South Arts recently announced the lineup of twenty-one Screening Partner organizations and thirteen films and filmmaking teams selected for the 2024-2025 Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers. This long-running South Arts program connects US-based documentary filmmakers with communities throughout the South for screenings and conversations around important stories, topics, and the art of filmmaking. South Arts selected the Mississippi Film Society as one of the partner organizations for the Mississippi/Alabama/Louisiana region. In conversation with other screening partners in the religion, the Mississippi Film Society helped select six films from the thirteen recommendations. You can read more about the films below, which will be screened in September, October, and November of this year and in February, March, and April next year. “The Screening Partner film selections for this season demonstrate the group’s commitment to fostering curious spaces and using film as a conduit for local conversations,” said Jordan Young, Southern Circuit program director. “Directly connecting independent filmmakers with community audiences amplifies the films’ impact while investing in the regional filmmaking infrastructure of the South and engaging local community members in critical conversations.” Each film screening will be accompanied by a post-screening panel discussion and audience Q&A with the filmmakers and subject matter experts. “Narrative and documentary films have the power to shape hearts and minds. When screened in community, this act of watching can spark conversation and action that can lead to real, meaningful connections across difference. This has been a foundational belief of the Mississippi Film Society, which works to entertain, educate, and inspire Mississippians through community,” said Ryan Parker, Executive Director of the Mississippi Film Society. “We are excited to partner with SouthArts, fellow regional screening partners, the Mississippi Humanities Council, the Mississippi Film Office, and a host of other local and regional subject matter experts to bring these screenings to the Jackson Metro area.” Screenings include the following films (please note that times and locations may be subject to change): Family Tree  (screening Thursday, 9/12, at the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science at 7 pm):  explores sustainable forestry in North Carolina through the stories of two Black families fighting to preserve their land and generational legacy. Family Tree’s cinema vérité approach reveals the vast task of maintaining the land, while navigating challenging family dynamics, unscrupulous developers, and changing environmental needs. The forest itself and the beauty of its changing seasons become a primary character in this drama about its own survival. Small Town Universe  (screening Friday, 10/11, at Millsaps College at 7 pm): paints an intimate portrait of life in Green Bank, West Virginia, home to the world's most powerful radio telescope and the only U.S. town where Wi-Fi and cell phones are banned. In this uniquely radio-quiet tight-knit community, scientists use the telescope to search for signs of extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) and advance the field of radio astronomy while the residents experience defining moments of life and loss. What unites them is a shared connection to the universe, science, and each other. The World Is Not My Own  (screening Thursday, 2/13, at the Mississippi Museum of Art at 7 pm):  chewing gum sculptures, a wealthy gallerist, a firebrand wrestler, a notorious murder case and the segregated south – it’s all part of Nellie Mae Rowe’s boundless universe. This World is Not My Own reimagines this self-taught artist’s world and her life spanning the 20th century. Where the Butterflies Go  (screening Wednesday, 3/12, at the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science at 11:30 a.m.):  in a desperate attempt to host his own children’s nature show, a fumbling filmmaker travels 3,000 miles asking North Americans how to save the endangered monarch butterfly, and ourselves, from extinction. Lift  (screening Thursday, 3/20, at 7 p.m., location TBD):   over a decade in the making, Lift shines a spotlight on the transformative power of dance and the invisible story of homelessness in America through young home-insecure ballet dancers and their mentor who inspires them. Guided by Steven Melendez, who began his dance career in a shelter, these children make this aristocratic art form their own when they step from the shelter to the stage. Kim’s Video  (screening Saturday, 4/12, at 7 p.m., location TBD):   for two decades, New York City cinephiles had access to a treasure trove of rare and esoteric films through Kim's Video. Originally run by the enigmatic Yongman Kim out of his dry-cleaning business, his franchise eventually amassed 55,000 rental titles. In 2008, facing a changing industry, Mr. Kim offered to give away his collection provided that it stay intact and be available to Kim's Video members. In a bid to revitalize tourism, the small Italian village of Salemi, Sicily became home to the archive. But after the initial publicity faded, so too did any sign of the collection. Enter filmmaker David Redmon, who credits Kim's Video for his film education. With the ghosts of cinema past leading his way, Redmon embarks on a seemingly quixotic quest to track down what happened to the legendary collection and to free it from purgatory. For more information on these screenings, please contact Ryan Parker at ryan@msfilmsociety.org  and follow the Mississippi Film Society on Facebook and Instagram at @msfilmsociety.

“No Matter What” is the title of a popular song released in recent years. The lyrics talk about, “No matter whether we really try to please Him, or if we choose to throw a monstrous bomb into our life and the lives of those around us, He just loves us – no matter what.” Our God just loves us – no matter what. Even though He constantly watches us disappointing Him- over and over again. He has a bird’s eye view of any stealing, lying, cheating and everything else we choose to do. He sees us when we are angry and cold-hearted toward each other. And when we decide that our priorities are more important than anything or anyone else. But that ‘no matter what’ love doesn’t mean that He winks at our bad behavior – letting us live any way we want, with no consequences. He loves us too much for that. That’s when we end up on the receiving end of a well-chosen and perfectly fitted discipline. Because He loves us just like we are, waaayyyy too much to leave us just like we are. Ever put much brain power into trying to live like that in your own earthly relationships? Loving without enabling. Enabling is a trap for you and the one you love. It traps your victim into believing he can’t do things without your help. And it also traps you into always having to help him, every time he fails. And that is a relationship-breaker, if I ever heard of one. Your decision to simply stop enabling would be the very beginning of a better relationship. Sure, it would probably be a rocky start. There would definitely be a lot of push-back. Your victim is used to you rescuing and criticizing. And honestly, so are you. And neither of you will easily give up what feels normal and safe. But just imagine if you were to decide, “From now on, I refuse to be used as a doormat for my little brother. He creates these problems by the way he lives, and then because I love him, I have to find a way to help clean up his mess. But I’ve had enough. Starting now, I’m going to always let him know that I love and accept him. But I will no longer be the one responsible for putting his life back together. He’s on his own – sink or swim.” Do you realize the gift you are giving him? A chance for him to learn to take responsibility for his own life. Remember, it’s not on you if he refuses to take on that responsibility, it lies squarely on his own shoulders. But if he does, it gives him the opportunity to start achieving for himself – and that’s called self-worth. And that self-worth translates into self-confidence. And self-confidence is the main tool to begin accomplishing some goals in life. And lowering your own stress levels.

Special to Wesson News Professional educator Dot McClendon, who, for over fifty-six years, taught math and science at multiple Mississippi high schools, as well as Copiah-Lincoln Community College, was recently honored for her efforts helping to raise test scores in Mississippi. McClendon, who also serves as pastor of Homeseekers Bible Church in Wesson, combined her content expertise and proven preparation methods into Jumpstart Test Prep’s online guided review program, which is designed to help students prepare for the American College Test (ACT).  Jumpstart Review programs are now leveraged annually by over 2,000 educators in classrooms across seven states at over one hundred fifty partner schools, as well as by parents and students nationwide.  McClendon has been inducted into the Mississippi Economic Council’s STAR Teacher Hall-of-Fame and recognized as one of the top five educators in the Mississippi Teacher of the Year program.   McLendon served the students of Mississippi for over fifty-six years before retiring as “Teacher of the Year” at The Mississippi School of the Arts.  She says her passion for teaching was ignited by “seeing the light come on in a student’s eyes,” the exuberant moment when a student finally understands the material. Her passion led to helping students prepare for the ACT® and other high-stakes exams through decades of private tutoring and live classroom review events. Her mastery of explaining difficult content in a way that every student can follow and understand has led to dramatic score improvements by her students - providing acceptance into and often academic scholarship benefits from major universities, opening the door to higher learning for many who would have never been accepted or able to afford college without family assistance or costly student loans.   Through Jumpstart Test Prep’s platform, students and teachers in any location and at any time have access to complete ACT and WorkKeys Review programs and assessments, bellringers, as well as prep for high school equivalency exams and the Praxis core exam.   McClendon earned her bachelor of science degree in chemistry, with a minor in biological sciences, from Mississippi College.  She earned her Master of Science degree in both chemistry and biological sciences from the University of Mississippi. She has been certified to teach chemistry, physics, biological sciences and mathematics.  She was married twenty-six years before becoming a widow. She has two daughters and a godson, as well as four grandchildren.

As Mississippi residents eagerly anticipate the arrival of fall, allergy sufferers should prepare for a challenging fall allergy season. Compared to last year, increased allergens are expected due to rising temperatures and higher rainfall. The combination of warmer temperatures and increased rainfall provides an ideal environment for plants like ragweed to thrive and multiply over longer periods. This results in larger quantities of pollen being released into the air in the fall. This pollen can travel long distances and affect those with asthma and allergies in Mississippi. Mississippi Asthma & Allergy Clinics across the state are preparing for the season by offering immunotherapy treatments and educating patients on managing their allergy triggers. “While the severe drought in 2023 caused significant problems for many in our state, it did reduce the growth of plants that produce fall pollen,” said Dr. Joshua Fowler, physician at the Starkville location of the Mississippi Asthma & Allergy Clinic . “In contrast, the surplus of rainfall in 2024 is likely to make fall allergies more prevalent this year.” Now with eight locations throughout the state, including two new clinics in McComb and Starkville this year, Mississippi Asthma & Allergy aims to assist all Mississippi residents suffering from asthma and allergies through personalized treatment plans, helping them return to enjoying life without the worry of allergies and asthma. “Our clinics see a significant increase in patients during this time of year,” said Dr. Patricia Stewart, physician at the Jackson location of the Mississippi Asthma & Allergy Clinic . “Ragweed pollen is a major trigger for fall allergies and asthma, and we aim to provide our patients with quality care along with valuable information on associated symptoms and prevention.”  For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit the Mississippi Asthma & Allergy website at   www.msaac.com  and follow them on Facebook (Mississippi Asthma & Allergy Clinic PA) and Twitter (@MSAsthmaAllergy).

By: Bob Garver Nobody is going to mistake cut-rate biopic “Reagan” for a great movie. At best, it’s a pretty standard greatest-hits collection of important moments in the former President’s life. At worst, it’s a laughably underfunded production made by people who, for whatever reason, want to sell America on Ronald Reagan in 2024. But the movie is not always at its worst. It’s a subpar movie that I think some critics are mistaking for a terrible movie.             Reagan’s life story is told by former KGB agent Viktor Petrovich (Jon Voight) as he teaches a young Russian politician about the mistakes the Soviet Union made in underestimating Reagan in the 1980’s. Petrovich understands his enemy so well that he can have flashbacks to Reagan’s childhood, where the takeaway is that his faith got him through family drama. Then he became a lifeguard, where he mostly “saved” women who weren’t really drowning, and really saved others before they knew they were drowning. Petrovich observes that Reagan forever remained a lifeguard.             It’s not long before we get to Reagan as an adult, played by Dennis Quaid. Sadly we don’t see much of his acting career (this movie could have really used a monkey), but we do see him as an increasingly-frustrated commercial pitchman as his career fizzles out. We also see his marriage to Jane Wyman (Mena Suvari) fall apart. But things perk up when he becomes vice-president of the Screen Actors Guild. Not only does he meet his wife Nancy (Penelope Ann Miller) through the position, but he learns that political-type leadership might be his strong suit. After that, it’s the California governorship, a failed run at the Republican Presidential nomination in 1976, and then of course, the Presidency in 1980.             As President, Reagan bravely gets the economy back on track, survives an assassination attempt, and negotiates a near-end to the Cold War. And he does it with all the charisma that a talented actor like Dennis Quaid can bring to the role. There is barely any mention of scandals like Iron-Contra or the controversial War on Drugs or Reagan’s reluctance to address AIDS. Yes, this movie is a pro-Reagan puff piece, one whose goal is almost certainly to get Americans excited about a Republican President just a few months before an election. It’s a pretty transparent political tactic, but I’d rather get positive productions like this instead of the ugly documentaries that accompanied the 2012 and 2016 elections.             The movie doesn’t creep into “memorably, hilariously bad” territory as much as some people are saying. The makeup in most scenes is tolerable, except for one in a hospital bed where the poor makeup is clearly struggling with gravity while Quaid is lying down. At that point, his face might as well be one of those creepy puppets from the Genesis “Land of Confusion” music video. Ill-advised cameos from Pat Boone (as a preacher talking to Reagan, next to Chris Massoglia playing a young Boone) and Creed frontman Scott Stapp (as Frank Sinatra, though I thought it was just some gaudy cover artist until the credits) go by too quickly for them to register. In fact, the same can be said for many historical figures in this movie, they’re in and out before their role in the Reagan’s life or administration is clear.             This brings me to the thing I liked most about “Reagan” - the pacing. It’s not “good” pacing in that I won’t argue with critics who say the movie is too rushed and choppy. But at the same time, I’m grateful for the way that the movie skips briskly along, whether it’s appropriate or not. Reagan led an action-packed life, and an aggrandizing biopic like this could have gone three, maybe four hours. I know this is a cold compliment, but the movie will have to settle for it since I don’t have many other nice things say: I left the theater feeling like I’d gotten off easy.   Grade: C   “Reagan” is rated PG-13 for violent content and smoking. Its running time is 135 minutes.   Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu .

The Mississippi Department of Mental Health (DMH) is proud to announce that Governor Tate Reeves has signed a proclamation declaring September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in Mississippi. This important recognition comes as a reminder of the critical need to address the issue of suicide and its far-reaching impact on the lives of Mississippians. This year, DMH is also excited to celebrate to 988 Day on September 8. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, an easy-to-remember number that provides immediate access to mental health support. In Mississippi, 988 connects individuals to trained counselors 24/7, who are equipped with local mental health resources and can dispatch mobile crisis teams anywhere in the state. According to the Mississippi Department of Health, suicide is the third leading cause of death for individuals aged 15-24 in the state and the 14th leading cause of death for people of all ages. From 2015 through 2022, approximately 3,400 Mississippians died by suicide, leaving thousands of friends and family members devastated. Each suicide profoundly affects at least six other people, making its impact felt deeply throughout communities. "Helping people in mental health crisis is not just about providing immediate support; it's about creating a network of care where no one feels alone," said DMH Executive Director Wendy Bailey. "Suicide prevention is a community effort, and we want everyone in Mississippi to know that help is always available, especially through resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline." DMH encourages all Mississippians to take this month as an opportunity to stand beside those who have lost loved ones to suicide. Together, we can break the silence, offer support, and prevent further tragedies. For more information on Suicide Prevention, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and mental health resources, please visit www.dmh.ms.gov .

The Co-Lin Band and Colette Alumni Chapter recently treated members of the Co-Lin Blue Wave Show Band to Italian ice after a hot day of band camp.

By: Mika Hartman October is here. As we commemorate both Down Syndrome Awareness Month and National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), I can reflect on what I have learned on this journey, share some of the hard truths and hope for a better tomorrow for my son.    Hudson is only 6; however, the dreams I have for him should not be limited based on an outdated mindset or the “no longer applicable” laws that still exist. It is time to look at the success stories of our children and raise our expectations. It is beyond time to put back in the hands of people with disabilities what their glass ceiling is and whether or not they can break it; that is up to the individual. The laws, as written today, hold back our buddies and give society the doubt that greatness can be achieved. We currently live in a “prove you can do more” versus a “sky’s the limit” outcome all while holding back the tools needed to achieve the successes our buddy's desire.     Did you know that if two people with Down syndrome want to get married, they will lose their SSI benefits? Why? Because they would become a two-person income family and exceed the dollar amount cap to receive the benefits. All while many states still offer sub   minimum wages to our friends born with an extra chromosome. Many families find themselves fighting against raising wages to not put at risk the benefits that their loved one needs. How backwards is all of this? Penalize an individual who has to work harder at the job they have all while likely not being given the proper training. And let’s not even add in layoffs and who is first to go. And back to the thought of finding love and wanting a commitment in a legal way to be stopped by the government. It’s more than outdated, it’s discrimination.    Last year, I wrote about my hopes for Hudson’s future. I don’t care if he wants to build pizza boxes or run for President of the United States, it is up to me to make sure he is provided with all the tools he needs to be whatever he dreams to be. If he wants to be married, I absolutely want this for him, too. It’s what we should all want for him; to find love, to be loved and to have the choice to give a girl his last name. I more than welcome it, I pray for it.    Two individuals with Down syndrome, that I met years ago, may not have been able to be legally married; however, they did have a commitment ceremony. Heather and Craig Blackburn fight this issue at every turn. They didn’t let the law stop them from being committed in this relationship, but it has stopped them from being able to live together, because they currently live in two different states and moving will change their benefits. Crossing state lines can change so much for our buddies. We are a military family, and I understand this inconvenience all too well. Our families already have enough challenges, it seems like elected officials would help make some things easier on our journey.     Let’s also talk about what SSI provides: it varies per state, but the maximum monthly payment is $943. That is $11 316 per year per person. If a person earns $2 from work, their SSI payment will be reduced by about $1. If a couple gets married, their benefits go to $1 , 371 average per month for two people. Divide that in two, you see they go to $685 per person and that’s only if they don’t have a job, much less both be working. The system is so backwards; punish two people who want to be married and work, but who need the benefits because they have more health concerns and more needs like glasses, hearing aids, thyroid medication, heart issues, transportation worries, accessible living needs and more.     In celebrating NDEAM, my ask is that you get involved. Learn about the laws that need to be revised and be a voice for the needed change. I ask that you see my son and his possibilities, not his disability. Remove the outdated stigmas and do some research to see what all our buddies are accomplishing today. Help them achieve their dreams, don’t be the one stopping them.     My son is EXTRA; if or when he pops the question one day, I hope the worry of this issue is gone and we can focus on celebrating the future Mrs. Hartman and the next chapter of the life we want for our son….    … that is the life he EXTRA wants and EXTRA deserves!

Special to Wesson News   TEC, a leading provider of rural broadband services, has broken ground on an expansive project to enhance digital connectivity in parts of Simpson, Newton, Copiah and Lawrence counties. Their Reconnect initiative will include three phases of major construction, increasing Gigabit-speed internet access by an estimated 568 miles.   Phase one will begin in Simpson County, followed by phase two in Newton County, and ending with phase three in Copiah and Lawrence Counties. Once completed, the project will provide access to nearly 5,000 residential and business customers in these counties that have previously been underserved. The project is made possible through combined investments nearing $29.6 million by the Rural Utilities Service Reconnect program and TEC.   Dr. Anika Floyd, Vice President of Simpson County Center, commented on the project's transformative potential: “TEC’s expansion in Simpson, Newton, Copiah and Lawrence counties will revolutionize internet services and improve the quality of life of individuals, businesses and educational institutions. Expanded access to broadband services will create new opportunities and foster economic growth. TEC’s services will not only be a beacon of light in remote and underserved areas, but personal, professional and social interactions will also be transformed on a large scale.”   TEC's strategic objective is to help bridge the broadband accessibility gap by providing a reliable, high-quality, affordable internet solution. The amplified connectivity not only fuels local economic development, but also improves the quality of life by enabling telemedicine services, facilitating educational opportunities and supporting work-from-home capabilities. Moreover, the enhanced broadband service enriches personal experiences, including seamless video streaming and immersive gaming. “Our newest outreach across these counties underscores our dedication to high-speed, reliable internet for every resident," said Joey F. Garner, CEO of TEC. "We’re thrilled to see our vision take shape each day.”   For more information about the service, visit at www.TEC.com/SignUp or call 833-832-3423.

By: Kara Kimbrough Just like the old adage that white shoes can't be worn after Labor Day, there seems to be a misconception that vacations need to cease as well. In the south, the weather is still extremely warm. Let’s be honest: summer-like conditions will be around for quite a while. So, why not extend summer a little longer with a quick weekend getaway or longer trip using one of these suggestions? The Mississippi Gulf Coast offers adventures around every corner. However, leaving the mainland and exploring the gulf waters is something most of us rarely do. One of the best ways to see magnificent views of the coastline, barrier islands and marine life is to book North Star Sailing Charters. North Star offers morning, afternoon and sunset charters. Best of all, trips of varying lengths can be booked, ranging from an entire day on the water or a shorter tour. Additionally, Eco-Tours of South Mississippi takes adventure-seekers out for an up-close tour of the often-overlooked cypress swamps and salt marshes of the lower Pascagoula River as well as views of the barrier islands. And, the 2-hour sunset cruise is an amazing way to see the entire coastline and watch the glowing sun descend over the glistening gulf waters. For the true thrill-seeker, a visit to Moss Point’s Gator Ranch is in order. At Gator Ranch, visitors can view some of the area’s oldest and largest gators, hand-feed the gigantic reptiles and view the abundant bird life on the Gulf Coast. A little further north, the Mississippi Petrified Forest in Flora allows visitors to step back in time – 36 million years, to be exact – into an intriguing, beautiful area filled with archaic trees and stones. The forest’s earth science museum is filled with petrified wood samples from Mississippi as well as the other 49 states. Dinosaur footprints, fossils and minerals from around the world, whale bones and other interesting artifacts are also on display. Don’t forget to walk through the (mostly) shaded forest to view prehistoric fir and maple trees. After the tour, stop by the growing town of Flora for a variety of dining and shopping opportunities. While you’re near the Capital City, stop by the Old Capitol Museum built in 1839 and take a walk back in time courtesy of hundreds of artifacts and photos depicting the origin of Jackson and the state; interesting elements of the Civil War and many other historical milestones during the state’s early years.       Touring the beautifully-restored former chambers of the State Legislature and a replica of an early governor’s office is an amazing experience. However, my favorite part is simply wandering through the cavernous building and soaking in the elaborate architecture, stunning rotunda and breathtaking dome while imagining the important people that have walked the halls, including U.S. Presidents. Last, if a longer trip is an option, September is the perfect time to hop on a plane and visit New York City now that summer crowds have diminished. A visit to the 9/11 Museum and Memorial near the anniversary date of the terrorist attacks in 2001 is a moving experience. During the anniversary week, family members and others place state flags, flowers and other mementos on the names of their loved ones etched into the panels surrounding the memorial pools near the museum.      For nighttime entertainment in the Big Apple, going to a Broadway show has never been easier. From Sept. 3-23, 23 Broadway productions like The Notebook, The Great Gatsby and Water for Elephants are offering 2-for-1 tickets, according to New York City Tourism + Conventions. Tickets are available for purchase at nyctourism.com/broadwayweek .    As always, before visiting any site, it’s a good idea to check the website for hours of operation and fees. Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer from Mississippi. Email her at kkprco@yahoo.com .

Charlie Frank Rice June 22, 1943 - July 14, 2024   Charlie Frank Rice, born in Wesson, Mississippi, on June 22, 1943, passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2024, in Clinton, Mississippi. Charlie was a man who found joy in life’s simple pleasures. His favorite hobbies included fishing and spending time with his grandchildren, who lovingly called him Papa. He had a special connection with nature, especially water, and found solace on a lake, fishing for bream and bass. Growing up in Wesson, Charlie went to Wesson High School and played football. He graduated in 1962 and Co-Lin Jr. College in 1964. He then graduated from The University of Southern Mississippi in 1966. Professionally, Charlie excelled in the insurance world, where he worked for State Farm as an adjuster for many years then rose to the position of Claims Superintendent, where he mentored many in his career until his retirement. Charlie was married to Marcy Rice for thirty-four years, and together they shared a wonderful life together filled with love and companionship. He was also previously married to Patricia Patterson Rice for twenty-four years. She preceded him in death. Family was of utmost importance to Charlie. He leaves behind his children: Carla Rice Kelly, Frank Cabell (Lisa), Patsy Hyland (Tom), Steve Cabell, (Kelly), and DJ Cabell (KC). He was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren who brought immense joy to his life. Grandchildren include: Isaac Kelly, Max Cabell, Macy Cabell, Ben Hyland, Scott Hyland, Lyla Hyland, Liam Cabell, Stella Cabell, Emily Cabell and Lucy Cabell. Charlie is also survived by his brother, Jerry Rice, and sister-in-law, Pam. He was preceded in death by his parents, A.Q. and Hazel Rice, and other loved ones. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His big heart, his sense of humor, his endless love of fishing and tinkering with his boat and his strong faith in God, will be remembered and cherished forever. His family will be spreading his ashes in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, a cherished fishing area of his, at a later time. Donations can be made in Charlie's memory to the MS Alzheimer’s Association or the American Heart Association.

By: Mika Hartman Each year , National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) host a conference. If you are lucky, you don’t miss it; you can’t miss it, so much happens in a year of research and technology.  I attended my first one in 2022 in New Orleans and was immediately filled with hope, inspired by everyone there and left with many tools to better navigate this journey. The best part, the families you meet that become your family. In 2023, this is the year for me that this no longer was a conference, it became a family reunion.  This year I was blessed to travel with several ladies from Gulf Coast Down Syndrome Society (GCDSS) and, again, traveled on a scholarship provided by GCDSS. Already traveling with GCDSS family, this was a perfect start to our time in Phoenix, Arizona. While the temperatures were blazing outside, the coolest people on the planet were inside the event center. You can’t attend anything better, you can’t learn without the best teachers and you can’t see a better tomorrow without walking through the door… this door!  The family part is already present just by showing up; the conference part, for me, is in two parts that tell me it was a great conference. 1) I want to learn about a new technology or medical updates that help children like Hudson and 2) I want to hear what other states are doing/pushing new legislation that help families like mine.  As per the norm, this conference delivered. I love sitting as close to the front of a classroom as possible. In 4th grade, it was because I couldn’t see the board from a far distance and needed glasses; today, it’s because I want to absorb all I can. This class was a dual diagnosis class: Down syndrome and autism; three ladies made up the panel of speakers, the same three I have been going to their classes since my first conference. As Teresa Unnerstall (author of A New Course: A Mother's Journey Navigating Down Syndrome and Autism) gave her presentation, she shared a great tool to have: a one-pager, like kids often do in school, with information that would help caregivers, doctors, therapists and anyone really, to help understand your child best. By sharing likes, dislikes, ideas to help with communication, the intent is to make visits better for all. One of her “struggles” about her son is blood draws; this brought up all the same trauma Hudson feels at the dreaded blood draw. Hudson breathes heavy and more audible just pulling in the parking lot. The smells and all the scrubs make him anxious. The room, the chair, the latex band… all of it upsets my sweet boy equally as bad as the needle itself. So I understood this so much. After the presentation was finished, the call for questions was offered. The microphone was really close to me up at the front and a gentleman wearing joggers walked up. It was Dr. Espinoza, a huge champion in the medical field and research for our families. He stated that it wasn’t a question he wanted to ask, but wanted to offer that new technology may be of some relief over Nick’s resistance to blood draws… wait…. what?! Dr. Espinoza shared with Teresa and the attendees, that a company called Tasso, Inc. had created remote blood collection patient-centric technology. All I could do was cry. I just looked at my friend on the panel, Dr. Lina Patel, and cried. I am crying now. What a relief to know that the future for Hudson holds technology that he could have his blood drawn at home by a simple patch and button to collect the blood. All while watching Woody with no clinic smells, no scrubs, no panicking and no bruising from the fight of it all! What a win! This is why you donate to research. This is what brings dignity and restores trust in needed medical services. Check them out. I don’t know them, but I love the work they are doing. It’s like Elizabeth Holmes’ promise, but with truth and integrity.  As for the legislative opportunities for Mississippi, I attended the NDSC Advocacy Bootcamp with Jawanda Mast and several others, even Mississippi’s own Jessie Smart. Jessie represented us so amazingly and eloquently. Then Mr. Jon Meyers, with Arizona Developmental Disabilities Planning Council, was called to talk about new legislation that just passed after four years in Arizona: Supported Decision Making. It doesn’t get more common sense than this. This replaces the need for Power of Attorney or Guardianship and gives the individual with the disability say in what they want, how they see their future, who they want helping with decisions. You know it’s not talked a lot about, but sometimes those having the power can be selfish or the ones causing harm. This ensures that the agreements includes the voice of the one the decisions are for. It actually saves the states money with no court costs and no judges involved.  I won’t share names here, but I am dear friends with a family that this change would have made a huge difference in their adult child’s life. It was a marriage, it was a very publicized event and when the cameras stopped rolling, the brides mom forced the marriage to be annulled against her daughters wishes; there was nothing anyone could do to stop it. I am a firm believer in God and His plans, the groom had to heal over this but has risen much stronger. I am unsure of how the bride is today, but I know her mom robbed her of a life she wanted. Selfishness is ugly. We should be supporting the most independent life that is possible; not what works best for us, but what’s best for the person. The one with the power may just be the abuser. I get that not all people with disabilities may benefit from this and might not be able to make some decisions with a practical foundation, but those who can, they deserve this. When a person with Down syndrome had a life expectancy of 25, this made sense. Not much adulthood to need choices for a lifetime; however, now our buddies are living full adult lives; wanting to get educations beyond primary schooling, wanting to be married, wanting to live independently and living to age 70+. That's 45 years of being an adult and much of a life to have input on how they want to live, right? It’s called “supported”. It is a process that allows people to make decisions about their lives with the help of trusted people. SDM can be used by anyone in any are of life, but it’s often used by people with disabilities. SDM can help with gathering information, asking questions, evaluating options, and communicating decisions. It can help people develop and pursue their own goals, and exercise control over things that are important to them. I told you, good common sense! I have no idea why something this good took 4 years to pass in Arizona, but I believe it is needed here in Mississippi.  I didn’t even hear the whole presentation and I was already texting my legislative friends from both sides of the aisles. Hudson and his buddies should all have input, to the best of each individuals ability, to live the life they want to the best of their abilities. This isn’t a far fetched dream, this is a right. And it will save our state money. So, this is me saying that I plan to fight for this.  So this conference checked this mom’s two hot buttons of technology and legislation: easier blood draws from home with Tasso, Inc. and Supported Decision Making (SDM). I learned so much more, laughed the best belly laughs, one special buddy bought me a drink, I had lunch with one of my very favorite momma’s, I met up with friends from Alabama, I connected with many new faces and absolutely loved seeing the familiar faces that I am blessed to call my EXTRA family.