The Co-Lin Athletic Alumni Association will induct six members into the Sports Hall of Fame during Homecoming festivities on Thursday, Oct. 26. This year’s class includes Kyle Beall, Louisville, Kentucky, Chassity Cubie of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Daniele Knight of Destrehan, Louisiana, Thomas Matthews of Clinton, Dequan Menzie of Richland and Amy Russell Riley of New Hebron. The six will be inducted during the Alumni Association Awards Reception at 3:15 p.m. in the Thames Center on the Wesson Campus. Beall is a 2002 graduate of Co-Lin, where he was a member of the Wolf Pack baseball team. While at Co-Lin knight he was named First Team All-American, First Team All-Region and First Team All-State in 2002. After Co-Lin, Beall played baseball at Coastal Carolina University and Carson-Newman University. He was named to the 2005 South Atlantic Conference All Tournament Team. He graduated from Carson-Newman with a degree in exercise science. He currently works as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist at Norton Healthcare in downtown Louisville, Kentucky. He is a member of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, Kentucky Association of Nurse Anesthetists and NULU Small Business Association. “It is truly humbling and an honor and privilege to be a part of such a prestigious group of former student athletes,” he said. Beall is married to Peyton Beall (‘02), formerly of Brookhaven Cubie is a 1998 graduate of Co-Lin, where she was a member of the Wolf Pack basketball team. During her freshman year at Co-Lin, she averaged 11.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.6 steals and 1.9 assists, and she was named to the Mississippi Association of Community and Junior Colleges (MACJC) First Team All State. In her sophomore year, she averaged 13.2 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.2 steals and 2.3 assists, and was named to the MACJC First Team All State, NJCAA ALL Region XXIII, NJCAA All Region XXIII All Tournament and NJCAA Third Team All American. During the 1996-1997 season, her team won the MACJC State Championship, NJCAA Region XXIII Championship, MACJC South Division Championship, and they participated in the NJCAA National Tournament. During the 1997 - 1998 season, her team won the MACJC South Division Championship and was runner-up in the MACJC State Championship and NJCAA Region XXIII Championship. After Co-Lin, Cubie played basketball at Southeastern Louisiana University. Knight is a 2010 graduate of Co-Lin, where she was a member of the Wolf Pack softball team. While at Co-Lin, she was named First Team All-Region and First Team All-State in 2009 and 2010. She was also selected for the All-Star game and her team won the state championship title both years. She set records for RBIs (49), doubles (16) and walks (27). She also struck out only six times during her freshman season at Co-Lin. After Co-Lin, Knight attended Louisiana College, where she received a Bachelor of Science in nursing. She also earned her Master of Science in nursing at Northwestern State University. She currently works as a nurse practitioner in the field of family practice. “This honor is a reflection of all of the hard work and dedication myself, my family, my teammates and our coaches put forth day in and day out,” she said. “I am proud to represent my team in the Hall of Fame.” Knight and her husband, James, have one son, Brooks, one daughter, June, and are expecting twins in January. Matthews is a 1988 graduate of Co-Lin, where he was a member of the Wolf Pack basketball team. While at Co-Lin, he was named to the First Team All-State and was named Most Valuable Player at the Mississippi Junior College All Star Game. After Co-Lin, Matthews continued his basketball career at Mississippi College, where he was named Gulf State Conference Newcomer of the Year and First Team Gulf South Conference. He then went on to play nine years in Portugal and Greece. He currently owns his own business, Corporate Security, in Clinton. He gives back by running a sports camp at the YMCA in downtown Jackson. “It is a great honor to be inducted into the Co-Lin Hall Fame, “ he said. “It has been my dream for a long time. The school has meant the world to me, and what I am today — a successful businessman and family man — all started with the values of hard work instilled in me the day I walked on campus.” He and his wife, Annie, have one son, Khristian. Menzie is a 2010 graduate of Co-Lin, where he was a member of the Wolf Pack football team. He was named a Second team All-American by the NJCAA following his sophomore season at Co-Lin. He garnered NJCAA All-Region 23 honors and was named the Most Valuable Defensive Back in the MACJC. He was also named to the First team All-State. After Co-Lin, Menzie attended the University of Alabama, where his team won a national championship. He received a bachelor’s degree in human environmental science. He was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2012 NFL draft, before continuing his career with the Detroit Lions and Carolina Panthers. He currently serves on the executive protection team at the Mississippi Highway Patrol. “It is a great honor and privilege to be inducted into the Co-Lin Sports Hall of Fame,” he said. He is married to Wolf Pack women’s basketball alumna TeAirra Wilbert Menzie, and they have five children: Alanna, DeAunni, Annelise, DeQuan, Jr., and Avianna. Riley is a 1987 graduate of Co-Lin, where she was a member of the Wolf Pack tennis team. While at Co-Lin, she earned the state and regional title in No. 2 singles and No. 1 doubles, and was ranked in the nation’s top 20 in 1986. Her team that year won the state and regional championship and was ranked in the nation’s top 10. She also won the state and regional title in No. 3 singles and was ranked in the nation’s top 20 in 1987. That team was the first Co-Lin tennis team to play in the NJCAA National Tournament in Midland, Texas. After Co-Lin, Riley attended the University of Southern Mississippi, where she received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She taught at Prentiss Christian Academy for three years before joining the staff at New Hebron Attendance Center. During her 27.5 years at New Hebron, she served on numerous committees and coached basketball, track and cheer. She remains active in the USTA adult tennis league. “I am in awe of the fact that I am among some of the best athletes that have come through the Co-Lin athletic program throughout the years,” she said. “I am forever grateful for this opportunity.” Riley is a member of New Hebron Baptist Church, where she currently serves as church hostess, greeting coordinator and member of the children’s ministry committee. She was married to the late Jason Riley for 29 years, and they are parents of three daughters: Abby Crider (husband Jeret), Carly Reeves (husband Blake), and the late Jacy Lee Riley. They also have four grandchildren, AnaMolly Crider, Adeline Crider, Collins Reeves and Hutch Reeves, and a fifth grandchild is expected in April. Admission to the Alumni Awards Reception is free. For more information on Homecoming events, visit www.colin.edu.

