Darren spent an hour or so tentatively getting to know the horses that looked like giants to the tiny boy on the ground beside them. But every offer from the owners of the farm to let him ride one of the older gentler horses was meant with a shy smile and a quick negative shake of his blond head.

But yet, he couldn’t be persuaded to leave the horse corrals, and ignored all their suggestions to go see the pigs, cows, and the rest of the animal clan. Intimidated as he was, Darren still was fascinated with the size and height of those huge animals.

Finally, the lady of the farm had an idea. Murmuring to her husband, she then turned and smiled down at Darren and said she would be right back. That she had to go to the barn for something.

Darren watched her retreating back as she headed directly to one of the outbuildings that housed the horse tack. When she disappeared inside, he turned to the farmer with a disappointed look on his little sunburned face.  So naturally, the farmer asked him what was the problem.

There was definite disbelief and a faint tinge of disgust in his voice when he answered, "Oh man, she can't be going to no barn! Barns are always red and white. That building ain’t red, an there ain’t no white trim. "

It took the farmer a little while to make the little boy understand that barns are barns, no matter the color. It is only the contents that matter.
My point: Are we going to be like that six-year-old all our lives – believing that truth can only be from our point of view? Understandable coming from a six-year-old, but not from you or me.

There is one truth that I believe we can stand upon, and that is this; 

I am not always going to be one-hundred per cent correct. And most likely, neither are you. None of us have cornered the market on knowing what is right in every situation. And most of our quarrels and disputes are centered on that very fact. Be it countries, siblings, friends, denominations, or neighbors.

Somehow, we let ourself believe that what we have learned in life has to be the only reality.  Like a favorite friend of mine has been known to say, “My way, or the highway.” Seems logical, until you run into someone just as mule-headed. Unfortunately, it can be the highway way too often, if that’s how we live. A lot of good relationships can get tossed to the garbage heap with that philosophy.

Just remember. I’m not God, and neither are you.

        “Minions & Monsters” is the seventh cinematic outing for the Minions, and the third where they take center stage, as opposed to playing backup for former supervillain Gru. The jellybean-like animated gibberish-spewers all voiced by Pierre Coffin are once again taking the prequel route, as their story is told by a modern-day movie studio tour guide (Allison Janney), though a further framing device modifies even that context. 

        At the beginning of the story, the Minions are once again searching the world for a new home in their inexplicable quest to serve the most despicable master possible despite not having an evil bone (or possibly any bones) in their bodies. A hulking cyclops seems like a good candidate (let’s see if this movie and “The Odyssey” in two weeks lead to a rise of cyclopes in pop culture), but a creative, ambitious Minion named James screws everything up for everyone. He also screws things up with a mummy, a pirate, and a wizard with a book of spells. Most of the Minions despise James’s antics, but friends Henry and Ed think he’s funny and stick by him. 

        Washing up on American shores sometime in the 1920’s, the Minions see an outlaw train robber and think he’ll make a great master. They destroy half a town just to track him down to offer their services, then they find out that he’s no outlaw at all. He’s an actor, the town is Hollywood, the train robbery was part of a movie from short-tempered director Max (Christoph Waltz), and the Minions ruined the take. Having used the last of his film, Max is forced to present the picture, Minions and all, to a pair of finicky studio executives (both voiced by Jeff Bridges). Surprisingly, the execs love the Minions and order them to be put into more films. The whole tribe becomes movie stars overnight. 

        To be clear, I love this portion of the film. The obvious love of – and constant references to – the golden age of Hollywood should earn admiration from any red-blooded cinema lover. I’m just not crazy about the parts that come before the Hollywood invasion and after the Minions fall from grace because they have a hard time transitioning to talkies (an appearance in “Citizen Kane” had me cracking up). 

        Eventually, the Minions again need to find a new master. Most of them settle on metallic space alien Dort (Jesse Eisenberg), who is either planning to invade Earth along with his home planet, or is just another actor in a clunky suit. The Minions help Dort in a cute romance with suffragette Debbie (Zoey Deutch), who is willing to spend time with him as long as he doesn’t kick children (it’s sweeter than it sounds)

        Meanwhile, James and his cohorts, trying to stay in the movie business by turning to directing, crack open their old wizard master’s spellbook to summon a monster for their sci-fi movie. They can only manage the puny Goomi (Trey Parker), but he can summon other monsters, including insatiable blob Irene, who tries to consume Hollywood. Can the Minions clean up the mess they created? Can James complete his movie and win an Oscar? Can this franchise finally give us an installment where the Minions and/or Gru’s family go up against Will Arnett’s evil banker from the first “Despicable Me”? It’s been 16 years and it really bugs me that they’ve never seriously revisited that character. 

        The movie, as always, depends on your tolerance for the Minions’ lowbrow schtick. Here they’re most effective when the movie is actively celebrating the art of schtick. But that’s just part of the movie, and the rest of the time I feel that they miss more gags than they hit. Plus the last act drags as it tries to work in too many sci-fi elements. “Minions & Monsters” comes close to getting my recommendation, but it falls short by a margin thinner than a 1920’s mustache. 

Grade: C

“Minions & Monsters” is rated PG for violence/action, language and rude/macabre humor. Its running time is 90 minutes. 

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu. 

Recently, on June 15, Southern Pine Electric celebrated National Electricity Day. When Southern Pine Electric was chartered in March 1938, the mission was simple: bring reliable electricity to 481 homes and farms across rural Mississippi. Today, more than 88 years later, Souther Pine is proud to serve over 70,000 meters across 11 counties, powering homes, businesses, schools, farms, and the communities we call home. While technology has changed dramatically since 1938, the commitment remains the same: safely providing reliable, affordable electric service that enhances the quality of life for Southern Pine’s members.
 

Robert J. Barnes, President and CEO of PriorityOne Bank, recently announced the promotion of Courtney Norris-Fountain to Assistant Vice President, Branch Manager for the Morton and Pelahatchie locations. Barnes stated, “Courtney’s journey with PriorityOne is a great example of dedication and growth. She has built her career by serving others, and this promotion reflects the positive impact she makes every day in her branch and community.”

Norris-Fountain joined PriorityOne in January 2014 and has served in a variety of roles, including Teller, Receptionist, Customer Service Representative, and Personal Banker/Branch Officer. She is a graduate of Lake High School, where she was valedictorian of the Class of 2006, and attended Hinds Community College. She is also a graduate of the Mississippi School of Banking.

Courtney is active in her community as a member of the Morton Lions Club and a former board member of the Morton Chamber of Commerce. Within PriorityOne Bank, she has been recognized for her performance and commitment, earning the Rising Star Award in 2023 and the Difference Maker Award in 2024 for the Rankin Division. She is also a member of PriorityOne’s Blue Ribbon Society, an honor recognizing employees who demonstrate exceptional performance, leadership, and a strong commitment to the bank’s values and customer service excellence.

She resides in Lake with her husband, Terrence Fountain, their children, Te’Kenyon and Khaiden, and their dog, Gizmo.
PriorityOne Bank, based in Magee, Mississippi, operates seventeen offices in thirteen Mississippi communities: Collins, Seminary, Sumrall, Hattiesburg, Purvis, Magee, Mendenhall, Richland, Brandon, Flowood, Ridgeland, Gluckstadt, Pelahatchie, and Morton. The bank has assets of over $1.1 Billion.
 

“When temperatures soar into the 90s and 100s, it’s not just uncomfortable—it drives up energy use across our entire service area,” said Kristen Thorne, Director of Member Services at Southern Pine Electric. “Air conditioners are running harder and longer, and for many families, that means higher bills. We want to help our members stay safe, stay cool, and stay in control of their energy costs.”

Southern Pine offers practical, no-cost and low-cost tips for reducing usage during peak demand times—typically from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.—and easing the strain on both wallets and the electric system:

• Set thermostats to 78 degrees or higher when home and even higher when away.
• Use ceiling fans to circulate air but turn them off when leaving a room.
• Close blinds and curtains to block direct sunlight, especially during the hottest hours of the day.
• Avoid indoor cooking during peak hours. Instead, consider using an outdoor grill or small appliances like air fryers, microwaves, or slow cookers.
• Delay running heat-producing appliances like dishwashers and clothes dryers until later in the evening.
• Change air filters regularly and service air conditioning systems for maximum efficiency.
• Download and use the free MyPower app to monitor daily use and set alerts to avoid billing surprises.

“Members can take charge of their energy use and see the difference on their bills,” Thorne said. “These are easy steps anyone can take, and they really add up—not just for your home, but for the entire cooperative system.”

