Recently, the Canton High School track team competed in the annual Ridgeland Invitational. 

The girls’ team achieved an impressive second-place finish, demonstrating strong performances across multiple events.

The boys’ team secured third place, showcasing their competitive spirit and determination. 

Pedestrian accidents are among the most devastating motor vehicle crashes because the injured pedestrian has no protection at all.

If you or someone you love was struck by a vehicle, you have legal rights.

A pedestrian accident attorney will give you a realistic timeline based on the specific facts of your situation. The sooner you get legal representation, the better positioned you are to recover compensation efficiently.

What causes pedestrian accidents?

Drivers must remain vigilant for pedestrians and are required by law to yield at every crosswalk. When they fail, people get hurt. The most common causes include:

• Distracted driving: Adjusting the radio, texting, or using a phone while driving diverts attention from the road.
• Impaired driving: Intoxicated driving erodes judgment and slows reaction times, turning routine maneuvers into life-threatening risks.
• Speeding: A pedestrian struck by a vehicle traveling at 40 mph has far less chance of survival than one hit at 20 mph. Speed is the critical variable in fatal pedestrian collisions.
• Failure to yield: Many pedestrian accidents happen at crosswalks when drivers fail to stop for pedestrians who have the right of way.
• Hit and run: Some drivers flee the scene after striking a pedestrian. Hit-and-run accidents create additional legal complexity. But pedestrian accident victims still have options to recover compensation.
• Bus accidents: Large buses have significant blind spots. And pedestrians near bus stops are particularly vulnerable.
• Poor visibility conditions: Nighttime driving, bad weather, and poorly lit roads increase the risk of drivers failing to see pedestrians in time to stop.

Who is liable in a pedestrian accident?

In most pedestrian accident cases, the at-fault driver is the primary liable party. But liability can extend beyond the driver.

Depending on how and where the accident occurred, additional parties may share liability:

• The driver's employer, if the road accident occurred while the driver was working
• A government entity, if a poorly designed crosswalk or malfunctioning traffic signal contributed to the crash
• A vehicle manufacturer, if a defective part of the car caused the driver to lose control
• A bar or restaurant, under Dram Shop laws, might be held liable for damages if it serves alcohol to a visibly intoxicated patron who subsequently causes a pedestrian accident

Establishing liability requires a thorough investigation. Dedicated pedestrian accident lawyers work with accident reconstruction specialists to piece together exactly what happened. They review the police report, collect traffic camera footage, interview witnesses, and analyze the accident scene to build a case that holds the right parties accountable.

In hit-and-run cases, your own auto insurance may provide coverage through uninsured motorist protection. A personal injury attorney can navigate the insurance claim process and determine which policies apply to your situation.

What to do after a pedestrian accident

1) Seek medical attention immediately.

Your health comes first. Call 911 or have someone take you to the emergency room even if your injuries seem minor.

2) Contact local law enforcement.

Make sure the police report accurately documents what happened, and get the report number before you leave the scene, as this is an official record of the accident.

3) Document the accident scene.

If you are physically able, photograph the scene, the vehicle that hit you, the driver, and any visible injuries. Take note of traffic signals, crosswalk markings, and anything else relevant to where the accident occurred.

4) Get the driver's information.

Collect the driver's name, license plate, insurance information, and contact details. Note the make and model of the vehicle.

5) Gather witness information, such as their names and contact details.

Witnesses can be critical in establishing driver negligence.

6) Do not give a statement to the insurance company.

Adjusters will always find a way to reduce or deny your pedestrian accident claim.

7) Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer.

The sooner a lawyer gets involved, the better positioned you are to preserve evidence and protect your legal rights.

Personal injury law is complicated. Insurance companies know the rules better than most people do. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney knows the rules just as well and knows how to use them to protect your health and legal rights.

Let Sweet Lawyers handle your pedestrian accident lawsuit while you focus on recovering. You pay nothing unless they win your case.

Students from Canton Academy earned multiple honors at the MAIS State Reading Fair, with several placing in both overall categories and character portrayal.

In second grade, Luke Parker received third place overall in non-fiction and first place in character portrayal.

Among third-grade participants, Virginia Dare Ford earned third place overall in non-fiction, while Stock McCarty placed second overall in fiction.

In fourth grade, Collins Winters was awarded first place overall in fiction and second place in character portrayal.
School officials expressed pride in the students’ accomplishments and recognized their hard work and dedication.

2023 brought audiences “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” by far the most successful cinematic adaptation of a video game ever. It was a wonder how appealing the property was with vibrant, colorful animation and respect for both its source material and its audience. I couldn’t bring myself to recommend the film, as the story, action, characters, and humor never really “came together” for me, but it was definitely a step in the right direction. 

In that film, plumber brothers Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Cox) stumbled upon the Mushroom Kingdom, led by Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy), who they saved from having to marry Bowser (Jack Black), king of the evil Koopas. They also aligned with headstrong ape Donkey Kong, but he’s not in play here. The brothers and Peach were hailed as heroes, while Bowser was ultimately shrunk down and imprisoned in a jar. 

This film starts out by introducing some new characters. Princess Rosalina (Brie Larson) rules over a planet of childlike stars in another galaxy. She’s abducted by Bowser Jr. (Benny Safdie), who needs to harness her powers to activate a doomsday weapon. But first, there’s the matter of rescuing his father from Peach’s castle in the Mushroom Kingdom. Meanwhile, a plumbing job leads to Mario and Luigi making the acquaintance of loveable dinosaur Yoshi (Donald Glover, apparently, though he mostly communicates in indiscernible squeaks), who is too marketable to not immediately become a lifelong companion of our heroes. 

Peach and loyal mushroom-man assistant Toad (Keegan-Michael Key) go off to rescue Rosalina, leaving Mario and Luigi in charge of the Mushroom Kingdom. They barely manage to keep the place running for a day, and really drop the ball when Bowser Jr. attacks. They leave to join the rescue mission (so much for their responsibilities running the kingdom) with the still-miniature Bowser in tow. 

The teams’ adventures take them to a casino galaxy, a honeybee galaxy, a dinosaur galaxy, and a hub that connects all the galaxies, where they enlist the help of stranded pilot Fox McCloud (Glen Powell). The climax takes place on a much-heralded planet that Bowser Jr. has built for his father to rule. Aside from the worlds where the characters actually live, there’s no reason for them to visit other galaxies, but this is a movie that insists on variety for the sake of variety. 

And that’s the biggest problem with the film: it’s very cluttered. Fans of the video games might get a kick out of the various settings and brief character appearances and other Easter eggs (appropriate, I suppose, for the recent Easter weekend), but I don’t see a point in including all these goodies if the film can’t do anything interesting with them. It can barely do anything interesting with its main characters, let alone the obscure ones. 

Sorry, but the movie is a mess from a storytelling and character development perspective. For example, Bowser laments that he wasn’t always there for Bowser Jr. as a father. But we don’t get a single scene of Bowser Jr. addressing how little his father had been there for him. Nor do we get any scenes where Mario and Luigi talk about missing their home and family in Brooklyn. Peach learns about major aspects of her identity, but I never got the sense that it was really “hitting” her. It all feels sloppy and rushed, as if the writers knew they needed to incorporate various story beats “somehow,” and “somehow” turned out to be the bare minimum. 

“The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” once again gets the visual aspect right, which admittedly is a big part of this franchise’s success. But the story is nonsensical, the characters are cardboard, and there’s a noticeable lack of chemistry between the voice actors, probably owing to them not recording together. It’s a minor step back for the property after “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” took such a major step forward. 

Grade: C

“The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” is rated PG for action, mild violence, and rude humor. Its running time is 98 minutes. 

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu.  

Read Across America Day was celebrated as young students returned from spring break. Through the Canton Public School District,  district officials, parents, teachers, and community partners took the time to stop by and read to students. 

Read Across America Day was created by the National Education Association (NEA) in 1998 and is the nation’s largest celebration of reading. While it is a year-round program, Read Across America Day is celebrated in the month of March to bring new resources and book titles to readers in an effort to diversify their reading. According to the NEA, “Readers who feel included, recognized and a part of the world are engaged readers.”

While Dr. Seuss remains a popular theme for this event, the official theme for 2026 was “Champion Kindness.” 

"Amazon isn't just reinvesting in Mississippi — the company is once again betting on our people. $25 billion in two years is providing Mississippians with high-tech, high-paying opportunities, strengthening our communities and showing the world that our state is open for business. This is what transformational economic growth looks like, and it's happening right here, right now. This is Mississippi's time," said Gov. Tate Reeves.

The Clinton facility marks Amazon’s first location in the city. "Amazon's $1 billion investment in Clinton is a tremendous opportunity for our community," said Mayor Will Purdie. "The revitalization of the former Delphi Packard plant will bring 100 high-quality jobs and an immense boost to our local economy. We appreciate Amazon partnering with our community and look forward to the positive contributions this will bring our residents."

In November 2025, Amazon also announced a $3 billion project in Vicksburg, creating at least 200 full-time positions, further cementing its presence in central Mississippi.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) drives the company’s cloud and data center operations and is the world’s most comprehensive cloud platform. AWS supports generative AI through advanced infrastructure, machine learning services, and agentic AI applications. Today’s expansion strengthens Amazon’s commitment to AI and high-tech infrastructure, helping businesses and government agencies innovate faster, cut costs, and scale operations.

"Amazon is expanding in Mississippi with $12 billion in new investments, $11 billion in Madison County and $1 billion to transform a former manufacturing plant in Hinds County," said David Zapolsky, Amazon’s Chief Global Affairs and Legal Officer. "These two projects will create 800 jobs and build infrastructure that serves Mississippi for generations. We're just getting started."

Mississippi Major Economic Impact Authority funds, local governments, and Entergy Mississippi’s long-term power commitment all supported the expansion. These investments highlight Mississippi’s growing role in high-tech and AI-driven industries.

You can focus your thoughts and attention on the unrelenting ‘cook your soul’ heat in the summer, or you can anticipate the six months of near perfect temperatures in winter time. You can easily resent the burning hot sand and jagged rocks, or instead, you can choose to raise your eyes to those beautiful, hazy, purple-shaded mountains in the distance that surround your city.

Driving down the highways, I can watch the native scrub brush and cactus passing by that admittedly are not my favorites, or I can deliberately focus my attention on the colorful native flowers and lacy-leaved trees and bushes that are everywhere in my neighborhood.

Concentrating on the oppressive heat that builds as the day progresses is easy to do. And definitely a mood destroyer. Much better to bounce yourself out of bed early in the morning and get outside while there is still a trace of desert-cool in the air. And then spend your busy day anticipating watching the lazy movement of huge gas-powered balloons floating in the beautiful evening sky while you sip on an icy drink. 

I can mourn the thousands of miles that now separate me from my siblings back home, or I can look forward to being a free-of-charge destination spot for vacationing relatives.

My point? Deliberately make choices. Choices that are good and healthy for your mental and physical well-being. Anyone with half a functioning brain can choose to concentrate on the unfortunate and hurtful things in their life. Everyone alive has pain or worry that they can choose to be the focal point of their life. 

But it’s a much smarter decision to deliberately set out each day to find the positives. Too often people make the choice to view their days thru gloomy glasses, concentrating on the distressing thoughts in their life.  And then wonder why they live year after year in depression and bitterness.

Decide to backburner the ugly and sad, and concentrate on choosing to look for the good stuff.  Sure, I know that we can’t just ignore the bad part of our lives and make it all go away. But we can choose what we make first and foremost. And making the sad part of your life first and foremost just isn’t smart.

Your deliberate choices do matter. You actually can find beauty and contentment in the middle of ugliness and difficulty. But only if you begin each day determined that you will find some tiny bit of good in your circumstances. Then focus on that.

Choices have the ability to make or break you. They can haze over the ugly, or make you blind to everything except what you resent or hate about your life. 

Your choice. Your days. Your life.

Recently, Shirley Jones, Canton Career Center’s Health Science instructor, was recognized for her outstanding achievement of one hundred percent Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) participation in HOSA. HOSA–Future Health Professionals is a premier CTSO for students in health science education, enhancing classroom learning through leadership development, service projects and over sixty competitive events. 

According to Canton School District representatives, “This honor highlights her exemplary commitment to Mississippi HOSA by fully implementing the HOSA curriculum and ensuring all of her students were actively affiliated. The award was presented at the 2026 State Leadership Conference last month.

“We are proud to celebrate Ms. Jones for her dedication to student success! Special thanks to Center Director Michael Ellis for presenting this well-deserved recognition during Canton Career Center’s Focused Faculty staff meeting.”

Canton High School girls basketball player Shamira Morton, a 6-foot-3 senior center and Seton Hall signee, averaged 22.9 points, 13.3 rebounds, and 5.3 blocked shots (third, sixth and third respectively in Mississippi by MaxPreps) and led Canton to a 26-5 record and the MHSAA Class 6A quarterfinals this season, despite being double and triple teamed all year. She won the Metro Jackson Player of the Year award for the third consecutive season, matching former Germantown star Madison Booker, who is now an All-American and SEC champion at the University of Texas. Booker won Metro Jackson Player of the Year from 2021-23.

Morton set school records for most career points, rebounds and blocked shots and is the first Canton girls basketball player in two decades to receive a Division I scholarship offer. She was the MHSAA Class 6A Miss Basketball as a senior and the MHSAA Class 5A Miss Basketball as a junior.

Morton led Canton to a school record 28 victories and back-to-back state runner-up finishes for the past two seasons as a junior and sophomore. She has career highs of 40 points against Ridgeland this season and Velma Jackson as a junior, 23 rebounds against Ridgeland as a junior and 12 blocked shots against Cleveland Central and Greenville as a sophomore.
Morton has had 75 double doubles and 12 triple doubles and has scored in double figures in all but one game in the past three seasons. 

“What a ride it has been having Shamira as a player,” said Canton coach Melissa Word, who has been at Canton for 27 seasons and won a state title in 2013 and two state runners-up finishes in 2024 and 2025. “This season has its share of adversity, especially with injuries that seemed to make its way throughout the whole team. Shamira actually played the last three weeks with a sprained ankle, which eventually aggravated her Achilles. But no excuse. Of course, fans and our opponents didn’t realize it because she continued to give us her all every night. Hopefully, her work ethic and love for the game had rubbed off on the remaining players, who had an opportunity to play with her.”

“I improved on the court with expanding my game from the perimeter, being more patient, finding the gaps in other teams’ defenses, because I got double-teamed a lot last year,” Morton said. “This year, I struggled with finding the gaps more in defenses, because most of the teams we faced basically played us zone to keep two people on me. So, after getting advice, I started moving more and finding the gaps. My expectations for myself moving forward is to work harder than I have before. I need to improve my agility, get stronger, and improve my leadership even more from my high school years.”

In addition to Morton’s injury late in the season, her teammates battled through injuries, as well (Dekendra Mitchell missed games with ankle injuries, Aquirana Wade missed games with a finger injury and Aeriona Wallace played all season with a torn labrum). 

“Shamira is an amazing teammate,” Canton junior Journey Brown said. “She’s always inspiring us and encouraging us to be the best version of ourselves. Her leadership and positivity have made a huge impact on our team.”

“Shamira has been a big influence on our team,” Mitchell said. “She leads with confidence and always encourages us to believe in ourselves. Being her teammate has helped me grow both as a player and as a person.”

“Being able to experience these few years with Shamira has opened my eyes and taught me a lot,” Canton sophomore Kyle Rogers said. “Her leadership, how adamant she is about the game of basketball, and how hard she works on and off the court have made me want to push harder every day.”

In addition to Seton Hall, Morton has Division I offers from Alcorn State, Southern Miss, Memphis, SMU, Charlotte, South Alabama, Belmont, Murray State, Arkansas State, Stony Brook, and North Carolina A&T. She is the first Canton girls basketball player to receive a Division I offer since LaCourtney Ratliff received one from Ole Miss in 2003. Ratliff played on Canton’s state championship team.

Morton averaged 23.6 points (third in scoring average in Mississippi), 14 rebounds (second in rebounding average) and 5.5 blocked shots (second in blocked shots average) last season as a junior. She had 25 double doubles and five triple doubles.

Morton averaged 21.1 points, 13.4 rebounds and 5.2 blocked shots two years ago as a sophomore. She had 22 double doubles and five triple doubles. 

She averaged 10.3 points, 8.4 rebounds and 3.8 blocked shots and helped Clinton Christian to a 19-15 record and a third-place finish in the MAIS Class 4A state tournament and reached the MAIS Overall Tournament quarterfinals and made fourth team All-Metro Jackson three years ago season as a freshman before transferring to Canton for her sophomore year.

Morton started as an eighth grader at Canton before transferring to Clinton Christian.

Morton is the daughter of Shameka and Dewayne Morton. Shameka played basketball at Gulfport High and Jefferson Davis Junior College, now Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. Dewayne played basketball at Canton High and Holmes CC. 

In 2019’s “Ready or Not,” Grace MacCaullay (Samara Weaving) won the deadly game of Hide and Seek that ended the lives of the entire La Domas family. It all tied into a Satanic ritual that frankly didn’t make much sense. Now she has to play another, also-deadly game of Hide and Seek against four other families that hold high standing in the Satanic cult. The twist this time is that she has her estranged sister Faith (Kathryn Newton) in tow. 

Following (and I mean “immediately” following) Grace’s witty one-liner from the end of the last movie, she passes out and is taken to the hospital, where Faith, never removed as her emergency contact, reluctantly comes to visit. They’re soon attacked by a player (Kevin Durand) who wants to win the game before it starts. The cheater pays a heavy price, courtesy of the game’s ghostly overseer. But the sisters are soon knocked unconscious and brought to the resort of the Danforth twins – Titus (Shawn Hatosy) and Ursula (Sarah Michelle Gellar) – to start the game properly. 

An unnamed lawyer (Elijah Wood) spells out the rules. Representatives from four families will be competing. Whoever kills Grace first, wins. If Grace can survive until dawn, she wins. Faith is not officially part of the game, though she’ll both help Grace and be used as leverage against her in the course of the movie. If a player dies, another family member can take their place in the game. No families can kill members of the other families, or their entire family will be killed. The winner gets a special ring that lets them rule the world (yes, familiar territory for Wood).

Other players include both Danforth twins with their cousin Kip (Dan Bierne) as backup, Spanish actor Ignacio El Caido (Nestor Carbonell) with his children Francesca (Maia Jae) and Felipe (Juan Pavlo Romero), Chinese businesswoman Wan Chen Xing (Olivia Cheng) and her son Fu (Antony Hall), and Indian partyboy Viraj Rajan (Nadeem Umar-Khitab) with his younger brother Madhu (Varun Saranga) and Madhu’s wife Martina (Masa Lizdek). A movie like this wouldn’t let the players have seconds unless it had plans for them, so be prepared for a high body count, as if all the weapons in the film’s advertising weren’t enough of an indication. 

The game is a deadly free-for-all, with the film’s favorite method of killing once again involving people exploding like big bloody balloons. The Danforth twins, they of the homefield advantage and most star power, are particularly conniving competitors. Grace and Faith spend the movie trying to keep each other alive while practically wanting to kill each other over past decisions. Frankly, I could have done without this aspect of the story. I can appreciate the writers wanting to give these characters depth, but there’s not much interesting about their backstory, and the rekindling of their relationship throws off the movie’s pace. On the plus side, it’s nice to have newer scream queen Newton joining established scream queen Weaving. 

I had fun with the film’s action and banter. The deft touch of directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett was sorely missing from the recent “Scream 7” after they directed the fifth and sixth installments to surprising watchability. Fortunately, we didn’t have to wait long for another project of theirs. “Ready or Not 2: Here I Come” isn’t going to set the cinematic or even horror world on fire, but it has enough of what I like in my horror thrillers for me to give it a recommendation. 

Grade: B-

“Ready or Not 2: Here I Come” is rated R for strong bloody violence, gore, pervasive language and brief drug use. Its running time is 108 minutes. 

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu. 

In 2019’s “Ready or Not,” Grace MacCaullay (Samara Weaving) won the deadly game of Hide and Seek that ended the lives of the entire La Domas family. It all tied into a Satanic ritual that frankly didn’t make much sense. Now she has to play another, also-deadly game of Hide and Seek against four other families that hold high standing in the Satanic cult. The twist this time is that she has her estranged sister Faith (Kathryn Newton) in tow. 

Following (and I mean “immediately” following) Grace’s witty one-liner from the end of the last movie, she passes out and is taken to the hospital, where Faith, never removed as her emergency contact, reluctantly comes to visit. They’re soon attacked by a player (Kevin Durand) who wants to win the game before it starts. The cheater pays a heavy price, courtesy of the game’s ghostly overseer. But the sisters are soon knocked unconscious and brought to the resort of the Danforth twins – Titus (Shawn Hatosy) and Ursula (Sarah Michelle Gellar) – to start the game properly. 

An unnamed lawyer (Elijah Wood) spells out the rules. Representatives from four families will be competing. Whoever kills Grace first, wins. If Grace can survive until dawn, she wins. Faith is not officially part of the game, though she’ll both help Grace and be used as leverage against her in the course of the movie. If a player dies, another family member can take their place in the game. No families can kill members of the other families, or their entire family will be killed. The winner gets a special ring that lets them rule the world (yes, familiar territory for Wood).

Other players include both Danforth twins with their cousin Kip (Dan Bierne) as backup, Spanish actor Ignacio El Caido (Nestor Carbonell) with his children Francesca (Maia Jae) and Felipe (Juan Pavlo Romero), Chinese businesswoman Wan Chen Xing (Olivia Cheng) and her son Fu (Antony Hall), and Indian partyboy Viraj Rajan (Nadeem Umar-Khitab) with his younger brother Madhu (Varun Saranga) and Madhu’s wife Martina (Masa Lizdek). A movie like this wouldn’t let the players have seconds unless it had plans for them, so be prepared for a high body count, as if all the weapons in the film’s advertising weren’t enough of an indication. 

The game is a deadly free-for-all, with the film’s favorite method of killing once again involving people exploding like big bloody balloons. The Danforth twins, they of the homefield advantage and most star power, are particularly conniving competitors. Grace and Faith spend the movie trying to keep each other alive while practically wanting to kill each other over past decisions. Frankly, I could have done without this aspect of the story. I can appreciate the writers wanting to give these characters depth, but there’s not much interesting about their backstory, and the rekindling of their relationship throws off the movie’s pace. On the plus side, it’s nice to have newer scream queen Newton joining established scream queen Weaving. 

I had fun with the film’s action and banter. The deft touch of directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett was sorely missing from the recent “Scream 7” after they directed the fifth and sixth installments to surprising watchability. Fortunately, we didn’t have to wait long for another project of theirs. “Ready or Not 2: Here I Come” isn’t going to set the cinematic or even horror world on fire, but it has enough of what I like in my horror thrillers for me to give it a recommendation. 

Grade: B-

“Ready or Not 2: Here I Come” is rated R for strong bloody violence, gore, pervasive language and brief drug use. Its running time is 108 minutes. 

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu. 

Nix began his career in education at Benton Academy, where he taught computer applications, keyboarding, and accounting, and coached junior high and varsity football, as well as boys track. In 2014, he joined the faculty at Jackson Prep, where he taught government and economics, served as technology coordinator, and coached track and football.

In 2020, Jackson Prep named Nix head of the history department, a role he held for four years. He also directed summer camps and summer school programs. The school recognized his excellence in the classroom with its Distinguished Teaching Award in 2019.

In addition to his work in schools, Nix spent several years working with Scholastic Products and Awards, supporting educational programs across the Southeast. A 2005 graduate of Jackson Preparatory School, Nix earned a Bachelor of Arts in history from University of Mississippi in 2009 and a Master of Education in educational leadership from Mississippi College in 2021.

“Jimmy is an exceptional leader with a clear vision for academic excellence and a deep understanding of how to invest in the whole student,” said Canton Academy Board President Danny Spivey. “He has a track record of building strong programs, supporting faculty, and connecting with students in meaningful ways. We are confident his leadership and passion will strengthen our school and position Canton Academy for continued growth and success.”

Canton Academy Board Member Leigh Pace said, “Jimmy’s background in education and leadership, combined with his strong values and community focus, make him an outstanding choice for Canton Academy Head of School. He understands what it takes to build a strong school culture and prepare students for future success.”

Nix and his wife, Anna, a pediatric dentist in Clinton, have three sons, James, Jack, and Tait. The family attends Madison Methodist Church and enjoys hunting and fishing together. “I am honored to serve as head of school at Canton Academy,” Nix said. “I look forward to working with our faculty, students, patrons, and families to build on the school’s strong foundation and continue its tradition of excellence.”

But then a catastrophic day came. The day when the man’s entire beloved hometown, where he had lived his entire life, was put in the laser focus of certain unavoidable disaster. At the last possible moment, Little Leslie’s daddy realized that he had the solution for the safety of the townspeople at his fingertips, but to do so he undoubtedly would have to let his own baby die as a result of his actions. 

Suddenly he was in the unenviable position of having to make an agonizing decision; save the people of the village, or rescue her. He didn’t have the time and ability to do both and be successful.

The man made his decision, and saved the lives of an entire small town.

Later, after everyone in the vicinity was safe, there were those who criticized, vilified, and even hated him for leaving his nine-month-old baby girl to obvious death. Public opinion was sharply divided for and against the man. Many wanted to bring criminal neglect charges against the grieving father. Others mourned his loss with him, hailed the man as their hero, and vigorously defended him.  They recognized his sacrifice in giving up the one he loved, in order that so many could live. 

That man lived the rest of his life on earth dogged by his double reputation of killer and deliverer. Miserable, grieving and alone, he left his hometown and relocated several times through the years in an effort to find peace. But no matter where he lived, gossip, questioning of his real motives, and long-held grudges followed him. News stories on national television and all the other venues made the rounds and re-rounds. Even years later the sad facts of the baby’s death were dug up, investigated for potential foul play, and discussed endlessly. Again, and again.  

The only peace he was able to find was in his heart. He knew that he had given up his Leslie, the center of his entire world, for the greater good of a town that misunderstood his motives and his agonizing actions.

Sounds horrible. A father who loved his child deeply, but had to make the decision to deliberately let her die. So that others could live, and have the opportunity to be with their loved ones for a full life.

Same thing God the Father did to His Son thousands of years ago. For you and I. And so many misunderstand His heart and His actions too.

The Canton Public School District and Amazon have launched Amazon Think Big Corners in all four of the district’s elementary schools, beginning with a celebration at Canton Elementary.

The dedicated STEM mini-labs are equipped with tools such as 3D printers and coding materials, providing students hands-on opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering and math.

Ribbon-cutting ceremonies were held recently at Canton Elementary, Jimmie M. Goodloe Elementary, McNeal Elementary and Reuben B. Myers Canton School of Arts & Sciences.

District leaders say the partnership will expand access to innovative STEM education and help prepare students for future careers in technology and other STEM fields.

Canton Academy’s upper school recently celebrated its annual Spiritual Emphasis Week, welcoming local churches and pastors to campus to lead students in worship and reflection.

Each day, speakers focused on this year’s theme, “Run Through the Tape,” based on Hebrews 12:1-2. The passage encourages believers to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”

Throughout the week, students heard messages centered on faith, endurance and spiritual growth. Speakers challenged students to remain focused, throw off distractions and pursue their faith with determination.

School leaders expressed appreciation to the churches, pastors and volunteers who helped make the 2026 Spiritual Emphasis Week meaningful for students.

It has been just over ten years since viewers were first introduced to the work of sci-fi author Andy Weir with Ridley Scott’s “The Martian.” In that film, a scientist (Matt Damon) was stuck on a planet millions of miles from Earth and forced to use his wits to survive against near-insurmountable odds, often punctuating his actions with smart-aleck remarks that only he could hear. New Weir adaptation “Project Hail Mary” is different. In this film, a scientist (Ryan Gosling) is stuck on a spaceship millions of miles from Earth and forced to use his wits to survive against near-insurmountable odds, often punctuating his actions with smart-aleck remarks that only he can hear… until he has an alien buddy that can hear them. 

Dr. Ryland Grace (Gosling) is on mission to save the Sun (and consequently Earth) from a bacteria that is severely diminishing its output. He’s not what you’d call a “likely” hero (just a schoolteacher with some controversial theories), and he doesn’t exactly “volunteer” for the mission. Sketchy mission organizer Eva Stratt (Sandra Hüller) has to use some nefarious means to get him on the ship, but only because she truly believes his way of thinking makes him the best hope for humanity. His “way of thinking” doesn’t extend to knowing how his spaceship works after over a century in an induced coma. After Grace spends a few days flopping around the ship, the whole vessel is intercepted by an alien spacecraft. 

Piloting the new ship is a creature that comes to be known as Rocky (voiced by James Ortiz, once he has a voice), because his body is so rock-like. He’s on a mission to save his own planet from the same problems plaguing the Sun. Not having many ideas of his own, his plan is to abduct Grace so they can pool their resources. Of course, Grace doesn’t really know what he’s doing either, but after a tedious process of learning to communicate with one another, the two of them start hatching something resembling a plan to save their respective worlds. And they might just become friends in the process. Okay, I won’t make it suspenseful, they become friends. 

Grace and Rocky’s friendship is really odd, considering that they never knew the other’s species even existed until they met in outer space. Also, neither can so much as breathe the air on the other’s ship. Grace has to keep his helmet on in Rocky’s, and Rocky has to travel around Grace’s in what I can only describe as a hamster ball. But through inspiring determination, they make it work. And though the attitude is usually kept light, there are very high stakes for both parties. Entire planets need to be saved and sacrifices need to be made. Will those sacrifices have to include our heroes’ ability to get home? How about their very lives? Can they even have a mission successful enough to warrant these kinds of questions? 

The story of “Project Hail Mary” is very familiar territory, especially if you’ve seen “The Martian.” I joked about it earlier, but Gosling’s character is basically a carbon copy of Damon’s in that film. And the friendship with Rocky has been done before too, in any number of movies where a human has to work together with an animal or alien (“E.T.” comes to mind). Fortunately, the writing, acting, and directing from the ever-enjoyable Phil Lord and Christopher Miller are all crisp enough to make this a decent version of a cookie-cutter space adventure. It could probably stand to eat up less time, but for the most part, “Project Hail Mary” is worth cheering on as much as your favorite sports team making the titular play. 

Grade: B-

“Project Hail Mary” is rated PG-13 for some thematic material and suggestive references. Its running time is 156 minutes. 

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu. 

Virginia Dare Ford, a student at Canton Academy, earned second place at the District MAIS Reading Fair and first place in Character Portrayal, advancing to compete at the State Reading Fair.

Instead, rebellion later on is usually the result. When your back is turned. When your kid is turned loose on his own. When you are not there playing policeman.

When they get to a place in their life that allows a teen to make a few of their own choices, often a young person who was reared under heavily restrictive guidelines with no explanations, will decide to find out what they were missing.

Think along the lines of a kid going to college and out on their own for the first time. Feeling the heady thrill that comes with total freedom of choice. Coupled with long-denied desires of doing anything and everything that mom and dad declared off-limits. Add in the natural rebellion that comes with hormones that fluctuate like waves in the ocean. You potentially have what can be termed as a perfect storm.

Ask any parent who dares to be totally honest with you.

There is a second reason that using strict rules of conduct alone doesn’t really work long term. Unless you have been successful in instilling in that immature brain of your child the same line of reasoning, the same set of values, and the same fear of venturing off the safe beaten path of obedience that rules your behavior, then all you have accomplished is getting your kid to obey as long as you hold the reins. Good luck with that.

I do believe that an average teen who is out on his own can be guided… to some degree. But for that to be true, effective loving guidance has to be started lonnnng before the teen years hit. So, just how do we parents accomplish the impossible?

Beginning in the elementary years, the effective firm “NO!” coupled with a smack on a diapered bottom that worked on your toddler has to have “Here’s why you can’t fill in the blank.” Stated unequivocally in logical and age-appropriate terms that your child can understand.

Just yelling, “Because I said so!” isn’t going to go very far in getting your kid to want to cooperate. If that tired old sentence is your standard go-to, then very likely you have on your hands a child living out the old saying; ‘I’m sitting quietly on the outside, but I’m defiantly standing on the inside.’

 And believe me, it only gets worse when hormones are added to the mix.

My belief for the almost impossible job of parenting?

• Imitation: Pick up your Bible and read how your wise Creator parents you.
• Patience: Remember, your child is the student, you are the teacher, so teach.
• Loving firmness: Stick to your guns. I repeat, YOU are the teacher. How will Junior learn if you don’t stay firm?
• Fearlessness: Do not be afraid to enforce the word NO.

Parent, do your job well. Or you will regret the results later on.

On Tuesday, February 22, 1949, the local Boy Scouts took over Canton City Hall for a day.

According to the Madison County Herald, immediately after being sworn in, the boys got straight to work - paving streets, repairing fences, enforcing traffic laws, inspecting the fire department, adjudicating a wayward business man, and running the Mayor’s court - all before it was time for dinner with mom and dad. 

Original photographs are from the archives of the Madison Public Library System.

But not everyone stays.

Some retirees want to be closer to family who have scattered across the country. Others are chasing coastlines, mountains, or big-city amenities that Mississippi simply cannot offer. A few are hunting for a state with no income tax at all, which Mississippi does not quite achieve despite its retiree-friendly policies. And some just want something different after decades in the same place.

Whatever the reason, Mississippi is seeing more residents head elsewhere in retirement than it used to. According to the 2024 United Van Lines Annual National Movers Study, Mississippi ranked eighth among the top outbound states in the country, a notable jump from its previous position. Understanding where those retirees are going, and why, tells a bigger story about what people want out of the final chapter of their lives.

Florida: Still the Gold Standard

When a Mississippian decides to leave for retirement, Florida is often where they end up. This should surprise exactly no one. Florida has been the top destination for relocating retirees nationwide for years running, and it holds particular appeal for people coming out of the South who are already accustomed to heat and humidity.

The financial case for Florida is real. The state has no personal income tax, which means Social Security, pension distributions, IRA withdrawals, and other retirement income are entirely untaxed at the state level. For someone who has spent their career in Mississippi and is leaving behind even a modest income tax obligation, the savings can add up meaningfully over a long retirement.

Then there is the lifestyle. Florida offers roughly 1,200 miles of coastline, year-round warm weather, a massive infrastructure built around retirees, and no shortage of active adult communities designed specifically for people in this stage of life. Cities like Tampa, Sarasota, Fort Myers, and Ocala have well-developed networks of healthcare providers, recreational clubs, and community organizations that make settling in relatively easy.

That said, Florida is not the bargain it once was. Homeowner's insurance costs have risen sharply in recent years, particularly in coastal and hurricane-prone areas. Property taxes, HOA fees, and the general cost of living in desirable Florida markets have all climbed. Retirees who move there expecting to stretch their dollars the way they would in Mississippi sometimes find the math doesn't work out quite like they hoped.

Tennessee: The Neighbor Worth Considering

For Mississippi retirees who want to stay close to home, Tennessee offers something compelling: no state income tax, a lower cost of living than most of the country, and a geography that keeps them within driving distance of friends and family back home. Memphis sits right on the Mississippi state line, and Nashville is a manageable drive from much of northern Mississippi. Many seniors also choose to move to 55 plus communities in East Tennessee as it offers a desirable climate and an active lifestyle.

Tennessee has seen remarkable population growth over the past several years. The state gained over 325,000 net new residents between 2020 and 2024, fueled in large part by retirees and remote workers drawn by affordability and quality of life. The lack of a state income tax is a major drawing card, and Tennessee combines that advantage with housing costs that, while rising in Nashville, remain accessible in smaller cities like Murfreesboro, Clarksville, Cookeville, and Chattanooga.

For outdoorsy retirees, Tennessee is hard to beat. The Great Smoky Mountains, several large lakes, and miles of hiking and biking trails give active seniors plenty to do. The music culture in Nashville and Memphis connects naturally with people raised on Southern music traditions, and the food scene across the state draws genuine praise.

Alabama: The Overlooked Option Next Door

Alabama does not get nearly as much attention in retirement conversations as it deserves. It shares a border with Mississippi, which makes the transition relatively easy for people who want to move without completely uprooting their lives. Family visits are doable. The culture is familiar. And Alabama brings a few advantages of its own to the table.

The Gulf Coast communities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have become increasingly popular retirement destinations, offering white sand beaches at a fraction of the cost of comparable Florida coastal towns. Fairhope, on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, has developed a reputation as one of the most charming small towns in the South and consistently earns recognition as a great place to retire. Huntsville, meanwhile, has transformed into one of the fastest-growing cities in the Southeast and offers a surprisingly sophisticated urban environment for a mid-sized city.

Alabama exempts certain retirement income from state taxes and has one of the lowest property tax rates in the country, which helps retirees manage their housing costs. The weather is similar to Mississippi, which means no culture shock for people making the move.

South Carolina: The Fastest-Growing Retirement Destination in the Nation

South Carolina has quietly become one of the most talked-about retirement destinations in America, and the numbers back it up. According to recent migration data, South Carolina recorded the largest net gain of retirement-age adults in the nation in 2025, pulling ahead of even Florida in that category.

The draw is multifaceted. Coastal communities like Hilton Head Island, Myrtle Beach, Beaufort, and the areas around Charleston offer genuine coastal living with scenery and culture that rival more expensive East Coast alternatives. South Carolina does not tax Social Security benefits and offers other retirement-friendly tax provisions that make it attractive from a financial planning standpoint.

For Mississippi retirees willing to make a longer move, South Carolina offers something Mississippi lacks: proximity to major East Coast cities. Day trips to Charlotte, Savannah, and even Atlanta are realistic, and that connectivity appeals to people who want access to major airports, specialized medical centers, and the cultural amenities that come with larger metro areas.

Texas: Space, Sunshine, and No State Income Tax

Texas is a different kind of move from Mississippi, more culturally distinct than the neighboring Southern states, and a longer drive from the people and places left behind. But it keeps showing up on the list of where retirees go, and for reasons that are hard to argue with.

The absence of a state income tax is the headline. Texas joins Florida and Tennessee in that category, and for retirees living off investment income, pensions, or large IRA withdrawals, the tax savings over a 20-year retirement can be substantial. Cities like San Antonio, which has an extensive and well-regarded network of healthcare facilities and a very manageable cost of living relative to its size, consistently rank among the most popular destinations for retirees making a move to Texas. The Hill Country surrounding Kerrville and Fredericksburg has developed a loyal following among retirees who want natural beauty and a slower pace without sacrificing access to modern amenities.

Property taxes in Texas are a legitimate concern and worth researching before making a move. They tend to be higher than in Mississippi, which can offset some of the income tax savings depending on where you land and what kind of home you buy.

North Carolina: The Mountain and Coast Option

North Carolina sits a bit further from Mississippi geographically, but it has built a strong reputation as a retirement destination that delivers on multiple fronts. The state offers both mountain living in the Asheville area and coastal living in communities like Wilmington and the Outer Banks, giving retirees real flexibility in terms of environment and lifestyle.

Asheville in particular has attracted an eclectic mix of retirees drawn by its arts scene, food culture, mild mountain summers, and access to outdoor recreation. It is a different vibe from what most Mississippians are used to, but many people find that difference is exactly what they were looking for. The Research Triangle area anchored by Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill draws retirees who want proximity to world-class medical centers and universities that offer lifelong learning programs.

North Carolina's cost of living is generally reasonable compared to the national average, though Asheville in particular has seen housing prices climb in recent years as its popularity has grown.

What Mississippi Retirees Are Really Looking For

Looking across all these destinations, a few themes emerge that explain what drives Mississippi retirees out of state when they go.

Family comes first. The desire to be closer to children and grandchildren who have moved away is consistently one of the top reasons people make interstate retirement moves, and Mississippi is no exception. When the kids are in Nashville or Tampa or Charlotte, the retirement calculus often follows.

Tax advantages matter, especially for people with significant retirement savings. Mississippi already treats retirees well from a tax standpoint, but states with no income tax at all represent a meaningful upgrade for certain financial situations.

Lifestyle variety is real. Some retirees want mountains, ocean beaches, or big-city cultural amenities that Mississippi genuinely cannot provide. That is not a criticism of the state, just an honest acknowledgment that retirement is a time when people pursue what they have always wanted, and sometimes what they want is somewhere new.

And then there is simply the call to explore. After a lifetime of building a career and raising a family in one place, some people just want a fresh start somewhere that feels like an adventure rather than a continuation.

Mississippi will always be home for a lot of people. But for those who leave, they are generally heading somewhere that trades one version of Southern comfort for another, chasing tax savings, warm beaches, mountain air, or the front porch of a grandchild's house. That is a pretty reasonable way to spend a retirement.

The Canton Career Center hosted its annual Career Fair, providing students with opportunities to engage in meaningful discussions and gain insight from professionals across a variety of industries.

Industry representatives shared personal experiences and offered guidance on the wide range of career opportunities available in their fields. Throughout the event, speakers emphasized the importance of education and highlighted opportunities within career and technical pathways.

Students gained practical knowledge about the skills and qualifications needed to succeed in their chosen professions. Organizers said the event helped spark enthusiasm and build confidence as students explored future career options.
School leaders expressed appreciation to the professionals who volunteered their time and expertise, noting their support plays a vital role in preparing the next generation of professionals.
 

The USA International Ballet Competition (USA IBC) is proud to announce the launch of a special Official Artist & Poster Contest in honor of its 50th anniversary, to be celebrated during the next competition cycle, June 12–26, 2027, in Jackson, Mississippi. This milestone event marks five decades of artistic excellence and the 13th time the official USA IBC will be hosted in its long-standing home city.

Since the inaugural USA IBC in 1979, each competition has been commemorated with a unique, original poster created by a selected artist—an enduring tradition that visually captures the spirit and artistry of this globally renowned event. The 2027 competition, a golden anniversary celebration, will elevate this legacy through an open call to artists.

Official Artist & Poster Contest Announced

The winning design will become the signature visual identity of the 2027 USA IBC. Its colors, themes, and imagery will be featured throughout:

• Competition branding and marketing

• Print and digital publications

• Merchandise and promotional materials

In addition, the selected artist will receive:

• A dedicated exhibition and artist reception

• Extensive promotional features and media coverage

• A press conference unveiling the official poster

• Recognition as the 2027 USA IBC Official Artist, joining a distinguished lineage of creatives

A Legacy of Artistic Collaboration

Artists who have previously contributed to USA IBC’s visual history have described the experience as both meaningful and career-defining. Reflecting on his selection, Brent Funderburk, Official Artist of the 2010 USA IBC, shared:

“As official artist of the 2010 USA IBC events I was thrilled and grateful! This privilege is one of the highlights of my life and artistic career; the poster is a wonderful medium by which to share the IBC and also the arts and artists of Mississippi and the region. It has been a great honor to have dance professionals and fans from around the world view my work.”

Celebrating a Golden Anniversary

The 2027 USA IBC promises to be a landmark celebration, honoring the competition’s enduring mission: to inspire excellence, elevate dancers on the world stage, and unite global audiences through the power of classical ballet. The Official Artist & Poster Contest invites artists to help shape this historic moment by creating a visual representation worthy of the competition’s 50-year legacy.

For more information and to apply visit: usaibc.com/poster-contest

The Canton Mayor and Board of Aldermen convened Tuesday, February 17, at City Hall to address a dense agenda ranging from major infrastructure awards to significant federal grant acceptances. Following an invocation by Lawrence Dixon, the meeting opened with public comments from Kevin Strauss regarding GOGOV citizen notifications, along with remarks from Hurstine Watts, Nancy Pate, and Stan Beasley.

The Board moved through a series of financial and operational approvals, including the adoption of previous meeting minutes, payroll dockets and a claims docket. The Board recommended awarding the Adeline and Johnson Street Drainage Improvements Project to R&C Services, LLC for $202,847.50, identifying them as the lowest bidder. Additionally, the City moved to finalize a $69,060 payment to Tann, Brown, & Russ for the 2020 Audit and authorized a $34,500 bathroom remodel at Fire Station #3 by GW Group, LLC.

Regulatory and environmental matters also took center stage. The Board considered a resolution for a site plan for a Dollar General Store on North Liberty Street and an application from First Baptist Church for a special exception to install ground signs. Members further reviewed financial assurance drafts for the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) concerning the city landfill and ratified an ordinance for twice-a-week garbage pickup, set to take effect May 1, 2026.

The city is also poised for significant redevelopment, with the Board considering the acceptance of a $2,200,000 U.S. Department of HUD grant for the Joe Pritchard Homes project. 

Other business included the selection of bidders for side loaders via a reverse auction and the Batchelor Creek/Crisco Ditch project, as well as the approval of a Police Department Amnesty Program scheduled for March 2026.

The meeting concluded with a consent agenda covering travel authorizations for City personnel and a transition into executive session. The private session was slated to cover one matter regarding supervision and finance, six personnel matters within the Police Department, three transactions involving land, and four strategy sessions regarding prospective or current litigation.

            Author Colleen Hoover is apparently dominant in the genre of tearjerkers. She’s best known for “It Ends With Us,” about the upsetting subject of domestic violence. Now comes “Reminders of Him,” which features both a death and a torn-apart family. It wants to inspire tears of sadness and sympathy, but the best it can manage is to bore me to tears. 

            The story follows Kenna (Maika Monroe), fresh out of prison after serving a seven-year sentence for vehicular manslaughter. She returns to her small Wyoming hometown, where the first thing she does is rip out the cross along the side of the road that memorializes her former lover Scotty (Rudy Pankow), the passenger she killed in a car crash while intoxicated. It’s not malicious, she does it to honor Scotty, as “he hated memorials,” though she doesn’t seem to consider that memorials aren’t “for” the deceased, they’re for people in mourning. Then again, she’s not one to always use great judgement. 

            Kenna’s life is a mess. She can’t get a job because of her criminal record, she can only stay in a lousy apartment by agreeing to take in one of the building owner’s cats, and she has no legal right to see Diem (Zoe Kosovic), the six-year-old daughter she had with Scotty, probably conceived minutes before the fatal crash. She had to give birth in prison and never even got to hold her baby before she was whisked away to live with Scotty’s parents (Lauren Graham and Bradley Whitford). She’s looking for a way to become part of Diem’s life, but all of her ideas involve acting like a crazy stalker, which isn’t going to endear her to the child’s grandparents, who already hate her for what she did to their son. 

            Kenna’s search for a job leads her to a bar owned by failed football player Ledger (Tyriq Withers). The two flirt and he instantly develops feelings for her. Things get complicated when it is revealed that he was Scotty’s best friend growing up and is now heavily involved in raising Diem. They get even more complicated when he learns that she is Scotty’s lover/killer and Diem’s stalker/mother. He demands that she leave town, or at least not insert herself into Diem’s life, but she has no intention of obeying. Besides, he doesn’t really mean that he wants her to leave town, he’s too smitten with her. 

            Kenna and Ledger form an uneasy business relationship that turns into a friendship that threatens to turn romantic. Can he learn to love the woman who took his best friend away from him? And how will this affect the close-as-family relationship he has with Diem and her grandparents? No doubt it will involve lying and eventually exposure, but will forgiveness be around the corner? 

            The film feels inexplicably stuffed with dragged-out scenes and unnecessary details. Kenna’s first job as a grocery bagger doesn’t really go anywhere, nor does Ledger not making much progress on a house he’s building far outside of town. And we don’t need a lengthy flashback to the night of the accident, everything has been sufficiently described in other parts of the movie. My theory is that a tight, early draft of the script came in at only sixty minutes and the studio insisted that it be stretched out to ninety, but then someone overcorrected until it was this nearly-two-hour snoozefest. Either that or the Hoover novel itself is over-bloated, in which case the movie should have done more to tighten things up. 

            I’m not mad at “Reminders of Him” for being incompetent, just nonplussed that it’s so unexciting. Other than being too long and dull, it’s not even bad in an interesting way. By the end of the year, I’ll probably forget the very title of “that weepy mother-that-can’t-see-her-daughter movie.” And then I’ll need a reminder of “Reminders of Him.” 

Grade: C-

“Reminders of Him” is rated PG-13 for sexual content, strong language, drug content, some violent content, and brief partial nudity. Its running time is 114 minutes. 

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu. 

Pictured (l to r) are, front row: Raymond VanNorman, Renasant Bank; Chair Barney Daly, Community Bank; and Secretary-Treasurer Cecil Harper, Harper Rains Knight Company; and back row: Brian Johnson, Marsh McLennan Agency; John Geary, Tellus Operating Group; Brad Gatlin, BankPlus; Vice Chair Wesley Goings, C Spire; and Phil Buffington, Balch & Bingham.

The Madison County Business League & Foundation supports the efforts of its philanthropic arm the Madison County Community Trust, Inc. (MCCT), a 501(c)(3) organization that works to enhance the educational, health and economic well-being of Madison County citizens. 

Through grants to schools, workforce development scholarships and support for local initiatives, MCCT invests in strengthening the community.

So what is the solution when your spouse's behavior goes beyond simply being irritated? What should you do as his long-suffering partner, when the constant arguments begin to stomp on your last nerve? 

Walk away. Don't attempt to argue your point or reason out the issue with him. Simply realize he feels really lousy and is acting it out. And he is not going to be in the mood to listen to your side of the story, and try to work out a compromise with you. So do both of you a favor, and just walk away. Let a little time away from the situation cool the temperature in the room.  

This maneuver can give both of you a chance to realize what is happening - that his ongoing pain is making him feel out of control. Feeling out of control is also known as that horrible emotion of helplessness. And helplessness very often brings on anger. And that kind of anger erupts quickly at the slightest outside provocation. And unfortunately, you can be easily that outside provocation.

 If you will learn to walk away from the immediate situation, hopefully there can come a point that he will start to realize why he reacted the way he did. And approach you to resume a more reasonable conversation ...usually trying to explain that his behavior is from the frustration with the illness or pain.

Your second job after walking away? Listen to what he is trying to say to you, when he does begin to talk. Not just his words, but the emotions behind it all. Try to understand and sympathize.

Your third job is to realize how badly you would probably be acting if you were to find yourself stuck in his situation. 

Remember this. There is absolutely no reason to continue an argument. No use trying. At this point, there is no winning for either of you. Because probably, neither of you is right or wrong. Just misunderstood, and not communicating very well at this stage. Pain inside a home has a way of making the people in that home seem to lose the skill of hearing each other very well.

So, learn to walk away for a few minutes. For your own sake and for your spouse.

Still, the first couple of weeks tend to whisper clues about which teams look comfortable and which ones are still finding their footing. That uncertainty is part of the charm. A season this long refuses to reveal itself quickly, but it does begin to hint at the possibilities. 

Some teams arrive with strong reputations already in place. Others step into the year carrying quieter expectations, hoping that momentum from the previous season might stretch a little further.

The 2026 campaign opens with both kinds of clubs in the mix. A few established contenders look steady right away. A handful of younger rosters feel ready to push forward. Pitching depth, balanced lineups, and clubhouse rhythm all begin shaping the conversation before summer even arrives.

Early MLB Storylines and Where Fans Follow the Season

The first weeks of the MLB season often reveal early storylines around emerging contenders. Ongoing coverage helps fans follow how the championship picture begins to develop.

A few hot starts can shift attention quickly. Suddenly, a team that felt like a mid-tier contender begins to appear in bigger conversations.

Discussions about the championship race start surprisingly early. Some observers glance at preseason projections or futures listings such as FanDuel MLB World Series expectations just to see which teams sit near the top of those early forecasts.

Of course, baseball doesn’t like to move in straight lines. Teams drift in and out of form. Injuries appear. Rotations shuffle. Still, early momentum tends to linger in the background. Even when standings shift later on.

Keeping up with baseball usually means following a steady stream of updates. Game recaps. Player notes. Small shifts in how teams approach a series.

Some fans prefer the nightly highlights. Others wander into deeper discussions about pitching matchups or lineup adjustments. Both approaches reveal different parts of the season.

Platforms like FanDuel Research often explore those layers, breaking down team performances and looking at the strategic side of the sport. It’s not always about predicting what happens next. Sometimes it’s simply about understanding why certain teams are the focus of fan attention.

Los Angeles Dodgers

Few teams enter a season with expectations as high as the Los Angeles Dodgers. Over the past decade, the organization has consistently built one of baseball’s strongest rosters through a mix of player development and strategic roster construction. That approach has helped the Dodgers remain a regular contender in the National League.

The lineup continues to feature star talent such as Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, while the pitching staff benefits from the team’s ability to develop reliable starters and bullpen depth. Because of that balance between offense and pitching, the Dodgers often begin each season as one of the teams others measure themselves against.

Seattle Mariners

The Seattle Mariners enter the new season with one of the most balanced pitching staffs in the American League. Their rotation, anchored by Luis Castillo and supported by younger starters such as Logan Gilbert and George Kirby, has become one of the team’s greatest strengths and a major reason for their recent competitiveness.

On the offensive side, Julio Rodríguez remains the centerpiece of the lineup. His blend of power, speed, and defensive range has established him as one of the league’s most dynamic young players, giving the Mariners a core that could influence the American League playoff race if the team maintains that balance between pitching and offense.

New York Yankees

Few franchises draw as much attention at the start of a baseball season as the New York Yankees. Expectations are rarely modest in the Bronx, and the team typically begins each year viewed as a contender in the American League. The organization’s history, large fan base, and consistent pursuit of top talent keep the Yankees at the center of MLB discussions.

Offensively, the lineup continues to revolve around Aaron Judge, whose power and leadership have made him one of the sport’s most recognizable players. The team’s success often depends on consistent production across the lineup and a pitching staff capable of competing in the demanding American League East.

Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs enter the season with a roster that blends experienced leadership with younger contributors. Over the past several years, the organization has worked to rebuild its roster while remaining competitive within the National League Central.

The Cubs’ recent strategy has focused on building a balanced lineup while reinforcing the pitching staff with reliable starters. That approach has helped the team remain competitive in a division where consistent pitching often determines the standings.

Chicago’s offense has shown the ability to produce runs across the lineup rather than relying on a single star player. When that balance is combined with steady starting pitching, the Cubs can quickly become one of the more difficult teams to face during long stretches of the season.

If the roster performs consistently early in the year, Chicago could emerge as one of the hottest teams in the National League Central race.

A Season Full of Possibilities

As the 2026 MLB season begins, the league once again features a wide range of teams capable of shaping the championship race. Established contenders will attempt to maintain their dominance, while rising teams aim to prove they belong among the league’s elite.

Early-season performances rarely determine the outcome, but they offer the first glimpse of which clubs may sustain success over the long schedule. Fans watching closely will see how pitching depth, offensive consistency, and team chemistry gradually shape the standings. 

For baseball followers, the months ahead promise the excitement of new storylines, developing rivalries, and teams striving to reach the postseason as the journey toward October unfolds.

More than 660 students graduated from the University of Mississippi in December 2025. Undergraduate and graduate candidates received degrees from the College of Liberal Arts, General Studies program, and schools of Accountancy, Applied Sciences, Business Administration, Education, Engineering, Journalism and New Media, Law and Pharmacy.

Parris Flakes of Canton is one of the December graduates. Flakes, who majored in Exercise Science, received a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from the School of Applied Sciences.

Anna Rusk of Canton is one of the December graduates. Rusk, who majored in Marketing, received a Bachelor of Business Administration from the School of Business Administration.

Jahmari Brown of  Canton is one of the December graduates. Brown, who majored in Integrated Marketing Communications, received a Bachelor of Science from the School of Journalism and New Media.

“Congratulations to our December 2025 graduates who are distinguished by their dedication to academic success,” UM Chancellor Glenn Boyce said. “They accomplished so much during their years at the university. I applaud them and can’t wait to see all the ways they will continue building their legacies that began here.”

Fifth-grade students at McNeal Elementary School recently took a hands-on approach to learning as they modeled constellations to better understand patterns in the night sky and the apparent movement of stars across Earth’s sky.
Students in Mrs. K. Smith’s class created constellation models as part of a science lesson focused on observing and interpreting celestial patterns. Through the activity, scholars explored how stars form recognizable shapes and how those patterns appear to shift due to Earth’s rotation.

The interactive lesson encouraged students to apply critical thinking skills while engaging in collaborative learning. By physically modeling constellations, students were able to visualize abstract astronomical concepts and deepen their understanding of how stars appear to move over time.