Unlikely box office hit “You Can See Everything” is a nearly-three-hour documentary from comedic filmmaker Nathan Fielder. The movie follows disgraced Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes, famously played by Amanda Seyfried in the Hulu series “The Dropout.” Essentially, Holmes defrauded investors by claiming to have breakthrough blood-testing technology that ultimately did not work properly. With an 11-year prison sentence looming, Holmes and her partner Billy Evans invited Fielder and his crew to live in their home and document their last month together for the foreseeable future.

The first part of the movie follows Holmes, as expected. Elizabeth and Billy are eccentric, but they play up relatable traits like loving their children and enjoying walks on the beach. There’s a strong whiff of the couple trying to “control the narrative” and get the audience on their side, especially during a frustrating sequence where they go over the exact verbiage that Elizabeth used in interviews and presentations. They want the audience to believe that Elizabeth isn’t guilty of the crimes that are sending her to prison, or at least that she didn’t know she was committing crimes. Fielder doesn’t know what to make of these claims, since clearly the couple is behaving performatively to some degree, but there appear to be some limits to Elizabeth’s mental capacity that make her untruths seem less deliberate. Either way, no appeals to the documentary are going to get Elizabeth off the hook. She goes to prison, she’s in prison at the end of this movie, and she’s still in prison as of this writing.

But the movie doesn’t end with Elizabeth going to prison. It “implies” that it’s going to end there, but it has some more tricks up its sleeve. Fielder starts thinking that Billy isn’t on the level, that he’s misrepresenting Elizabeth on social media in her absence and trying to hone in on her business ventures. It’s at this point that Fielder enlists the help of an unlikely ally that I’ll call “The 4th Party.”

The 4th Party takes an interest in stopping Billy’s scheming, going so far as to confront him at his own dinner table. They also serve as an interaction partner for Fielder, sometimes agreeing with him and sometimes providing their own opinions that counter his takes. Because scenes between Fielder and The 4th Party seem staged and therefore scripted, sometimes I think The 4th Party isn’t providing their own opinions, but just saying what Fielder wants them to say as a stand-in for his conscience. It’s certainly an interesting way of sharing his inner struggles with the audience, but there’s an unshakeable disingenuousness to it.

Both parts of the movie are compelling in their own way. If you’re looking for insight into Holmes herself, with her unique way of thinking (the word “autistic” is never used, but she displays several classic symptoms, including not understanding the humor in a famous comedy routine), then the first half is for you. Then again, it will be up to you to decide if the version of her personality that she presents to the camera is her honest self, or – and the movie keeps coming back to this phrase – “a character she created.”

It’s the second part though, the one that takes more risks creatively, that has made the film a breakout hit. Yes, there’s the deliberate staging between Fielder and The 4th Party, and there’s an undeniable self-indulgence to Fielder making the movie more about himself than supposed subject Holmes, but the last minute of the movie sees many pieces of a puzzle that nobody was working to solve fall unexpectedly into place. It’s the kind of ending that may inspire viewers to see the film all over again (no small feat given the film’s length) so they can revel in details they missed the first time. For now, I’ll just say that you should see “You Can See Everything” at least a first time.

Grade: B-

“You Can See Everything” is rated R for language and some graphic nudity. Its running time is 174 minutes.

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu.

Howdy, friends!

That’s how my column begins in our hometown newspaper, The Panolian, and I reckon there’s no better way to start this one.

My name is Ricky Swindle. I’m the owner of a 51-year-old family tire store in Batesville, Mississippi, and I freelance write for The Panolian as a hobby. For twenty years, I also hosted a Saturday radio program called The Local Yokels Show, where I played nothing but Mississippi artists, whether they were famous or not.

I’m pretty involved in my community, too. I’m a member of the Batesville Civitan Club, Panola Lodge No. 66 F&AM and a Wahabi Shriner. I’ve spent plenty of time at the Wahabi Temple in Jackson, so you might say I’ve made a few friends along the way.

But this past Friday night, October 9, I was six hundred miles from home, visiting my Grandheathens in Fischer, Texas. That’s what I call my grandchildren, and, by the way, I’m the only one who gets to call them that!

I was at Canyon Lake High School watching my 16-year-old Grandheathendaughter cheer for the Canyon Lake Hawks. Meanwhile, my oldest Grandheathenson, Levi Hughes, was playing football for North Delta Academy in Batesville against Canton Academy.

I couldn’t be at Levi’s game in person, so I was watching it on my phone while keeping an eye on the action in Texas. That’s when I noticed North Delta’s linebacker No. 42 was having trouble.

That was my boy, Levi Gunner Hughes.

I watched his mother and father standing on the sideline, and I knew something wasn’t right. I tried to call and text, but there was no response. Here I was, six hundred miles away, and one of my Grandheathens was down. There wasn’t a thing I could do but pray for Levi.

A few minutes later, one of our school principals, Nikki Mills, called me.

“Mr. Ricky, Levi is down, and an ambulance is on the way to take him to UMMC,” she told me. She said my daughter Jennifer would update me as soon as she could.

Jen later told me about the trainers, coaches and medically trained folks who came out of the home stands to help our boy. She said that all you could hear throughout that stadium, on both sides, were prayers being sent up for No. 42, Levi Gunner Hughes.

Players, cheerleaders and coaches from both teams were praying. Even the game officials joined in.

Now, folks, just let that sink in for a minute.

These were people from Canton, Mississippi, many of whom had never met my Grandheathen, asking the good Lord to put His hand on him. They weren’t worried about which team was winning. At that moment, they were worried about a young man who needed help.

Jen also told me that Canton’s head coach was standing near Levi’s feet. He told him, “42, we know exactly who you are. That’s why we didn’t run the ball your way all night.”

Levi is an intense player, and that coach had noticed. He told Levi they were proud of him.

The medical folks on the sideline feared he might have suffered a serious spinal injury. But those prayers never stopped.

After a battery of tests at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, the doctors couldn’t find a broken or damaged bone in my boy’s body. They had initially been concerned about several possible injuries involving his spine and vertebrae, but those fears did not materialize.

Levi did suffer a concussion, and he will have to follow the protocol prescribed by his doctors. But, Lord have mercy, it could have been so much worse.

My daughter told me, “Daddy, that was a miracle in that stadium. Levi was in a bad, bad way, and by the time he got to Jackson, he was OK.”

Now, I know there are different ways folks look at things like this. But you aren’t going to convince our family that those prayers in Canton didn’t mean something. We believe the good Lord heard every one of them, and we are mighty grateful.

In the days since the injury, the kindness has continued. Canton’s headmaster, coach and game officials have reached out to Jennifer to check on Levi. The headmaster told her that night, “Whatever that young man needs, we are here for him.”

That means a lot to this old boy.

You can learn a lot about a community by watching how its people treat someone else’s child when that child is hurt. Canton showed us something special that night. Those folks care about those young people, whether they’re wearing their school colors or somebody else’s.

Canton, Mississippi, you have a whole lot of folks in Batesville who appreciate you.

Levi will follow his doctors’ instructions and complete the concussion protocol before making any decisions about returning to football. With only two regular-season games remaining, followed by the possibility of the playoffs, Friday’s injury could bring his high school football season to an end. We’ll take things one day at a time and let the doctors guide the way.

And, let me tell you something else about this Grandheathen of mine.

He’s a good kid, folks. One of his teammates, Walt Sanders, broke his leg in two places a couple of weeks ago on a play involving Levi. Jennifer told me Levi said to her yesterday, “Momma, I prayed after Walt got hurt, and I asked the Lord, if anyone else has to get hurt, let it be me.”

That’s the kind of heart this boy has.

He made a 33 on his ACT, and he’s receiving college interest from schools as far away as Yale University. We figure he may wind up being a Rebel and staying just twenty minutes from home. Football is fun for him, but academics are serious business, and we couldn’t be prouder of that.

Whatever happens on the football field, Levi has a bright future ahead of him. We’re just thankful he’s here to keep working toward it.

I’ve always closed my Panolian columns with the words, “Take care of yourself, folks.” Sometimes I add a little something about taking care of your neighbor, too.

This time, I want to thank a whole community for doing just that.

To the players, cheerleaders, coaches, officials, school administrators, medical personnel and everyone in that Canton stadium who stopped what they were doing to pray for my Grandheathen, thank you. Thank you for caring for a young man you knew as an opponent on the field but treated like one of your own when it mattered most.

On October 9, 2026, Canton, Mississippi, showed this family what compassion, kindness and faith look like. You gave a worried grandfather, six hundred miles away, a reason to be thankful beyond words.

Canton will always hold a special place in our hearts.

God bless y’all.

And, as always, take care of yourself, folks.

Working smoke alarms are one of the simplest and most effective ways to save lives in a home fire. To help protect Mississippi families, the State Fire Marshal's Office (SFMO) and the Mississippi Insurance Department (MID) are distributing more than 30,000 smoke alarms for installation in homes statewide at no cost to residents.

The 10-year lithium battery smoke alarms were purchased with $500,000 in grant funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). During installation visits, firefighters will also share home fire escape-planning tips and distribute 30,000 educational brochures covering smoke alarms, cooking safety, and general fire prevention.

The effort comes as Mississippi continues to face an alarming number of fire fatalities, with 67 fire deaths reported so far in 2026. The state has consistently ranked among the top 10 nationally for fire deaths per capita, underscoring the urgent need for stronger fire prevention efforts and education.

"Every home should have this basic protection," said State Fire Marshal and Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney. "This grant gives us a tremendous opportunity to reach thousands of Mississippians by providing smoke alarms installed by local firefighters. It also allows us to educate families about fire safety. I encourage everyone to check their smoke alarms, create a home escape plan, and make sure every family member knows how to get out and where to meet outside."

The first alarms were handed out to fire departments in the Jackson Metro area on Thursday, November 5, 2026. Fire departments that received alarms include Jackson, Brandon, Terry, Vicksburg, Pearl, Ridgeland, Madison, and the Reservoir. Smoke alarms will be delivered to other parts of the state over the next two weeks.

Smoke alarm safety tips:

• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Replace alarms immediately if they do not respond properly.
• Replace all smoke alarms every 10 years.
• Install alarms on walls or ceilings in every sleeping area, hallway, and on every level of the home.
• Carbon monoxide alarms are also encouraged throughout the home and should be placed low to the ground.
• Make sure everyone recognizes the alarm sound and knows how to respond.
• Once outside during a fire, call 911 and never re-enter the home.

Residents can contact their local fire department or county fire coordinator to request installation through the Free Smoke Alarm Installation Program.

Dear Citizens of Canton,

As we enter the month of November and begin preparing for the Thanksgiving holiday, I am reminded that even during life’s most challenging seasons, there is always something for which we can be thankful.

We cannot ignore the realities many families are facing today. From the rising cost of gasoline and unbelievably high grocery bills to the increasing cost of everyday necessities, making ends meet has become more difficult for many households. These challenges are real, and I understand that families across our community are making tough decisions as they work to provide for themselves and their loved ones.

Yet, even in the midst of uncertainty, gratitude has the power to change our perspective. Being thankful does not mean that we overlook our struggles or pretend that everything is perfect. It means that, despite our circumstances, we remain mindful of the blessings we still have.

Be thankful for the family and friends who stand beside you. Be thankful for the roof over your head, the food on your table, the strength to face another day and the neighbors who are willing to lend a helping hand. Sometimes, the greatest blessings are not the things we can purchase, but the love, kindness, health, hope and fellowship we share with one another.

As Mayor, I am thankful for the people who make Canton more than a place to live. Our city is a community built on resilience, tradition, faith, hard work and the willingness of people to look out for one another. I am grateful for our residents, our local businesses, our community organizations, our churches and the dedicated city employees who continue to serve our community. Each of you plays an important role in making Canton a place we can proudly call home.

As we approach Thanksgiving, I encourage every family to find meaningful ways to share gratitude. Check on an elderly neighbor, support a local business, donate to a family in need, share a meal, or simply take a moment to tell someone how much they mean to you. We never know the burdens another person may be carrying, and a small act of kindness can make a tremendous difference.

Let us also remember that not every family will approach this holiday season with an abundance of resources. Some will be grieving loved ones, some will be facing financial hardships, and others may be quietly struggling with circumstances we cannot see. May we be intentional about extending compassion, patience and generosity to those around us.

This November, let us focus not only on what we wish we had, but also on what we already have to be thankful for. We may not be able to control every challenge facing our households or our nation, but we can choose gratitude, practice kindness and strengthen the bonds that unite us as a community.

On behalf of my family and the City of Canton, I wish you and your loved ones a safe, peaceful, and blessed Thanksgiving. May your homes be filled with love, your hearts with gratitude and our community with a renewed spirit of unity and generosity.

Let us continue to look out for one another, lift one another up, and remember that when we stand together, we are stronger.

Happy Thanksgiving, Canton!

With gratitude and appreciation,

Mayor Tim Taylor- City of Canton, Mississippi

Canton Career Center’s Royal Court participated in Canton High School’s coronation ceremony.

The students represented Canton Career Center during the event. The school announced the members of its 2026-27 Royal Court:

• Mr. and Miss Canton Career Center: Cazaelin Simpson and Kathryn Richards
• Mr. and Miss SkillsUSA: Nathan Nichols and Kamille Brooks
• Mr. Student Ambassador and Miss HOSA: Bryson Orr and Za’leah Prophet
• Mr. and Miss TSA: Kyrie Lucas and Savannah Villalpando-Cruz

Canton Career Center congratulated the students on their honors and expressed pride in their accomplishments, leadership and representation of the school.

The school looks forward to a successful year for the members of the Royal Court.

Juantarious Green and Makayla Richardson were named Canton High School’s 2026-27 homecoming king and queen. The two students were also elected prom king and queen.

Canton High School came away with a hard-fought victory Friday night, defeating Greenville 36–32 in one of the closest contests on its late-season schedule.

The Tigers' four-point victory highlighted a competitive matchup in which both offenses found success. Canton finished with 36 points, providing just enough production to hold off a Greenville team that remained within striking distance.

The result marked an important moment for Canton as the regular season approached its conclusion. With postseason positioning becoming increasingly important, every victory carries additional significance for teams hoping to extend their seasons into November.

For Canton, the offensive performance was particularly encouraging. Scoring 36 points in a competitive game demonstrated the Tigers' ability to produce against an opponent capable of answering on the scoreboard.

Defensively, the Tigers faced a challenge in containing Greenville, which scored 32 points. Nevertheless, Canton did enough to secure the victory and avoid a late-season setback.

The narrow margin also illustrated the importance of execution in close games, where a single possession can ultimately determine the outcome.

With the victory behind them, the Tigers will turn their attention toward their remaining schedule and the opportunity to build on the result.

Canton's ability to emerge victorious in a four-point contest gives the program a positive result to carry into the next stage of its season.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 7,080 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the United States in 2024. Of these, 76% happened after sunset.

"With daylight saving time right around the corner, darker evenings can unfortunately result in more pedestrian-related crashes," said Brad White, MDOT Executive Director. "That's why it's so important for drivers to slow down and stay alert. This weekend, practice extra caution as a dramatic increase in costumed pedestrians is expected in residential areas."

While pedestrian fatalities have decreased slightly from the previous year's study, pedestrian injuries are on the rise. In 2024, an estimated 71,635 pedestrians were injured in traffic crashes. On average, a pedestrian was killed every 74 minutes and injured every seven minutes in a traffic crash.

Slowing down can lessen the risk and severity of pedestrian-involved crashes. Studies show that higher speeds significantly decrease pedestrian survival rates.

Below are some tips for drivers:

• Watch for pedestrians everywhere. Pedestrians may be in unexpected places or hard to see, especially when visibility is lower at dusk, dawn, night and in poor weather.
• Always stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk or where pedestrian crosswalk signs are posted.
• Be prepared to stop when turning or otherwise entering a crosswalk.
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
• Follow the speed limit and slow down around pedestrians.
• Stay focused and slow down where children may be present, including school zones and neighborhoods.

Below are tips for pedestrians:

• Never attempt to cross an interstate.
• Walk on a sidewalk or path when one is available.
• If no sidewalk or path is available, walk on the shoulder, facing traffic.
• Stay alert; don't be distracted by electronic devices, including smart phones, audio players or other devices that take your eyes and ears off the road.
• Be cautious night and day when sharing the road with vehicles. Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach.
• Be predictable. Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections when possible. This is where drivers expect pedestrians.
• If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area, wait for a gap in traffic that allows you enough time to cross safely and continue to watch for traffic as you cross.
• Be visible. Wear bright clothing during the day and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.

For more information on pedestrian safety visit GoMDOT.com or follow @MississippiDOT on Facebook, X and Instagram.

Canton Public School District celebrated homecoming with a parade featuring school spirit, community pride and Tiger pride throughout the city. Students, staff and community members came together to celebrate the tradition and show their support for Canton schools.

All photos Special to The Canton News

Canton Public School District celebrated student achievement, leadership and school pride during Canton High School’s coronation ceremony, recognizing students representing academics, athletics, career and technical education, fine arts and student organizations.

The ceremony featured the presentation of the High Court, Higher Court and Highest Court for the 2026-27 school year.

The High Court included representatives from Canton Career Center programs and student leadership organizations.

Mr. and Miss Basketball were Braylen Reaves and Miyonna Bush. Kylei Rogers was named Miss Flag Football, with Marquis Wolfe serving as escort.

Bryson Orr was named Mr. Student Ambassador, and Za’leah Prophet was named Miss HOSA. Kyrie Lucas and Savannah Villalpando-Cruz were named Mr. and Miss TSA, while Nathan Nichols and Kamille Brooks received the titles of Mr. and Miss SkillsUSA.

The Higher Court recognized students from each grade level, athletic programs, performing arts and extracurricular organizations.

Jaylen Garland and Erin Lamb were named Mr. and Miss Senior; Jefferson Solano and Londyn Harris, Mr. and Miss Junior; Demondric Griffin and Joey Prayer, Mr. and Miss Sophomore; and Tristan Brown and Celyria Griffin, Mr. and Miss Freshman.

Athletic representatives included Tristian Carpenter as Mr. Baseball, Shamiley Jones as Miss Softball, Jeremiah McGee as Mr. Football, Kamberly Douglas as Miss Cheer and Aeriell Wallace as Miss Volleyball, with Demonta Tompkins serving as escort.

Abraham Johnson and Keniya Sims were named Mr. and Miss Track and Field, while D’Avain King and Amanda Adams were named Mr. and Miss Powerlifting.

Other representatives included Kamerion Baldwin and Ke’Asia Adams as Mr. and Miss Band; Michael Pierce and Jayla Dillon as Mr. and Miss JROTC; and Samiyah Ratliff as Miss Majorette, with Leland Gardner serving as escort.

The Mr. and Miss Homecoming contestants were Jordan Sanders, Jaylnn Dunigan, Makayla Richardson, Juantarious Green and Kevin Roberts. Jeremiah Cross was listed as an escort.

The ceremony’s highest honors recognized the students selected to represent Canton High School for the 2026-27 school year.

Derrick Huntley and Za’nyriah Prophet were named Mr. and Miss Canton High School. Ethan Nichols and Janyla Williamson were named first alternates, while Jamarian Worthy and Alexandria Luckett were named second alternates.

Canton High School’s Tigers also celebrated a victory on the football field, defeating the Ridgeland Titans 36-27. The win improved Canton’s overall record to 7-1 and its district record to 2-1.

The coronation and football victory highlighted a busy time for the Canton school community, celebrating student involvement, school spirit and accomplishments across academics, athletics and extracurricular activities.

The Mississippi Charter School Authorizer Board voted Oct. 26 to revoke the charter contract of SR1 College Preparatory and STEM Academy in Canton, with the school authorized to continue operating through Dec. 31.

The board’s decision followed a revocation hearing held May 14, according to an Oct. 27 news release from the Mississippi Charter School Authorizer Board. The board cited the school’s performance under its charter contract and concerns about fiscal management as reasons for the decision.

According to the board, SR1 College Preparatory and STEM Academy failed to meet or make sufficient progress toward its charter performance expectations and did not meet generally accepted standards of fiscal management. The board said its decision was based on financial performance and internal control evidence, including the school’s annual financial audits.

The charter revocation was finalized Oct. 26, according to the board. Under the final order, the school may continue providing instruction through Dec. 31 to allow for a transition at the end of the fall semester. Its charter and authority to provide instruction will terminate at 11:59 p.m. that day, and the school is not scheduled to operate during the spring 2027 semester unless the board takes further lawful action or a court issues an order changing the outcome.

In a message to parents and guardians, the school’s administration said classes would continue as scheduled and that the school remained committed to providing students with a quality education.

The administration also said it was exploring available legal options and encouraged parents and guardians to share how the school has affected their students and families.

SR1 College Preparatory and STEM Academy opened in Canton in 2023, initially enrolling kindergarten and first-grade students from Canton and surrounding school districts.

The authorizer board said it will oversee the school’s closure process in accordance with applicable laws, policies and contractual requirements. The process is intended to facilitate the transition for students, families, staff members and other stakeholders.

Additional information about closure procedures and transition expectations will be communicated as the process continues, according to the board.

Information about the Mississippi Charter School Authorizer Board’s closure process is available on its website at charterschoolboard.ms.gov.

A dream of visiting New York City in the fall, combined with a brief fall break, a free hotel stay and an $11 flight triggered a last-minute decision to fly to the Big Apple. Despite spending less than 48 waking hours in the city that never sleeps, I covered a lot of ground, including visiting tried-and-true restaurants and favorite sites, completing a three-mile hike through Central Park and discovering new places I’ll revisit next time.

After experiencing bone-chillingly cold winter visits and an unseasonably-hot September trip, I was anxious to experience cooler weather and the vibrant fall foliage for which the Northeastern U.S. is famous. Besides enjoying cooler temps and vibrant red, gold and orange foliage during my quick trip, I packed in a lot during what amounted to one full day and a few hours on arrival/departure days.

The moral of the story? A short trip to NYC is doable if you plan wisely, schedule activities in specific areas instead of running all over the city and aren’t afraid to take the subway.

But first, fall foliage…

The window in which multi-colored leaves appear on trees before quickly falling to the ground in the south is extremely short. As a result, I was anxious to make my way to Central Park, an 843-acre oasis in the heart of the city filled with over 18,000 trees and 100,000 plants surrounding scenic lakes, large rock formations, shaded pathways and numerous hills. A quick subway ride brought me to the park on my first (and only complete) day. Spotting a grove of trees decorated in fall’s vivid, festive colors immediately lifted my spirits and provided the impetus for a three-mile walk through the park.

First, I had to find two buildings that had piqued my interest during a 2021 walk through the park. Both The Dairy and the Chess and Checkers House were closed for renovations at that time. I was intrigued by their names and accompanying “stories.”

My first stop was the Dairy, a picturesque building opened in 1871 to provide fresh, safe milk following the horrendous Swill Milk Crisis of the mid-1800s that killed over 8,000 infants and children in a single year due to the consumption of tainted milk. The restored building now housing a visitor’s center and gift shop contains elements of the past, including gingerbread house and Swiss chalet touches. All that is missing are the cows that roamed outside in the field in the olden days to provide fresh milk to children.

The Dairy in Central Park was opened in 1871 to offer safe milk to NYC’s children. Thousands of infants and child died from drinking tainted milk during the Swill Milk Crisis. Photo by Kara Kimbrough

Nearby, the Chess and Checkers House perched atop a large rock was opened in 1952 to provide visitors a place to rest and play games. Today, the octagonal brick building is surrounded by 24 outdoor gaming tables for anyone who wants to drop by for a game of chess and checkers…hence the name.

After visiting these two buildings, I set out for the next must-see spot on my list: The Mall and Literary Walk. Despite previously exploring the southern part of the park with friends and seeing numerous landmarks, including Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, the Lake and the Pond (just two of the 150 acres of water located in the park), our walks never took us to the famous area often highlighted in movies and TV shows.

The Mall and Literary Walk is often selected as a filming location due to its beauty courtesy of a canopy of historic American Elm trees. Photo courtesy of Central Park Conservancy

The Mall and Literary Walk is a quarter-mile, tree-lined promenade framed by a quadruple row of majestic American elm trees, creating a natural, cathedral-like arch overhead. According to Central Park Conservancy, a non-profit organization that manages and cares for the park, (among many other duties), the Mall has the largest and last remaining collection of American elm trees in the world. The Conservancy’s Tree Car Team maintains the historic elms throughout the year.

Travel tip: When planning a visit to Central Park, download a map and decide beforehand which areas you’d like to see. If walking, it’s almost impossible to see the entire park in one day. Check out the Central Park Conservancy’s website for maps, visitors’ centers, foliage guides and much more: centralparknyc.

Fifth Avenue, Rockefeller Center have it all

Friends and readers who have never visited New York City or haven’t been in several years often ask: “How safe is the city?” My normal reply is, “Stay in heavily-populated areas, especially Fifth Avenue.” There are so many things to see and do along this historic street, including Central Park, Trump Tower, designer shops, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, New York Public Library, Bryant Park, nearby Grand Central Station and the crown jewel, Rockefeller Center.

Rockefeller Plaza and the Comcast Building are the focal points of Rockefeller Center. Photo by Kara Kimbrough

Rockefeller Center, the home of NBC and the Today Show, is so massive that it has its own zip code. The center is composed of 22 acres, 19 buildings, Radio City Music Hall and the centerpiece, Rockefeller Plaza and the Comcast Building. This building alone stands 849 feet tall, with 70 floors. Overlooking the sprawling complex is my favorite observation deck, aptly named “Top of the Rock.” From there, scenic views of Central Park, New Jersey, Brooklyn, Queens, the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building are visible from the open-air deck.

Besides visiting Top of the Rock, I love roaming through the beautiful Comcast Building highlighted with antique marble and glass structures and equipped with a lower-level concourse filled with shops and restaurants. During my recent visit, I discovered a sandwich shop that led to one of the most enjoyable lunches I’ve had in NYC.

When I stopped by Alidoro to grab a quick lunch, I didn’t know I was entering a celebrated Italian sandwich shop opened 40 years ago. The restaurant now serves four different neighborhoods, including Rockefeller Center. Known for its artisanal Italian sandwiches, including over 40 different menu combinations named after Italian literary figures, artists, and authors, Alidora has withstood the test of time and continues to grow in a competitive sandwich market.

Sandwich options were plentiful, but I finally decided on the Giovanni filled with roasted ham, provolone cheese, lettuce and tomatoes, thinly-sliced red onion, Alidoro’s signature hot spread and a delicious basil pesto cream served in focaccia bread. I walked outside to enjoy my lunch in the plaza’s Channel Gardens near the ice-skating rink. Bolstered by a cool breeze and the sun shining overhead, I enjoyed one of the best sandwiches of my life. This unplanned al fresco lunch that wasn’t on my detailed itinerary proves even the simplest things in New York City are often the most memorable.

One of the best sandwiches I’ve ever tasted came from Alidora, a 40-year-old Italian sandwich shop with four locations, including the one I discovered inside Rockefeller Plaza. Photo courtesy of Alidora

100 years of Winnie the Pooh

Stopping by the New York Public Library, a massive structure whose marble exterior stretches nearly 400 feet along 5th Avenue, is always on my NYC itinerary. This trip, I had an additional reason for visiting one of my favorite sites. The original 1920s stuffed animals that belonged to Christopher Robin Milne—Winnie-the-Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, and Tigger—are on permanent display at the library. My visit just happened to coincide with the 100th birthday of the beloved childhood characters, precipitating a special, limited-run display of original illustrations, global translations of the book published in 1926 and additional information about the display provided by an engaging guide.

Seeing the original Winnie the Pooh and “friends” at the New York Public Library on their 100th birthday was a special treat. Photo by Kara Kimbrough

Historic culinary spots are the best

I’ve long been fascinated by New York restaurants that have been around for decades. In my opinion, if a restaurant has weathered a fickle tourism industry and economic factors that cause hundreds of restaurants to close each year, it’s worth a visit. Some of my favorite spots – ones I frequent almost every time I visit NYC - include:

Junior’s Restaurant and Bakery – Opened nearly 80 years ago in Brooklyn, this landmark restaurant known primarily for its world-famous cheesecake is one of my favorite places to grab a quick meal at one of its two NYC location. In my opinion, Junior’s is the best place to enjoy a quintessential New York meal – a mile-high pastrami and corned beef sandwich - followed by a slice of decadent cheesecake. Junior’s portions are generous and prices are reasonable.

A mile-high pastrami sandwich at Junior’s is the perfect start to every NYC visit. Photo by Kara Kimbrough

L’Industrie Pizza –Despite New York City’s reputation as a pizza haven, I haven’t sampled many of the city’s offerings. After viewing lots of internet hype, I decided to see what all the fuss was about. Grabbing a relatively plain slice of tomato sauce and fresh burrata, I sampled the generous slice that was slightly charred on the bottom, the mark of an above-average pizza slice. I can report that the pizza was crispy, fresh and delicious. Is it the “best pizza in NYC?” I’m not sure, but far be it from me to argue with thousands of content creators.

Conwall Coffee House – In NYC, coffee shops are right up there with pizza and bagel places. There are literally hundreds – maybe more – spread throughout every area of the city. I normally wouldn’t take a 20-minute subway ride for a cup of coffee, but Conwall Coffee House sounded intriguing. Located in the historic Wall Street area since 1931, it’s an impressive Art Deco space that previously served as a major commercial bank. The most unique aspect is that coffee is now ordered at the original bank teller windows. silver and gold Art Deco decor and the original vintage vault door. And yes, the coffee is just as impressive as the décor.

Travel tip: Before planning to visit any restaurant, check out their website to get an idea of menu items and prices. Also check consumer review sites like TripAdvisor and Yelp.

A few more adventures were packed into my quick trip to NYC, but these are the highlights that made my Fall ’26 trip one of the best. If you’d like more NYC tips and recommendations, drop me an email and I’ll be glad to send them to you.

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

The Madison County Business League & Foundation has announced its 2026-27 Madison County Youth Leadership Steering Committee.

The committee will help plan program days and guide participants throughout the year. Madison County Youth Leadership introduces students to careers and industries across the county while developing leadership skills and encouraging participants to apply what they learn in their communities.

Members of the 2026-27 steering committee are, seated from left, Dr. Bronwyn Martin, Holmes Community College, and Rochelle Thompson, American Lung Association; standing from left, Ellis Wise, Madison County Business League & Foundation; Kelly Coleman, Staffers; Melanie Greer, EXIT Realty Collective; Kacie Sanford, Renasant Bank; CJ Fisher, Origin Bank; and Jan Collins, Madison County Business League & Foundation. Chamar McDonald, Neel-Schaffer, is not pictured.

Spin-off movies for Batman villains have been a mixed bag over the years. “Joker” won an Oscar, but it was followed up with the terrible “Joker: Folie à Deux.” “Suicide Squad” took Harley Quinn from niche fan-favorite to mainstream icon, but “Catwoman” somehow managed to bungle one of the most marketable castings in movie history. Now comes “Clayface,” based a character known to those who follow Batman lore, but not exactly an A-lister. Though connected to a huge franchise, the film has kept both its budget (an estimated $44 million) and its creative ambitions low. Clearly there was only limited interest from the film’s backers, which might explain the apparent limited interest from the filmmakers.

The film follows actor Matt Hagen (Tom Rhys Harries), who at the beginning of the film is on top of the world. He’s pulled himself up from a rough upbringing in Gotham City to movie stardom and an Oscar nomination. Then he makes the mistake of falling for the wrong woman, Mia (Joana Ribeiro). Despite warnings from his best friend Corey (Joshua James) that she’s the girlfriend of gangster Markos Szabo (David Dencik), Matt goes ahead with the seduction. Szabo finds out and won’t let the disrespect slide, mangling Matt’s face.

In the aftermath of the attack, Matt loses everything. Szabo is too powerful to be held legally responsible, expensive plastic surgery barely puts a dent in his disfigurement, and the loss of his looks kills his acting career. He’s at rock bottom when he learns of radical cell rejuvenation technology being developed by Dr. Caitlyn Corr (Naomi Ackie). He begs to become a human test subject, and although the treatment is supposed to be used for less superficial purposes, Corr reluctantly agrees, and after several weeks of high-risk treatments, Matt has his face back.

Of course, this wouldn’t be a villain origin story if it were that simple. Matt goes overboard with the treatments, which have unprecedented effects on his body. Sometimes the new cells do things he doesn’t want them to do, like create unwanted coverings for his eyes (an impromptu surgery in an airport bathroom is especially harrowing). Sometimes they do things they were never designed to do, like allow him to take on the appearance of other people. At first, he’s scared of these freakish developments, but then he realizes that he can use these… by now, the word “powers” applies - to get revenge on those who wronged him.

Those familiar with the Villain Origin formula can see where this is going. He’s going to spend most of the movie taking out bad guys while slowly becoming a bad guy himself. Left to be the actual hero is Dr. Corr, who is engaged to rare non-corrupt Gotham detective John Borrelli (Max Minghella). Can the couple survive the wrath of the monster Caitlyn has created?

A few creative decisions stand out. Impressive body horror is on display, as the cells don’t always know what a healthy human body is supposed to look like (and Matt decides to do unnatural things with his body anyway). Several transformations are done silently and instantaneously, which on one hand is undeniably “clean,” but on the other seems like a shortcut considering the limited budget.

Whatever “Clayface” does right with its visual style is undone by its cookie-cutter story, especially with how quickly Matt jumps from understandable revenge to outright villainy because the movie requires it. And yet, even though I’m not recommending this movie, I would like to see more movies like it. Batman’s rogues gallery is one of the most colorful in all of media, and I’d love to see even low-stakes attention given to more such characters. The right set of hungry young filmmakers could do wonders for an as-yet underutilized baddie. I can sense a really good Batman villain spinoff on the horizon, it’s just not this one.

Grade: C

“Clayface” is rated R for strong bloody violence, gore, language, some nudity, and brief drug use. Its running time is 108 minutes.

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu.

The Mississippi Book Festival recently took place, and it was just as magical as always. The lawn of the Capitol was filled with book vendors, authors, nonprofit organizations, and more as the push for literacy continues. I look forward to it every year, and this year was just as wonderful.

I started my day off listening to Kate McKinnon, who addressed a full sanctuary as she talked about the magic of her book The Millicent Quibb School of Etiquette for Young Ladies of Mad Science. I had no idea she’d written a book, so when my best friend Lindsay said we had to go, I naturally purchased every book in the series.

This did not disappoint in the slightest. What I loved the most about her panel was that she couldn’t stay seated and on stage. Every few minutes, she was up and walking around, specifically looking for young readers in the audience. It was such an authentic interaction.

There were two younger girls in the pew in front of us, and when McKinnon announced that not only was the third and final book in the trilogy releasing in a few days, because of the festival, we were able to purchase it right then. The two girls began bouncing in their seats and tugging on their mom’s sweater in excitement. It was so awesome! It really showed the impact of a good story. As McKinnon walked around the sanctuary asking about hobbies and favorite reptiles, not a single child mentioned gaming, their phones, or the like. It was refreshing, truly.

After getting our books signed, the next panel we attended was Love, Identity, and the Harlem Renaissance. I originally attended because I was most excited to hear Victoria Christopher Murray, who wrote Harlem Rhapsody, but was also excited to listen to her in conversation with journalist and activist George M. Johnson.

Johnson wrote All Boys Aren’t Blue, and, for this particular panel, he talked about his new book Flamboyants: The Queer Harlem Renaissance I Wish I’d Known. Let me tell you, so much of what I learned about the Harlem Renaissance was not taught to me within the walls of Delta State University.

The two authors talked about the research that went into their books, as well as the importance of the art they create and how it impacts the world around them. I oftentimes forget that writing is an art form, even as I sit here and write now. In the age of AI, we truly are losing our abilities to create, which is heartbreaking.

Johnson and Murray both talked about spending hours sifting through the letters of W.E.B. Du Bois and others to learn more about the time period. They both laughed at the gossip shared among Langston Hughes and the receivers of his letters. Did you know he sent a fruit basket to the wedding of Countee Cullen and Yolande Du Bois because it was an open secret in the community that Cullen was a gay man? Hughes later joked about the gift in a letter to Zora Neale Hurston! It makes me wonder what will happen decades from now, as we have moved from letter writing and even from writing our own statuses or captions, and are more focused on AI doing the writing for us.

If anything, this was just another reminder that we need to fight this literacy crisis and ensure we are all not only reading, but writing, as well. Even if you are just writing your own caption for a photo, avoid clicking the buttons. We are already seeing evidence of a loss of creativity and cognitive ability due to AI usage, and specifically generative AI.

All of that to say, I encourage you to create something.

Go to the Madison County Library System Canton branch, and check out one of the books I mentioned.

Visit with the people of the historical society or with Canton Tourism, and listen to them tell you the history of our town. Let that give you inspiration as you take your next walk through the square.

There is magic in our community and in our stories. We just need to grab it with both hands and not let go.

Independent guides such as Nejlepsiautomaty.cz explain how the mechanics, paylines and volatility of these games differ, which helps players pick one that fits their budget.

Best Slots in 2026 at a Glance

Slot Trends Shaping 2026

1. Simple 81-Way Games Alongside Feature-Heavy Slots

Large tumble grids and cluster pays still dominate new releases, but compact four-reel, 81-way games remain a fixture in Central European lobbies. Studios such as SYNOT Games and e-gaming keep releasing variants of the format because it is fast, easy to read and works well on phones. The 81-line guide on Nejlepsiautomaty.cz explains why the format pays the way it does.

2. Players Checking RTP Settings

More players now know that one game can run at different RTPs depending on the operator. Respin Joker 81, for example, can be set anywhere from 88.03% to 98.05%. Independent review sites and in-game rules screens have become the standard way to check which version is live.

3. Mobile-First Design

New releases are built in HTML5 for phones first, with controls in thumb reach, light rendering to save battery and automatic recovery if the connection drops mid-spin.

4. Higher Maximum Wins

Maximum wins keep rising at the high-volatility end. San Quentin xWays caps at 150,000× the stake, compared with 486× for a classic such as Respin Joker 81. The gap shows how differently these two kinds of game spread their returns.

Top Slot Machines to Play in 2026

1. Respin Joker 81 (SYNOT Games)

Why it stands out in 2026: it is the reference point for low-risk 81-way play. The sticky Joker respin gives a second chance at a win on a single paid spin, and the low-to-medium volatility suits players who want their budget to last.

2. Gates of Olympus (Pragmatic Play)

Why it stands out in 2026: it remains the benchmark for pays-anywhere tumble slots. Eight or more matching symbols pay anywhere on the grid, and in free spins the multipliers that land are added to a running total for the rest of the round.

3. Multiplay 81 (e-gaming)

Why it stands out in 2026: it has no secondary bonus stage at all. Multiplier wilds do all the work in the base game, which keeps every spin simple. Its 95% RTP is below the 96% reference point, which is the trade-off for that simplicity.

4. San Quentin xWays (Nolimit City)

Why it stands out in 2026: it represents the extreme end of the market, with a 150,000× cap and very long losing runs. It is suited only to experienced players with large budgets.

5. Big Bass Bonanza (Pragmatic Play)

Why it stands out in 2026: it set the template for collect-style bonus rounds that many later games copied, and its 96.71% RTP is above average.

6. Book of 99 (Relax Gaming)

Why it stands out in 2026: its 99% RTP leaves a house edge of about 1%, one of the lowest available, although high volatility means results swing widely in the short term.

Features to Look For

• Sticky wilds and respins: as in Respin Joker 81, a winning wild holds in place for a free extra spin.
  
   
• Tumbling reels: winning symbols disappear and new ones drop in at no extra cost.
  
   
• Multiplier wilds: wilds that multiply the win they complete, as in Multiplay 81.
  
   
• Both-ways evaluation: games such as Firebird Double 27 pay from either side of the reels.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming the advertised RTP is live: always check the rules screen for the setting the operator chose.
  
   
• Choosing on graphics: animation does not change the maths. A high-volatility game with a small budget will run out fast.
  
   
• Chasing losses with Martingale: doubling stakes cannot overcome an RNG, and every spin is independent.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is an 81-way slot different from a payline slot?

A payline slot pays only on set patterns. An 81-way slot on four reels pays for matching symbols anywhere on consecutive reels, across all 81 possible paths (3 × 3 × 3 × 3).

What is a good RTP in 2026?

96% or higher is the usual reference point. Settings below about 94.5% give the house a noticeably larger edge.

Are newer slots with 3D graphics better?

Not necessarily. Heavier graphics use more battery and data, while classic games such as Multiplay 81 and Respin Joker 81 run smoothly on older phones.

How does volatility affect play?

Low volatility means frequent small wins. High volatility means long dry spells and occasional large wins, which needs a budget of at least 200 to 300 stakes.

Can any betting strategy guarantee a profit?

No. Licensed slots use certified RNGs, and the house keeps its edge over time whatever staking pattern you use.

Final Verdict

For steady play and simple controls, Respin Joker 81 and Multiplay 81 remain strong choices in 2026. For high-variance features, Gates of Olympus and San Quentin xWays offer far bigger ceilings at far higher risk, and Book of 99 offers the lowest house edge on this list. Match the game to your budget, check the RTP before you spin and treat slots as paid entertainment.

John Wesley “John the Baptist” Henry celebrated his 107th birthday Sept. 30, marking more than a century of life and history in Madison County.

Born in Madison County on Sept. 30, 1919, Henry has witnessed more than 100 years of change while building a legacy of military service, community involvement, faith and music.

In 1942, Henry enlisted in the U.S. military and was deployed to Europe in support of the Allied war effort during World War II. He was honorably discharged in 1945 and returned to the Canton area. Two years later, in 1947, he married Catherine Griffin.

Henry went on to build a life rooted in the Canton community. He worked for Presto Manufacturing, Canton Public Schools and the City of Canton as an essential service employee.

Faith and music also have played important roles in his life. Known affectionately as “John the Baptist,” Henry served as a deacon at Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church and was a member of the Canton Southernairs for more than 60 years.

His family has grown across the generations. When the Mississippi Senate honored Henry in 2025, Senate Resolution 138 noted that he had 12 children, 38 grandchildren, 71 great-grandchildren and 31 great-great-grandchildren.

The Mississippi Senate formally recognized Henry’s life and service in April 2025, honoring the Canton World War II veteran for his contributions to his country and community.

At 107, Henry remains a remarkable living connection to more than a century of Madison County history.

The Canton-Madison County Historical Society wishes Henry a happy 107th birthday and expresses its appreciation for his military service and many decades of contributions to the Canton community.

All photos Special to The Canton News

During this enrollment period, Medicare recipients have an opportunity to review and adjust their health and prescription elections, compare available plans and make changes that better suit their healthcare needs and financial profile. Changes made during open enrollment will take effect January 1, 2027.

SHIP is a free state program, provided by MDHS, that provides local, in-depth and unbiased insurance counseling and assistance to Medicare-eligible individuals, their families or caregivers to help them better understand their coverage options.

For many older adults in Mississippi, navigating healthcare can be overwhelming. SHIP counselors are here to assist individuals understand changes in prescription drug costs, provider networks and plan benefits, as well as how these changes can affect access to care and household expenses.

"Like most health insurance plans, Medicare is not a one-size-fit-all. What may have worked last year, may not be suitable this year," said KenYada Blake-Washington, MDHS Division Director of Aging and Adult Services. "Our SHIP counselors are here to help clients, at no cost, navigate those changes and ensure that older Mississippians have access to the information and resources they need to make an informed decision about their healthcare."

SHIP counselors can help Medicare-eligible individuals:

• Understand Medicare benefits and eligibility
• Organize doctor and hospital bills
• File Medicare appeals
• Review Medicare Supplemental Insurance
• Evaluate Medicare+ Choice or Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) options
• Explore long-term care options

MDHS encourages all Medicare-eligible individuals to review their coverage annually, even if they are satisfied with their plan. Plan offerings and health care needs can change from year to year.

Those who do not wish to make any updates to their current coverage do not need to take action, however, reviewing plan details prior to the December 7 deadline can help prevent unexpected costs or coverages in the upcoming year.

Medicare Open Enrollment ends December 7, 2026. Medicare-eligible individuals in need of assistance are encouraged to contact a SHIP counselor before the deadline to allow time to review their options.

For more information about Medicare Open Enrollment or to connect with a SHIP counselor, call 1-844-822-4622 or visit https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/aging/finding-services-for-older-adults/.

"Daylight saving time on Sunday morning is a good reminder to test smoke alarms and talk to your family about what to do if there is a fire. Make sure everyone knows how to escape a home fire, where to meet outside, and how to call for help. Never go back inside a burning building for any reason. These steps are what save lives," said State Fire Marshal and Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney.

The Mississippi State Fire Marshal's Office recommends the following safety tips:

• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Make sure everyone in the home understands the sound of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
• Replace the smoke alarm immediately if it doesn't respond properly when tested.
• Smoke alarms should be placed in every sleeping area and common hallways and on every level of the home.
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
• A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall.
• Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet from the stove.
• Create an escape plan and make sure all family members know where to meet once out of the home.

The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) held a professional development session to share updates and outline next steps for writing instruction for administrators and teachers in the Canton Public School District. The session included a comprehensive overview of the changes being implemented in writing assessments to help educators prepare for new standards.

MDE shared essential resources to support teachers in this transition, including sample writing responses that exemplify expected student outcomes, detailed rubrics for evaluating student work, and grade-level writing checklists that outline criteria for successful writing at each grade. These resources are designed to standardize writing instruction and assessment across the district.

Canton Public School District leadership emphasized the importance of keeping all staff informed about adjustments to the writing assessment process. They noted that students can earn up to twelve points on the end-of-year state assessment, underscoring the importance of effective writing instruction. By equipping teachers with these tools and insights, CPSD aims to enhance student performance and ensure a smooth transition to the new writing assessment framework.

All photos Special to The Canton News

The Madison County Business League & Foundation (MCBL&F) is pleased to announce the inaugural 2026–27 Madison County Young Professionals Board of Directors.

Since its founding in 2016, the group has grown. To support that growth, MCBL&F has transitioned the group from a committee to a Board of Directors, creating a smaller leadership team to guide its next chapter.

Madison County Young Professionals provides young professionals and entrepreneurs with opportunities to build relationships, serve the community and engage with business, political and civic leaders. The program invests in the professional development of Madison County’s future leaders.

Seated (l to r): Peyton Brown, Vice Chair, Huntington Bank; Bethany Stanfill Ricks, Secretary Treasurer, BSS Global; Jamie Lake, Immediate Past Chair, BankPlus; Ron Dixon, Chair, Atmos Energy.

Middle (l to r): Carter Clarke, Tellus Operating Group; Gabby MacNabb, Entergy; Emily Harrison, MCEDA; Betsy Dowell, Century Construction; Abbey Wennerlund, Birdsong Construction; Amanda Green, Nissan North America; Wilson Nichols, Argent Wealth.

Standing (l to r): Brady Power, Trustmark Bank; Sammy Brown, Brown Legal Group; Hugh Warren, Jones Walker; Wes Neely, Guaranty Bank; Whit Mills, Mills Contracting.

Canton Academy picked up another convincing victory Friday night, defeating Centreville Academy 53-16.

The Panthers continued their strong offensive production, putting up 53 points in one of their highest-scoring performances of the season.

Canton Academy entered the matchup looking to build on its recent success and did just that, winning by 37 points.

The Panthers have found success throughout the fall, and Friday's result gives them another positive performance heading toward the postseason.

Defensively, Canton Academy held Centreville Academy to 16 points, helping create a comfortable margin on the scoreboard.

With the regular season winding down, Canton Academy will look to continue its strong play as it prepares for the next stage of the season.

Canton High School continued its strong season Friday night, picking up a 36-27 victory over Ridgeland.

The Tigers faced a competitive matchup against the Titans but managed to come away with the nine-point win. Canton finished with 36 points offensively, doing enough to overcome a Ridgeland team that kept the game close on the scoreboard.

The victory gives Canton another positive result as the regular season approaches its final weeks. The Tigers have consistently found ways to score throughout the year, and Friday's performance was another example of their offensive production.

While Ridgeland managed 27 points, Canton was able to maintain enough separation to secure the victory.

With the postseason approaching, the Tigers will look to continue building on their success and finish the regular season strong.

The biggest problem with new video game adaptation “Street Fighter” is that it’s bad on purpose. Not “delightfully over the top” or “destined to become a cult classic,” just bad. As if having a degree of self-awareness about its unapologetic badness somehow justifies wasting two hours of its audience’s time.

The story follows a pair of former best friends – Ryu (Andrew Koji) and Ken (Noah Centineo) – as they reunite after a six-year estrangement for a martial arts tournament hosted by military dictator M. Bison (David Dastmalchian), who is secretly planning to drain all the energy from the winner for evil purposes. The two are recruited by Chun-Li (Callina Liang), purportedly an employee of Bison, but who is secretly working to bring him down. Ryu suspects something is wrong with the tournament, but he needs to enter to know for sure. Ken just wants to win the tournament so he can out-perform Ryu, in a grudge that started when their shared master Gouken (Don Lee) was killed by his brother Akuma (Roman Reigns). Akuma, by the way, is also planning to steal all the energy from the winner of the tournament, in a plan that is totally different from Bison’s.

Other characters include fellow good-guy tournament fighters Guille (Cody Rhodes) and Dhalsim (Vidyut Jammwal), bad-guy fighters Balrog (Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson) and Vega (Orville Peck), neutral-ish fighters Zangief (Olivier Richters) and Joe (Alexander Volkanofski), Ken’s manager Dan (Andrew Schulz), tournament emcee Don (Eric André), Bison henchwoman Cammy (Mel Jarnson), and secret-weapon electric eel hybrid Blanka (Jason Momoa). 

If you’re looking forward to the tournament, you’re going to be disappointed. Of the seven matches that are supposed to take place, two happen completely offscreen, three are cancelled due to forfeits, and two take place in this movie, which means they’re about as exciting as if they happened offscreen or were cancelled due to forfeit. 

Not that the fight against Bison is any more compelling. Dastmalchian, always with a hangdog expression, is sorely miscast as a dictator with a nation’s army at his fingertips. Yes, he can crush the odd underling’s head with his stolen power, but his displays of might just come off as temper tantrums rather than enforcements of his will. At no point does he look like he could defeat a competent fighter or foil any reasonably-well-planned coup. I just can’t imagine too many people wanting to follow him into battle. The properly-villainous Raul Julia as Bison from the otherwise-disastrous 1994 “Street Fighter” wouldn’t allow this guy to serve him snails. 

Speaking of the 1994 version, the few clips I watched of that movie for research were all I knew about the “Street Fighter” franchise going into this movie. I never played the games and completely missed out on the 2009 spinoff “The Legend of Chun-Li.” So no, I’m not well-versed in “Street Fighter” characters and lore. I wonder if it’s better to be a fan of the franchise and be let down by this movie or to just be unhappy with it as a non-fan.

Everything about “Street Fighter” is terrible, from the pathetic acting (though Ryu and Ken get a few good moments as near-brothers that save this movie from a worse rating) to the choppy editing to the bad-taste jokes to the phony action to the unsatisfying conclusion to the poor lighting. That’s right, it’s not even lit well. And no, the argument of “It’s just supposed to be fun, it’s not supposed to win Oscars” isn’t going to work on me. A movie can be fun, even “bad” fun, and still have its act together, which this movie doesn’t. Any camp appeal that this movie is supposed to have is lost on me. And if it isn’t going for camp appeal, what does that say about the supposed professionals that worked on this film? 

Grade: D

“Street Fighter” is rated PG-13 for violence/action, bloody images, strong language, sexual references, partial nudity, and brief smoking. Its running time is 119 minutes. 

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu. 

Canton Public School District librarians recently took part in the Mississippi Library and Media Professionals conference, gaining new ideas and resources to bring back to their school libraries.

The free conference is held in three Mississippi cities — Canton, Oxford and Hattiesburg — giving library professionals from across the state opportunities to learn from one another and build professional connections.

The conference program included professional development sessions for K-12 school and public librarians. Topics included new programming ideas, curriculum connections and literacy resources that librarians can incorporate into their schools.

Canton Public School District librarians also had the opportunity to meet with library vendors and learn about products and services designed to support school library programs.

The conference provided the librarians with additional resources and ideas as they continue developing programs and services for students throughout the district.

All photos Special to The Canton News

For Malaysian audiences exploring Winbox, knowing how different gaming formats work is useful before choosing an activity. The platform features categories such as online slots, live casino games, sports betting, fishing games, and 4D lottery options. Each category has its own rules, structure, and level of interaction, making it important to understand the experience rather than judging everything as one type of online gaming.

Understanding the Variety of Online Gaming

Online gaming is a broad term that covers several forms of digital entertainment. Although these activities may appear together on one platform, they can differ significantly in how users participate and how results are determined.

For example, slot games generally use random number generation to determine outcomes, while live casino games involve real dealers managing table games through video streams. Sports betting is different because results depend on actual sporting events rather than a digital game round.

Recognising these differences helps users understand what to expect from each category. It also encourages them to read the relevant rules instead of assuming that experience with one game automatically applies to another.

How Online Slot Games Work

Online slots are among the most familiar forms of digital casino entertainment. They typically feature reels, symbols, and different combinations that determine whether a particular spin produces a payout.

Modern slot games may include themed graphics, special symbols, bonus rounds, and other features depending on the individual title. However, these elements do not change the basic principle that outcomes are determined according to the game's programmed rules and random number generation.

Winbox includes a slot category with different game options, giving users the opportunity to explore titles with varying designs and mechanics.

Before participating, users should check the paytable, available betting amounts, and game rules. A colourful theme or an entertaining bonus feature should not be mistaken for an indication that a particular result is more likely to occur.

What Makes Live Casino Games Different?

Live casino games combine online access with elements of a traditional casino environment. Instead of relying entirely on animated gameplay, these games use video streams to show dealers managing table games.

Common examples include baccarat, blackjack, and roulette. Each follows a different set of rules, so understanding one game does not necessarily prepare someone to participate in another.

Winbox features live casino entertainment alongside its other gaming categories. This format may appeal to users interested in observing real-time gameplay and the procedures involved in table games.

However, live presentation does not make outcomes predictable. Roulette results remain uncertain, while card games involve their own rules and probabilities. Users should understand the structure of a game and the applicable betting conditions before participating.

Sports Betting Involves Real-World Events

Sports betting differs from casino-style gaming because its outcomes depend on sporting competitions. Football and badminton are particularly relevant examples for Malaysian audiences, although other sports may also be available.

A football betting market might focus on the match winner, total goals, or a handicap line. Badminton markets may involve match outcomes or other event-specific selections, depending on what the sportsbook offers.

Winbox includes sports betting as part of its wider entertainment offering. Users interested in this category should understand that different markets can have different settlement conditions.

Following a sport closely may provide useful background information, but it does not guarantee accurate predictions. Injuries, tactical changes, unexpected performances, and other developments can influence results in ways that are difficult to anticipate.

Exploring Fishing Games as an Arcade-Style Format

Fishing games offer another type of online gaming experience. Unlike traditional slot machines or table games, they generally use an arcade-style interface in which players aim at different targets.

The presentation can involve colourful underwater environments, moving objects, and interactive controls. Depending on the specific game, different targets may carry different values or require different levels of effort.

Winbox lists fishing games among its entertainment categories, illustrating how online gaming can extend beyond conventional casino formats.

Before playing, users should review the rules and understand how the game's scoring or reward system operates. An interactive format should not be confused with guaranteed control over financial outcomes.

Understanding 4D Lottery Games

Number-based lottery games provide a different experience from slots, live casino tables, and sports betting. In 4D gaming, participants generally select a four-digit number or combination according to the rules of the particular lottery product.

Results depend on the relevant draw and the conditions attached to the selected entry. Different lottery products may have their own entry types, prize structures, and settlement rules.

Winbox includes a 4D lottery category as part of its broader platform. For Malaysian users familiar with number-based games, understanding the rules of a particular draw is important before participating.

Previous results do not guarantee future outcomes. A number appearing frequently or remaining absent for several draws does not, by itself, establish what will happen next.

Why Game Rules Matter More Than Appearance

Online games often use attractive visuals, sound effects, and interactive elements to create an engaging experience. However, presentation and gameplay rules serve different purposes.

A game may look simple while containing detailed payout conditions. Another may appear complicated but follow a relatively straightforward structure once its rules are understood.

For users exploring different categories on Winbox, reviewing game instructions can help clarify what each activity involves. Important details may include betting limits, settlement conditions, payout calculations, and any restrictions that apply.

Taking time to understand these details is more useful than choosing an activity based entirely on its graphics, popularity, or promotional presentation.

The Importance of Understanding Probability

Probability plays an important role in many forms of gaming, although it operates differently across categories. Casino games generally involve defined rules and mathematical probabilities, while sports outcomes depend on real-world events.

In both cases, uncertainty remains. A previous result does not guarantee the next one, and a successful prediction does not establish that future selections will produce the same outcome.

Understanding probability can help users recognise common misunderstandings, such as believing that repeated losses make a win certain or that a recent winning streak will continue.

These assumptions can lead to unrealistic expectations. A more informed approach involves understanding the rules, recognising uncertainty, and avoiding decisions based on the belief that a particular outcome is overdue.

Keeping Online Gaming Within Personal Limits

Different gaming formats may appeal to different interests, but all real-money gaming involves financial risk. Convenience and variety should not replace careful spending decisions.

Before participating, users should decide how much money and time they are comfortable setting aside for entertainment. Essential expenses, savings, and financial commitments should remain separate from any gaming budget.

It is also important to avoid increasing spending to recover previous losses. No gaming category offers a reliable way to guarantee income, regardless of its design or the experience of the participant.

Taking breaks and choosing not to participate are equally valid decisions. Understanding a game should support informed choices rather than create pressure to play.

Conclusion

Online gaming covers several distinct forms of entertainment, from digital slots and live casino tables to sports betting, fishing games, and 4D lotteries. Each category offers a different structure, and understanding those differences helps users develop more realistic expectations.

For Malaysian users exploring Winbox, learning how these formats work provides a useful foundation for understanding the platform's wider entertainment offering. Game rules, probability, settlement conditions, and personal preferences all deserve attention before participation.

Ultimately, a better understanding of online gaming comes from looking beyond the appearance of individual games and recognising how each format operates. Combined with responsible spending and time management, this knowledge can help users make more informed entertainment decisions.

Engineering Excellence: The Technical Core of MEGA888

Behind the intuitive user interface lies a robust infrastructure created specifically to handle high concurrency without lag or package fragmentation. Unlike browser-only gaming portals that rely heavily on unoptimized script execution, MEGA888 deploys specialized native client builds tailored to the specific hardware profiles of modern handheld devices.

• Optimized Graphic Engines: The platform uses optimized asset-streaming protocols, allowing complex 3D reel spins, bonus animations, and real-time visual effects to render cleanly on entry-level hardware without draining battery or causing thermal throttling.
• Low-Latency Network Architecture: Dedicated server farms handle state reconciliation and transaction validations in milliseconds, ensuring reel spins, live table calls, and arcade shots register immediately without dropped packets.
• Unified Profile Synchronization: Player session data, achievement tracking, and system wallet balances remain synchronized across all supported device profiles, enabling seamless handoffs between mobile phones, tablets, and desktop setups.

Comprehensive Game Portfolio

Diversity forms the cornerstone of player retention. MEGA888 houses a comprehensive library covering distinct gaming classifications, ensuring every member discovers titles matching their individual risk preference and playing style.

1. High-Performance Mobile Slot Titles

As the platform's core genre, the slot catalog combines vibrant visual styling with certified mathematical modeling. Players can navigate high-volatility formats built for multiplier chasing, low-volatility titles suited for extended play sessions, and progressive network jackpots that aggregate prize pools across central server clusters. Each title integrates transparent paytables, distinct bonus features, and free-spin mechanics that mirror standard industry return-to-player ratios.

2. Classic Card and Table Challenges

For enthusiasts who prefer tactical decision-making, the platform delivers virtual iterations of standard casino staples. Members can enjoy virtual blackjack, single- and double-zero roulette, and multiple variations of baccarat. These titles utilize swift, client-side rendering to provide rapid dealing speeds and immediate round turnaround.

3. Immersive Live Dealer Streaming

To capture the atmosphere of a land-based casino floor, the live dealer suite delivers real-time high-definition video feeds operated by professional dealers. Advanced compression algorithms ensure high-framerate playback across both Wi-Fi networks and standard cellular mobile data connections.

4. Multiplayer Arcade and Fish Hunter Titles

Expanding the boundaries of traditional casino gaming, arcade fish hunter titles bring competitive multiplayer gameplay to mobile screens. Multiple users share the same visual playing field, aiming weapons, balancing ammo economics, and collaborating to take down high-value targets in an energetic arcade setting.

Player Evaluation and Risk-Free Testing: The Public Demo Framework

Transparency is a fundamental tenet of operations overseen by The MEGA888 Group. To provide complete clarity before players commit personal funds, MEGA888 provides an open evaluation environment known as the Test ID system.

This public framework allows prospective members to thoroughly evaluate game mechanics, assess interface latency, and confirm graphical compatibility on their personal devices:

• Open Evaluation Accounts: Prospective members can access thousands of publicly shared demo profiles indexed sequentially from test1 through test10000, using the standardized password Aa1234.
• Substantial Test Balances: Each demo login is provisioned with 10,000.00 in testing credits, which system scripts refresh on a regular weekly basis.
• Realistic Game Math: The demo environment runs on identical mathematical logic and return distributions as live accounts, ensuring testing remains completely authentic without financial exposure.

Enterprise-Grade Security and Fair Play Safeguards

The integrity of any digital entertainment hub rests entirely on its commitment to player security and fair competition. The MEGA888 Group enforces strict security protocols across every access layer:

1. Secure Socket Layer Encryption: All outgoing and incoming network transmissions are protected using modern TLS encryption, preventing packet interception and data harvesting on open networks.
2. Certified Random Number Generation: The game logic governing slot outcomes, card sequencing, and wheel stops relies on cryptographically validated algorithmic RNG mechanisms, preventing any external interference or predetermined manipulation.
3. Data Protection Compliance: Personal member records, login credentials, and transactional histories are isolated on encrypted servers, accessible only for regulatory audit, security maintenance, and dispute resolution.

Verified Access and Brand Integrity

Due to the widespread reputation of MEGA888, unverified mirrors and counterfeit websites often attempt to mislead players with unofficial installation files. Unregulated third-party distributions carry significant risks, ranging from modified math engines to unauthorized data collection.

The MEGA888 Group strongly urges all players to verify download channels, check agent credentials, and source installation packages exclusively from official platforms. By choosing authentic distribution channels, players guarantee that their mobile gaming experience remains safe, fair, and continuously supported by dedicated technical professionals.

The Canton Public School District (CPSD) thanked the Upsilon Upsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. in Canton for assisting eligible high school seniors with voter registration.

The district expressed appreciation for the chapter’s time and service and its commitment to promoting civic engagement in the community.

All photos Special to The Canton News