Southern Pine Electric encourages members to visit www.southernpine.coop for more energy-saving ideas and to access the MyPower usage monitoring tool. Members may also contact the cooperative to schedule a free home energy audit.

“Mississippi summers are tough,” Thorne added. “But with a little planning and a few smart habits, we can all stay cooler and save money while we do it.”

Southern Pine Electric is a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative that distributes electricity to more than 70,000 members in 11 counties in central and south Mississippi. Headquartered in Taylorsville, Southern Pine has offices in Brandon, Newton, Hattiesburg and New Hebron.

Five high school juniors representing Southern Pine Electric Cooperative recently joined 78 other students from across Mississippi for the 2026 Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C.

Representing Southern Pine were Carly Gibson of Seminary High School, E’Miyah Rhodes of Lawrence County High School, Jordin Woods of Bay Springs High School, Payten Myers of Simpson County Academy, and Ryder Ivy of Raleigh High School.

During the weeklong trip, delegates experienced many of the historic landmarks, museums, and memorials that tell the story of America. Students toured Arlington National Cemetery, the U.S. Capitol, the Library of Congress, the Smithsonian museums, Washington National Cathedral, and the Museum of the Bible. They also visited the Lincoln, Vietnam, Korean War, World War II, Jefferson, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Martin Luther King Jr. memorials.

The students attended a Washington Nationals baseball game, enjoyed a dinner cruise on the Potomac River, explored the National Harbor, toured The People’s House: A White House Experience, and watched the U.S. Marine Corps Sunset Parade at the Iwo Jima Memorial.

Throughout the week, they had the opportunity to meet and interact with students from electric cooperatives across the country.

A special highlight of the trip was meeting with Mississippi Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith and learning more about her role in representing Mississippi in Washington. The delegates also visited Capitol Hill and gained a firsthand look at the legislative process and the workings of the federal government.

“Youth Tour gives students the opportunity to see our nation’s history come to life,” said Southern Pine President and CEO Drummonds McAlpin. “From standing where history was made to visiting some of our country’s most important landmarks and institutions, these experiences help young people gain a greater appreciation for our nation and the freedoms we enjoy. The members of this cooperative are proud of Carly, E’Miyah, Jordin, Payten, and Ryder for representing Southern Pine so well.”

The Cooperative Youth Tour has provided high school students with an unforgettable Washington, D.C., sponsored by the National Rural Electric Cooperatives Association, along with local electric cooperatives. The program introduces young people to the nation’s capital while showcasing the history, traditions, and institutions that shape America.

Southern Pine congratulates these outstanding students on their participation in the 2026 Youth Tour and thanks them for serving as excellent representatives of their schools, communities, and cooperative.
 

Big congratulations to Mississippi’s first-ever Youth Poet Laureate, Nadia Wright of Jackson!

A nationally recognized poet, community advocate, and rising sophomore at North Carolina A&T, Nadia continues to represent the incredible talent and creativity coming out of Mississippi.

We’re also proud to celebrate finalists Sasha Harvey of Starkville and Savannah Massey of Pelahatchie, whose voices and work reflect the bright future of poetry in our state.

Selected by Mississippi Poet Laureate Ann Fisher-Wirth, these young writers are already making an impact through storytelling, service, and artistic excellence.

The Mississippi Youth Poet Laureate is administered by the Friendly City Books Community Connection, a special project of the CREATE Foundation, with the support of the Mississippi Arts Commission and the University of Mississippi Department of English.

The June 2026 Pelahatchie Mayor and Board of Aldermen regular meeting was held on Monday, June 1, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Town Hall.

 Mayor Karl Vanhorn presided and called the meeting to order. Alderwomen Diane Hill and Sandra Harvey, along with Aldermen David Gray, Eddie Jones, and James Harrell, were in attendance.

Carter Smith: 
Carter Smith addressed the board regarding his campaign for Circuit Court Judge, seeking to fill the seat of the retiring Judge Mills. Smith highlighted his 20 years of practicing law, including previous public defender work, emphasizing the need for a candidate with strong trial court experience.

Department Discussions:

Police Department: 
The board discussed and considered the purchase of Flock surveillance cameras and license plate readers for the police department to be installed in entrances into the town. The equipment will be paid for mostly by the Department of Homeland Security for two years, with a three-month wait expected for installation, and with any additional amounts needed would be paid out of the seizure fund. Alderman Jones made the motion to approve, and Alderman Gray seconded the motion. The measure passed with a 5-0 vote.

New Business:
The board discussed, considered, and voted to approve the minutes from the previous regular board meeting held on May 4, 2026. Alderwoman Hill made the motion to approve. The measure passed with all in favor.

The board discussed, considered, and voted to approve the minutes from the previous special board meeting held on May 18, 2026. Alderman Jones made the motion to approve, and Alderman Gray seconded the motion. The measure passed with all in favor.

The board discussed, considered, and voted to approve the payment of the unpaid claims docket. Alderman Jones made the motion to approve, and Alderman Gray seconded the motion. The measure passed with a 3-2 vote.

The board discussed, considered, and voted to approve the disbursement of a bank draft payment to Morgan and White Insurance in the amount of $1,061.66, which is secondary to BCBS and utilized the AmFirst Card. Alderman Jones made the motion to approve, and Alderman Gray seconded the motion. The measure passed with all in favor.

The board discussed, considered, and voted to approve a bank draft payment to EMC Insurance for property insurance in the amount of $7,099.13. Alderman Jones made the motion to approve, and Alderman Gray seconded the motion. The measure passed with all in favor.
The board discussed, considered, and voted to approve a bank draft payment to Blue Cross Insurance in the amount of $8,534.16. Alderman Jones made the motion to approve, and Alderman Harrell seconded the motion. The measure passed with all in favor.

The board discussed the approval and ratification of the payment of payroll for May 2026, which included $72,246.09 for the General fund and $28,385.34 for the Enterprise fund. Alderman Jones made the motion to approve the payroll, and Alderman Gray seconded the motion. The measure passed with a 3-2 vote.

Executive Session:

The board entered into an executive session to discuss a single personnel matter within the Police Department. Alderman Jones made the motion to enter the session, and Alderwoman Hill seconded the motion. The measure passed with all in favor, and the board entered the session at 6:15 PM. Upon exiting the executive session at 6:22 PM, Town Attorney Banks stated that a hire had been made.

Alderman Discussions and Adjournment:
Alderwoman Hill asked about the status of local streets and playground equipment, and mayor noted that street lights are being marked again this weekend to be repaired. Alderwoman Hill also inquired about clearing the voter rolls. Attorney Banks advised referring the matter to the elections commission.

Alderwoman Harvey asked about hosting a movie night in the park.

Alderman Jones reminded the community of the Fourth of July celebration planned for Friday, July 3. The town will serve hamburgers and hot dogs, and is currently looking for donations of watermelons. Jones also reminded attendees that it is the first day of hurricane season and advised residents to plan ahead.

Mayor VanHorn noted that the Mississippi Rural Water class starts on June 16. He also reminded graduating MML members to get their paperwork submitted.

With no further business from Aldermen Gray or Harrell, Alderwoman Hill made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Alderman Jones seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 6:33 PM.
 

Every few years, usually around election time, I hear someone say, “Well, we’re a democracy.” Now, before somebody throws a biscuit at me, let me clarify. We are democratic in how we choose our leaders, but the United States was never designed to be a pure democracy. We are a Constitutional Republic. 

And believe it or not, that’s one of the reasons this old American experiment has managed to survive for nearly 250 years. A pure democracy sounds wonderful at first. Everybody votes. The majority wins. End of story. Simple, right? Well, so is a hammer. That doesn’t mean you should use it to repair a watch. 

The Founding Fathers spent a great deal of time studying history. They looked at ancient Greece, Rome, and every government they could find. What they discovered was that pure democracies often have a nasty habit of turning into mob rule.   Imagine ten people sitting around a table. Six decide they want the four others to pay for dinner every night for the rest of their lives. In a pure democracy, six wins. Case closed.   The minority gets steamrolled. The loudest voices dominate. The largest populations control everything. Smaller groups and smaller regions become little more than spectators in their own government. That’s exactly why our founders built safeguards into the system. 

The Constitution limits government power. The Bill of Rights protects individual freedoms. The Senate gives equal representation to states regardless of size. And yes, the Electoral College exists to ensure that candidates cannot simply campaign in a handful of large population centers while ignoring the rest of the country. Without it, states with smaller populations would have far less influence in presidential elections. A candidate could spend nearly all of their time in a few massive metropolitan areas and still have a realistic path to victory. 

The founders wanted presidents to build broad coalitions across the nation, not just rack up votes in a few crowded places. Now, does that mean the system is perfect? Of course not. Nothing involving human beings ever is. We argue over it constantly. We tweak it. We debate it. We complain about it. Then we complain about the complaining. 

That’s about as American as sweet tea and arguing about football rankings. But the remarkable thing is that the system has endured. Think about that for a moment. 

For nearly 250 years, this nation has survived wars, depressions, assassinations, scandals, riots, pandemics, political upheaval, and enough campaign commercials to make a person swear off television forever. Empires that once seemed invincible have come and gone. Kings have risen and fallen. Entire governments have disappeared. Yet here we are. Still arguing. Still voting. Still debating. Still free to disagree. That is not normal in human history. In many ways, it is extraordinary. 

Some have called America an experiment. They’re not wrong. The miracle isn’t that the experiment started. The miracle is that it has lasted this long. 

Now, being patriotic doesn’t mean believing America is perfect. Goodness knows we have made mistakes. Every nation has. Patriotism is not pretending your country has no faults. Patriotism is loving your country enough to acknowledge its flaws while working to improve it. It’s the difference between loving your family and pretending your family never argues. A patriot can criticize America. A patriot can demand better from America. A patriot can point out problems. But a patriot also recognizes what is worth preserving. The freedoms we enjoy. 

The rights protected by our Constitution. The opportunity to speak our minds without fear of imprisonment. The ability to worship—or not worship—as we choose. The right to vote. The right to own property. The right to pursue our own dreams. Much of the world still struggles to secure these basic freedoms. Many who have left America in search of something better have discovered that what they took for granted here was not nearly as common elsewhere as they imagined. 

America has problems. Every nation does. But America also possesses something rare: a system designed not around perfect people, but around the understanding that people are imperfect. That may be the greatest wisdom of the founders. 

They didn’t trust any one person with too much power. They didn’t trust any one branch of government with too much authority. And they certainly didn’t trust temporary passions and popular fads to determine the fate of the nation unchecked.   Instead, they built a Constitutional Republic. 

A system meant to protect the voice of both the majority and the minority. A system designed to slow things down when emotions run high. A system that has survived longer than many thought possible. 

So the next time someone says, “We’re a democracy,” smile and gently remind them: “No, we’re something even rarer.” 

We’re a Constitutional Republic. 

And after nearly 250 years, that’s still worth celebrating. 
 

    America’s 250th birthday is finally here! This momentous milestone that only rolls around every two and one-half centuries deserves special recognition. Whether you’re entertaining a crowd at a backyard barbecue or plan to watch fireworks shows on TV, this once-in-a-lifetime occasion deserves more attention than a regular 4th of July holiday. A festive, patriotic tablescape…red, white and blue snacks…a special holiday meal of grilled classics…and of course, a flag cake made of strawberries and blueberries…these are just a few ways to pay homage to our country’s founding 250 years ago. 

    Each of the suggestions listed above are ones I added to my trial run leading up to the 4th. I don’t mind sharing that I’ve been thinking about this special holiday for months. I’ve purchased items for my table, gathered ideas and dreamed of ways to make the holiday extra special without spending all my time in the kitchen. Here are a few of the tips and photos from my trial run; hopefully, they’ll serve as inspiration to you as you prepare for the most memorable Fourth of July many of us will experience in our lifetime.

Set a table that’s patriotic, colorful and fun for guests

    Nothing sets the mood for a holiday meal like a festive table courtesy of colorful linens, dishes, centerpieces, candles and decorations geared to the occasion. As mentioned, I’ve been planning for this Fourth of July for quite a while; as a result, I’ve also been shopping for months. Several weeks ago, I purchased a patriotic tablecloth from TJ Maxx, a store that always stocks some of the best holiday decorations. Browsing through my local thrift store, I found four red dinner plates and patriotic salad plates that paired well with water goblets with navy stems I already had on hand. I had dreamed for a while about making a Betsy Ross cake (similar to princess and Barbie cakes at young girls’ birthday parties) and using it as my centerpiece. While I successfully made the cake and was happy with how it turned out, it lacked the height and “wow factor” I wanted for the main centerpiece. 

     Instead, I filled an old wooden crate purchased years ago at a vintage store with red and white plants. Empty spaces were filled in with U.S. flags and an old red lantern. I painted white taper candles red and red to add to a candelabra, placed Betsy Ross in a place of prominence and just like that, I had the Fourth of July table of my dreams. 

      Note: One final touch I’m adding to my table this week are inexpensive photo frames filled with old-fashioned patriotic scenes, a copy of the Star-Spangled banner and other assorted scenes and phrases I’ve collected over the past year.

Shortcuts for a special 4th of July meal 

    While nothing’s better than grilled burgers, ribs and steaks hot off the backyard grill, the temperature will likely be in the 90’s on the big day. To keep everyone cool, why not do what I did and purchase most of the items already cooked and assembled? At Sam’s Club, I found a box of fully-cooked cheeseburger sliders that received favorable reviews online. When I stopped by Kroger, I picked up a box of Nathan’s Famous Coney Island Pretzel Dogs. A few minutes in the oven and microwave and just like that, dinner was ready. To add my own special touch, I placed U.S. flag picks on each one and served them with dipping sauces. They’re colorful, easy to walk around with and best of all, really tasty. No grilling required!

Red, White and Blue Snacks

     Scrolling through Pinterest and other online sources, I became overwhelmed with the hundreds of creative ideas for red, white and blue cookies, candies, snack mixes and more. To keep things simple, I settled on white chocolate-dipped strawberries decorated with blue sugar and patriotic sprinkles. I’ve dipped hundreds of strawberries in my lifetime and never had an issue with baking chocolate. This time, the baking chocolate decided not to melt, despite repeated attempts. The closest store only stocked marshmallow crème so I took what I could get. After microwaving for a minute or two, the crème was the perfect consistency for dipping. The end result wasn’t as firm (or perfect-looking) as baking chocolate, but the taste was surprisingly good. 

White chocolate (or in this case, marshmallow crème) dipped strawberries decorated with sprinkles and blue sugar makes the perfect patriotic  snack.       Photo by Kara Kimbrough 

The grand finale…a flag cake, of course

    The Fourth of July wouldn’t be the same without a festive flag cake made of rows of icing and strawberries and a top left pocket of blueberries for stars. While I made the original version, I also discovered a way to make a quick and surprisingly eye-catching flag cake using inexpensive dessert cups, whipped cream in a can, chopped strawberries and blueberries. Creating this shortcut version is the perfect way to allow children to help with the holiday dessert and have fun in the process.

An easy way to make a Fourth of July flag cake is to fill dessert shells with chopped strawberries, blueberries and whipped cream in a can to create the stars and stripes. 

                                                                                                                 Photo by Kaa Kimbrough

A traditional flag cake of a 13x9-inch yellow cake topped with frosting, then decorated with strawberries and blueberries, is the perfect ending to a special 4th of July dinner. 

                                                                                                               Photo by Kara Kimbrough                            

     I hope you’ve been inspired by my Fourth of July trial run and most importantly, are excited about our nation’s once-in-a-lifetime milestone birthday. If all of the photos of the above-mentioned ideas aren’t published in your publication, drop me an email and I’ll send them to you, along with additional recipes and way to create a memorable meal. 

   I hope everyone has the best Fourth of July and food, fun and fireworks aside, remembers the many sacrifices made by the Founding Fathers to ensure America would become what we are today…the best country in the world. 

     Happy Fourth of July!

        Krypto the Superdog isn’t very cute in “Supergirl.” I understand that the way the pup was rendered for this film involved taking a real dog (who probably was very cute) and slathering CGI all over his likeness. The result is a dog whose face looks unnatural and with whom I couldn’t connect during emotional scenes. You know your Super-whatever movie is in trouble when you can’t make a character like Krypto loveable. 

        Krypto’s owner is more bearable, but just barely. Milly Alcock stars as Kara Zor-El aka Supergirl, a cousin of Superman’s who was raised on a sort of Kryptonian bunker after the planet’s destruction. Eventually the bunker couldn’t sustain life and Kara had to be sent alone to Earth as well, but unlike Superman, she knew a home and a family on Krypton only to have it all taken away. As a result, she doesn’t take to Earth like Superman did and now mostly spends her days moping around with no friends, save for Krypto. 

        For this film, Supergirl finds herself teaming up with Ruthye (Eve Ridley), a teenager looking to avenge her family’s death at the hands of space pirate Krem (Matthias Schoenaerts). Krem needs to be defeated (for the murders, for child trafficking, and for poisoning Krypto and tauntingly carrying around an antidote), but Supergirl also wants to teach Ruthye that revenge through murder will not bring her the closure she seeks. On the other hand, Krem and his crew are perfectly willing to kill Supergirl, Ruthye, and anyone else they see fit. Killing him may save the lives of others, does that make it right to kill him? The Supergirl/Ruthye dynamic is based on “True Grit,” and grit-ting is what I had to do with my teeth every time the stiff, overly-formal-yet-too-immature Ruthye had a line in this movie. 

        On their quest, Supergirl and Ruthye cross paths with what the film thinks is a colorful gallery of otherworldly background characters. But this isn’t Mos Eisley where the alien designs are so interesting that viewers will instantly wanf to know the backstory of every character in the room. They’re all basically indistinguishable rubbery space-takers. The exception is space biker/bounty hunter Lobo (Jason Momoa), who gets to steal some scenes. One of the few downsides of the DCEU folding a few years ago was losing Momoa’s Aquaman, but now fans can rest easy knowing that he’s landed on his feet in a more fitting role. 

        Speaking of the larger DC Universe, it’s worth mentioning that yes, Superman (David Corenswet) is in this movie. He gets one of the few gags that actually works when he tries to welcome Kara to Earth, even though he only speaks English and she only speaks Kryptonian. It’s good to see that Superman is still reliable, because while I don’t dislike this version of Supergirl, this movie is clearly going to bomb and she isn’t going to be allowed another standalone movie anytime soon. If she, Krypto, and Lobo want to have any future in film, it’ll have to be as part of a Superman or Justice League movie. 

        Choppy action, a disjointed story, a muddied moral, a bland villain, an annoying second banana in Ruthye, and an overall ugly aesthetic all conspire to make “Supergirl” one of the worst big-budget movies of the summer. Even Superman can’t save it and saving things is his whole reason for being. But what do you expect from a movie that can’t even get the beloved, iconic, usually-adorable Krypto right? 

Grade: C-

“Supergirl” is rated PG-13 for sequences of strong violence, action, language, and smoking. Its running time is 107 minutes. 

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu. 

Prepare Your Vehicle Before You Leave

A reliable vehicle sets the tone for the entire trip. Before you hit the trail, inspect your tires, brakes, fluids, and suspension. Off-road terrain puts heavy stress on every component, so regular maintenance matters.

Bring tools and recovery gear that match your route and weather conditions. A compact repair kit can save hours of frustration during unexpected breakdowns.

Important items include:

• Tire repair kit
• Portable air compressor
• Tow straps
• Recovery boards
• Flashlights and batteries
• Extra fuel and water
• First-aid supplies

You should also download offline maps before you leave cell service behind. GPS apps help, but downloaded trail maps provide extra confidence in remote areas.

Upgrade Comfort for Long Trail Days

Long rides across rough terrain can wear people down quickly. Comfort upgrades keep energy levels high and help drivers stay focused.

Supportive seats, quality suspension systems, and proper cabin storage make a huge difference during full-day outings. Many drivers also install roof-mounted audio systems to improve entertainment during camp stops and scenic breaks. Music can boost the atmosphere without forcing everyone to crowd around a portable speaker.

A small cooler with snacks and cold drinks also keeps the group comfortable throughout the day. Quick access to food and water prevents unnecessary stops and keeps everyone in a good mood.

Choose the Right Tires and Accessories

Tires play a major role in off-road performance. Mud-terrain tires offer strong traction in loose dirt and wet conditions, while all-terrain tires balance highway comfort with trail capability. Choose tires that match your driving style and terrain.

Accessories can also improve safety and convenience. Popular upgrades include skid plates, light bars, roof racks, and winches. Each addition should support your specific travel needs instead of adding unnecessary weight.

Lighting deserves special attention if you plan to drive after sunset. Bright auxiliary lights improve visibility on narrow trails and help drivers spot obstacles earlier.

Travel With a Group When Possible

Solo trips can sound appealing, but group travel adds safety and support. Another vehicle can help with recoveries, navigation, and emergency situations. Group trips also create a more social and enjoyable atmosphere around camp.

Before departure, discuss trail difficulty, communication methods, and fuel stops with everyone in the convoy. Radios allow drivers to share updates quickly and warn others about hazards ahead.

Good communication prevents confusion and keeps the trip organized from start to finish.

Respect the Trail and Surroundings

Responsible off-roading protects trails for future drivers. Stay on marked routes, avoid sensitive areas, and pack out every piece of trash. Respect private property and follow local regulations in every area you visit.

Trail etiquette also matters. Slow down near hikers, bikers, and campsites. A respectful attitude helps the off-road community maintain positive relationships with landowners and outdoor enthusiasts.

With the right preparation and mindset, your next off-roading trip can deliver stronger memories, better comfort, and far more confidence on every trail.

The Rux family on Ragan Road live in an eleven hundred square foot house that is more than one-hundred-years-old with their two grandchildren under ten. Much of the wood is rotten and the floor and ceiling are weak. Since there is no insulation, their electrical bills run four to five hundred dollars a month in the winter.

“The deacons from The Church at Shiloh were made aware of the need at the Rux residence. After a site visit, it was decided that the existing house was beyond repair. It made much more sense to build a new house,” said Dr. Charles Edwards of Crooked Creek Animal Hospital.

So, The Church and the community in and around Pelahatchie began a mission to provide a new home for Randy and Lynn Rux and their grandchildren, Railynn and Sebastian, on Ragan Street in Pelahatchie.

The house, which is currently under construction, will be eighteen hundred square feet, which the Town of Pelahatchie requires, with three bedrooms, two baths, a pantry and laundry room. 

Randy Rux, who is an ex-cabinet carpenter with asthma, tried to help by putting together eleven corners as they worked to put the walls up, but according to Lynn, it was too much for him. He has two types of cancer, had three strokes, and a mild heart attack, and is currently being evaluated for Hospice.

The Church has been holding fundraisers for months and has received donations from building-related suppliers and craftsmen to build this new house under a non-profit called The Ragan Street Project. There is a Facebook page where the community can keep up with the progress of the building and donate to help. There are other materials and services needed to complete the house.

“We are blown away by how God has touched us,” said Lynn Rux. “The wonderful people at the Church at Shiloh have had garage sales, raffles, and donations of time and money, not to mention prayer, to build this house.”

According to Dr. Edwards, just under forty thousand dollars has been donated thus far. Other churches and people in the community are also donors.

Donations of money, time and materials have made all the difference. HVAC, sixty yards of concrete, thirty loads of dirt, and so much more. Here is a list of the contractors that have thus far contributed to the Ragan Street Project Facebook.  

Aerus Home
Born Again Roofing
Brandon Lighting
Clyde Williams
Consolidated Electric Distributors
Crooked Creek Animal Hospital
Cross Roads Baptist Church
Elcon Electrical
ESS Electrical
Fairway Foods
Freddie Rowell
Frierson Bailey Lumber
Graybar Electric Supply
Hearst Construction Inc.
HR Squared
Infinity Air
Insul Pro Plus
J’s Plumbing
Leonardo’s Custom Designer / Interior Decorating Service
LJ Land and Cattle
MMC Materials
Third Floor Plans
Thrash Commercial Contractors
Two Wire Electric Supply

For more information on the status or to donate to The Ragan Street Project, visit the page, The Ragan Street Project Facebook or The Church at Shiloh’s webpage. 

Successful automation requires careful planning, realistic expectations, and continuous oversight. Businesses that understand common mistakes in automation can avoid wasted budgets, frustrated employees, and stalled productivity while building systems that genuinely improve operations.

Chasing Technology Without Defining Goals

Many companies buy automation tools because industry trends create pressure. Executives hear success stories, attend trade shows, and immediately invest in equipment without defining measurable objectives. That decision creates confusion across departments and weakens long term planning.

Before choosing technology, businesses should answer several important questions:

• Which repetitive tasks consume the most time?
• Which errors damage productivity or customer trust?
• Which departments need immediate operational support?
• Which metrics will measure success after implementation?

Clear answers help leaders choose practical systems instead of flashy products with unnecessary features.

Ignoring Employee Input During Planning

Automation changes daily responsibilities, communication patterns, and performance expectations. Employees understand operational challenges better than many outside consultants, yet managers frequently exclude them from planning discussions. That mistake creates resistance, confusion, and lower morale.

Strong companies involve workers early in the process. Production teams, customer service staff, and warehouse employees often identify hidden workflow problems before automation begins. Their insight helps businesses avoid expensive redesigns later.

Training also matters. Companies cannot expect employees to adapt instantly to unfamiliar systems. Practical workshops, hands on demonstrations, and ongoing support help teams build confidence while maintaining productivity during transitions.

Automating Broken Processes

Some organizations attempt to automate inefficient systems without fixing underlying operational problems first. Automation accelerates processes, but it cannot repair poor communication, outdated procedures, or inconsistent quality standards.

For example, manufacturers sometimes invest heavily in automated part finishing equipment while production bottlenecks continue elsewhere on the floor. Faster finishing will not solve inventory delays, inaccurate scheduling, or weak supplier coordination. Businesses should examine entire workflows before adding automation to isolated areas.

Leaders should map every major process and identify unnecessary steps before implementation begins. Simpler workflows create stronger automation results and lower operating costs.

Overlooking Maintenance and Scalability

Many businesses focus entirely on installation costs while ignoring long term maintenance requirements. Software updates, equipment inspections, cybersecurity protections, and technical support all require ongoing investment. Without consistent maintenance, automation systems gradually lose efficiency and reliability.

Scalability also deserves attention during planning. A system that handles current production demands may struggle when order volume increases. Companies should choose flexible tools that support future expansion instead of forcing another expensive upgrade within a few years.

Automation for the Future

Businesses that automate carefully create stronger operations, healthier teams, and better customer experiences. Thoughtful planning, employee involvement, and realistic expectations help companies avoid common setbacks while turning automation into a valuable competitive advantage.

Companies also benefit when leadership reviews automation performance every quarter. Regular audits reveal workflow gaps, training needs, and unexpected expenses before they damage operations. Teams that monitor results consistently can refine processes, improve collaboration, and maintain momentum as technology evolves alongside customer expectations and market demands across industries every year successfully.

The quiet of summer is officially winding down as the familiar rhythm of yellow buses, morning traffic, and packed backpacks prepares to return to Pelahatchie Elementary. With the first day of school officially set for Thursday, July 30th, local families, teachers, and administrators are putting the final touches on preparations for the 2026–2027 school year.  Reminder:  Registration codes will be emailed to returning students July 10th.  If you have a new student that needs to register, come by the school before school begins.  Students will not be placed on class roles until registration is complete and residency is approved.  

A Focus on Routine and Mental Wellness

While fresh school supplies bring plenty of excitement, experts note that the psychological shift from open summer days to structured school nights can be tough on kids. Transitioning from the relaxed freedom of summer back into a school routine can be a jarring shift for elementary minds and bodies. Shifting into “school mode” is a gradual process that should start well before the first bell rings.

The biggest hurdle for elementary students often isn’t the academics; it’s the sudden shift in structure and stamina. In June and July, they can graze on snacks and play whenever they want. By late July, they have to navigate a timed schedule, sit at desks, and practice active listening.

To combat back-to-school anxiety, educators encourage starting the transition early. Families are advised to pull bedtime back by 15 minutes each night leading up to the first day, ensuring children are well-rested, confident, and ready to learn.

Community Spirit and Getting Involved

To help students ease those first-day jitters, Pelahatchie ES is hosting a Meet the Teacher event on Tuesday, July 28th. To accommodate varying family schedules, the school has opened two dedicated time slots for families to tour classrooms and connect with staff:

●  Morning Session: 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
●   Afternoon Session: 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM

As the countdown ticks away, teachers are already back in their classrooms—arranging furniture, decorating vibrant bulletin boards, and planning engaging lessons for the start of school.

For the staff at Pelahatchie ES, every year feels like a fresh start. The hallways may be quiet now, but the team is more than ready to welcome students back. We’ve deeply missed the energy of the kids, and we can’t wait to see what they accomplish this year.

These assets come with unique rules, responsibilities, and risks, so investors need to understand how each option works before making a move. With the right planning, alternative assets can add useful flexibility to a long-term retirement strategy.

Real Estate

Real estate remains one of the most popular alternative assets for retirement accounts. Investors often like rental homes, commercial buildings, raw land, and multifamily properties because these assets can generate income and long-term growth.

Real estate also gives investors a tangible asset they can evaluate in practical ways. Location, rental demand, property condition, and local market trends all play a role. Investors who understand those details can make more informed choices and avoid jumping into a property based only on excitement.

Private Companies

Some retirement investors explore private companies because they want access to opportunities outside the public stock market. These investments can include startups, established private businesses, or limited partnerships.

Private company investments can carry higher risk because they don’t trade on public exchanges. Investors also may need to wait years before seeing a return. Still, people who know an industry well may find private businesses appealing because they can evaluate leadership, growth plans, and market demand before committing funds.

Precious Metals

Gold, silver, platinum, and palladium can play a role in a retirement account when investors want assets that don’t move in the same way as traditional securities. Precious metals often attract people who want a hedge against inflation or economic uncertainty.

Investors must follow specific storage and purity rules when they hold metals inside a retirement account. They also need to work with qualified providers who understand those requirements. Careful planning helps investors avoid costly mistakes.

Promissory Notes

Promissory notes allow investors to lend money and receive repayment with interest. These notes can involve real estate deals, business loans, or other private lending arrangements.

This option gives investors another way to invest in different places with a Self-Directed IRA account. However, investors need to review the borrower, repayment terms, collateral, and default risk. A strong agreement can’t remove all risk, but it can create clearer expectations.

A Broader Retirement View

Alternative assets can give retirement investors more choices, but choice alone doesn’t create a strong strategy. Each asset needs research, patience, and a clear purpose. When investors understand the rules and risks, they can build a retirement account that reflects their goals instead of following a one-size-fits-all approach.

Michael Wolf is pleased to announce his candidacy for Rankin County Chancery Court Judge, offering more than three decades of legal experience, a record of public service, and a steadfast commitment to integrity, impartiality, and faithful adherence to the law.

A longtime resident of Rankin County, Michael has built his life around family, faith, and community. He holds the unwavering belief that faithfully following the law protects those values. He and his wife Rebecca, a teacher, are committed to strengthening those same values that make Rankin County a place that families are proud to call home.

While the scope of the Chancery is broad, it does serve as the Court where issues of Family are considered. Faith and family define Michael Wolf. His faith was tested in 2021 when he and his children suffered the sudden loss of Stacy, an amazing wife and mother. Luckily their lives were already well rooted in Christ, and this experience did not undue that faith but strengthened in them the knowledge that God is love, even in our pain.   

With this faith, Michael has since been blessed beyond measure, finding love again and marrying Rebecca. They have blended their two families, with four adult children, of which three are teachers and one a minister in the making.  Their home is a place of love and laughter. 
Michael has served the youth in this community as a Sunday school teacher, and by coaching soccer, football, and mock trial teams.

For over 33 years, Michael has practiced law across multiple jurisdictions with extensive experience in trial courts, appellate courts, and public service. His legal career has included appearances before state and federal courts, including the Mississippi Supreme Court, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, as well as writing briefs before the United States Supreme Court.

Michael’s professional experience has prepared him for the job of Chancery Court Judge. He has served as a certified mediator, hearing officer, former senior deputy city attorney, and a managing partner. Those roles required thoughtful decision-making, fairness, careful evaluation of evidence, and respect for the rule of law, which have absolutely prepared him for the job of judge.

Michael Wolf seeks the opportunity to serve Rankin County with independence, integrity, humility, and an unwavering commitment to fairness in the law.
 

How Old Is Your Last Sealcoat?

Start with the age of your last sealcoat. If it's been more than three years since application, the sealcoat has done its job and is ready to be replaced. You don't need to wait for visible damage to show up before you act. Letting the clock run too far past that window leaves the asphalt underneath exposed to water, sun, and vehicle traffic without any protection. If you can't remember when it was last done, that's your answer right there.

What Does the Surface Actually Look Like?

Take a walk across your lot and look down. Fresh sealcoat has a dark, even appearance. When it starts to fade to a lighter gray or patchy tone, that's the coating wearing thin. Fading doesn't just look tired. It means the protective layer is breaking down and the asphalt below is starting to take on direct exposure. If the color looks uneven or dull across large sections, it's past time for a refresh.

Are Cracks Starting to Appear?

Small hairline cracks are one of the earliest warnings that the surface needs attention. Water gets into those cracks, expands when temperatures drop, and widens them over time. Catching them early keeps the repair simpler. If the cracking has spread into a web pattern across sections of the lot, the damage is moving beyond what sealcoating alone can fix, and you may be looking at more involved repairs before resealing.

What Time of Year Is It?

You'll also want to consider the time of year before committing to a sealcoat. It's important to time your application right if you don't want the sealcoat to fail. The best time to apply is between late spring and early fall, when the weather is dry, and temperatures stay consistently above 50 degrees. This gives the best conditions for the sealcoat to fully cure.

A Parking Lot That Works for Your Business

Your parking lot is one of the first things customers notice, so keeping it in good shape is worth the effort. Is it time to reseal your business parking lot? Walk it, check the age, and look for the warning signs covered here—that will tell you all you need to know.

“I expect that this year, as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, fireworks use will be at an all-time high. It’s up to you to implement safety standards when shooting fireworks at home. That means using common sense, never pointing fireworks at another person, and disposing of fireworks in water to prevent fire,” said State Fire Marshal and Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there were reports of at least 15 deaths and an estimated 13,000 emergency department-treated injuries linked to fireworks misuse and malfunction in 2025. There were an estimated 1,300 injuries involving sparklers alone.

To avoid injury, the Mississippi State Fire Marshal suggests you follow these safety tips:

• Use common sense: always read and follow the directions on each firework.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Buy from reliable fireworks sellers.
• Store them in a cool, dry place.
• Always have an adult present when shooting fireworks.
• Put used fireworks in a bucket of water and have a hose ready.
• Only use fireworks outdoors, away from homes, dry grass, and trees.
• Light only one item at a time and keep a safe distance.
• Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks.
• Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks.
• Never give fireworks to small children.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.

You should also observe local laws. Some cities prohibit fireworks from being used within city limits.

“Standard homeowners insurance policies cover damage from accidental fires, like those caused by fireworks, but there are exceptions. If you set off fireworks where they are not allowed, your policy might not cover the damage. Check local laws to find out if fireworks are legal in your area. Your insurance company can also tell you if there are any fire restrictions in your policy,” said Comm. Chaney.

Attending a public fireworks show is also a safe option if you choose not to shoot fireworks at home. The SFMO performs pyrotechnic inspections for shows that are performed on state-owned properties. Pyrotechnics companies must apply for a permit for shows. Once received, the SFMO verifies all information pertaining to insurance, technicians, and local public safety information. Deputies must be on site for the firing of the display and clean up.

As a sports fan, I like to know what is happening when my teams are playing. I love watching my teams on TV, but there is nothing better than being at the game itself. However, there are many times when I’m unable to do either.  When I’m unable to go or watch, I still try to keep up with the score and what’s happening one way or another. A common way is to pull up an app on my phone that provides the score and even the play by play. That’s certainly useful, but what’s even better is when I know someone at the game that can provide me with live updates as it happens in front of their own eyes. A trusted eyewitness is able to tell me exactly what happens, as it happens. The apps are useful, but when there’s a delay or some kind of review, I don’t know what’s going on.  A trusted eyewitness can tell me everything, even the nuances that the apps don’t communicate. Whenever we want accurate information in any situation, a trusted eyewitness is far more beneficial than any other option. They are especially more reliable than secondhand information (or worse) from someone who wasn’t even there.

In the Bible, eyewitnesses are absolutely critical.  In fact, when deciding which books would be included in the New Testament, there was no requirement more important. If the book or letter was not from the pen of an eyewitness of Jesus, it was not even considered.  The apostle John was not only an eyewitness, but one of Jesus’ closest friends. He was 1 of Jesus’ 12 disciples, but more than that, he was also among the 3 disciples closest to Jesus.  He wrote 1 of the 4 Gospels and also 3 of the epistles (letters) included in the New Testament. In his first letter, entitled 1 John, he began by establishing himself as an eyewitness of Jesus.  This was because there were false prophets deceiving people with false teaching concerning the truth about Jesus. In response to that, John wrote to the early believers as an eyewitness so that they could trust that what he wrote about Jesus was true and credible. At the end that same letter, he wrote: “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.” What a statement! He essentially said that everything he wrote in that letter was so that those that those who truly believed would have the assurance of eternal life. Having the absolute assurance of eternal life has everything to do with knowing the truth about Jesus and believing in faith! You know, no other belief system in the world even proclaims the idea of eternal security. Do you know why? No other has anything to substantiate that promise. No other faith has a God and Savior that has defeated death and lives today! But, Jesus is the victorious and risen King!  This is the Jesus the eyewitnesses proclaimed.  In his Gospel, John also wrote these words: “…but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.” John, the eyewitness and friend of Jesus, wrote extensively in the New Testament so that you and I could be assured of our eternal destination when this life is over.

So, how does that sit with you?  Do you know you will spend eternity in Heaven with absolute certainty?  Have you put your faith fully in the Jesus of the Bible, the One proclaimed by His eyewitnesses?  If not, let me recommend that you actually read the words written by the eyewitness John. Read the Gospel that bears his name.  He wrote it so that you may believe in Jesus and have life in His name.
 

But yet, her green eyes shone with a love of life, and she carried herself with self-confidence. Intrigued with the difference between the harsh wrinkles on her face and the glowing peace she conveyed, I finally asked her what had obviously happened at some point in her life. This was what she told me. 

“I discovered something a long time ago. God just doesn’t care. And you know what? I was absolutely one-hundred percent correct.

For years I knew that He didn’t care about me and my problems, He always ignored my pleas for help. I figured that God probably didn’t see me as important enough to answer. After all, I felt worthless, so the absolute God of this universe certainly couldn’t see me any different. And besides, living my life like I was, there was no way that God would concentrate on helping me. He was The God Almighty, and I was….just… me. 

No doubt about it, that deep gut feeling that I was totally unlovable and insignificant caused me to make a decision. A bad one. I decided that if I was just worthless trash, then I might as well live it out. And I did. I won’t bore you or shock you with the details. Trust me, you don’t want to hear ‘em.”

After all that, I couldn’t resist. I had to find out why her face looked so haggard, but yet her face had a glow and her presence projected self-assurance. So, I put that very question to her. Granted, I worded it without “haggard” in my question, but I still asked. Her soft answer came quickly.

“Finally, when I had gotten to the point of so much self-loathing that suicide was constantly on my mind, I went to see a counselor. A man who saw right thru the anger and hardness. To the real problem…that I despised me, ‘cause I knew that God hated me. After all, people who acted the way I did? They had to be hated by God.

That man told me that I was totally wrong about so many things, and proceeded to show me the truth.”

(The truth? Yep, I asked, you know I did. Here’s her answer.)

“Oh yeah, God doesn’t care. That’s absolutely the truth. But not about what I always thought! 

The truth is, He doesn’t care if you are a bad person. He doesn’t care if no one on this earth likes you and the way you behave. That means nothing to Him. He simply wants to rescue you out of the old lies you always believed. Lies about Him, and therefore, lies about yourself.

Made a world of difference in how I view myself now. And Him.”

She’s absolutely right. God just doesn’t care about all that other. He only cares about you.

   America’s 250th birthday is next week and for those of you who, like me, are excited about this milestone in our nation’s history, I’m happy to report that July 4, 2026 lands on a Saturday. It’s the perfect opportunity to take a weekend trip to celebrate and enjoy the festivities in one convenient location. If you live in Mississippi, Louisiana or other coastal area, there’s no better place to celebrate our nation’s monumental birthday than the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Specifically, a full lineup of festivities is planned at Beau Rivage Resort and Casino for hotel guests as well as anyone looking for a place to enjoy a holiday meal, entertainment and fireworks in a festive, patriotic setting.

   A prior commitment on the big day will prohibit me from celebrating down south, so last weekend, I stopped by the Beau to check out what I knew would be exemplary Fourth of July décor. The resort never disappoints with its beautiful, over-the-top flower arrangements, creative holiday-themed displays and themed meals and promotions.  

    As expected, this year’s patriotic decor has been elevated to an entirely different level, complete with a massive, lifelike bald eagle holding court overhead in the lobby, Lady Liberty with lighted torch, fireworks simulations, U. S. flags flying in every direction and red, white & blue elements throughout the property.

    In short, there’s no shortage of patriotic spaces in which to shoot family photos and videos and create eye-catching content for social media.

    The weather on the Coast was dismal, so my plan was to spend the day indoors at the Beau. Once you’re inside the cocoon-like resort, there’s really no reason to leave. Everything from coffee and ice cream shops to fine dining; from people-watching to shopping or trying your luck in the casino, to relaxing by the pool or in the spa, can be found at The Beau.  In short, there’s no need to leave once you arrive.

    I whiled away the hours enjoying the Beau’s festive decor, sampling The Buffet filled with over 200 items, including specialty dishes and Southern classics (the fried pork chops rivaled any I’d ever tasted), being entertained at Shrek the Musical in the Beau Rivage Theatre and the highlight of the day – experiencing a memorable dinner in the elegantly-appointed BR Prime Steakhouse.

    My first meal of the day was, as mentioned, a bounteous lunch at The Buffet. Sitting in the breezy open-air atrium adjacent to the main dining room, I was able to decompress and relax after a busy week. I enjoyed a multi-course lunch accompanied by lively music and plenty of people watching. There’s just something about the Beau’s atmosphere highlighted by beautiful decorations, music and an ever-present scent of fresh flowers that lifts one’s spirits.

   Besides the pork chops and accompanying Southern sides at The Buffet, finding Caribbean delicacies like Jamaican jerk chicken, Caribbean chicken salad and roasted banana pineapple upside down cake with coconut cream was a special treat.    

     The dishes are part of The Buffet’s Global Cuisine celebration that presents “tastes from around the world” from a different country. Each month, nine dishes, including a dessert, are added at lunch and dinner to the more than 200 items normally found on The Buffet.

    Beginning July 1, American favorites like loaded potato salad, pulled pork, bourbon glazed grilled pork chops, grilled chicken wings, beer brats and onions and chocolate peanut butter pie will be offered in honor of the country’s 250^th birthday.

   After lunch, I ventured over to the Beau Rivage Theatre to spend the afternoon enjoying Shrek the Musical. I didn’t see the popular Disney movie, but within the first few minutes, the professionally-produced stage version quickly illustrated the reason for the hype surrounding the green ogre, Princess Fiona, a talking donkey and a cast of nursery rhyme characters I remembered from childhood storybooks.   

     The delightful musical is a fun, family-friendly production for theatre-goers of all ages.  

   It didn’t seem possible after my two-hour lunch, but by dinner time, I was eager to visit one of my favorite restaurants. BR Prime is, in my opinion, the crown jewel of the Beau. The elegant eatery never disappoints in the areas of unparalleled ambiance, attentive service and innovative cuisine.

    Despite having been awarded numerous national awards for its food and overall dining experience, BR Prime is constantly changing and evolving, enhancing classic dishes and adding new, innovative items to the already-extensive menu.

     An overview of recent additions includes a delicious Baby Gem salad filled with bacon, pickled onion, cheddar cheese and peppercorn, Hen of the Woods mushroom with a truffle yogurt sauce that is smoked tableside, caviar service with traditional garnishes and poached lobster carpaccio, to name a few. My favorite new starter was a fresh, innovative take on shrimp salad courtesy of crème fraiche, dill, baby rock shrimp and baby gem lettuce stacked on a crispy pastry base.

   Steaks are undoubtedly the star at BR Prime and while the classics are still on the menu, new additions are quickly gaining in popularity. The Mishima Reserve Wagyu Hanger Steak with a black truffle bearnaise proved to be an excellent choice. The flavorful steak delivered intense flavor combined with a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Other new additions include a double-cut Iberico pork chop and Mayura Station Wagyu brisket.

     A decadent but light crème brûlée decorated in patriotic colors courtesy of chopped a strawberry and blackberry topping was the perfect ending to a meal that rivaled any that I have sampled in New York City, Dallas and other large cities. To label BR Prime one of the best restaurants in the nation is not an exaggeration.

   Back to next week’s celebration…it wouldn’t be the Fourth of July without fireworks and the Beau has this important tradition covered.

    Beginning at 9 p.m. guests are invited to watch a special fireworks display from the observation deck facing the Mississippi Sound. The fireworks, which will be set off from a barge near Deer Island, will pay homage to America’s 250^th   birthday in a dazzling display choreographed to patriotic music.

    Next week I’ll share my picks for celebrating the 4^th of July at home, including décor and menu ideas.

    In the meantime, if a trip to the Gulf Coast to celebrate at the Beau sounds appealing, check out additional information about accommodations, meals, tickets to Shrek the Musical, drawings for red, white and blue Corvettes and more Fourth of July activities on the Beau’s website: beaurivage.mgmresorts.com.

 Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer from Mississippi. Email her at kkprco@yahoo.com.

    Home lawns and turf areas around homes, office buildings parks, and churches serve as pleasant green backdrops, but do so much more.  These little grass plants that make up the lawn serve as miniature air-conditioners and help decrease pollution.

    On a block of 8 houses or buildings, the front lawns have the cooling effect of 70 tons of air-conditioning.  The plants in these front lawns transpire water to cool themselves, they also cool the surrounding area.  Roughly 50 percent of the heat or sunlight striking a  turf area is eliminated by transpiration.  The plants in transpiring water to cool themselves, also cool the surrounding areas.  When the temperature of the sidewalk is 100 degrees F,  the adjacent turf remains near 75 degrees F.  This cooling may well last into the night, with studies showing a 13-degree cooling at 9:00 p.m.

    However, this air-conditioning is not free.  An average 5,000-square-foot lawn transpires about 3,000 gallons of water on a hot summer day.  This water can either be supplied by rain or irrigation. 

     A 250-square-foot lawn produces enough oxygen for a family of four.  A lawn helps prevent soil erosion and enhances ground water exchange.  Water infiltration is much higher on grass areas than bare dirt areas.  This higher infiltration prevents water from running off and encourages it to enter the ground water streams.  Grass roots hold the soil in place better than any other plant.

    Some folks love working in the yard and maintaining a quality turf.  Others despise yardwork and want a low-maintenance lawn.  Still others are confused about how to keep a well-maintained lawn.  

    One of the first steps to having a good lawn is choosing the best turfgrass to suit the time and money you have for maintenance.  Each variety of grass has its advantages, and disadvantages.  Do you need grass that grows in the shade or full sun, do you want a fast growing  or slow growing grass,  a warm season grass or cool season grass?  

    Choosing the best lawn grass involves your personal judgement based on your needs and the conditions of your property.  It gets down to four things: 

1. The amount of sunlight.  This is the most important factor in the selection of the best grass to grow.  No species of turfgrass will grow well in complete shade. If an area receives at least half a day of direct sunlight, one can grow any of the grasses adapted for our region.
2. Temperature.  Temperature is important in determining which grasses will grow.  People who try to grow St. Augustine or Centipede in northern areas of the state may see some damage every winter. 
3. Maintenance.  Decide how much work you want to put into your lawn.  Some grasses are established with seed, others require sprigs, or plugs.  After the lawn has been established, some grasses require little care other than mowing, while others require almost constant attention to fertility, water, and pest control.  
4. Soil.  Each species of grass has a soil type to which  it is well adapted.  All grasses perform well in well drained, loamy soils, but most Mississippians do not have the ideal soil.  The most important consideration  of soils is the ability of water to move into and through the soil.

  No grass survives long in standing water.  A second factor is the acidity level or pH of the soil.  It is easier to plant a grass that is adapted to a certain pH level, than to constantly fight to adjust the pH.

Sources-  Establish & Manage Your Home Lawn, Extension Publication 1322.
 

In February 2026, Rob Buchert received an unlikely phone call: the history interpreter then portraying George Washington at Mount Vernon was having trouble sourcing paper made in the 18th-century style. The inquiry that followed led Buchert to the Dunlap Broadside, and to the question of whether anyone had ever reproduced it not as a facsimile of the artifact’s current appearance, but as a complete recapitulation of the original creation process. The answer was no.

Most Americans picture the Declaration of Independence as the calligraphed parchment with the famous signatures, the document preserved today in the National Archives, familiar from countless reproductions. That document was produced weeks after independence was declared, and the image most of us know descends from an 1823 engraving. The Dunlap Broadside, what Buchert has reproduced, is the actual first publication: the document printed the night of July 4, 1776, before the parchment existed, and read aloud to General Washington’s troops in New York on July 9. The parchment reproductions everywhere this anniversary year are of a different document entirely.

As the effective Birth Certificate of the nation, the Dunlap Broadside has attracted the attention of publishers and printing offices over the years. None combines handmade period paper with a matched watermark and letter-by-letter type composition drawn from period specimens. The National Park Service’s Franklin Court Printing Office (Philadelphia) and the Printing Office of Edes & Gill (Boston) both produce respected hand-press Dunlap reproductions on machine-made cotton paper at prices around $25–30. The only previous reproduction made to a comparable standard of material fidelity, the 1970 R.R. Donnelley/Lakeside Press facsimile, is available only on the secondary market at $500–$2,000+, and is no longer in production.

Unlike the Donnelley facsimile, which sought to replicate the artifact as it existed in 1970, including its aged edges, staining, and toning, Buchert’s reproduction recapitulates the original creation process, producing something far closer to what those first readers across the colonies actually held: a freshly printed broadside on new paper, ink still sharp, carrying the news of independence. It is also a tribute to what is easy to forget about Dunlap’s overnight work: that it was not merely functional but genuinely beautiful: stately letterspaced caps, a commanding six-line initial, presswork that bears the excitement of the moment in every line. Buchert has sought to honor that beauty, not improve upon it.

This project drew on approximately 1,300 hours of work between February and June 2026.

What Rob Buchert Made

A hand-printed recreation of the Dunlap Broadside that follows the Library of Congress’s copy of the first printing: the paper made by hand, the type set letter by letter against the original, the ink blended to match 18th-century presswork.

Paper: Handmade from period-appropriate flax and hemp fibers, bearing the J. Honig & Zoonen crown-and-post-horn watermark, the same Dutch papermaker whose stock Dunlap used in 1776. The watermark is visible in the Library of Congress’s high-resolution scan of its surviving copy.

Type: Re-set from Caslon’s 1766 type specimen book, letter by letter and space by space against the LOC copy, replicating the letterspaced caps in the title and the stately six-line initial of the text, including the typographic irregularities and evidence of haste characteristic of Dunlap’s original composition.

Ink: Hand-blended to match the deep black characteristic of 18th-century letterpress printing.

Press: Printed by hand, one copy at a time, on a letterpress.

Dimensions: Approximately 19.5” × 15.5” (each sheet unique; handmade paper varies slightly).

Availability: www.declaration250.shop

Expert Validation

“I have examined surviving copies of the Dunlap Broadside firsthand, and the attention to detail here is remarkable. Although other credible efforts have been undertaken to produce faithful replicas of this document, I believe this to be the most accurate reprinting that has ever been produced. For the person who wishes to experience the sensation of holding a newly-printed copy of the first printing of the Declaration of Independence, there is simply no better option.”

— Gove N. Allen, Ph.D., Member, American Antiquarian Society (speaking in a personal capacity)

About Rob Buchert

Rob Buchert is an artist, letterpress printer, type designer, and papermaker with more than thirty years of practice across crafts that the printing industry largely abandoned. He is co-founder of Tryst Press, an award-winning letterpress, papermaking, and fine arts studio established in 1993 in Utah, whose work has entered public and private collections throughout North America and around the world, with pieces exhibited at venues including The Grolier Club. He is a recipient of the Carl Hertzog Award for Excellence in Book Design.

Buchert’s practice runs from raw fiber to finished page: he designs type, casts type (having trained at Monotype University), builds the wood-and-wire moulds and watermarks used in Western-style hand papermaking, and designs and illustrates books. He has been teaching letterpress printing and typography as adjunct faculty at BYU Provo for over twenty years, and collaborated for years with the Crandall Historical Printing Museum.

All-time-great director Steven Spielberg is back with a film built around one of his most popular subjects: aliens. From the man that brought us “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” and “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” comes “Disclosure Day,” a film about a small group of people deciding that it is time to let the rest of humanity know that they are not alone in the universe. After deeply personal project “The Fabelmans,” this is Spielberg’s return to blockbuster filmmaking. And I do see this movie as a blockbuster, just not much of one. 

The film essentially follows six characters: hacker Daniel Kellner (Josh O’Connor) and his girlfriend Jane (Eve Hewson), TV newswoman Margaret Fairchild (Emily Blunt) and her boyfriend Jackson (Wyatt Russell), organizer of key players Hugo (Colman Domingo), and shady coverup leader Scanlon (Colin Firth). Kellner has flash drives with evidence of alien activity on Earth dating back decades. Margaret suddenly has powers that are not of this world. Hugo has a full-sized replica of Margaret’s childhood home for some reason. Scanlon has alien tech that he’s ironically using against the aliens and their allies. Let the race to expose or bury the truth begin. 

Following a botched drop to get back a kidnapped Jane from Scanlon, Kellner goes on the run with sketchy help from Hugo in a storyline reminiscent of recent Oscar winner “One Battle After Another.” Jane is shocked to learn that her boyfriend knows the truth about aliens, and he’s shocked to learn that she once aspired to be a nun. At first, she’s a liability to Kellner because she’s blissfully ignorant, then she’s a liability because she doesn’t agree with his cause, then she’s a liability because Scanlon gets to her. 

Kellner knows the score with the aliens, but Margaret doesn’t. She doesn’t know why she suddenly speaks every language or knows the personal life of everyone she sees or can’t help but speak an alien tongue on air. All she knows is that some bad people are after her because of it, and the skeptical Jackson is reluctantly along for the ride. Could it have something to do with repressed childhood memories about unconvincing CGI forest animals? Kellner and Margaret meet up to have an action scene with a speeding train. We know from “The Fabelmans” that Spielberg loves speeding trains almost as much as he loves crashing them. 

For a movie called “Disclosure Day,” there’s a lot of suspense around whether or not the truth will be disclosed. Spoiler Alert: it will be, so don’t worry about it. If you want to worry about something, worry about the individual characters making it to the end alive, which isn’t a lock. Though these characters are so dull that I couldn’t get too invested in their survival. 

Spielberg usually makes good decisions about the way this film looks and sounds (Yes, frequent collaborator John Williams is doing the score), but I don’t agree with how he has the story unfold. Instead of exploring the rich potential for how humanity will respond to this mindblowing news about aliens, he focuses on the buildup to the news, which isn’t that interesting. There’s a brief mention of how people will react if their deeply-held religious beliefs are shaken, but it’s brushed aside in favor of chase antics. I would have put the disclosure at the beginning of this film and given the bulk of the runtime to the fallout. 

Grade: C

“Disclosure Day” is rated PG-13 for action/violence, some bloody images and strong language. Its running time is 145 minutes.

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu. 

For instance, my present lifestyle seems absolutely normal to me. But President Trump probably feels the same way about his lifestyle. So does the grandmother who is living in the poverty-stricken Brick Kiln District in Pakistan. Each person feels that their accustomed style of living is pretty close to normal. Anything else has a tendency to make us feel overwhelmed, awkward, anxious, or out of place. Notice I didn’t say typical, just…normal.  

But let yourself become exposed to a different style of living and other surroundings, where you can observe happy, contented people living their daily lives, and you can become acutely aware of something. You will see that differences in lifestyle and location, wealthier or poorer, is not the creator of happiness or discontentment. 

Those feelings are a choice and have to come from within.

For example, I recently spent an evening on a horse farm, with a family that was so contented and happy with their lives. Lives that include sixteen hours of hard outdoor work, every day. But believe me, they loved their lifestyle.

Earlier this past week I listened to a pastor and his wife speaking compassionately of the hardships several people in their church were undergoing. In spite of the emotional pain and stress as they walked through it all with these friends, they love their life and they love that they are involved and needed. You could not blast that couple out of their ministry with a cannonball.

My point is this: find your own normal. Find the desire and passion that is inborn in you, and go for it. Anything different from that purpose driven lifestyle could likely be the dream of someone else...but not yours. Dream long and hard. Take the time to find that spark within you. Fan it in to a flame. Then set out to do what is necessary to put it into action. 

Remember folks, life here on earth is short. The average age of dying is now 73.8 years, give or take a few years in terms of male or female.  And also know this, even that span of life is broken into several groups. Babyhood, elementary, teen, adult, and finally, senior citizen years. You don’t have an unbroken 73.8 years to accomplish what you are dreaming. What you could do in your teens is very likely not a viable possibility when you are a silver-haired senior. 

So take advantage of being the age you are right now.  Because as of tonight, the age you are today is never going to roll around again.  Take your courage in hand, step out and begin living your God-given dream, (just do it within the confines of your current age group.)

Go live your own individual true normal.

Beeman is also the valedictorian for Pelahatchie High School’s Senior Class of 2026. He is noted for receiving both distinguished academic and career and technical endorsements. His accomplishments include honor graduate, Mississippi scholar, distinguished TItle: service, Pelahatchie High School Hall of Fame, ACT honors, chemistry award, English IV award, health science IV award, student council, tech team, and Beta Club. His future plans are to attend Tougaloo College to major in Computer Science and Math Education.

Congratulations to Kyra Bryant! She is the salutatorian for Pelahatchie High School’s Senior Class of 2026. She is noted for receiving distinguished academic and career and technical endorsements. Her accomplishments include honor graduate, distinguished service, ACT honors, economics award, engineering IV award, and Beta leadership award. Her future plans are to attend North Arkansas College and major in Aeronautical Engineering.