With dry conditions, low humidity and winds, fire risk – especially wildfires – is an ongoing threat in the area. Burn bans remain in effect, and people should not attempt open burning of any kind. Because one spark can cause a fire, people should also exercise caution in using lawn mowers, bush hogs and chain saws; disposing cigarettes and allowing trailer chains to drag on roadways. Already, trash-burning, bush hogging, grass heating up due to the muffler of a lawn mower and a squirrel chewing on a transformer have ignited fires in Lincoln County, where Emergency Management Agency Director Chris Reid is warning that he will issue citations for violations of the burn ban. Firefighters and the Mississippi Forestry Commission fought a forest fire in Copiah County that consumed 49 acres at the intersection of Harvey and St. John Road in the Pleasant Hill Community on Weyerhauser Company property near the Homochitto National Forest. Local volunteer fire departments say they can use more help with the threat of blazes looming.

What is a Sewer Water Slushee? Put any of your favorite fresh fruits into the blender. Add a bit of vanilla or cinnamon. Then pour in a splash of your favorite milk and some sparkling clean ice cubes. Blend it all together, then pour into a tall glass and sip away. Oh, but before you blend it, be sure to add a tablespoon of sewer water – straight from your local sewer. Sounds yummy, huh. After all, it does have healthy milk, vitamin-filled fruit, and clean refreshing ice with the faint hint of cinnamon and vanilla in the background. What’s not to love? Nothing, if you can ignore the fact that you are drinking awful-tasting and seriously contaminated sewer water that will definitely cause you to develop serious problems. Or instead, how about a swigging down a ‘Sickening Suicide Slushee?’ Made with the same selection of fresh fruit, cinnamon, vanilla and ice. But instead of adding milk, just pour in a full cup of thick soupy sewer water before blending it all together and slamming it down in one big gulp. Mmm-mmm-mmm, now THAT’S a meal in itself! The sippers of the Sewer Water Slushee make fun of the Sickening Suicide Slushee slammers. “You stupid idiots! You are killing yourself, don’t you even care?!” But the Sickening Suicide Slammers glare at the Sewer Water Sippers and angrily yell, “Hey, #*%, back off! It’s my life, and I can drink whatever and whenever I want!” What am I talking about? The average Sewer Water Slushee recipe contains things like a responsible job, paying the bills and spending time with loved ones. Eating healthy food and trying to get in a little exercise each week. Loving the kids. Maybe even attending a local church on Sunday. Some good healthy ingredients. But it also has another tiny ingredient. Might be the ‘harmless’ flirtation going on at work. Or the end-of-the-day relaxing time with a favorite hard drink. It could be the recreational drug that brings on a peaceful enjoyment of life. Or having sticky fingers every once in a while. Maybe the little white lie occasionally to keep out of trouble. You name it, a tiny portion of whatever you add is in there. But the Sickening Suicide Slushee recipe? I don’t even have to describe its major ingredients – you’ve already got the idea. Here’s my point. BOTH SLUSHEES ARE ABLE TO KILL YOU! And it does not matter whether you sip it slowly or you slam it. They both have contaminated sewer water. And there simply is no avoiding the fact that drinking sewer water is taking in body-murdering bacteria. Either drink IS going to harm you and can eventually destroy what you love about living. Yes, Sewer Water sippers, you can laugh at the Sickening Suicide slammers - while you ignore what’s happening to your own life. But it is still happening. One contented sip at a time.

Halloween should be scary and fun, not scary and dangerous. Keep trick-or-treaters safe from injury by following advice of paramedics at AMR. Remember: More youngsters are struck by cars on Halloween than on any other day. Injuries from falls are also common. Paramedics at AMR give these 13 Halloween safety tips: 1. It is crucial trick-or-treaters can see well and be seen easily. Avoid costumes with masks because masks can interfere with vision and hamper breathing. Instead, use makeup on the kids’ faces. 2. Go out in small groups. Decide on a definite route and timetable before leaving your house. Finish your trip before dark. 3. An adult should stay with and constantly watch all of the children. The younger the children, the more adults should be constantly present and alert. Keep the children together. Do not let them run ahead of their chaperones. 4. Costumes should be brightly colored, reflect light and have a label that says “flame retardant.” Stripe reflective tape across the front and back of the costume including the shoes. Give each child “glow in the dark” necklaces, bracelets or anklets called “glow sticks,” but do not let the children carry such items since they tie up one of the hands. Avoid hats, helmets, wigs, beards and capes. 5. Costumes should fit well, not so loosely as to trip over or snag on things. Wear flat shoes with closed toes that are the right size for the child. Avoid over-sized shoes such a clown would wear. 6. Keep at least one of each child’s hands free. Instead of letting a child carry a candy bag by hand, add a strap to the bag and drape the bag over the child’s shoulder. Be sure the bag doesn’t drag on the ground. 7. Give each child a flashlight to carry. The other hand should remain empty. 8. Stay on sidewalks and walkways, walk facing traffic, cross streets only at intersections, don’t run across lawns and don’t jump ditches. 9. Approach only those houses with outside lights on. 10. Trick-or-treaters should not enter any candy-giver’s home. 11. Do not allow the kids to eat any treats until the group returns home and an adult examines each bag. Eat nothing that is even slightly suspicious. Look for items that appear to have been unwrapped and then re-wrapped. 12. Dress appropriately for the weather, stay alert and keep handy a small first aid kit for scraped knees and other minor injuries. If a serious injury happens, dial 911 immediately. 13. Drivers should be especially vigilant for trick-or-treaters who might dart across the street. Moving flowerpots and other objects from porches and walkways will help prevent injuries from tripping and falling. AMR says, “Boo!” to you, too! Serving 20 Mississippi counties, AMR companies are the state’s busiest ambulance services. Operating in 20 Mississippi counties, AMR companies are the state’s busiest ambulance services.

If you’re a local sky-gazer near the Co-Lin Wesson campus and see an unidentified flying object, it could well be a drone piloted by Corey Hart, the graphics technician at the college. Since Hart shoots and designs video graphics for Co-Lin, the college chose him to make use of its drones when it decided to purchase two commercial models. “I learned all I could about them through reading and the internet, and got my Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) license to pilot the kind of regulated small unmanned aerial vehicles (SUAVs) the college bought,” Hart told an Institute for Learning in Retirement (ILR) workshop. Recreational SUAVs less than one-half -pound with limited altitude and distance capacities, which can be acquired in retail stores, do not need to be registered with the FAA and can be operated without a license, he explained At the workshop, Hart demonstrated the college’s workhorse commercial multi-rotor craft that measures a little more than a foot in length along a one-inch deep fuselage and from propeller to propeller in the front and rear. It can climb to 400 feet and travel about one mile in sight range when weather conditions are favorable. Hart piloted the craft with a simple remote device with starter buttons to activate the rotors and two control sticks to direct take-off, landing and flight, including altitude and distance. With a cellular phone app, he monitored and controlled an on-board camera. Since deploying drones, Co-Lin’s photography and videography has changed dramatically with ready use of aerial still photos and video clips.. “Drones have made aerial coverage with the variety of photographic and video techniques and perspectives they make possible a standard relatively low-cost graphics tool,” said Hart. “Fifteen years ago, you had to contract a manned aircraft and an aerial photographer. Now you activate your camera-equipped drone and take your picture or make your video from the ground with your cell phone. While graphics is the lion’s share of the work Co-Lin’s drones do, they can quickly and efficiently collect data flying over structures and land. “Not long ago, a storm damaged a portion of the scoreboard at Co-Lin’s Stone Stadium, and we flew our drone around and into it to assess the problem without erecting scaffolding or having workers climb ladders,” Hart said. “SUAVs have wide applications for power companies in monitoring their lines, real estate organizations in evaluating properties and agricultural firms in analyzing crop and grazing lands. DJI produced Co-Lin’s drones, and other major manufacturers include Yuneec, 3D Robotics, AeroVironment and Hubson, among an array of other companies. In addition to the small multi-rotor drones, UAV fixed wing, fixed wing hybrid and single rotor craft may be close to the size of manned aircraft, and take on larger tasks, including, but not limited to military, law enforcement, firefighting and farming tasks, Hart added. With Hart’s growing expertise in drones, Co-Lin has moved him into an instructional role in periodic drone training classes it offers. While he focused on drone technology and operational skills in early classes, student interests lie largely in becoming licensed for commercial work. “FAA knowledge related air traffic safety and the rules of flying, reading air maps and understanding weather maps are among the most important licensing requirements,” he explained. “The operational side of piloting drones is comparatively easy.”

By Kara Kimbrough What do you do when your football team is playing badly? Find a comfortable spot in the tailgate tent and find solace in the dips. Lack of entertaining football action can be tolerated and in some cases, totally ignored by continuously dipping chips, crackers, chopped vegetables, toasted bread sticks and more into tangy black bean salsa...hot seafood dip...cool and creamy vegetable spread...just a small sample of the dip delicacies at the Homecoming tent at my alma mater a couple of weeks ago. Dips have come a long way since a California housewife mixed a cup of sour cream with Lipton’s onion soup mix in 1952 and called it California dip. Today, there's a homemade version without the freeze-dried onion bits. And dips served cold, warm, baked, bubbly and hot can be made with every possible ingredient, filler and topping number in the hundreds, possibly thousands of recipes. I enjoy almost every dip known to man, especially those that double as a sandwich spread. Here are just a few of my favorite dip recipes to be enjoyed when your favorite team is playing poorly...or even when it's not. Black Bean Salsa Dip 4 (15 ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained well 1 (16 ounce) package frozen shoepeg or yellow corn, thawed 1 green onion, diced 1/4 red onion, finely chopped 2/3 cup olive oil 4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon white sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro Stir the black beans, corn, green onion and red onion together in a bowl. Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, cumin and cilantro together, then pour over vegetables (add mixture to taste); then stir. Chill in refrigerator several hours or overnight. Cold Crab Dip 1 package imitation crab meat, chopped fine 8-ounce cream cheese 16 ounces soup cream 1 packet Hidden Valley ranch seasoning Small bell pepper, chopped fine 1 small yellow onion, chopped fine Mix together crab, bell pepper and onion. Combine cream cheese, sour cream and ranch packet. Mix everything together and refrigerate at least two hours. Serve with crackers or chips or serve on croissant or sliced bread. Louisiana Hot Crab Dip 1/2 pound jumbo lump crabmeat, 8-ounce cream cheese 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup grated Parmesan 3 tablespoons minced green onions (white and green parts) 2 large garlic cloves, minced 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon hot sauce 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning Salt and pepper to taste Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Combine all of the ingredients in a skillet and gently stir until thoroughly mixed. Adjust seasoning to taste. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until lightly golden on top. Serve hot, with hot sauce on the side for those who like it spicy. Original Cream Cheese Shrimp Dip 8-ounce cream cheese, softened 3/4 pound cooked cleaned shrimp, chopped (about 2 cups) 3/4 cup cocktail sauce 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese 2 green onions, xhopped fine Spread cream cheese onto bottom of shallow bowl. Toss shrimp with cocktail sauce; spoon over cream cheese. Top with remaining ingredients and chill before serving. Beefy Cheese Dip 1 pound ground beef 1 pound sausage 2 pounds Velveeta cheese, shredded 16-ounce jar salsa 1 bunch green onions, chopped Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir ground beef and sausage in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 7-10 minutes. Drain and discard grease. While the meat is cooking, combine Velveeta, salsa and green onions in another large skillet over low heat. Stir constantly until cheese melts. Stir meat into the melted cheese mixture until incorporated. Simmer, uncovered, for a few more minutes or until ready to serve. Creamy Vegetable Dip 8-ounce sour cream ½ cup mayonnaise 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning mix 1 tablespoon grated onion ¼ teaspoon dried dill or 2-3 tablespoons chopped fresh dill ¼ teaspoon seasoning salt Whisk together all the ingredients. Serve with fresh vegetables and/or chips. (The flavors get better with time; dip can be made several days in advance and refrigerated until ready to serve.) Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer and travel agent from Mississippi. Email her at kkprco@yahoo.com.

By Guest Columnist Stephanie Duguid October is a month of double significance: National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, reminding us of the importance of early detection and treatment, and Eat Together, Eat Better, emphasizing the value of shared meals. However, not widely known is the potent connection between nutrition and cancer prevention. It is an opportune moment to explore nutritional choices that can reduce the risk of cancer. Here are ten actionable steps to make better dietary choices: 1. Embrace Antioxidant-Rich Foods. What to eat: Fruits and vegetables, especially berries, citrus fruits, nuts, green leafy veggies and tomatoes. Why it helps: Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which can damage cells and lead to cancer. 2. Choose Whole Grains Over Processed Grains. What to eat: Oats, quinoa, brown rice, barley, and whole grain bread. Why it helps: Whole grains are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and can help prevent colorectal cancers. They also regulate blood sugar levels, curbing diabetes risk, which is linked to certain cancers. 3. Limit Processed and Red Meats. What to avoid: Bacon, sausages, ham, and excessive amounts of red meats like beef and lamb. Why it is important: Regular consumption of processed meats has been linked to colorectal cancer, while high intake of red meat is also associated with increased cancer risk. 4. Incorporate Omega-3 Fatty Acids. What to eat: Fatty fish (like salmon, mackerel, and sardines), flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. Why it helps: Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties that may help prevent cancer. 5. Limit Alcohol Intake. What to avoid: Excessive drinking. Moderation is key. Why it is important: Alcohol can increase the risk of several cancers, including breast, mouth, throat, liver, and colorectal cancer. 6. Boost Cruciferous Vegetable Intake. What to eat: Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, and Brussels sprouts. Why it helps: These veggies contain compounds that have shown potential in slowing the growth of cancer cells. 7. Prioritize Plant-Based Protein Sources. What to eat: Beans, lentils, chickpeas, tofu, tempeh, and edamame. Why it helps: These foods provide essential nutrients without the saturated fats often found in animal products. 8. Limit Sugar and Refined Carbohydrates. What to avoid: Sugary drinks, sweets, and white bread. Why it is important: High sugar intake can lead to obesity, a known risk factor for various cancers. 9. Spice It Up. What to eat: Turmeric, garlic, and ginger. Why it helps: These spices have properties that can inhibit cancer cell growth. 10. Stay Hydrated with Clean Water. What to drink: Filtered water; limit sugary beverages. Why it is important: Water helps detoxify the body, while sugary drinks can contribute to obesity. As your think about diet during Eat Together, Eat Better Month, remember the benefits of communal dining. Sharing meals fosters emotional well-being, reduces stress, and allows for the exchange of healthy recipes and habits. Together, as a community, we can adopt nutritional choices that not only reduce cancer risks but also promote holistic health. Let’s pledge to make mindful, healthful choices, intertwining the essence of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month with the spirit of Eat Together, Eat Better. Your plate, your choice; make it count for cancer prevention. EDITOR'S NOTE: Stephanie Duguid is owner of Do Good ProHealth (CPR Classes) and Do Good Leadership (motivational speaking, and leadership and success coaching).

By Bob Arnold Wesson Aldermen have adopted a 2023-2024 budget with revenues up 22.20 percent and expenditures up 17.45 that requires no tax rate increases. For the fiscal year, the Town is projecting total expenses of $1,345.211 with revenues of $1,431,757 compared FY 2023’s revenues of $1,170,757 and expenses of $1,145261. A whopping 37.5 percent increase in revenues from sales taxes to $220,000, and $100,000 budgeted for general government and water-sewer revenues from the Mississippi Use Tax helped the Aldermen maintain the Town’s millage rate tax levy at 35.53. The Town's budget encompasses revenues that pay for general government expenses, the police and street departments, Old School Community Center and public library; and revenues and expenses for the fire and water/sewer departments, and water meters. Revenues anticipated for the General Fund will climb by almost 19 percent to $730,600 during the fiscal year to support: General government expenditures budgeted at $242,650 primarily reflecting increases in personnel costs – salary expenses ($75,000 to $80,000), retirement expenses ($12,000 to $18,400) and health insurance expenses ($7,000 to $15,000) – and an 11-fold increase in building insurance costs to $14,000. Wesson Police Department (WPD) salaries up to $235,000 from $200,000 and retirement expenses up to $44,650 from $28,000 that help account for a projected 19.7 increase in forecasted WPD expenditures to $361,750. A 9.2 percent increase in projected street department expenses to $91,050, including double the expenditures on gas and oil to $4,000. Old School Community Center and library expenditures are expected to maintain FY 2023 levels at $20,200 and $12,460 respectively. Again in FY 2024, the Town is not budgeting for Old School rental income. With an anticipated 14.25 percent increase in Wesson Volunteer Fire Department (WVFD) expenses to $28,450 and only a 3.17 percent increase in its revenues to $32,532, WVFD’s budgeted balance is expected to decline from $6,632 to $4,082. The Department is expected to see expenses increase for uniforms ($3,000 to $5,000) and utilities ($3,250 to $4,000). A projected 15 percent increase in water-sewer expenses to $583,651 should be more than covered by a 28 percent revenue increase to $661,600 paced by hikes in metered sales to customers, garbage pickup fees and sewer charges to customers, and the Mississippi Use Tax. Water meter revenues and expenses are again budgeted at $7,025 and $5,000 respectively.

Superintendent’s List All A’s First Grade: Bryce Nolan Ashley Ansleigh Paige Barker Shelby Easton Beach Smith Ellison Beach Avrie Reign Berry Barrett Eli Burns Justin Blake Cantrell, Jr. Wesley Benjamin Carlisle Eden Kinley Collins Mashayla Almeda Darden Hadleigh Reeves Denton Hayes Michael Duet Noah Ryan Hall Randilyn Lera Harrison Rex Allen Holly Finnick Alexander Jackson Jerry Corey Wayne Johnson Harper Nellie King John Raylan Leggett Bailen Vincent McLemore Cannon Swayzi Miller Mason Kyle Morea Emberlynn Rivers Parker Daxton Hailey Phillips Lena Louise Proctor Andrew John Earl Rager Preslee Storm Rice Ellie Blake Riddell Kemper Klaire Shannon Easton Lee Smith Aadyn Ingram Sparks Matthew Daylan Stephens Anniston Claire Walker Wyatt Joe Wallen Joshua Jacob Williams Layla Renee Williams Karter Lee Wilson Sage Elaine Young Second Grade: Alyvia Brooke Bacot Gatlin Mikell Burch Emilia Mallory Case Grace JoLee Clark Karly Kay Dowd Mathew James Dunn Audrey Faith Farnham Kennedy Ann Garcia Sawyer Lynn Goodson Emma Layne Howell Charleston Belle Nunnery Kyaan Pannu Ian Santiago Torres - Agustin Mila Elizabeth Olivia Wallace Owen James-Kraft Whitaker Ansley Lela Williams Braxton Cole Wilson Third Grade: Kade D’wayne Banks Abigail Taylor Brooks Liam Brady Hamilton Gourney Quade Hunley Lucas Corey June Cooper Michael King Bentley Hicks Luke Lakenn Faith Luke Sarah Elliot Oberschmidt Hayden Skye Ryan Paisley Noell Skinner London Paris Wallace Kaden Wayne Westrope Clark Dean-Kraft Whitaker Fourth Grade: Paris Marie Beasley Bently Easton Burns Madelynn Faye Coleman Asher Rhodes Formby Leighton Alaine Hall Abigail Grace Holloway Georgia Rose Jackson Makinley Ann Johnson Reagan Nicole Johnson Griffin Reed Newell Jamiah J’ream Robinson Ella Walker Shelton Braxton Thomas Shoemake James Brantley Smith Dalila Faye Young Fifth Grade: Joshua Cottrell Armistad Taylor Rae’ Brown Amelia Grace Farnham Katie Grace Garcia Zacari Janae Giles June Grace Goodson Laney Brooke Hamilton Amy Joyce Hill-Ramirez Charleigh Bree Howell Sadie Bao Nhi Nguyen Leah Grace Norman Karaily Faith Russell Mary Travis Smith Lily-Ann Faith Sykes Alexander Hayes Touchstone Aubree Rose Williams Sixth Grade: Natalie Brooke Allen Jaiyana Minyon Barlow Avalyna Carol Becerra Mason Reed Brister Ja’thai Danielle Burrows Case Henry Cliburn Lyla Joan Formby James Dalton Jackson Addison Ruth Lee Bailey Marie Lee Rylan Bo Morgan Lexie Catherine Ryan Rushten Keith Williams Seventh Grade: Bronson Reid Beach Emory Lee Britt Andrew Tyler Brooks Rowan Christina Clarke Weston Emory Hughes Jaxton R P Hunley Makyia Natori Jackson Meredith Kate McKenzie Anna Linley Newell Thomas Brody Ponder Skyla Tran Sandoval Brooks Alexander Shoemake Caroline Rose Smith Eighth Grade: Adyson Rose Dowd Ellisa Eden Hall Kathryn Elaine Hewitt Michaella Noble Allyson Blair Selman Isabella Grace Sills Ninth Grade: Riley Beth Bush Jacey Mikayla Shannon Madyson Brooke Westrope Tenth Grade: Blair Mitchell Boyd Alexis Michelle Brown Dakiyah Kristian Butler Brendon Robert Duguid Noah Nelson Marion Howell Alana Caroline Hux Macy Rebecca Loy Tripp Radford Martin Katherine Blair Mathis Katherine Rae Norwood Kylie Morgan Rorie Samuel Cade Scopel Baylor Lane Smith Mary Margaret Woods Eleventh Grade: Lilly Kate Channell Taylor Nicole Davis Cailley Elise Duplantis Allison Paige Hamilton Mary Gwyn Hynum Gracyn Jewell Martin Hunter Blaylock Meredith Eric Roland Merrill Conner Creel Neely Maggie Grace Runnels Aubree Lee Smith Avery Anna Watts Twelfth Grade: Rachel Charleigh Anderson Ethan Stanley Bonsall Paris Juanita Byrd Ja’niyah La’shae Byther Sheila Samantha Casanova Brandon Davis Ebarb Cloe Nicole Elkins C’ryah Diana Haynes Alan Tin Luong Jayla Lashay Martin Cameron Elizabeth Miller Matthew Gaven Mitchell Abby Nicole Mooney Kaylee Layne Prine Mallory Elise Sanders Paul Weslie Smith Hailey Nicole Walker Melody Lynn Waltman Julianna Rose Wilson Karen Itzel Zarate Lopez Principal’s Honor Roll First Grade: Levi Ira Bland Annastasia Marie Alexandria Cantrell Jenesis Jylise Chism Makayla Jean Darden Annslea Brooks Hogan Alexander Jimenez Batz Camden Slayde King Jackson Lea Roberts Haisley Jo Rushing Lucas Waylon Russell Khloe Rose Rutledge Brandon Warren Sellers Aiden Matthew Slade Elijah Michael Wallen Emma Grace Whitaker Second Grade: Delilah Brooke Beckerson Mason Jeremiah Beckerson Sami Elizabeth Curole Darrion Lashawn Davis Gavin Louis Dickerson Siya Ann Esponge Lucas Robert Givens Tateam Isley Grubbs Hadley Grace Heard Whitley Faith Heard Jones Taylor Hogan Autumn Rae Ann Howard Makayla April Leggett Austin Ray Owens Myles Martin Smith Magnolia Marie Spears Elijah Clay Taylor Colton Lane Wall Chase Gerald Wallen William Scott Warren Third Grade: Riley Aren Berch Emilie Elizabeth Caballero Eli Hunter Carr Colton Nickoles Craft Zymiria Nayana Crawford Re’Niya Gernae Curtis Hylan Beau Denton Jaxon Roger Keith Dunn Joanna Michelle Hill-South Charles Ray Jordan Graycee Nevaeh Orgeron Bristol Lee Rorie Marilyn Faye Shoop Owen Robert Shumaker Connor Jacob Tassin Nevaeh Nicole-Rayne Tate Jayce Dean Taylor Gannon Owen O’Bryant Tompkins Ashton Shawn Watson Maleigh RaeAnn Williams Fourth Grade: Madalyn Rose Benton Derren Jess Brister, Jr. Autumn Daae Clark Addisyn Elaine Coleman Jayce Donnell Coleman Bryant Price Collins Braylee Michelle Davis Matilda Rivers Dugas Cole Russell Harris Laken Dakota Hogan David Jeremiah Johnson Erika Faith Klages Hadley Rayne McManus Annabel Elizabeth Owens Kori Catherine Peets Huntley Ty Rushing Madison Grace Smith Brantly Wayne Strickland Trajan Alexander Upton Garrett Tyler Victory Antonio Terrell Walker, Jr. Elise Parks Williams Fifth Grade: Kace Mitchell Allen Ambernae Unique Armstrong Zada Michelle Ashley Jonathan Tyler Beckerson Whisper Grace Breland Breeze Adam Brewer Jude Anakin Carr Maya Elizabeth Cline Dusti Bleue Coleman Fenix Lawton Costilow Luis Gustavo Flores-De La Cruz Harper Elise Johnson Jayce Dylan Lawrence Mark Kypton Lofton Hyram Cash Newman Matthew Dewayne Shannon Molli Ann Shannon Braylen Ahmad Smith Keagan Timothy-Dale Stevens Kendall Claire Turner Molly Grace Waltman Grayson Kendall Westmorland Evelyn Jayne Westrope Jax Mereel White Jeremy Tyree Williams Addilee Denise Windom Sydney Alette Yaskovic Sixth Grade: Haley Lane Bates Annie Rose Lynne Cuevas Lucian Gabriel Darce’ Cade Lawrence Duplantis Glory Ra’elasha Freeman Walker Byron Garrett Chardae Lasundra Hooks Lillian Grace Jackson Jackson Daniel James Adelyn Grace Jefcoat JaKaiden Martez Johnson Colson Drake Lee Mae Reeves Logan Makenzee Miller Jon Carter Morris Chase Preston Navarro Acelynn Kate Nuckles Haydn Alan Rushing Santana Silvan-Martinez William Laikin Tarver Karleigh Isabella Wallace Jayden Latrell Williams Seventh Grade: Braeleigh Addison Barnett Carson Alexander Barrington Walker Jake Breazeale Brenton Austin Brewer Jazmyn Tacari Brown Mikelyn Anne Douglas Jaicee Rayne Durr Christina Louise Elkins Addison Mackinzie Guillory Jacob Lea Hogan Grant Young Hynum Kennedi Grace Nicole Johnson Evan Scott Lambright Sarah Grace Logan Robert Malcolm Lowery, III Tucker Elliott Martin Jayden Alden Miller Tyler Lane Morris Preston Wayne Morse Anne Houston Peets Charles Colby Potter, Jr. Adalyn Claire Prestridge Madison Grace Rowley Jason Wyatt Runnels Isabella Nicole Shoop Halle Elaine Short Hayden Ryan Tucker Hartley Victoria Walker Collin Blake Watts Chastin Zion Wilson Eighth Grade: Zoey Madison Ashley Matthew Ayden Branch Anna Frances Caballero Kenslie Jerldine Carter Payton Calynn Cloy Adalynn Rayne Coleman Hunter Dean Granger Laina Brooke Hart Tristan Gaige Holloway Brandon Michael Hutt Aleyia Laurie Kees Braydon Seth McNair Slade Easton Oberschmidt Tiffany Marie Rials Phypher Lyn Roberts Addison Brylee Rorie Allie Dawn Ryan Madelyn Elaine Sanders Kimberly Silvan Martinez Summer Rayne Starkey Mallory Grace Wilkinson Nancy Zarate Lopez Ninth Grade: William Nolan Barlow Micqueal Antonisha Berry Lucas Paul Bowlin Braiden Edmond Bowman Presley Ann Bridges Caylie Klaire Britt William Gavin Greene Brock Braylen Dale Brown Layton Wayne Cloy Kali Nicole Denson David Antonio Fultz, Jr Yessenia Silvan Gonzalez Jaycee Kelly Heard Wesley Nathaniel Loy Mackenzie Claire Mire Elizabeth Claire Moulder Cooper Scott Neely Bryant Parker Robbins Bently Kirsten Roberson Charley Ann Shelton Jaide Leeanne Shoop Kevin Terrell Smith Kayla Faith Sullivan Anye Lashai Tanner Theresa Marie Tassin Molly Nicole Westrope Blayten Wayne Windom Ava Grayce Woodson Tenth Grade: Jaxon Valor Barlow Trinity Rain Breland Charles Tate Brister Ke’mari Jaquan Brown Abigail Marina Cameron Conner Miles Davis Brianna Keshundra Dixon Lacy Morgan Erwin Maria McKenzie Hall John-Brayden James Jakyiah Telia Johns Willow Margaret Love Karter Brent Lee McLemore Ruston Dayne Newman Lexi Grace Prestridge Sullivan Mckenzie Roberts Gustavo Ruiz-Garcia Dakota Rose Rushing Ty Rustyn Turner Aiden Keith Wallace Sydnee Layne Westrope Caeden Blake Williams Jack Henry Wilson Destiny Faye Yaskovic Eleventh Grade: Abbey Caroline Berch Sa’niya Donya Brice Michael Chase Britt Myles Rue Elkins Wyatt Zolon Garrett Kenneth Cole Gipson Austin Elijah Johnson Ella Marie Logan Benjamin Conner McKenzie Trevor Michael McRee Kalana Marie Nhem Jayson Brainerd Rios-Ramirez Lucas Baldwin Shelton Tiara Emily Tronstad Taylor Marlayne Watson William Cotton Westbrook Emileigh Hayden Woodson Twelfth Grade: Bryan Burnell Alonso Castro Alyssia Rosalee Bramel Aidan Ameer Brice Hannah Chesley Cameron Breelynn Layne Cloy Evangeline Sinclaire Cook Jahnasia Lashaye Harris Quentin Hood Jackson Taylor Dawn June Me’leyjah Charlique Lyons Mackenzie Grace Martin Tarayvia Debray Miller Mara Grace Norwood Corley Marie Sandifer Preston Morris Selman Sawyer Guage Shoop Breanna Jena’e Smith Brenda Nicole Smith Da’Marcus Kyshun Smith Zevante Jequan Stapleton Christopher Michael Watson Honor Roll - All “B’s” First Grade: Evoleht Monroe Costilow Bryan James Pendarvis Second Grade: Dylan Rufino Torres Agustin Fourth Grade Franco Joshua Gonzalez-Sanchez Caleb Chase Granger Fifth Grade: John Curtis Chisholm, Jr Aiden Andrew Gemelli Jesse James Hart Konner Earl Minton Jaxon Kade Newman Kentley Jace Tompkins William Cole Windham Sixth Grade: Blaine Wyatt Cline Jess Riles Cameron Douglas Charlene Lucian Hooks Levi Sawyer McLeod Kaylee Elizabeth Sills Laura Raeanne Williams Eighth Grade Elijah Criten Dollar

Making up for a shortage of men from the Institute for Learning in Retirement (ILR), Kaila Denton recruited players from the Co-Lin baseball team to help her teach some of the ILR ladies ballroom dancing. Denton, an instructor at Nena Smith School of Dance, is conducting a six-week course for ILR members who want to do better tripping the light fantastic. The classes are meeting on Wednesdays at the Thames Center at 11 a.m. Above, Denton looks on approvingly as the Co-Lin athletes and ILR ladies hone their skills on the dance floor.

WHO: JDRF Southern States Chapter, Mississippi WHAT: JDRF’s ONE Night Hope Gala, presented by Blue Cross & Blue Shield Mississippi, includes a cocktail reception, multi-course sit-down dinner, silent and live auctions, JDRF’s signature Fund A Cure – a program in which all funds raised go directly to T1D research, and The After-Party where guests enjoy drinks, dancing, late night bites and entertainment. WHEN: February 24, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at The Westin Jackson HOW: Buy tickets at www.jdrfonenightms.comor call (601) 981-1184 Gala Chair, Amber Davis, along with her committee are planning an amazing event for the 2024 JDRF ONE Night Hope Gala Saturday, February 24 beginning 6:00PM at The Westin Jackson. Fund A Cure family Forrest and Julie Johnson will be sharing their story during the evening. JDRF is accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat type one diabetes (T1D) and its complications. The event will include a cocktail reception, multi-course sit-down dinner, silent and live auctions, JDRF’s signature Fund A Cure – a program in which all funds raised go directly to T1D research, and The After-Party where guests enjoy drinks, dancing, late night bites and entertainment. Our goal this year is to raise more than $350,000 for research to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs for type 1 diabetes on the way to finding a cure for this disease. Every dollar raised will help lighten the burden on 1.25 million Americans with type 1 diabetes and help us realize our vision of a world without T1D. More than 100 JDRF Galas take place each year in the United States, bringing together thousands of people who are inspired by JDRF’s mission. As a signature JDRF fundraising event, the JDRF Gala Program has raised more than one billion for life-changing T1D research—research that has led to breakthrough discoveries, many of which have already moved into clinical trials and real-world testing. Although there has been considerable progress, there is so much more we have yet to accomplish. Event Schedule: Doors Open at 6:00 PM-Silent Auction Dinner 7:15 PM Program, Live Auction, Fund A Cure 7:45 PM to 9:00PM After-Party 9:00 PM to 10:30PM

By Bob Garver Taylor Swift is the single most powerful force in pop culture at the moment. Every other musical artist is eating her dust on the charts. Television, upended by writers’ and actors’ strikes, is only doing well with sporting events where the topic of conversation is Taylor and her possible relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. On the big screen, audiences’ summer fling with Barbenheimer has cooled off with no heir apparent… except for Taylor, of course. Her concert movie “The Eras Tour” doesn’t play by conventional rules. It doesn’t have the backing of a major studio. As of this writing, it is scheduled to only run for only four weeks. It only plays Thursdays through Sundays. It was officially announced only six weeks before its release, sending all competition running (“The Exorcist: Believer” forfeited a Friday the 13th opening to get out of its way). And it is still the theatrical event of the season. As far as box office records for concert movies, forget it, this one already blows everything else out of the water. Domestically, its opening weekend take of nearly $100 million already makes it the #1 of all time, beating previous record-holder “Justin Bieber: Never Say Never” by over $20 million. Worldwide, it merely has to roughly double its haul to take the crown away from “Michael Jackson: This Is It,” though some will say that the posthumous documentary doesn’t count as a “concert film.” My guess is that by this time next week, it isn’t going to matter. I saw the movie on a Thursday night, at a screening that was added just a day before. Because of the short notice, the large theater was uncrowded, with less than ten people in attendance. This could have made the film less enjoyable, since large crowds of passionate fans make for a wave of enthusiasm. But Taylor was thinking ahead and brought her own crowd. Okay, that’s not exactly true, but the in-movie crowd of screaming fans at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA more than adequately compensated for the lack of fans in the theater. By the way, that crowd deserves credit for keeping its energy up for the entire show. Cheering as loud as they do would have shredded my voice after about five minutes. From a technical standpoint, the movie does everything pretty much perfectly. Every image is crisp, every note is clear. Taylor usually takes up the whole frame, so even in smaller theaters, her presence is towering. On something like an IMAX, I’m sure she really is the monster she appears to be in the “Anti-Hero” music video. For better or worse, Taylor is in your face for nearly three hours. And the movie is loud. I imagine theaters were specifically instructed to crank up the volume at least a few notches. The night after my screening, I went back to the theater for another movie, and I must have walked past six houses that were blasting music from this movie. It was a weird experience, hearing that much Taylor Swift music in such short order. Did I enjoy the movie? I’m a casual Taylor Swift fan and I enjoyed the movie on a casual level. It makes for a heck of a party (even without a big crowd), and I cheered for my favorite hits (especially the third verse of “Anti-Hero”). But I also thought that it went on too long, and I’m in no hurry to spend that kind of time on it again. If you’re decidedly not a Taylor Swift fan and you got dragged to this movie by a partner, family member, or friend, you’re probably in for a long three hours. For the Swifties, enjoy your Taylor Swift concert, it’s everything you could possibly want. Grade: B “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour” is rated PG-13 for some strong language and suggestive material. Its running time is 168 minutes. Reminder: the film only plays Thursdays through Sundays and is currently only scheduled for a limited engagement of three more weekends. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu.