it can reach a wider audience wouldn’t be a terrible idea. Grade: D “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” is rated PG-13 for supernatural action/violence, language and suggestive references. Its running time is 115 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu

While the Lady Wolves softball teams was sitting at number two in preseason national polls going into its 2024 season, Co-Lin’s baseball coaches thought they had laid a foundation last year for a great season. At the end of February, the softball nine, with a 7-1 record, looked like it could repeat its success last year -- the first national championship for any Co-Lin athletic team.  For baseball Wolves, with an 8-10 record, the verdict was uncertain. So far, the Lady Wolves have breezed through the season with a lone 6-4 loss to Parkland College, two victories over Southeast Arkansas (31-1, 17-0) and Dillard University (8-0, 9-0), and three wins at the expense of Baton Rouge (7-2, 5-2 and 9-4).  In recent weeks, the baseball team has sputtered with three-game two game-losing streaks that included losses to Jones (6-1), East central (11-1), Delgado (3-2), Hinds (7-5) and Southwest (8-4).  The baseball Wolves also picked up wins against Mineral Area College (8-5), Pensacola State (6-2), Delgado (8-5, 6-4), Coastal Alabama (7-1), Nunez Community College (6-4), Rend Lake (8-3) and Baton Rouge (7-3).  Other losses came at the hands of Pensacola State (6-3), Delgado (22-9), Nunez (6-4), Rend Lake (3-2) and Baton Rouge (10-9) The baseball roster features 33 players, including 18 sophomores (16 returners and two transfers) and 15 freshmen. Returning sophomores include Connor Pittman (Waynesboro), Brayden Evans (Florence), Brentley Berry (Magee), Isaac McClenty (Ridgeland), Coby Gallott (Ocean Springs), Braden Freeman (Terry), Jayden Duncan (Foxworth), Craig Bass (Brookhaven), Sam Thomas (Madison), Riley Easterling (Brookhaven), Christian Cameron (Brandon), Jordan McKenzie (Franklinton), Andin Bolen (Lucedale), Hagan Coumbe (Utica), Hayden Babineaux (Churchpoint, LA), and Ryland Hemphill (Florence) while the two transfer sophomores are Spencer Wilson (McComb) and Jon David Weed (Terry) who came to Co-Lin from Hinds and Meridian respectively. Chamblee said he is excited about what this group of sophomores brings to the field. The freshmen class includes Judson Griffin (Brookhaven), Tucker Jones (Brandon), Tyler Ferguson (Bossier City, LA), Sam Cook (Shubuta), Dee Morgan (Tallulah, LA), Wade Barr (Collins) Brayden Cooley (Flora), Ben Stringer (Brandon), Caleb Flynn (Laurel), Brayden Bankston (Terry), Reise Thomas (Florence), Dylan Wesson (Brandon), Easton Boyte (Brookhaven), Lucas Harrington (Youngsville, LA), and Sawyer Dunn (Magee). "I think that a big difference in this season will be the fact that we are returning a ton of experience from last season," says second-year Head Coach Adam Chamblee. "Last season we had a ton of freshmen players in the field, and we were sophomore heavy on the mound which saw us falter late at times when we had a lead or were trying to stay in games throughout last season. This year we have experience throughout our team in every phase of the game which I hope will help us to keep our foot on the gas throughout each game." He singles out sophomores pitchers Pittman, Bolen, Gallott and Duncan; Evans, a catcher; Cameron and Mckenzie at first and third bases, middle infielders Berry and Babineaux, and Thomas and Coumbe, Easterling and Hemphill, who are battling for positions.  He likes freshmen Jones and Wesson in the outfield, Bankston at shortstop and Ferguson, Morgan and Harrington on the mound. The 2024 softball roster features 21 players with nine returning sophomores and 12 incoming freshmen. Returning sophomores include Zykeria Cole (Magee), Laney Waguespack (Bayou Gauche), Leia Phillips (Philadelphia), Kat Case (Monticello), Cara Biswell (Brandon), Sarah Grace Smith (Crystal Springs), and Madison Moak, Bailee Goodson, and Abby Grace Richardson (all of Brookhaven).  Incoming freshmen include Olivia Banes (Pelahatchie), Avery Williams (Lewisburg), Kynlee Madere (Paulina, LA), Kinley Ainsworth (Brandon), Emeri Warren (Sebastopol), Karley Rouse (D'Iberville), Emma Kate Fimiano (Petal), Emily Richarde (Lakeland, TN), Keegan McCorkle (Tyronza, AR), Maddie Bruner (Brandon), Carson Hughey (Brookhaven) and Taylor Efferson (Holden, LA). “All our sophomores coming back with the championship winning experience gives us a leg up and boost in confidence heading into the season,” says Head Coach Meleah Howard.  “We have seen improvement from a lot of our sophomore group, and we expect big things from them. Players like Sarah Grace and Kat have shown a lot of offensive improvement throughout the fall while players like Zykeria, Leia, Madison, and Bailee have carried over their success from last season to this one. "Our freshmen are right there in the mix with our sophomores and have been displaying their talents as well. Ainsworth can swing the bat well; Banes is very versatile and super athletic; Hughey who is a super fast, athletic outfielder; Warren can swing the bat well; and McCorkle, Richarde, Rouse, and Fimiano will help our pitching staff.  Being able to secure a player like Efferson, who is a Division I transfer from Nicholls State, is huge for us and we are excited about her joining the team." added Howard. "She will add depth in both pitching and hitting for us this season." Howard wants to win the conference outright, and the Region 23 Championship, “but we ultimately want to get back to the national tournament again this season.  I have told our team that if we can get back there and I firmly believe that we can win it again."

Dear Members of the Press, As legal counsel for Keith Jackson, I would like to address the recent criminal charge brought against my client. This charge is serious, and we understand the public’s interest in this matter. However, everyone must bear in mind that our legal system operates on the fundamental principle that every accused individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Keith Jackson maintains his innocence and intends to vigorously defend against this allegation. Respecting the legal process, we have and will continue to cooperate fully with the authorities. Keith Jackson has the right to due process, including a fair trial, access to evidence, and the opportunity to present a defense. We trust that the justice system will uphold these rights. It is essential to separate legal proceedings from political discourse. While Keith Jackson is a public figure, we urge everyone to refrain from making premature judgments based on political affiliations or personal opinions. Please allow the legal process to unfold without undue influence. We are committed to transparency throughout this proceeding. We will pursue all legal avenues, challenge evidence, and vigorously advocate for Keith Jackson’s rights. We will provide updates as appropriate, respecting the boundaries set by legal ethics and confidentiality rules. Our goal is to ensure that the truth prevails. We recognize the importance of maintaining public trust. Our actions will reflect the highest ethical standards, and we encourage the public to rely on verified information rather than speculation.  In conclusion, we appreciate the media’s role in informing the public, but we ask for patience and restraint. Let justice take its course, and we remain confident that the truth will prevail. Sincerely, Christopher A. Collins Attorney at Law 601.774.9777 caclaw@hotmail.com

We were created by our God to be different from each other. We all have different personalities, likes, loves, dislikes and downright detests. Unfortunately, too much of the time the detests are each other. Why? Because we see our outlook on life as the only plausible way to view life. “And the rest of you morons are totally wrong about so many things.” That makes you and me really difficult to be around much of the time. Think about it. How many people in life have you ever completely agreed with – in every conceivable way on absolutely every topic. I already know the answer. Zilch. Nada. Zero. I am certain that you have read that there are no two snowflakes completely alike. Yes, it’s true, even though all snowflakes are white, cold, and small, they are never identical. And just like the snowflakes, we all differ, even though we do have resemblances. We resemble each other in that we are all human, skin-covered and have body parts. But apart from those basics, we each go our own way. But one more similarity? We want our own way. And that’s where the problems begin. If you put two people in the same room that is heated to sixty-nine degrees, quite often you’ll hear one begin to grumble. A June rainstorm causes a farmer to rejoice, while a bride having her outdoor wedding that day will be frantic. A rise in home sale prices brings a smile to a homeowner who has a For Sale sign in the front yard. Potential buyers, not so much. You get the idea. Most of the time, it’s not that we have decided we want to be disruptive, just for the fun of it. Rarely does someone declare their gleeful intention to serve as the grump of a committee. Similarly, you don’t often see someone who deliberately works at wearing exactly the wrong thing. And not very often does someone deliberately hold a completely opposing opinion on the new HOA ruling, just to be aggravating. Most of the time, it’s just that we have strong reasons for what we believe, causing us to have differing views that drive our needs and wants. Therefore, what you NEED could be what your neighbor absolutely FEARS. What is the answer? Beats me. I don’t believe there’s a pat answer for it. But here are a few suggestions that could enable us to live somewhat peaceably next to each other. 1) Communicate: But that involves listening as well as talking. So you might begin practicing that art. 2) Accept and tolerate small differences: But that takes communication and patience, so refer back to 1) 3) Agree agreeably to disagree on the big stuff: But again, that takes patience and communication, so refer back to 1) 4) Choose not to take offense. When you do disagree and decide to get hurt and angry, you suffer for that decision. Feel free to disagree with me - agreeably.

Special Report by Wesson Post 79 American Legion Commander Bobby Thornton Excitement filled the American Legion Drane-Prine Post 79 in Wesson as National Legion Commander Daniel J. Seehafer and his party arrived in their motorcade last month (February 20, 2024 -- the first National Commander to visit the Post. Department of Mississippi Commander William (Bill) Whatley accompanied Seehafer.  The two Commanders were visiting Posts and attending veterans’ events as part of Commander Seehafer’s tour through Mississippi.  They stopped at Drane-Prine Post 79 because of its dedication and service to veterans and their families. The local Legion hut was filled to almost compacity, with close 80 people attending this special event.  The National Commander’s Aide Mike Rohan, Mississippi Department Historian Steve Meredith and American Legion Rider escorts for the National Commander Charmain Woods -- Jerry Woods, Mike Spiers and Donna Spiers -- were there.  Among invited guests from the area were District 2 and 3 Copiah County Supervisors Johnny Smith and Perry Hood and Wesson Mayor Alton Shaw, Aldermen Michael King and  Chief of Police Chad O’Quinn.  Also on hand were American Legion District 7 Post Commanders, Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion and Auxiliary members from Monticello, New Hebron, Tylertown, Liberty and Wesson. Commander Seehafer, the keynote speaker for the evening, challenged Legionnaires to “Be The One,” a campaign embraced by The American Legion to help prevent veterans suicides that he has continued as the organization’s theme since coming to his position in August, 2022.  In his remarks, he addressed quality of life issues facing active-duty Legion members and veterans and shared events from his past six months of travels across America and the world, including his recent visit to the Republic of South Vietnam on a mission to help recover the remains of the many veterans remaining on the foreign soil.   He noted “America is the only nation taking the full accounting of Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action.”   Finally, he turned to his upcoming visit to Congress:  “I intend to make it my personal mission to provide a testimony to Congress on what the American Legion is all about in supporting the veteran family and that every single member matters.” An ordained minister from Wisconsin, Seehafer earned his American Legion eligibility through service in the U.S. Navy and Navy Reserves, where he served as a military chaplain.  He has served in a number of Legion offices, including national chaplain and commander of the Department of Wisconsin.  Born and raised in Merrill, Wisconsin, he has bachelor’s degree in pastoral ministry from Concordia University and Master of Divinity from Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana.  Seehafer was installed as assistance pastor of St. Stephen Lutheran Church at Horicon in 1997 and continues as the administrative pastor of its school.  His Legion honors include the District Commander’s New Post Achievement Award, Silver Brigade and Post 157 Legionnaire of the Year.  In 2023, he earn an Outstanding Heroism Award for administering the Heimlich maneuver to a choking victim at an American Legion dinner.  Seehafer and his wife, Stacey, an American Legion Auxiliary Unit 157 member, live in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin.  They have a son Jacob and daughter Emma, also members of the Post 157 family. Drane-Prine Post 79 Commander Bobby Thornton presented Seehafer with a custom-made wood plaque in the shape of Mississippi with star designating Wesson to commemorate his visit.  It also featured the logos of The American Legion, Sons of the American Legion and Auxiliary along with “Be The One.” American Legion Drane-Prine Post 79 at 1014 Main Street in Wesson welcomes all veterans and their families.  Meetings are on the third Tuesday of each month stating at 6:30 p.m.  Its next meeting is March 19.

By Kara KImbrough Christians celebrate Easter for one reason: to commemorate the resurrection of Christ three days following his death. As long as we remember this important fact and celebrate its true meaning, there's nothing wrong with enjoying a festive Easter brunch, lunch or dinner filled with favorite dishes. Likewise, I don't see a problem with adding a fun touch to the day by making a festive rabbit cake or other traditional treat. After all, holidays are important for another reason; creating lifelong memories. Special holiday meals, especially Easter lunch on this holiest of days, are times that we never get back. Adding to my own special holiday memories are stories from readers who share their favorite holiday traditions. One reader recalled waking up on Eastern morning to the aroma of her mother’s ham baking in the oven before church. Decades later, another longs for a slice of her grandmother’s lemon meringue pie served on fine chine and eaten with silver forks. Her “treasures,” were only brought out for special meals. And a friend has been making "bunny cake" with his daughter ever since she was a baby. This year's creation will be Bunny Cake #33. However, Easter food choices go back centuries further than our own family tables. The practice of eating lamb on Easter has its roots in early Passover observances before the birth of Christ. Baked ham became an Easter staple for economic reasons. In the olden days, ham was one of the first fresh meats available after a long winter. I'm not sure why cheesecake was added to many Easter menus; I'm just glad it did. Websites and magazines right now are full of cute and crafty Easter dinner ideas. I succumbed to the temptation to make a bunny bread bowl as the centerpiece for a dip and vegetable tray. It comes together in minutes; unlike the upright bunny cake I made years ago that slowly got fatter as its heavy head sunk into the lower layers. I will only say it was made with good intentions, the small children seemed to enjoy it and the photos are still funny to this day. Beyond Christ's resurrection, isn't that what Easter celebrations are all about? Spending time with family and friends and making memories that'll last a lifetime. Happy Easter! Bunny Bread Bowl and Dip 1 round sourdough bread or King's Hawaiian round read (I used King's Hawaiian bread since my supermarket didn't have sourdough) 1 long French baguette (or trim down regular French bread loaves to resemble ears) Matchstick carrots for bunny's mouth and whiskers (can also use fresh asparagus spears for whiskers) Sliced vegetables for bunny's features and for dipping (olives, pickles, etc.) Easy Tzatziki Dip (You can substitute another favorite dip, but this one is light and springlike) 2 cups plain Greek yogurt 1 cup peeled, shredded or diced cucumber 2 tablespoons lemon juice (more to taste) 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill Salt and pepper to taste Strain yogurt to remove excess moisture. Peel and sliced cucumber. In a food processor or blender, pulse together yogurt, cucumber, dill, garlic and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add more of any seasoning you desire. To assemble bunny: Hollow out bread, leaving sturdy border; reserve leftover bread pieces. Slice ends of narrow baguette and place on top for "ears." using rounded ends for tops. (Hollow out ears and fill with dip, if desired). Form bunny's eyes, nose, whiskers and mouth with vegetables like olives, pickles carrots, etc. Fill bowl with dip and serve with torn bread pieces, chopped vegetables and crackers. Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer and travel agent from Mississippi. Email her at kkrpco@yahoo.com.

By Guest Columnist Stephanie Duguid As part of the Mississippi Health Ambassador Initiative, Dr. Trey Clark from the University of Mississippi Medical Center sheds light on the critical importance of heart health through Heart Healthy 101’s “Life’s Simple 7 Cardiovascular disease strikes hard and fast, claiming a life every 36 seconds nationwide.  Shockingly, 1 in 4 deaths in Mississippi is attributed to this silent killer, highlighting the urgent need for proactive measures to safeguard our communities. “Life’s Simple 7” -- a comprehensive guide endorsed by health professionals worldwide -- encompasses seven pillars, each integral to a heart-healthy lifestyle, that are beacons of hope in the fight against heart disease: 1. Manage Blood Pressure: Keeping blood pressure within a healthy range (typically below 120/80 mm Hg) is crucial for preventing heart attacks and strokes. Simple lifestyle changes like reducing salt intake, exercising regularly, and managing stress can make a significant difference. 2.  Control Cholesterol: High LDL cholesterol levels can clog arteries and increase the risk of heart disease. Monitoring cholesterol levels through regular check-ups and adopting a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while limiting saturated and trans fats, can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. 3. Reduce Blood Sugar:  Elevated blood sugar levels not only increase the risk of diabetes but also contribute to heart disease. Monitoring blood sugar levels, staying physically active, and consuming a balanced diet low in added sugars can help prevent complications related to high blood sugar. 4. Get Active: Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days per week. 5. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is a significant risk factor for heart disease. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition, regular exercise and adequate sleep is crucial for reducing the burden on the heart. 6. Eat Healthy:  A heart-healthy diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats while limiting processed foods, sugary beverages, and excessive salt intake. Small  \dietary changes over time can lead to significant improvements in heart health. 7. Stop Smoking:  Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for heart disease. Quitting smoking is one of the best things individuals can do to improve their heart health and overall well-being. Support resources and cessation programs are available to help individuals kick the habit for good. The essence of Heart Health 101 lies in knowing your numbers.  Regular check-ups and screenings empower individuals to track their progress and make informed decisions about their health.  However, while the concept may be simple, the execution is anything but easy. It requires dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to sustainable lifestyle changes.  “Life’s Simple 7.” Contrary to popular belief, our genetic makeup doesn’t dictate our destiny. We hold the reins on our health, capable of steering it in the right direction with the right choices.  Motivation is our compass on this journey, guiding us through the ups and downs with unwavering resolve.  Remember, it’s not an all-or-none scenario.  Every step, no matter how small, contributes to the greater goal of optimal heart health. Sustainability is key, emphasizing the importance of building habits that stand the test of time. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us not forget the beating heart at the center of it all. With Heart Health 101 as our roadmap, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and resilience.  Together, let us rewrite the narrative of cardiovascular disease in Mississippi, one healthy heart at a time. EDITOR'S NOTE:  Stephanie Duguid is owner of Do Good ProHealth (CPR Classes) and Do Good Leadership (motivational speaking, and leadership and success coaching).

Wesson High School (WHS) Cobras senior running back Zevante Stapleton has inked scholarships both academically and athletically to play on the collegiate level at NCAA Division III Lyon College in Batesville, Arkansas.  Stapleton was a two-year all-district running back who was a tremendous asset to the Cobras.  At the signing ceremony were  (left to right front)  Annie Montgomery, his aunt; Stapleton, LaQuanda Doss, his mother; (left to right back) Josh Garrett, WHS Assistant Football Coach; Jeremy Loy, WHS Athletic Director/Head Football Coach; Jose Stapleton, his father; Hank Jordan, WHS Assistant Football Coach; and Steve Barrington, WHS Assistant Football Coach.

Enter To Win Vintage Market Days Tickets We want to give you more of what you want to see - PLUS some free tickets to the Vintage Market Days of Mississippi event! To win tickets, just fill out the form below with your name, email address, the paper you read, and tell us what you would like to see more of in your paper. Ticket winners will be chosen on April 19, 2024 at Noon and will be contacted by email.

By Guest Columnist Eddie Smith If you wonder what plants can be used in shaded areas of your landscape, I suggest that hardy and low-maintenance ferns are a great choice for adding lush, green foliage. Ferns come in a variety of sizes, textures and colors that can add visual interest to darker areas of the landscape. While we can grow lots of ferns in hanging baskets and pots, picking the ones to plant in the ground is a bit trickier. Imagine a fern that’s both bold and beautiful, and you’ve got the Autumn fern. It’s not very tall and has frilly leaves. The best part?  The leaves start off a green-copper color and then turn a deep, lush green as the seasons change.  The Autumn fern is a reliable friend for your shade garden, always looking good and providing a pop of color.  It is a deciduous fern that typically grows up to two feet tall and wide, preferring partial to full shade and well-drained soil. It is deer-resistant and drought-tolerant, making it a great choice for many different types of garden settings. If you’re into evergreen ferns, the Japanese Holly fern is a winner.  I love this fern because its dark green fronds are shiny and look a bit like holly leaves. Fronds are pinnately lobed, which means lobes are arranged on either side of a central axis, and their sharp, serrated edges give the plant a spiky texture.  This fancy fern is a favorite for folks who like their gardens to look good all the time.  The Japanese Holly fern typically grows up to tw feet tall and wide, preferring partial to full shade and well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It tolerates a wide range of soil types but does best in slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. It is relatively easy to care for and a great addition to shady gardens or landscapes. If you are looking for a native plant, the Southern Wood fern is a great selection.  These plants are bright green with leaves that appear lacy and sit on woody stems. The little leaf parts are paired up along the stem and have a fancy, serrated edge. As you move up the stem, the leaves get smaller, creating a cool pattern.  The Southern Wood fern is a natural decoration that adds texture and interest to shady areas. So, if you’re thinking about creating a charming shady space, consider the Autumn, Japanese Holly and Southern Wood ferns. They each will bring their own style to your garden, adding different colors, textures and shapes.  Watch your shade garden turn into a beautiful and timeless place filled with nature’s green beauty. Pearl River County coordinator with the Mississippi State University Extension Service. He is also host of the popular Southern Gardening television programs. Locate Southern Gardening products online at http://extension.msstate.edu/shows/southern-gardening.

Wesson Attendance Center (WAC) faculty and staff named three students this year for the school's annual Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame inductees are chosen based on four criteria:  leadership, academics, character and school participation. Each year, five percent of the senior class is selected to receive this highest honor.  This year, Aidan Ameer Brice, Mallory Elise Sanders, and Julianna Rose Wilson were selected. Aidan Brice is the son of Cory and Tomeka Brice. Brice was chosen as Mr. Wesson, is an honor roll student, and has received numerous academic and Cobra awards.  He is a member of the cross country, basketball, track and robotics teams and a member of Senior Beta Club and the Cobra Band.  Brice received the Most Helpful award, best section award in band, best defensive player award in basketball, Mr. Hustle award, Most Valuable athlete in track and best male distant runner award.  He is a member of St. Peter Rock Church, where he is an active choir member.  His is undecided on his college choice at this time, but plans to study Neuroscience and to run cross country and track on the collegiate level. Mallory Sanders is the daughter of Mark and Misty Sanders. She is an honor roll student and has received outstanding achievement academic awards in various subjects throughout her school career. She is a member of the Senior Beta Club, ACT Gold Club, and the varsity softball, soccer and volleyball teams; and has received All-Region, best defensive player, and best offensive player awards in fastpitch softball, and the coach's award in soccer.  Sanders is an active member of Little Bahala Baptist Church, where she is a youth representative, a vacation bible school volunteer and has served on mission trips to both Guatemala and Ecuador.  She plans to continue her softball and academic career at Longwood University, where she plans to major in kinesiology with administration and leadership in sports and exercises concentration.  She hopes to become an athletic director. Julianna Wilson is the daughter of Albert and Deona Wilson. She was chosen as Miss Wesson, Senior Class President, Most Popular in Senior Who's Who, and STAR Student. Wilson has received numerous highest average awards in courses throughout her school career, is a Superintendent's Honor Roll Scholar and has also won numerous athletic awards as a member of the varsity softball, volleyball, soccer, and golf teams. She is a member of the Senior Beta Club and the Gold ACT Club, involved in Reach One, was selected to attend Girls State, and has volunteered for community service projects, including the Mt. Zion Church food drive, Operation Christmas Child, and the Woodmen Life Cemetery cleanup project.  Wilson plans to attend Co-Lin before going on to the University of Southern Mississippi to major in nursing, with becoming a Psych Nurse as her career goal.

By Bob Garver I’m not going to sugarcoat it: this was not a good week for new releases. The battle for the top spot at the domestic box office was a fierce one, with “Kung Fu Panda 4” in its second weekend narrowly edging out “Dune: Part Two” in its third. But after those two holdovers, the box office fell off a cliff, with newcomer “Arthur the King” taking a weak third place with barely a quarter of either’s take. Granted, the relatively small-scale production is not one that has ambitions of conquering the box office. It’s okay with being a nice little crowd-pleaser, which would be fine if it were actually more pleasing. Mark Wahlberg stars as Michael Light, the captain of a team of “adventure racers,” four-person teams that participate in multi-day races of over 500 miles across various treacherous terrains. He blew a big race three years ago, and he’s been stuck in a rut ever since. He stakes his family’s savings on one more shot at glory. His teammates are veteran navigator Chik (Ali Suliman), pretty-boy social media influencer Leo (Simu Liu), and rock-climbing prodigy Olivia (Nathalie Emmanuel). I’m not sure if it’s intentional or not, but Olivia gives one of the most awkward line deliveries I’ve ever heard. It’s very serious subject matter, and I felt bad laughing at it, but the timing is just crazy. A similar mistake was made by bad-movie classic “The Room,” but honestly, it’s even more egregious here. The race is grueling and frustrating and includes a truly harrowing zipline sequence. As predictable as it was that the characters were going to get out of it, I couldn’t help but put myself in their place and wonder if I might die of fright even before the risky rescue. The movie gets this scene right, even if it’s more heart-pounding than heart-warming. About halfway through the race, Michael notices that a stray dog has been following the team. He admires its perseverance, and since they can’t really stop it from following them at its own discretion, they adopt him as an unofficial fifth member. The dog treats Michael’s much-maligned meatballs like a meal fit for a king, so Michael calls him Arthur. The dog is good at sniffing out danger, and the whole team owes him a life debt after about two minutes. But he’s also very sickly, and probably has only days – maybe hours – to live. The rest of the movie is the dog-centric adventure we’ve been promised. Arthur brings a unique set of strengths and weaknesses to the team. They’re soon in first place, but hinderances from both man and beast mean that they may not hang onto it for long. Even after the race is over, there’s still a lengthy portion of the film devoted to the dog’s health. I wasn’t sure which way the movie was going to go until it put so much effort into misleading me that I knew it had to go the other way. “Arthur the King” is your typical inspirational dog movie mixed with your typical inspirational sports movie, although the sport in question happens to be several sports at once. It’s hard to get truly mad at a movie like this, but I can’t say it delivered a lot of bang for my buck, and that clunky bit of dialogue, just… woof. I definitely recommend the two movies at the top of the box office over this one. Grade: C- “Arthur the King” is rated PG-13 for some strong language. Its running time is 90 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu