Hometown Rankin - August & September 2015

volume 2 number 4 

aug/sept 2015 

A Story Well Told 

____________________ 

SEC Coaches 

____________________ 

Breaking Barriers 

____________________ 

rankin county coaches

2 • August / September 2015

Hometown Rankin • 3

Call us to schedule 

your next visit. 

(601) 825-3368 

Sarah Langston, DMD 

14 Woodgate Drive 

Brandon, Mississippi 39042 


publisher & Editor 

Tahya A. Dobbs 

CFO 

Kevin W. Dobbs 

Consultant 

Mary Ann Kirby 

Account Executives 

Alicia Adams 

LeeAnn Evans 

Rachel Lombardo 

Misty Taylor 

Contributing Writers 

Camille Anding 

Olivia Halverson 


Susan Marquez 

Leisa McCool 

Melanie McMillan 

Nicholas Tew 

staff Photographer 

Othel Anding 

Contributing Photographers 

Bill Perkins 

Onsby Vinson 

Layout Design 

Daniel Thomas - 3dt 

Administrative Assistant 

Lee Vonder Haar 

• • • 

www.facebook.com 

/hometownrankinmagazine 

For subscription information 

visit www.htmags.com 

Contact us at info@HTMags.com 

601.706.4059 

26 Eastgate Drive, Suite F 

Brandon MS 39042 

• • • 

All rights reserved. No portion of Hometown Rankin 

may be reproduced without written permission from 

the publisher. The management of Hometown Rankin 

is not responsible for opinions expressed by its 

writers or editors. Hometown Rankin maintains the 

unrestricted right to edit or refuse all submitted 

material. All advertisements are subject to approval by 

the publisher. The production of Hometown Rankin 

is funded by advertising. 

For all you football fans, you can be a bit envious if you like. In this issue, our Hometown Team 

has had personal contact with high school, college, and SEC coaches in our local area and state. 

We were thrilled with their willingness to participate and are over the moon with the results! 

It’s been exciting to step into their worlds of grueling work and competition, and I’ve 

witnessed, again, the powerful and enduring influence they confer on their players and fans. 

This issue also highlights back to school advertisers and all those 

families affected by the buses and carpoolers soon to be cranking up. 

For me, it continues to be nostalgic. I have a newlywed and a new 

son, a college junior moving to Oxford, and a freshman at Hinds. 

It’s not only back to school but on-with-life for all of us. Join 

me as we all step into new chapters of our lives and appreciate life 

in our hometown. 

On the Cover: Sarah Thomas - Courtesy of Corky Trewin/Seattle Seahawks 

In this issue A Story Well Told 8 

First Day of School 16 

Just Do It, Do It, Do It 30 

Breaking Boundaries 44 

Project Eagle’s Nest 64 

For The Record 71 

Tailgating Pix & Recipes 78 

The Coach 88 

Fall Fashions 104 

On & Off the Field 111 


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A Story 

Well Told 


Whether covering a news 

conference or documenting 

the devastation from 

Hurricane Katrina, 

Jim Duncan 

has seen things up close 

for a living and brought it 

to us in a way that defined 

an entire generation in time. 

Jim Duncan as an Aspiring Journalist 

– Olivia Halverson, Contributing Writer 

A young Jim Duncan began his journalistic endeavors in the Navy. 

Drafted in 1966, he served aboard the USS Enterprise and Ranger 

aircraft carriers during two separate deployments during the Vietnam 

War. During this time, Jim attended photography school and was 

assigned to reconnaissance Squadron RVAH-6, installing cameras 

in aircraft, then processing and printing aerial film. He achieved Petty 

Officer 2 nd Class, and served until 1970. 

After leaving the Navy, Jim married Vicki Roberts of Jackson, 

Mississippi and continued his journalistic endeavors with WLBT news 

station, a station that would be home to him for many, many years. 

Jim Duncan at WLBT 

– Mike Evans , Chief Photographer at WLBT 

There is this guy at WLBT and we call him Chief. He has been 

chasing news, molding photographers, and pouring his soul into this 

news station for the better part of half a century. It is hard to imagine 

a day when he is not there to greet us at the door, but the time has 

come to say good-bye. It is also time to celebrate, honor, and swap 

stories about the good times. 


In that spirit, many in our community share my sentiments, 

for many of them have been around a day or two themselves 

and found themselves at the end of his camera lens, working 

alongside him, or watching him work his trade. Jim has not only 

supervised around 50 photographers, but also managed the 

fleet vehicles, live vans, cameras and support equipment for 

the station. He has photographed every Mississippi Governor 

since John Bell Williams and seven U.S. Presidents including, 

but not limited to, Nixon, Reagan, Clinton, and both father and 

son Bush. 

From celebrities, politicians, hurricanes, tornados, tragic 

accidents and events, wars, drug busts and undercover work, 

human interest stories and any other news topic you can 

imagine, Jim has been there—collecting images for the people 

of Mississippi and, often times, the nation. He knows the state 

of Mississippi like the back of his hand, chasing the state’s news 

with legendary news reporter Bert Case for 40 of his 51 years. 

Together, Bert and Jim have covered unbelievable stories 

around the nation and world. They have visited Alaska, Italy, 

Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Bosnia to name a few. Footage 

Jim shot of Bert fending off a Pit Bull attack has been viewed on 

YouTube over 13 million times. 

Jim has freelanced for the NCAA as well as most all major 

networks and processed film for them during the film era. He 

worked with Mississippi State University’s “Bob Tyler Show,” 

which produced a weekly program during football season. 

He has received an IRIS Award, American Heart Association 

recognition, Easter Seals Gratitude recognition, recognition from 

the Mississippi Broadcaster’s Association and the Mississippi 

Associated Press, winning numerous awards for stories he has 

filmed and edited. The Clarion Ledger has featured several 

articles about his career over the years. Most recently, he has 

been recognized by Rankin County, Hinds County and the City 

of Jackson for his years of service. Hinds County declared June 

15, 2015 as “Jim Duncan Day.” 

In 2004, Jim was one of the first journalists inducted into 

the Mississippi Associated Press Broadcasters Hall of Fame, 

alongside journalistic legends Woody Assaf, Randy Bell, Bert 

Case, and Walter Sadler. 

Truly, his 51-year career at WLBT is one to be marveled. 

Think of how the world (and news coverage) has changed 

since 1970 (the year he began his career at WLBT). He has 

seen the evolution of mass media like no one else. Now, as 

he closes this chapter in his life, a new one begins–a chapter 

of relaxation, traveling, and spending time with his family and 

friends. 

Jim Duncan as “Deddy” 

– Jennifer Duncan Hobson, Daughter 

To my sister and me, the man behind the camera is simply 

called “Deddy.” He made our breakfast, picked up donuts on 

Saturdays, and sang “good morning to you, good morning to 

you” very loudly and happily to wake his girls—every single 

day. He was in charge of getting the day going and did it with 


enthusiasm and a smile each time. He taught us how to ride a 

bike, how to swim, and helped us with school projects. He can 

be credited for our award winning science fair projects, which 

involved working in his dark-room developing film. 

Before there was “Google,” there was “Bert.” Dad’s friend 

was always an excellent source for history dates and events 

during a late night, procrastinated history project. Our dad 

introduced us to country music, guitars, fishing and tried, with all 

his might, to turn us into his little campers. Unfortunately for him, 

God blessed him with a pair of girly-girls who wanted nothing to 

do with camping in the backyard, complete with bugs and frogs. 

From the moment we were born, our lives were documented 

with photos and videos. I literally grew up with a camera in my 

face and was most certainly the only girl I knew who had an 

actual dark-room in her home. I remember him setting up lighting 

equipment in the living room to capture Christmas morning. He 

turned his little girls into reporters while on vacations. With his 

camera pointed at us, he would ask “Where are we girls?” We’d 

reply, “We’re right here Deddy! Can’t you see us?” 

He made us “disappear” using his camera as magic 

and let us watch “pictures on the wall,” what we called old 

projection film reels. He secretly captured us performing 

pretend dance recitals in our backyard and captured every 

birthday party, every school function, every Christmas 

morning, and every major event in our life. He even tried to 

film during my wedding, but Lynn Bullock had that covered 

and told him to put that camera away and enjoy the day. 

I was always so extremely proud to say what my dad did 

for a living and where he worked. My first grade class took a 

field trip to the station and these same first graders still talked 

about the experience as seniors in high school. Everyone 

knew Jennifer and Lisa’s daddy worked at WLBT. Things like 

Grandparent’s Day and a random fifth-grade history program 

would appear on the news with his daughters of course making 

cameos. Naturally, our high school and college graduations, 

weddings, and the births of our children have made the nightly 

news throughout the years. 

And while my dad’s presence at my school was usually 

always very happy, it was when the Pearl High School shooting 

made national headlines that my dad’s footage aired for days 

upon days all across the nation. Dad was the first media on 

the scene, not only as a frightened father searching for his 

daughters, but with a job to do. Once he realized we were safe, 

the camera was rolling. 

The man behind the camera is now called “Pawpaw” by 

Abby, Emily, Cade, Owen, and Zachary. The second he walks 

into a room, their faces light up with excitement and they run to 

him with arms wide open. Just like with his own girls, he always 

has a camera in hand to capture the little moments that are so 

incredibly fleeting. As Dad embarks on his next adventure, I 

know 5 little people who are especially excited to join him. No 

doubt, it will be an adventure filled with lots of love, laughter, 

and memories frozen in time through the incredible gift of 

pictures—lovingly documented by one of their own. 


Play Skillfully 

From athletics and cheer to archery 

and robotics, our coaches direct 

your students to honor God in all aspects of life. 

601-992-5333 

HartfieldAcademy.com 


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16 • August / September 2015 

What do you remember most 

about the first day of school?

Rusty Ponder 

Brandon 

Nikki Shumaker 

Pisgah 

Jared Morrison 

Florence 

“I just remember being excited 

about getting to start school 

because I would get to go to my 

mom’s work. She was a first 

grade teacher and even though I 

did not have her, I would ride to 

school with her and be right down 

the hall. It was exciting but I was 

a little scared also because I 

didn’t know all these new people. “ 

“My mom says that I was always 

so excited to start school. I 

remember hoping they’d have pink 

crayons. I loved the color pink and 

still do today. I was most excited 

to meet my new teacher, secretly 

hoping she’d be one of the Disney 

Princesses! I loved making new 

friends and seeing my friends 

that I hadn’t seen. School was so 

much fun in first grade. I wish I 

could go back to when I was that 

age and see the world through 

those eyes again.” 

“I was excited. I remember 

my mom taking me to find my 

classroom. We had only two 

to choose from. Mrs. Minnie Lee 

Ellis was my teacher. I had an 

older sister so I had watched 

her get on and off the bus and 

I couldn’t wait for my turn. 

I don’t remember being afraid. 

Thinking back, it was because 

we lived in this small community 

and I already knew most of 

my classmates. Some were 

neighbors and many I went 

to church or Bible school with 

which made starting school 

very exciting.” 


Don Bass 

Brandon 

“I remember it like it was 

yesterday. When we went to 

meet the teacher, Mrs. Robinson, 

she told me I needed a mat to 

lay on for naps. I told her I did 

not take naps. The first day of 

school started out fine. We had 

lunch and then it was naptime. 

I told her I was not going to take 

a nap. Long story short, I was 

sent to the office and got a 

spanking on the first day of 

school. I never did take a nap 

but did sit there and be quiet 

so others could.” 

Evelyn McMillan 

Pelahatchie 

“Parents didn’t take you to 

school when I started. They 

just put you on the school bus 

and off you went. I was a little 

scared but excited that I got 

to ride the school bus like my 

older brother and sister. I knew 

my teacher because she went 

to my church. We lived in the 

country and had no TV or 

phone, so anytime I got to 

go somewhere, even school, 

I was happy. We only saw our 

friends during the school year, 

so the first day of school was 

always a reunion.” 

Ricky Hawthorne 

Richland 

“I was always excited to start 

school each year from the very 

beginning. I looked forward to 

being able to see my friends 

that I hadn’t seen all summer 

and the new things that 

school brought.” 


Dr. Ray Morgigno 

Pearl 

“We moved from Texas to 

Mississippi during the summer 

when I was five years old. At 

that time, Mississippi allowed you 

to start first grade at age five. 

I remember being nervous about 

it because I didn’t really know 

anyone yet, and had never been 

to a real school. Pearl Lower 

Elementary turned out to be a 

great place and from that point 

forward, each year began with a 

sense of excitement of seeing 

friends and meeting new people. I 

actually always looked forward to 

the first day of school.” 

Angie Haskins 

Puckett 

“One of my favorite memories 

was shopping for new school 

clothes with my mom. It was 

always so exciting to get new 

school clothes, a book satchel and 

supplies. I remember waking up 

early so I could be waiting at the 

end of the drive. I was so excited 

about getting on that big yellow 

bus for the first time and seeing 

old friends while meeting new 

ones. When the bus doors opened, 

I could see the driver, Mr. Ronnie 

Means, sitting there with a smile. 

I stepped on the bus and thus 

began the adventure.” 

Josh Harkins 

Flowood 

“I remember being excited on the 

first day of school to see who my 

teacher was going to be and see 

which friends where in my class.” 


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people in the news 

Dolphus & Rosie Weary 

In 1997, after 30 years of working in a Christian community 

development ministry in Mendenhall, Mississippi, 

Dolphus and Rosie Weary founded Rural Education 

and Leadership Christian Foundation (R.E.A.L.), 

a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation. 

Although Dolphus and Rosie no longer live in rural Mendenhall, 

they remain committed to the rural poor. From many years of 

experience, they recognized that the most effective and productive 

way to achieve community development is to enable people to 

help themselves. The key area of their Foundation’s focus 

is Christian youth leadership and educational development. 

Currently, R.E.A.L. is providing support for fifteen rural Christian 

outreach ministries. Each of these organizations was birthed out of 

needs felt at the community level and was developed and shaped to 

respond to those particular needs by community residents. 

The Wearys will celebrate 44 years in mission service with an event 

Thursday, October 1, at the Jackson Convention Center. For more 

information go to their website at www.realchristianfoundation.org. 



H o m e t o w n L o v e 

Brandon 

Leisa McCool 

When asked to express my love for 

Brandon, I was quite honored. From the 

moment I accepted this assignment, I have 

been thinking of the many reasons that I fell 

in love with this great city. The 2015-2016 

school year marks my twenty-seventh year 

as an employee of the Rankin County School 

District, but my thirty-second year as an 

educator. 

After graduating from Mississippi State 

University, my husband Craig accepted a job 

in Mobile, Alabama. I taught fourth grade for 

five years in the Mobile County School District. 

When given the opportunity to move back to 

Mississippi, we couldn’t have been happier. 

We were expecting our first child and 

desperately wanted to get back home to 

family. I graduated from Raleigh High School, 

and Craig is a graduate of Jackson Prep. 

We decided to settle in Brandon to be close 

to both families. Little did we know what a 

blessing that would be! 

I interviewed for my first teaching job here 

in the summer of 1989, three weeks after our 

daughter Carmen was born. Mrs. Eleanor 

Comfort was the principal at that time. 

What a wonderful Godly lady she was. She 

offered me a third grade position, which 

began my tenure here in the Rankin County 

School District. At this time, I had no idea how 

fortunate and blessed I was to be working in 

such a great place. 

Since my career began at Brandon 

Elementary, I have been fortunate enough 

to teach in every school in the zone except 

Stonebridge Elementary. When Rouse 

Elementary was built, it included kindergarten 

through third grade. When we “outgrew” it, 

third grade was moved back to Brandon 

Elementary. After teaching nineteen years 

of elementary, I decided to get out of my 

comfort zone and teach middle school. 

Not only did I challenge myself as an educator, 

I gained new friends with each new school. 

Wow, another blessing I never expected in 

that summer of 1989. I am now one of the 

library/media specialists at Brandon High 

School. I don’t foresee myself moving to Stone 

Bridge; however, I do feel like a part of me is 

there already. My daughter Carmen is one of 

the speech language pathologists there. 

Not only have I had a wonderful career in 

Brandon, but my family has also prospered. 

In 1992, Craig and I were blessed with another 

daughter Christy. Both she and Carmen 

graduated from Brandon High School. We 

could not have asked for a better educational 

experience for them. As mentioned earlier, 

Carmen is now a speech language pathologist, 

and Christy is an occupational therapist. 

My wonderful sons-in-law, Matt Dennis and 

Colby Roberts, are also graduates of BHS. 

Little did I know that the cute little blondheaded 

boy that came with his mother to 

read to his big sister’s third grade class in 1989 

would one day be my son-in-law. Nor did I 

know that one of my most precious third grade 

students of 1998 would be my son-in-law. 

Wow, another reason that I love Brandon! 

Words do not adequately express how 

blessed I am to be a part of this great 

community. Craig and I have so many 

precious friends and a wonderful church 

family at First Baptist Church. We look 

forward to many more years and are thankful 

that God led us to Brandon back in the 

summer of 1989. 


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HOH RankinCo4x10.indd 1 

Hometown Rankin • 25 

7/16/15 10:25 AM

Alicia Carpenter, Jon-Paul Croom 

Hal Williams, Andrew Christian, Martin Keil, Barney Dailey 

Quarterly Luncheon 

June 16 • Richland Community Center 

Billy Thomas, First Lady Deborah Bryant 

Barbara Adams, Michelle Rhodes 

Bobby Marquez, Scott Gann 

Angela Shepard, Cathy Hackshaw 

Sen. Josh Harkins, John Rankin, Dennis Ammann, Chris Caughman, Thomas Eastland 

Daniel Elliott, Billy Thomas 


Joe Lee Sessions, Larry Brewer, Collins Jones, Brad Hill Gage Walker, Kyle Keeton Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves, DA Michael Guest 

Rep. Andy Gibson, Aileen Thomas, Mark David 

Rankin Chamber Event Committee 

Don Williams, Will Smithhart 

Jean Cooper, Debbie Brinson, Bridger Lowery 

Linda Taylor, Kaye Moore 

Patsy Brumfield, Sherry Franklin, Rosa McIntyre 

Dr. Christy Maulding, Dr. Jacob McEwen, Alderman Pat Sullivan 


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JUST 

Do It, 

Do It, 

Do It. 


When Nike says, “Just do it,” there are 

three brothers in Brandon who have taken 

and are taking the challenge seriously. 

Tyler, Nelson, and Fletcher Adams, in that 

birth order, have excelled in the fields of 

athletics and, according to their admiring 

mother, Darlene, have been “good children” 

while growing into talented athletes. 

Tyler was diagnosed with a minor heart 

condition when he was seven years old. 

After a surgical procedure, he continued 

to pursue his love of basketball. His high 

school record earned him a scholarship 

to Georgetown University. Playing in that 

elite arena was a dream-turned-reality. 

However, it would only last for fourteen 

games of his freshman year. 

When Tyler complained of chest pains, 

tests revealed the minor heart problem was 

back and was a potential for serious threat. 

His coaches decided there was life after 

basketball and reluctantly told Tyler that his 

college playing should end. 

Tyler’s positive attitude carried him 

through college, while still on scholarship, 

and enabled him to earn a degree. He 

summed it up in a simple quote: “Bad stuff 

happens to a lot of people.” 

This summer, Tyler is back in Brandon 

waiting to hear from coaching interviews 

that he’s had near Washington, D.C. Brandon 

will always be home for Tyler, but he much 

prefers life in the big city. 

Nelson is on scholarship at Mississippi 

State University and is in his senior year on 

the football team. According to his mother 

and high school record, he was a multisports 

athlete but chose football as his first 

love for college competition. 

Fletcher is still basking in the attention 

that he received as a top football recruit this 

year. State fans celebrated in a big way 

when he signed and joined his brother to 

play for the Bulldogs this fall. 

Darlene said it was unusual to have 

the three brothers home at the same time, 

but it feels natural to have three healthy 

appetites gathered around her table again. 

She didn’t share any special child/athlete 

rearing secrets but believes the support she 

and their dad have given them has been 

one of the keys to their success. 

Tyler Nelson Fletcher 

Favorite Food Seafood Wings Pizza (a whole one) 

Favorite Athlete Paul Pierce Kobe Bryant LeBron James 

College Major Sociology & History Human Sciences Physical Therapy 

Best Mom Advice Always work hard Get a degree Lead by example. 

in school 

Don’t be a follower. 

Favorite Pastime Fishing Grilling Listening to music. 

Lessons Learned How to deal with Work hard and compete How to be quicker. 

in Sports difficult people. throughout life. 

Hardest Part of Managing time Adjusting to life as Staying on top 

Being an Athlete with social life. a college freshman. of grades. 

Favorite Dallas Cowboys Boston Celtics New England Patriots, 

Sports Team & Atlanta Braves & Los Angeles Lakers Seattle Seahawks 

& Cleveland Indians 


Flag Dedication Ceremony 

May 30 ~ Pearl, Mississippi 

Angela Shepard, Tony Boyd, Kathy Hackshaw 

Billy Henderson 

Mayor Brad Rogers & Rep. Ray Rogers 

George McCullough & Cowboy 

Emily, Ilyssa, Abigail, & Brian Flowers 

Heath & Jonas Jenkins 

Ben & Lori Schuler 


Aneicia Jacobs 

Charlie Goodwin, Jose Valle, John Burt 

Jay Glenn, David Overton 

John Ammons, Sgt. Willie Buckels, ret. 

Ples & Jerry Hester 

Roy Younger, Tyrone Burns, 

Alma Porrillo, Nick Taylor 

Shaun Cochran, Teresa Lopez, Robert Giere 

Steven Frederick, Pat Walker, Amanda Thomasson 


Kick Off The Season 

Alumni House Style 

Located inside the Holiday Inn-Trustmark Park 

110 Bass Pro Drive, Pearl 

With over 27 HD TV’s all tuned to sports, you won’t miss 

a pass, punt or touchdown. Even if you’re not the world’s 

greatest sports fan, you can still have a lot of fun, and 

score some of the finest cuisine around, as well as a huge 

assortment of craft beers. Come on over! 

Join us for Happy Hour! Monday–Friday from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. 

Lunch & Dinner: Mon–Sat: 11:00 am–10:00 pm • Sun: 11:00 am–9:00 pm 

Breakfast: 6:00-10:00 am, 7 days a week 

Phone ahead: 601-939-5238 • www.alumnihousepearl.com 


Urology Associates 

of Mississippi 

Our physicians are highly skilled and experienced 

in treating a wide array of urology conditions 

Utilizing state of the art equipment and advanced treatment techniques, 

each of our board certified urologists have specific areas of urological 

expertise in addition to providing general urologic care to patients 

all over the state of Mississippi. 

Avinash C. Gulanikar, M.D. • Mark A. Condon, M.D. • Sujith K. Reddy, M.D. 

Please visit us at our new location: 

294 East Layfair Drive • Flowood, MS 

601.936.4645 


Jim Balgard, Bob Hutson 

Alderwoman Monica Corley, 

Alderman Bob Morrow 

Alderman Cris Vinson, 

Lt. Col. Cregg Puckett 

Alderman James Morris, 

Yvonne Bianchi 

Don & Jane Cunningham, Abbie Cunningham 

Bob Whitley, Jerry Burke, Bob Catlett 

Charla Jordan, Mayor Butch Lee, Lori Farrar 

Chief Terry Wages, Alderman Harry Williams, Richard Fortune 

Maggie Harper 

Shirley Dear, Yvonne Bianchi, Eddie Dear 

Savannah, Tamara, Patrick Robinson 

Lauren, Michael, & Ruby Smith 


Richard Stamper & Richard Catlett Hayden Gibbons, Olivia Garrett Kyle Brown, Alderman Bobby Christopher Rep. Mark Baker & Marty Miller 

Remembering 

Our Fallen 

 

Eddie & Jenny Smith 

June 15 

Brandon Civic Center 

Hayden Gibbons 

Esther Fabbricante, Carol Gallagher, Kay Davis 

Carolyn Palmer, Diana Meredith 




– engagement– 

Stephanie Brooke Slaughter 

& Justin David Tullos 

Rev. and Mrs. David Joe Slaughter of Pelahatchie announce the engagement of 

their daughter, Stephanie Brooke Slaughter to Justin David Tullos, son of Mr. and 

Mrs. Michael David Tullos of Brandon. 

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Dr. Kenneth Brooks Slaughter and the 

late Mrs. Nancy Alsworth Slaughter of Jackson and the late Mr. and Mrs. George 

Elwood Welford of Waynesboro. 

Miss Slaughter is a 2006 graduate of Hancock High School, and a 2010 

graduate of The University of Mississippi Medical Center with a Bachelor of 

Science in Nursing. 

The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. George Julius 

Tullos of Brandon, and Mr. and Mrs. Wade Ellison Morrison of Byram. 

Mr. Tullos is a 2007 graduate of East Rankin Academy and attended Mississippi 

State University. 

The couple will exchange vows on October 3, 2015 in Flowood. Following a 

honeymoon to St. Lucia, the couple will reside in Brandon. 

 

Rachel LynnEmfinger 

& Philip Daniel Mahoney 

The Honorable and Mrs. John H. Emfinger of Brandon, announce the 

engagement of their daughter, Rachel Lynn Emfinger to Philip Daniel Mahoney, 

son of Mr. and Mrs. W. Daniel Mahoney of Greenwood Village, Colorado. 

Miss Emfinger is a 2007 graduate of Brandon High School. She received a 

Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from Mississippi State University 

in 2011. She joined the Phi Mu Fraternity and served as vice president from 

2010-2011. Miss Emfinger earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Mississippi 

School of Law in 2014. She currently works as a special assistant attorney general 

for the State of Mississippi. 

Mr. Mahoney is a 2005 graduate of Cherry Creek High School located outside 

of Denver, Colorado. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration 

from the University of Alabama in 2009. While at the University of Alabama, he 

joined the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity and served as president from 2006-2007. 

In 2011 Mr. Mahoney earned a Master of Business Administration from the 

University of Alabama. In 2014 he earned a Juris Doctor from the University of 

Mississippi School of Law. Mr. Mahoney is currently an associate at the law firm 

Helmsing Leach in Mobile, Alabama. 

The couple will exchange vows on October 3, 2015 at in Mobile, Alabama. 

A reception will be held at a family residence on Dog River. The couple will reside 

in Mobile, Alabama. 


– wedding– 

Lauren Gail Glass 

& John Madison Sisco 

Lauren Gail Glass and John Madison Sisco were united in marriage at First 

Baptist Church of Jackson on May 2, 2015. The ceremony was officiated by the 

father of the bride, Larry Dale Glass. 

The bride is the daughter of Larry and Mary Glass of Flowood, Mississippi 

and is a former resident of Brandon, Mississippi. The groom is the son of Betty 

Tarver Sisco of Brookhaven, Mississippi and the late Madison Sisco. 

Nuptial music was presented by pianist Pam Brown of Swanannoa, North 

Carolina with scripture read by Karen Bonds, of Charleston, South Carolina. 

Both are close friends of the bride from her former church while employed in 

the area of Black Mountain, North Carolina. 

Given in marriage by her father and assisted by the uncle of the bride, Rev. 

Jerry Glass, of Star, Mississippi, the bride wore a gown of rich lace appliquéd 

on soft netting with a sculpted neckline featuring scalloped straps and keyhole 

back. The empire waist was accented with Swarovski crystal detail. Her veil 

was her mother’s, worn on her wedding day forty-two years ago, along with the 

train–also part of her mother’s dress. Her bouquet was a spring arrangement 

complimenting the kelly green floor-length chiffon dresses worn by the bridal 

attendants. They carried complimenting arrangements. 

Matrons of honor were Cara Deweese Shroyer of Cumming, Georgia, 

sister-in-law of the bride Bevin Chase Glass of Star, Mississippi, and Brooke 

Eversmeyer Jarrell of Little Elm, Texas. Kathryn Gray Glass of Star, niece of the 

bride, was flower girl. 

Best men were brother of the bride Ryan Christopher Glass of Star, 

Mississippi, Mitchell Douglas Stuart of Morton, Mississippi and nephew of the 

groom William Dwayne Rutland, of Brookhaven, Mississippi. Serving as ushers 

were Edward Winslow Chase IV, of Terry, Mississippi and William Paul 

Armstrong of Brandon, Mississippi. Program attendants were Hanna Grace 

Allen and Addison Bessonette, both of Brookhaven, Mississippi. 

Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a reception in the 

fellowship hall of the church. A lovely and meaningful bridesmaid’s luncheon 

was hosted in the home of Mrs. William L. Waller the day before the wedding 

and given by Mrs. Waller, Mrs. Marc Rich, Mrs. Lee Cope, and Mrs. Brian 

Fortenberry. On the eve of the wedding, following the rehearsal, a dinner was 

hosted by the mother of the bride and family members of the groom in the 

Christian Life Center Church dining room. 

The couple is at home in Madison following a wedding trip to Costa Rica. 

The bride is preschool minister at Broadmoor Baptist Church and the groom is 

a senior systems analyst with Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company. 

 




Breaking Boundaries 

Susan Marquez 

Being the first female official ever in the NFL isn’t something 

Sarah Thomas thinks about very much. Her goal, literally, 

is to simply be the best official that she can be. 

In April 2015, a momentous event 

occurred for both the NFL and for 

women. Sarah Thomas, a Rankin 

County resident, was named one of 

nine new officials that will be part of 

the National Football League’s 

officiating roster in 2015. She is the first 

ever female official for the NFL. 

Thomas will be a line judge in the 

upcoming season. Michael Signora, 

Vice President of Football Communications 

for the NFL said Thomas was 

part of the league’s officiating 

development program in 2013 and 

2014 – a program that identifies the 

highest performing college football 

officials and supports their officiating 

development through a series of on 

the field and off the field training 

initiatives. She started her officiating 

career in the early 1990s, and then in 

1996 became the first female to 

officiate in a Division-1A high school 

football game in Mississippi. She was 

officiating in college in 2007 when 

she was hired by Conference USA 

and has officiated as a line judge and 

head linesman during her collegiate 

career. Thomas has an extensive 

history in bowl games and has also 

worked in the United Football League 

prior to becoming a full-time NFL 

game official. 

Vice President of Officiating Dean 

Blandino explained that the NFL has 

an officiating development program 

which includes an extensive scouting 

program that branches out all over the 

country and it was part of that 

program where one of their scouts first 

saw Thomas working a high school 

championship game. “She basically 

worked her way through that process 

into the advanced development group 

which is the top of that program where 

top college officials are given an 

opportunity to go to NFL training 

camps, minicamps, off-season activities 

and actually work preseason games so 

when we do bring them into the league, 

they have already experienced the 

NFL game on the field.” 

Thomas spent a weekend with the 

crew going through all of the pregame 

routines and meetings. “That’s part of 

the process we go through,” said 

Blandino. “We have over 6,000 officials 

in our scouting program. There are 21 

at the top level which Sarah was a part 

of the last two years and we pull from 

that group when we have openings in 

the league and that’s where the nine 

first-year officials have all come from.” 

Thomas vividly remembers the day 

she got the call from the NFL. “That 

call came Thursday, April 2 at 10:47 

a.m. and when I looked at my phone, 

it was area code 212,” recalled Thomas. 

“I was just praying that it was Dean 

Blandino on the other end of the line 

and it was, and he said it was an honor 

for him make the call and I told him it 

was an honor for me to have received 

it! So, I told my girlfriends and family 

that I was speechless and it’s hard for 

them to believe that, but it was just an 



honor and a humbling experience and 

I’m glad I got the call.” 

Thomas was born in Pascagoula, 

and having brothers who were athletes 

was a normal part of Thomas’s life. 

She lettered in softball in high school 

and ultimately earned a basketball 

scholarship to the University of Mobile. 

While her family loved football, 

Thomas said she never set out to be 

a football official nor did she want to 

play football. “Both my brothers are 

currently now football officials as well, 

on the small college level, so we’re all 

affiliated with officiating,” Thomas said. 

“There are several NFL officials that 

I looked up to and I still will look up 

to, and I’m just honored to be a part 

of this group now.” 

Blandino explained that a line judge 

is responsible for everything on the 

line of scrimmage so that reaction time 

has to be there and the judge must 

possess the ability to process things 

quickly. “Because the pro game is much 

faster than the college game we really 

expect the officials we bring in to be 

able to transition and be able to adjust 

to that speed as quickly as possible. 

We use the preseason just like the 

players and coaches do to prepare for 

that. We’ve already given Sarah and 

these other officials the opportunity 

to work preseason games and so we’ve 

seen what they’re able to do. And so 

the preseason this year is going to be 

very critical to their ability to adjust 

to the NFL speed and the pace that 

things happen.” 

While Thomas did not set out to 

become an NFL official, the further 

she went along in the progression, the 

more part of her thought that it may 

become a reality. “The fact is, and this is 

so cliché, but officials will tell you that 

you work every game and you hope to 

be asked back to work the next one, or 

keep your schedule, if you will. So my 

goal has always been to be the best line 

judge I can be anytime I’m given the 

opportunity to work and that if things 

progressed then they of course would 

and I always said I would not even turn 

down the phone call if it came. I 

definitely did not turn down that call 

on April 2. So, my goal literally is to be 

the best official that I can be. And I just 

feel honored and blessed to be a part 

of the National Football League now.” 

Thomas is a wife and a mother, and 

just like with any job, she has had to 

learn to balance it all. “I’m a pharmaceutical 

sales rep for Novo Nordisk, a 

diabetes care specialist and I love what 

I do. I have been married 15 years, and 

my husband and I have three beautiful 

kids. Bridley is 14, Brady is 11 and 

Bailey is two. Two boys and the baby 

is a girl. My life for the past eight years 

has required a good bit of weekend 

travel during football season, but my 

family is accustomed to it. You’ve heard 

that phrase, don’t sweat the small stuff ? 

I live it! If the bed’s not made or the 

dishes aren’t done, I don’t obsess about 

it. That being said, I have a tremendous 

support group at home, outside of 

my immediate family with friends and 

extended family. They’ve all helped 

me on this journey and they will 

continue to help.” 

Thomas and her husband, Brian, 

have a home at the Reservoir on the 

water. “It’s always a beautiful place to 

come home to. We live in the best 

neighborhood and our neighbors are 

like our family. It’s truly front porch 

living, because everyone knows each 

other and we always look out for one 

another. I’m so blessed to live in a 

place where my neighbors are like 

my extended family.” 

In her free time, Thomas said she 

enjoys spending time with her family 

and doing things with her boys. “I also 

think it’s important to unwind, and 

I’m fortunate to have a great group 

of women friends I go to dinner with 

from time to time. I also take a couple 

of ‘girls’ trips’ during the year, which 

is always great fun.” 

Being the first female official in the 

NFL isn’t something Thomas thinks 

about very much. “I love the game of 

football and officiating and I do honor 

the fact that a lot of people consider 

me a trailblazer but as far as being 

forced into the trailblazer role or being 

forced into this–I would say hobby 

before–but profession, I don’t feel that 

way and I’ve just been doing it truly 

because I love it and when you’re out 

there officiating, the guys don’t think 

of me as a female, they want me to be 

just like them, just being an official. 

And that’s what I’ve always set out 

to do.” 


www.msvein.com 

Visit msvein.com to watch all of Lori’s story. 

msvein.com 601-707-7026 

111 Fountains Blvd Madison, MS 39110 

before 

after 


ProuD To be ParT of rankin counTy 

Tom Douglas 

PresiDenT 

roberT Douglas 

Vice-PresiDenT 

817 n college sT. 

branDon, ms 



Special Thanks 

to all of our 

Advertisers 

and Readers. 

We appreciate you! 

Like us on Facebook 

www.facebook.com/hometownrankinmagazine 


MISKELLY’S CARING CAROUSEL BENEFITS 

200 MILLION FLOWERS 

Miskelly Furniture awarded 200 Million Flowers with a ten thousand dollar check from proceeds donated to The 

Caring Carousel. The ceremony took place on Wednesday, June 3, 2015 at Miskelly’s flagship store on Airport 

Road. The check was presented to Rick Valore, Executive Director for 200 Million Flowers. 

200 Million Flowers is a Mississippi non-profit adoption agency located in Ridgeland, whose primary goal is to 

connect children and families, focusing first on women in crisis pregnancy. Part of their mission is to help create a 

paradigm shift for those facing crisis pregnancies so adoption is considered a viable, loving choice. They also work 

with adoptive couples to prepare them for the adoptive journey. Outreach to the fatherless is the heart of 200 

Million Flowers. Additional information can be found online at www.200millionflowers.org. 

The Caring Carousel at Miskelly Furniture is one way the faith-based company reaches out to the community and 

children throughout the state of Mississippi. A donation of one dollar is suggested per ride of the Caring Carousel, 

but no child is turned away who wishes to ride. The Carousel has benefitted numerous charities around the state 

since 2004. Each year, Miskelly’s chooses a new Caring Carousel recipient. In His Steps Ministries has been 

chosen as the 2015-2016 recipient. 

For more information, contact Betsy Tabor at Miskelly Furniture at (601) 939-6288. 

Pictured from left to right: Oscar Miskelly, Betsy Tabor, Rachel Robertson, Vanessa Sceroler, Katelyn Williams, and Rick Valore. 

36 • July/August 2015 


©2014 Ergon, Inc. All rights reserved. 

ergon.com 


Flowood Library Summer 

Reading Program 

Community Heroes: 

Animals Are 

Superheroes Too! 


Dr. & Mrs. Adair Blackledge 

Rusty Barnes, Ashlee Lucas 

Sandy Middleton, Rep. Ray Rogers 

Brande Lewis, Jerry Hester 

Center for Violence Prevention 

Amy Walker, Larry Tomkins 

Barry Vaughan, Brad Smith 

Paul McKenzie, Craig Stovall, Kevin Vandeven 

Fred Lovett, Ken McBroom 

Thomas Harvey, Teresa Baker 

Mike Byers, Patty Byers, Mitchell Hedgepeth 

Kathy Hackshaw, Angela Shepard 

Kristen Barton, Dan McClendon 

Daniel Cross, Wayne Carter, Raymond Duke 


Jim & Jane Hudson 

Tessa Burchfield, Lashondra Adams 

Sherry Pitts, Tess Shaw 

Sheriff Bryan Bailey, Haydn Roberts 

25th Anniversary 

July 16, 2015 

Pearl Community Center 

Jon-Paul Croom, Roscoe Greene 

Larry Swales, Sen. Dean Kirby, Sandy Middleton 

Shellee Britt, Stacy Covey, Bridger Lowery 

Joseph Cook, Kellie Cook 

Tracy Harris, Emberly Holmes, Twanda Thomas 

Joe Albritton, Marcus Robinson, Debbie Boyce, 

Chester White 

Pam Johnson, Ben Ellard 

Carolyn Rogers, JoAnn Gandy 

Pearl Police Officers 


THE JA WAY 

Positive Collaborative Progressive Student-Centered 

At Jackson Academy, no one goes it alone. 

Here, you are surrounded by a community 

of supporters—all dedicated to helping you 

identify your greatest talents, develop your 

particular gifts, and live with a strong sense 

of faith and purpose. All of us, all behind 

you, with all our hearts. ALL FOR ONE. 

That’s The JA Way. 

Achieve your full potential at JA! | jacksonacademy.org | 601.362.9676 

...of 

Bachelor’s 

Bound 

Transfer 

Students. 

Classes begin Aug. 17 

and Oct. 13 

Rankin Campus 

3805 Hwy. 80 East, Pearl 

601.936.5552 

Hinds Community College offers equal education and employment opportunities and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability or veteran status in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to 

handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Dr. Debra Mays-Jackson, Vice President for the Utica and Vicksburg-Warren Campuses and Administrative Services, 34175 Hwy. 18, Utica, MS 39175; 601.885.7002. 



Cindy Dishongh, Dr. James Neill 

David Broadaway, Marcus Bowers, 

Barbara Travis, Rosa McIntyre, Jerry Moorhead 

Dr. Marty Tucker, 

Renee Cotton, Tammy Whitton 

Dr. Scott Martin, Sam Dean 

Mr. & Mrs. Steve Dobbs 

Jennifer Wellhausen, Michelle Alexander 

Merit Health Welcomes 

New CEO Steve Dobbs 

June 23, 2015 

River Hills 

Country Club 

Jeremy & Michelle Hill, 

Dr. Lisa Byrd, Sonya Summerlin 

Jon-Paul Croom, Beau Lynch 

Jon-Paul Croom, Daniel Elliott, Christy Wilson 

Lantz Kuykendall, Paul Tauchar 

Laura Knight, Jimmy Young, 

Susan Young, Lisa Dolan, Nick Renda 

Leigh White, Mike Mudd 


Linda Atwood, 

Tad Barham, Sherry Pitts 

Edith Smith Rayford, Calvetia Lewis 

Rhonda Parker, 

Dr. John Cook, Alicia Carpenter 

Roscoe Greene, 

Rosa McIntyre, Jerry Moorhead 

Sam Dean, Jennifer Drake, Timi Badero 

Sarah Wolfe, Tina Swinford, 

Monique Bouyer, Jane Sanders Waugh 

Senator Burton, Amy Marler 

Shelley Roberts, 

Karen Roberts, Regina Dedeauz 

Tess Shaw, Joy Hutson 

Tim Coursey, Jan Collins 

Tim Moore, Dwayne Blaylock 

Tom Kemdall, John Milazzo, 

Heather Butler, Christi Kilroy, Kelly Boutwell 

Tom Underwood, Brett Bailey, 

Micah McCullough 

Walter Shelton, 

Tobey Houston, Dr. Charles Bush 

Hometown madison Rankin •• 29 59 29

SunglaSS HeadquarterS 

Many great 

styles 

to suit 

your 

taste or 

any mood. 

Brandon: (601) 825-8300 

Canton: (601) 859-3464 

Madison: (601) 605-2259 

Ridgeland: (601) 957-9292 

Yazoo City: (662) 746-4312 



Mayor Butch Lee, LeeAnn & Mel Coxwell, Murphy Adkins 

Billie Butler, Karen Frasco, Jim Nix 

Cheryl & