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.

Keep Income Clear as Jobs Move Forward

Contractors may receive deposits, progress payments, final balances, cash, checks, and digital transfers. Each payment needs a clear place in the business records as soon as it comes in.

A separate business bank account makes that easier. It keeps household spending away from job income and gives contractors a cleaner view of money coming into the business. Therefore, a quick weekly review of deposits can help catch missing invoices, duplicate entries, or payments that need project notes.

Track Expenses While Details Stay Fresh

Receipts lose meaning when contractors wait too long to label them. A supply store charge may cover lumber for one job, repair parts for equipment, or materials split across several projects.

A simple expense system works best when contractors use it all year. Contractors can take a photo of the receipt, write the project name on it, or add a quick note in bookkeeping software before moving to the next task.

Helpful expense categories include:

• Materials and supplies
• Tool purchases and rentals
• Fuel and vehicle costs
• Subcontractor payments
• Insurance, licenses, and professional fees

Clear categories help contractors compare estimates with real costs. Moreover, they make year-round planning easier because the numbers show where money goes before small issues grow.

Set Aside Tax Money With Each Payment

Independent contractors usually handle tax planning without withholding from paychecks. That means tax money needs to be set aside before contractors spend income on materials, fuel, payroll help, or personal bills.

A separate tax savings account can support that habit through busy months and slower stretches. Contractors may transfer a set percentage of each payment to that account as soon as the money arrives.

This routine also helps contractors protect working capital throughout the year. When tax money stays separate, business owners can see what they truly have available for equipment, supplies, repairs, and slower months.

Watch Patterns That Raise Questions

Good records tell a clear financial story. Audits are often triggered by specific patterns, such as income that does not match tax forms, unusually high deductions relative to business income, repeated losses, or weak documentation of large expenses.

Contractors should pay close attention to cash payments, vehicle use, subcontractor records, and equipment purchases during every season. These areas deserve clean notes because they involve common tax questions for trade businesses.

Review Records on a Monthly Rhythm

A monthly review gives contractors time to fix small recordkeeping problems before they spread across the year. Contractors can check for unpaid invoices, missing receipts, duplicate charges, uncategorized expenses, and job costs while the details are still clear.

Pelahatchie work schedules may shift around summer heat, rain, storm repairs, school calendars, and seasonal home projects. Because of that, a monthly money check keeps records steady even when the work calendar changes.

Build Stronger Habits Across Every Season

Tax readiness works best when contractors connect paperwork to daily business routines. A receipt photo after a supply run, a weekly deposit check, and a monthly review all support cleaner records when contractors keep them going year-round.

Contractors can stay tax-ready throughout the year with steady attention before details fade. Contractors who know their numbers can price jobs with more confidence, plan for equipment needs, prepare for slower periods, and keep tax money separate from working cash.

Condensation Is the Biggest Challenge

Humidity is moisture in the air, and moisture causes condensation on metal surfaces. When warm, humid air hits cooler metal, you get water buildup inside your building. Eventually, that can lead to rust, corrosion, and mold growth on insulation or stored materials.

The fix is proper insulation and vapor barriers. A well-insulated building keeps the interior temperature stable, which reduces the temperature differential that causes condensation. Don’t cut corners here.

Rust and Corrosion Are Manageable

Steel rusts when it’s exposed to moisture and oxygen. That’s just chemistry. But modern commercial metal buildings use galvanized or Galvalume-coated steel, which puts a protective zinc or aluminum-zinc layer between your structure and the elements.

Just make sure you maintain the coating and keep an eye on exposed fasteners, cut edges, and any areas where the coating gets scratched during construction. Touch those up right away.

Ventilation Makes a Measurable Impact

Stagnant, humid air trapped inside a metal building accelerates corrosion and encourages mold. Conversely, a proper ventilation system keeps air moving, removes moisture, and protects everything inside.

Ridge vents, louvers, and exhaust fans are all worth considering, depending on how you’ll use the space. Your building supplier can help you spec the right system for your square footage and climate zone.

Routine Maintenance Is Nonnegotiable

No matter how good your materials are, a humid climate will expose any weak point in your building over time. That means to properly maintain your commercial metal building, you need a regular inspection and maintenance routine, and you need to stick to it. This routine should include checking the seals, fasteners, drainage, and roof surface at least twice a year. Catching small issues early keeps them from turning into expensive repairs.

The Bottom Line on Humidity

Metal buildings can absolutely be fit for humid climates, so long as you prepare for the challenging environment. Pair the right materials with proper insulation, ventilation, and maintenance, and your building should hold up for decades.

Meet Missy and Sarah Coates. If you’ve ever visited the Pelahatchie Farmers Market, chances are you’ve met two of the kindest people. Missy and Sarah always take time to interact with customers, make everyone feel welcome, and help create the sweet community atmosphere that makes the market so special. 

“We at Perfect Piece Goodies are so grateful for the opportunity to share our creations with our wonderful customers at the Pelahatchie Farmers Market. Stop by every 4th Saturday and see what we are offering!!! I will have my newest product, which is Sourdough Flatbread.” 

The next Pelahatchie Farmers Market date is Saturday, June 27, 8 am – 12 pm.

Come shop local, support small businesses, and enjoy a Saturday morning  at the Farmers Market.
 

Protection Against Moisture Damage

Rainwater can cause serious problems when it enters an uncovered chimney. Moisture may weaken masonry materials, damage the liner, and create stains around the fireplace. A custom chimney cap forms a secure barrier that limits water intrusion and helps preserve the condition of the chimney.

Custom designs also provide a tighter fit than standard caps. This added precision helps prevent gaps that allow moisture to enter during heavy storms. In colder climates, this protection becomes even more important because freezing temperatures can expand trapped water and crack masonry surfaces.

Improved Ventilation and Draft Control

A properly fitted chimney cap supports better airflow within the chimney system. When airflow improves, smoke exits the home more efficiently and reduces the chance of lingering odors indoors. Some custom caps include design features that help minimize downdrafts caused by shifting wind conditions.

A custom cap may also keep debris from blocking ventilation pathways. Leaves, twigs, and nesting materials can restrict airflow and create performance issues over time. Homeowners who follow maintenance tips for a custom chimney cap can help maintain proper draft performance and extend the life of the chimney system.

Protection From Animals and Debris

Birds and small animals often seek shelter inside open chimneys. Once inside, they can create blockages that interfere with fireplace operation. A custom chimney cap with a screened enclosure helps prevent unwanted entry while still allowing smoke to escape safely.

Debris protection also reduces cleaning needs throughout the year. Limiting buildup inside the chimney can lower the risk of ventilation problems and help keep the fireplace functioning more consistently.

Long-Term Value for Homeowners

Choosing a custom chimney cap can improve both the appearance and function of a chimney system. A properly fitted cap protects against weather damage, supports airflow, and helps keep animals out of the chimney. Homeowners who invest in long-term chimney protection often appreciate the benefits of custom chimney caps because they provide reliable coverage tailored to the home’s specific needs.

Dashboard Warning Lights Should Never Wait

Dashboard lights often provide the first clue that something needs attention. Many drivers ignore the check engine light for weeks, but that decision can lead to larger problems later. A flashing check engine light usually signals severe engine trouble that needs immediate care.

You should also watch for these warning lights:

• Oil pressure light
• Battery warning light
• Brake system light
• Tire pressure light
• Engine temperature light

Each warning light connects to a specific system inside your vehicle. Fast action can prevent expensive repairs and reduce the chance of a roadside breakdown.

Strange Sounds Often Signal Mechanical Problems

Your vehicle should run smoothly without squealing, grinding, knocking, or rattling noises. New sounds often suggest worn components or loose parts. Squealing brakes may point toward thin brake pads, while grinding noises can indicate damaged brake rotors.

Knocking sounds from the engine sometimes suggest low oil levels or engine wear. Clicking noises during turns may signal CV joint problems. Drivers who enjoy maintaining a hot rod often notice subtle engine changes before major mechanical issues appear.

If unusual sounds continue for several days, schedule an inspection with a trusted mechanic before the problem worsens.

Fluid Leaks and Odd Smells Need Quick Attention

Fluid leaks usually signal developing trouble under the hood. Dark puddles may indicate leaking engine oil, while green or orange liquid often comes from the cooling system. Red fluid frequently points toward transmission issues.

Smells can also reveal hidden problems. Burning odors may suggest overheating parts or electrical trouble. Sweet smells sometimes indicate coolant leaks, while strong gasoline odors can point toward fuel system problems.

Never ignore smoke coming from the engine area or exhaust pipe. That issue can become dangerous very quickly.

Changes in Handling and Performance Matter

A vehicle that suddenly feels different during normal driving usually needs maintenance. Rough acceleration, delayed shifting, or lower fuel economy may point toward engine or transmission trouble. Vibrations in the steering wheel can indicate tire balance problems, alignment issues, or suspension wear.

Watch for these performance changes:

• Slow engine response
• Hard starts
• Excessive exhaust smoke
• Pulling during braking
• Shaking at highway speeds

Small performance problems rarely disappear on their own. Early repairs usually cost far less than replacing major parts later.

Consistent Maintenance Prevents Bigger Repairs

Routine maintenance helps prevent costly breakdowns and keeps your vehicle dependable. Oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and fluid checks all support long-term performance. Many drivers stretch service intervals too long, which increases wear on critical components.

Create a simple maintenance schedule and follow it consistently. Keep records for inspections and repairs so you can track recurring problems over time. Regular attention to early warning signs helps your vehicle last longer, perform better, and stay safer during every drive.

Supplier Knowledge Reduces Guesswork

You can start lowering risk and improving your purchasing decisions by seeking out suppliers who understand the products they sell. Buyers reduce risk by asking about material limits and installation requirements.

Vendors should be able to explain how a product performs under pressure and know how it reacts to moisture, vibration, and regular wear. When a supplier can answer those questions in plain language, the buyer gains useful information before money changes hands.

Materials Should Match the Risk of the Job

You can also eliminate procurement issues by purchasing materials that meet your specific job requirements. When buyers match materials to applications rather than choosing by habit, they reduce the risk of early failure.

For example, when buyers need components that won’t easily rust, they may want to use high-purity alumina ceramic parts that resist corrosion. The goal is not to buy the strongest option every time, but to choose the material that best fits the job's actual conditions.

Price Matters, But Total Cost Matters More

Another way to reduce your risk through better procurement decisions is to focus on total costs. A purchase price can hide many future expenses. Freight problems, early replacement, downtime, added labor, disposal costs, and compatibility issues can all raise the true cost of a product. A cheaper item may become expensive if you must have it repaired or replaced too soon.

Buyers should ask how long the product should last, how much stress it will face, and how easy it will be to service. This approach gives owners and managers a stronger reason to choose value over the lowest price.

Documentation Helps Buyers Defend Choices

Companies can also improve their procurement decisions by maintaining documentation for later review. Quotes, specifications, warranty terms, delivery promises, and supplier notes can help explain why you chose one option over another. These records also help new employees understand past decisions without having to start from scratch.

Documentation also matters when something goes wrong. If a part fails, a shipment arrives late, or a product does not fit, written details make the next conversation more productive. A buyer can point to agreed terms and move toward a fix with less confusion.

Develop Stronger Buying Habits

Better procurement is not about making every purchase complicated. It is about asking better questions before an order becomes a problem. For Pelahatchie readers making decisions, stronger buying habits can support safer spending, longer-lasting products, and fewer preventable setbacks.

Your Second Opinion Starts with Your Records

Thinking about seeing a new doctor or getting a specialist involved? They need the full picture before they can give you useful guidance. Without your records, you're starting from scratch, and that means repeat tests, gaps in your history, and a longer road to answers. Having your documents ready means any new provider gets context from day one.

Coverage Gaps Get Expensive Without Documentation

Insurance disputes are frustrating, and they often come down to paperwork. If a claim gets denied or a billing error shows up, your records are what you'll need to push back. Dates, diagnoses, and treatment notes tell the story that a billing code alone cannot. If you ever find yourself going back and forth with an insurer, you'll want that documentation already in hand.

Your Health History Belongs to You

There's something worth knowing here: you have the right to these records. Providers are required to give you access, and reviewing them isn't just for emergencies. Keeping tabs on your own history lets you catch documentation errors before they affect future care. Yes, mistakes happen in medical records, and they can quietly cause problems down the line if no one reviews them.

Records Matter More Than You'd Expect in Legal Situations

Medical records can help you prove abuse in a medical setting. While you hope your care will never cross that line, it does occasionally happen. Records can point out patterns like a provider ignoring documented symptoms, notes that contradict what was actually done during a visit, or a treatment that was performed without your documented consent. If you ever believe you may have a case against a provider, requesting your most recent records immediately can preserve details that become harder to recover the longer you wait.

Keep Your Health Information Within Reach

Keeping your records gives you more control over your own care. You have a timeline, proof of past treatment, and documentation you can share when the next provider needs context. You may not look at them every week, but when a question comes up, you’ll be glad they’re already in your hands. Those are strong reasons to request copies of your medical records now instead of scrambling for them later.

From the fifth “Scream” movie proving a shockingly strong January release in 2022 to “Backrooms” opening to over $81 million just last weekend, the past few years have been some of the best ever for the horror genre. So it makes sense that this would be a good time to revive the “Scary Movie” franchise and spoof some contemporary classics. And not only are franchise mainstays Anna Faris and Regina Hall back for this sixth installment after missing the fifth, but originators Marlon and Shawn Wayans are back after absences from the third, fourth, and fifth. Everything is in place for this silly movie to give its audience a seriously good time, but it turns out the movie itself is an unfunny joke. 

Following an actually-promising opening sequence featuring recent Golden Globe winner Teyana Taylor, the loose premise kicks in: a new Ghostface is terrorizing the families of Cindy Campbell (Faris) and Brenda Meeks (Hall). Cindy, now a parody of Jamie Lee Curtis in the recent “Halloween” reboot, has estranged daughters Sara (Olivia Rose Keegan) and Tuesday (Savannah Lee Nassif), based on sisters Sam and Tara from the 2022 “Scream” (with Tuesday also a spoof of Wednesday Addams, because Jenna Ortega has played both Tara and Wednesday). Brenda, a parody of Octavia Spencer in “Ma,” has son Brad (Gregg Wayans) and nonbinary child Dei (Sydney Park), based on twins Chad and Mindy from the 2022 “Scream.” Since the 2022 “Scream” is apparently the only movie being parodied that the filmmakers have watched closely, you can probably guess how Sara’s boyfriend Jack (Cameron Scott Roberts) and Brad’s girlfriend Elle (Ruby Snowber) figure in. 

Of course, Cindy and Brenda aren’t the only familiar faces. Brenda’s stoner brother Shorty (Marlon Wayans) still lives in town, attending the same school as his niece and nephew because he’s too stupid to graduate. Brenda’s ex-gay (though still very gay) ex-boyfriend Ray (Shawn Wayans) is also back in the picture. Other returning characters include bumbling Officer Doofy (Dave Sheridan, also the voice of Ghostface), reporter Gail Hailstorm (Cheri Oteri, here to parody Demi Moore in “The Substance”), weirdo Hanson (Chris Elliot, doing Nicolas Cage in “Longlegs”), and presumed original killer Bobby (Jon Abrahams, offering little more than a “Smile). 

The movie blows one opportunity after another to get in juicy gags about the recent glut of successful horror movies. “Sinners”? The movie can’t do more than set a series of sex jokes at a church and have corny white people show up uninvited at a black party. “Weapons”? This movie knows about “the run,” but can’t have its characters do anything funnier than yell “Six Seven” and get hit by a car, this franchise’s go-to lazy way of ending a scene. The only parody that really worked at my screening (and it did work – the audience was roaring) was of an animated movie that I’m not sure qualifies as “scary,” though I guess demons are in the vicinity of scary. 

There’s minimal heart at work in this new version of “Scary Movie,” and even less brain. I know to expect “dumb” humor from this franchise, but the people who made this movie simply didn’t do their homework. Example: a character goes over the top with emotion in one scene, and another character corrects her, “Stop trying to win an Oscar. It’ll never happen for a horror movie. Just ask Demi Moore.” Yes, Demi Moore did lose in her Oscar bid for “The Substance” (to 2022 “Scream” cast member Mikey Madison), but you know who did win an Oscar for a horror movie? Amy Madigan for “Weapons.” I could overlook that blunder – even in a movie that parodies “Weapons” – if there hadn’t been a reference in the beginning of the movie to Teyana Taylor losing the Oscar that Madigan won. How can I care about this “Scary Movie” when it doesn’t care about its own scary movies?

Grade: C-

“Scary Movie” is rated R for crude sexual content, graphic nudity, strong violence, and drug content and language throughout. Its running time is 96 minutes. 

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu. 

Choosing the Right Location

Location affects every aspect of a vertical garden’s performance. Most plants require consistent sunlight, so gardeners should evaluate natural light patterns before installing a structure. Indoor gardens may need supplemental lighting if windows do not provide enough exposure. Outdoor systems also need protection from strong winds that can dry soil quickly and damage delicate foliage.

Wall strength also matters during installation. Vertical gardens become heavy after watering, especially when they contain dense soil or mature plants. Secure mounting prevents shifting and protects nearby surfaces from damage over time.

Selecting Suitable Plants

Plant selection determines how easy the garden will be to maintain. Some species thrive in shallow root systems while others need more space to spread. Ferns, herbs, and trailing vines often adapt well to vertical arrangements because they tolerate compact growing conditions.

Climate should guide every planting decision. Heat-sensitive plants struggle on walls that receive direct afternoon sun, while moisture-loving varieties perform better in shaded areas. Choosing compatible plants also improves growth consistency and reduces maintenance demands. Many gardeners appreciate the benefits of vertical farming because these systems support efficient food production in smaller environments.

Managing Water and Drainage

Water control remains one of the most important parts of vertical gardening. Plants positioned near the top often dry out faster than those near the bottom, which creates uneven moisture levels. Drip irrigation systems help distribute water evenly while reducing waste.

Drainage also protects plant roots from rot. Excess moisture trapped inside containers can weaken plants and damage supporting walls. Gardeners should use breathable growing materials and install collection trays when necessary. Regular inspections help identify leaks before they become serious problems.

Maintaining Long-Term Growth

Vertical gardens require routine care throughout the year. Pruning keeps plants healthy while preventing overcrowding that blocks airflow. Fertilizing on a consistent schedule also supports steady growth because nutrients wash out more quickly in compact planting systems.

Pest management deserves close attention as well. Insects spread rapidly in tightly planted spaces, particularly indoors. Early treatment protects nearby plants and preserves the appearance of the garden.

Creating a Sustainable Vertical Garden

Successful vertical gardens depend on thoughtful planning, proper maintenance, and careful plant selection. By understanding the essential considerations for vertical gardens, property owners can create attractive growing systems that remain healthy, functional, and visually appealing throughout the seasons.

Wearable Devices

One example of such technology is a wearable fitness device. This provides athletes with instant feedback during workouts and practice sessions. Smart watches and motion sensors track heart rate, running speed, recovery time, and movement patterns with impressive accuracy. Coaches and players use that information to adjust training plans and prevent unnecessary strain during demanding seasons.

Young athletes in Pelahatchie can benefit from these tools because they encourage healthier habits and smarter conditioning. Many devices connect to mobile apps that display workout trends and performance goals in a simple format. Athletes gain a better understanding of how daily routines influence endurance and consistency.

Simulators

Simulators now allow athletes to practice skills without relying on perfect weather or large facilities. Players can repeat drills in a controlled setting while receiving instant data about accuracy and technique.

For example, athletes who want to work on their golf swing while practicing on challenging locations can use simulators to visit digital versions of courses like the Memphrémagog Golf Club. Athletes can improve precision and confidence while enjoying a more interactive training experience.

Video Analysis Software

Another example of sports training technologies every athlete should know about is video analysis software. This tech provides coaches and athletes with a closer look at every movement during practice and competition. Slow-motion playback helps players study footwork, throwing mechanics, posture, and reaction time with greater detail than traditional observation. Teams also use side-by-side comparisons to measure improvement across an entire season.

Students and recreational athletes benefit from these systems because they provide visual feedback that supports learning. Coaches can explain adjustments more effectively when athletes see mistakes directly on screen. As sports training technologies continue to evolve, video analysis remains one of the most valuable tools for skill development.

Recovery Technology

One last type of technology you should be familiar with is modern recovery equipment. This helps athletes maintain physical health during demanding training schedules. Compression therapy systems, massage devices, and cold recovery tools reduce soreness while supporting muscle repair after intense activity. Recovery technology also encourages athletes to focus on long-term wellness rather than short-term performance alone.

Many schools and fitness centers now recognize the importance of recovery as part of athletic success. Better recovery habits help athletes return to practice with improved energy and reduced discomfort. Communities that support balanced training approaches create safer environments for competitors of every age.

Use Technology To Strengthen Your Skills

Sports technology continues to influence how athletes train, compete, and improve their abilities across every level of competition. New devices and digital systems give players access to information that once belonged only to professional organizations. As more communities explore these innovations, athletes can discover exciting ways to strengthen their skills and stay engaged in sports year-round.

As the school year comes to a close, we want to congratulate our students on another successful year of learning, growth, and achievement and encourage them to enjoy a fun, relaxing summer!

With the fall semester approaching, we encourage all families to complete back-to-school registration as early as possible. Early registration helps our school prepare class schedules, transportation routes, classroom assignments, and student services to ensure a smooth start for everyone.

Students who will be in kindergarten this fall can come pick up a registration packet now. Residency information, immunization records, and a birth certificate are required.  

Returning students will receive an InfoSnap registration code through the email listed in PowerSchool around July 10, 2026.  We will send out a ParentSquare reminder when they are sent.  

We will have someone available at the school office this summer from 8:00 - 2:00 to assist you with registration.  If you call the school and no one answers, please leave a voicemail.  

Registration Checklist
●  Complete a registration packet for new students now or complete online registration beginning July 10 for returning students.
● Be sure residency is updated for next school year. You can email an updated electricity bill to robin.sanders@rcsd.ms.
● Complete a meal application after July 1.  It will be part of online registration for returning students. New students can start the application July 1, 2026.  The link can be found on the RCSD website under the department of Child Nutrition.
● Be prepared for technology fees: $25 per child in PreK-6th grades.
● If you are in need of after-school care, contact the Front Office to register at 601-825-9714.  Space is limited.  

Completed registration and residency is required before students are placed on class rolls so please get this complete before the Meet the Teacher event.  The earlier the better!

Our Meet the Teacher event will be held on Tuesday, July 28. It will be come and go from 8-9:30 and 12:30-2:00. The first day of school is Thursday, July 30.  Doors open at 7:20 a.m.  

Thank you for your continued partnership and support. We look forward to welcoming our students back soon for another year of learning and achievement.
Have a safe and enjoyable remainder of your summer, and remember to complete your back-to-school registration early!
 

It won’t be just the distinctive aromas in the air - the pitter pat from the local population of mice and rats’ little feet running thru the mountains of garbage will soon begin to probably sound like non-stop cannon shots to you. Not worth it. You would be a lot better off to find a homey-feeling bungalow with a single tree in the backyard. In a simple neighborhood with good people. Far, far away from the rodent- infested garbage dump.

In real estate, location is key. Any realtor with a grain of knowledge concerning home ownership will tell you that. You have to check out the neighborhood and its future demise or growth before investing your hard-earned money in a house. No matter how gorgeous and promising that mansion may look inside and out, things are not always as they seem.

The exact same logic applies to the selection of your eternal home. When you have breathed your last breath of earthly air, and step out into eternity, you need to already have your new home promised, purchased and prepared for you. Thinking you don’t need to be in a hurry to find your permanent home, and waiting until the last millisecond you need it? Going to be way too late…forever. 

Because if you don't already have your eternal home in a fantastic location, paid for and waiting just for you, then the sad news is this: one will be already selected and waiting for you. And I promise upon the words of the Bible, you will not like what you will be given. But you will have forever to regret putting off that crucial decision regarding the location of your eternity. Because after you arrive there is no second chance, no selling your home and moving to a better location. A location that is far away from unrelenting fiery heat, rodents, worms and merciless remorse.

Location, location, location. There is absolutely nothing more important to your happiness. It is definitely worth your time do start doing your research… today. Probably a great idea to pick up a home buying guide, called a Bible, and take a good long look at the two only possibilities for your future home. 

The May 2026 Pelahatchie Mayor and Board of Aldermen regular meeting was held on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. 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 for the proceedings.

Resident and Visitor Business:

Lagoon and Water Treatment Project:  Representatives from Waggoner Engineering provided an update to the board on the ongoing lagoon project, noting communications with the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality regarding better aeration. The project was rebid late last week, drawing 18 bidders total for the plant and relocation work. The total bid came to $6.3 million, representing a $1.3 million decrease from the initial bids received in January 2026.

Funding has been secured through a combination of a 10 percent loan and 90 percent in grants. The town’s financial responsibility for the loan will be approximately $600,000, structured as a 30-year loan at approximately $2,200 a month. Officials confirmed that the current plan does not contemplate an increase in municipal water rates to offset costs. T.L. Wallace will handle the lagoon treatment work, while Thornton Construction was awarded the plant work at $815,000.
Pelahatchie Public Library: Librarian Brenna Renfroe presented the annual update for the Pelahatchie Public Library, announcing that the facility is now open on Fridays. Renfroe was recognized for her accomplishments in promoting literacy across Pelahatchie, noting that the library has hosted 4,150 visitors. The summer library program schedule was also announced, featuring Dirt & Dinosaurs on June 4, the Museum of Natural Science on June 11, and a Turtle Rescue event on June 25.

Patricia and Vince Cadotte: Patricia and Vince Cadotte addressed the board regarding a 13-acre multi-family property development by Woodlands Construction, which includes plans to build four houses. Discussion centered around a potentially narrow easement. The city attorney stated more information is required, as the easement is not currently depicted on the city map. Mayor VanHorn clarified that the driveway in question has never been deeded to the city. The builder has agreed to repair the road if construction activity causes damage. The matter was tabled at the end of the discussion, and no vote was made.

Department Discussions

Police Department:  The board discussed and considered approving the use of seizure funds to upfit three newly purchased Ford F150 trucks for the police department at a total cost of $14,780 and some added vehicle striping. Funding will be sourced from a $12,000 check the department already holds, and the small remaining amount would be paid from the police seizure funds. Alderman Jones made the motion to approve the funds, and Alderwoman Hill seconded the motion. The measure passed with all in favor.

Later in the meeting, the Police Chief clarified a jurisdictional matter regarding unauthorized parking. The Chief stated the department cannot legally tow vehicles parked on private property; such removals must be initiated by the property owner. This restriction applies only to private property, as it is against city ordinance to park any vehicle in a public street in Pelahatchie city limits.

Zoning:  Ed Little presented zoning plans for the development of several single-family residential structures on a vacant lot on the east side of North Avenue at the corner of Clayton. The development of five houses is contingent upon road construction costs. Little stated he would return again when he received the bids for the roads.

New Business:  The board discussed, considered, and voted to approve the minutes from the previous regular board meeting held on April 6, 2026. Alderman Jones made the motion to approve, and Alderman Harrell 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, with Alderwoman Hill and Alderwoman Harvey voting no.

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. 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 $6,509.53. 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 Alderwoman Hill seconded the motion. The measure passed with all in favor.

The board discussed the approval and ratification of the payment of payroll for April 2026, which included $74,045.44 for the General fund and $26,365.15 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, with Alderwoman Hill and Alderwoman Harvey voting no.

Mayor’s Discussions

PFAS Water Lawsuit:  Mayor VanHorn discussed recent water testing and sought board approval to join a mass tort lawsuit regarding PFAS groundwater contamination. The national class action settlements, totaling up to $12.5 billion from 3million and $1.185 billion from DuPont, are open to public water providers like Pelahatchie (PWS ID: MS0610018) to fund testing and filtration. To secure direct infrastructure funding separate from the Mississippi Attorney General’s lawsuit, the town must take affirmative steps to submit a claim for funding by July 2026. Participation in the lawsuit is intended to help the town recoup funds necessary for replacing water meters and preventing any potential contamination. Alderman Jones made the motion to join the lawsuit, and Alderwoman Hill seconded the motion. The measure passed with all in favor.

(Editor’s note: More info about the PFAS Water Settlement can be found at www.pfaswatersettlement.com.)

Leisure District Ordinance:  The board considered an ordinance to establish a designated leisure district within the town. In Mississippi, Alcohol Leisure and Recreation Districts (LRDs) allow patrons to purchase alcoholic beverages in designated areas, leave the licensed premises with an open container in a to-go cup, and consume them while walking. Both Jackson and Tupelo use LRDs to encourage foot traffic, tourism, and community socializing, for example. It was described in the meeting that this ordinance only applies to the Heritage District. Mayor VanHorn stated that the ordinance would not allow alcohol during the Muscadine Jubilee. Alderwoman Hill made the motion to approve the ordinance, and Alderman Jones seconded the motion. The measure passed with a 4-1 vote, with Alderwoman Harvey casting the only dissenting vote.

Short-Term Rentals:  The Mayor and board briefly discussed a local property currently operating as an Airbnb to determine if the town receives any tax revenue from its operation as an Airbnb rental. The matter was tabled until next month for further research.

No Solicitation Ordinance:  Mayor VanHorn stated he had received multiple complaints about roofing contractors’ unsolicited knocking on doors in town. Attorney Banks proposed a draft ordinance addressing unsolicited door-to-door sales. The mayor and town  attorney noted the town already has an existing ordinance in place, but residents must post no-soliciting signs on their property for enforcement. The new proposed ordinance would require contractors to pay a permit fee and provide a photocopy of their driver’s license before knocking on anyone’s doors. The attorney said she would work on the draft ordinance, and the discussion was tabled until next month.

Alderman Discussions:  During the open discussion period, Alderwoman Hill requested attention for a pothole located at 1107 Second Street. She also raised concerns regarding restroom access at Milltown Park. The Police Chief clarified that the facilities at Milltown Park are not public restrooms and will not be left unlocked.

Adjournment: With no further business from Aldermen Gray, Jones, Harvey, or Harrell, Alderman Jones made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Alderwoman Hill seconded the motion, and it passed with all in favor. The meeting was adjourned at 7:06 p.m..
 

People with one or more of these 10 symptoms should see a physician to determine the cause:

1.    Memory loss that disrupts daily life

2.    Challenges in planning or solving problems

3.    Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or at leisure

4.    Confusion with time or place

5.    Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relations

6.    New problems with words in speaking or writing

7.    Misplacing things and not being able to retrace steps

8.    Decreased or poor judgment

9.    Withdrawal from work or social activities

10.   Changes in mood or personality

Hinds County is ranked fifth for Alzheimer's prevalence for the second consecutive year, and Black Americans are twice as likely as White Americans to develop it. In addition to seeing your doctor if you notice symptoms, we recommend taking these steps to help prevent the disease.

Alzheimer's is not a normal part of aging. For more information on recognizing and preventing brain diseases, visit https://msdh.ms.gov/dementia. You can also call the Alzheimer's Association 24/7 helpline: (800) 272-3900.

Stay up to date on news on the MSDH Healthy Mobile App, on our website www.msdh.ms.gov, and on social media: facebook.com/healthyms, twitter.com/msdh and Instagram.com/healthy.ms   

As part of the update, all Mississippi EBT cards will automatically be set to block online and out-of-state SNAP transactions beginning June 11. This default security setting is designed to reduce the risk of fraud while still allowing SNAP clients to make purchases at authorized Mississippi retailers.

The ConnectEBT app is available for free on Android or Apple devices, allowing clients to manage their benefits directly from their phones. Clients can register a new account or log in using their ConnectEBT client website username and password.

Clients will have access to three security settings:

• Lock My Card Everywhere
  Provides the highest level of protection by blocking all EBT transactions until the client chooses to unlock the card.
• Block-High Risk Transactions (Default Setting)
  Blocks all online and out-of-state SNAP transactions while still allowing purchases at authorized Mississippi retailers.
• Unlock My Card Everywhere
  Allows transactions wherever EBT cards are accepted, including online and out-of-state purchases.

These features are also available through the existing ConnectEBT website.

Mississippi is among a limited number of states offering the ConnectEBT app and the advanced card-locking functionality. Reflecting Mississippi's continued efforts to strengthen benefit security and reduce fraud.

In addition to the card security features, ConnectEBT app users can also:

• Change their EBT PIN
• Lock and unlock their EBT cards between purchases
• Monitor their account activity

Clients who need to make online purchases or use their SNAP benefits while traveling can adjust their security settings through:

• ConnectEBT App: Available for free on Apple and Google Play
• ConnectEBT Website: Users can change their PIN online via the Connect EBT website
• EBT Cardholder Assistance: 1-866-512-5087 (available 24/7)

MDHS encourages clients to regularly monitor their accounts, lock their card manually or use the auto-lock feature following every purchase and change their EBT PIN at least monthly.

For more information on the new security features and ConnectEBT, visit https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/help/snap/upcoming-snap-updates/.

Skipping Protective Gear

Many workers leave hard hats, gloves, safety glasses, or harnesses inside trucks because they feel uncomfortable or inconvenient. That decision creates unnecessary risk within seconds. Falling debris, exposed wiring, sharp tools, and slippery surfaces threaten workers every day. Proper gear reduces injuries and helps crews stay productive.

Workers should always check equipment before every shift. Torn gloves, damaged helmets, and loose harness straps create problems during dangerous tasks. Supervisors should also encourage accountability across the entire crew.

Common protective equipment includes:

• Hard hats for falling objects
• Safety glasses for dust and flying debris
• Steel toe boots for heavy materials
• Harnesses for elevated work
• Gloves for sharp tools and rough surfaces

Ignoring Communication on Site

Construction projects involve many teams working together at the same time. Electricians, roofers, plumbers, and machine operators often share crowded spaces. Poor communication creates confusion that quickly leads to accidents.

Workers should announce equipment movement, blocked pathways, and active hazards throughout the day. Team leaders should hold short meetings before shifts and after major schedule changes. Crews that communicate clearly usually avoid preventable injuries.

Phone distractions also create safety problems. Workers who text while walking through active work zones miss warning signs, moving vehicles, and unstable surfaces. Attention matters on busy construction sites.

Handling Materials Carelessly

Many injuries happen because workers rush through lifting, carrying, or storing materials. Poor lifting techniques strain backs, shoulders, and knees. Loose materials also create trip hazards across walkways and scaffolding.

Workers should bend their knees, lift with control, and ask for help with oversized loads. Forklift operators should secure materials correctly before transport. Crews should also keep pathways clean during every stage of construction.

Some workers also underestimate the dangers connected to hazardous materials. Paint chemicals, insulation particles, fuel containers, and cleaning agents can damage lungs and skin after repeated exposure. Workers should follow storage rules, wear protective equipment, and review safety labels before handling unfamiliar products.

Taking Shortcuts Around Equipment

Heavy machinery speeds up construction projects, but careless operation creates serious danger. Workers sometimes bypass safety procedures because they want faster results. That habit increases the chance of crushing injuries, falls, and equipment collisions.

Machine operators should inspect equipment before every shift and report mechanical issues immediately. Spotters should guide vehicles through tight areas and crowded spaces. Workers should never stand near suspended loads or moving equipment without clear communication.

Keeping Safe at Work

Construction safety depends on daily discipline, strong teamwork, and consistent attention. Workers who respect safety rules protect their coworkers, avoid serious injuries, and keep projects running smoothly from start to finish.

Companies that reward safe behavior often build stronger crews over time. Regular training sessions, honest conversations, and quick responses to unsafe actions help workers stay focused during stressful projects. When everyone treats safety like a daily responsibility construction sites become organized efficient and dependable.

East Rankin Academy (ERA) Patriot Track & Field team concluded the 2026 track & field season on Saturday, May 2nd at the 2025 Midsouth Association of Independent Schools (“MAIS”) State Championship. The Lady Patriots repeated as state runner up in the Division I championship while the Patriot men finished fourth.

Prior to the 2026 sports season, the MAIS realigned divisions, moving twenty former 5A and 6A schools into one division competing under 4A. In an additional change unique to the 2026 season, district championship teams qualified directly to the Division I state championship (non-district winners further competed at regionals and qualified to the Division II state championship). In years past, individual district winners further attended a regional meet and attempted to qualify to the state championship as a top four finisher in the north or the south.  

East Rankin Academy was the only former 5A school to win both boys and girls district championships, qualifying the entire team directly to state. At state, the girls faced two former 5A schools, Bayou Academy and Silliman Institute, and former 6A powerhouse  Madison Ridgeland Academy. 

The boys were the only former 5A school to win their district, grouped with former 6A schools Madison Ridgeland Academy, Jackson Prep and Jackson Academy.

The 2026 MAIS State Championship was hosted by Jackson Academy on May 1st and Jackson Prep on May 2nd. Multiple Patriots became state champions among both varsity teams including senior Gage Crapps, who won the state title in shot put with a throw of 45’6”; senior and Millsaps Majors signee Rone “RT” Tate, who won the varsity boys 3200 meter in a time of 10:13.31; and eighth grader Jewel Baker, who won both the varsity girls 1600 meter with a time of 5:21.44 AND the 3200 meter with a time of 11:41.49. Additionally, both 4x800 relay teams won the state title.  The girls 4x800 team consisted of sixth grader Isabella McLeod; seventh grader Caroline Thornton; and eighth graders Chandler Hunt and Jewel Baker, racing to a winning time of 10:11.38. The varsity boys 4x800 relay team became THREE time consecutive state champions with a team consisting of senior RT Tate and sophomores Walker Sartin, Taylor Stroh, and Zack Price.  The boys faced stiff competition from the other teams, the lead changing hands multiple times during the course of the race with the boys finally pulling away to a time of 8:35.30.

Other Patriot finalists making the podium as the top five finishers or medalists included:

SENIORS
Gage Crapps  Discus 2nd 133-3
Aiden Carlisle  Triple Jump 4th 41-.05
Addison Derrick
Discus 2nd 106-5
Shot Put 3rd 31-4.5
Channing Diveley
400 Meter Dash 2nd 50.82
Rone Tate  1600 Meter 3rd 4:46.65

JUNIORS
Leah Collipp
100 Meter Dash 3rd 13.60
400 Meter Dash 3rd 27.60
Leyton Phillips
High Jump 4th 5-8
Long Jump 4th 20-0
Jon Riemann
300 Hurdles 3rd 41.62
Long Jump 5th 19-11.25
Taitum Thomas  High Jump 5th 4-2

SOPHOMORES
Jillian Breland
Discus 3rd  105-2
Shot Put 4th 29-10.25
Ethan Butler  100 Hurdles 5th 17.44
Emma Raines  100 Hurdles 2nd 17.00
Taylor Stroh  800 Meter 3rd  2:05.34

EIGHTH GRADERS
Jewel Baker  800 Meter 2nd  2:28.20
Chandler Hunt
800 Meter 3rd  2:32.71
3200 Meter 2nd 12:14.24

SIXTH GRADERS
Isabella McLeod 
1600 Meter 2nd  5:21.73

RELAY TEAMS
4x100 Boys
Ethan Butler, Jon Riemann, Aiden Carlisle, Channing Diveley  4th 44.45
4x200 Boys
Ethan Butler, Jon Riemann, Peyton Derrick, Channing Diveley  4th 1:33.96
4x400 Boys
Zack Price, Jon Riemann, Taylor Stroh, Channing Diveley  2nd 3:36.40
4x100 Girls
Savannah Smithers, Leah Collipp, Lily Kanengiser, Emma Raines  2nd 52.57
4x200 Girls
Savannah Smithers, Leah Collipp, Lily Kanengiser, Emma Raines  4th 1:51.77
4x400 Girls
Emma Raines, Leah Collipp, Jewel Baker, Chandler Hunt  2nd 4:18.69

Addendum:
McLeod broke into the top ten rankings of all 6th graders in the US
Tate, MAIS 4A Div 1 State Champion in the 3200 
Baker, MAIS 4A Div 1 State Champion in the 3200
Crapps, MAIS 4A Div 1 State Champion in boys Shot Put

The 2026 Patriot track team featured ten seniors, all of whom played a role in the growth and leadership of ERA track and field in recent years, some of them six year veterans of ERA track & field.  The team wishes to congratulate state medalist Jensen Baker; multi-time state champion Gage Crapps; multi-time state medalist Addison Derrick; multi-time state medalist Channing Diveley; state finalist Harrison Smith; state medalist Savannah Smithers; multi-time state champion RT Tate; state finalist Addison Vowell; and multi-time state medalist Emily Williams as they graduate with the Class of 2026.
 

Then it happened. The slightly off-balance bucket suddenly reached its tipping point and completely doused the boy, causing him to run away screaming in delight.  Then returned to wait for the exact same thing to happen again.

Water parks are great fun for kids. And being hit with a wall of cold water on a hot day? Perfect.  Jimmy knew what was coming and loved the shock to his little body. Time and time again, he would return to that spot under the tipping bucket.

But Shawna was no little four-year-old. Shawna was an adult, an adult young woman who carried her responsibilities in life with seeming ease. Even as a child, her parents had watched her juggle schoolwork along with her own chores at home, and still had plenty of time for fun and friends. When her teen years came, she had no problems adding a part-time job to that mix.

She was intelligent, driven, balanced, and knew she was capable of accomplishing whatever was needed. Huge amounts of homework added to her school load her senior year? No problem. She could handle more water in her bucket. Her work supervisor suddenly needing her to cover extra hours every week? She confidently worked it into her busy schedule.  Her bucket definitely felt heavier, but “Hey, I’m strong and smart, and I like a challenge, I can handle this!”

Then one day her parents sat down with her, and reluctantly told her the truth of their marriage. Dad was leaving, and Mom was going to need a lot more support and help with Shawna’s two younger siblings. The water rose a little more in the bucket, but Shawna took a deep breath, lifted her chin, and did whatever was needed. Every day. Every night.

Life rocked on, with Shawna accepting every challenge head-on.  A ready smile on her face, and a “Let’s do this!” attitude in everything that came her way. Marriage, high-pressure job, and tiny time-demanding kids of her own.  

But the bucket’s water level was nearing the top.

Shawna was no dummy, she knew that lately she was feeling way too tired and stretched emotionally. But she also knew that she was needed. More than needed, she was irrevocably essential, on so many fronts. There was simply no way to slow down and change things. 

The bucket was teetering.

One running-behind-again-morning, she was giving the baby her bottle and frying bacon, while refereeing another argument between her two preschoolers. Suddenly her husband bolted into the kitchen holding out his work shirt that was missing a top button, the shirt he had to wear today.

The bucket tipped completely. A complete ‘unexplainable’ breakdown came next. With a doctor-ordered extended rest next on the list.

Learn before it happens to you. Heed the warnings your body and your emotions are sending you.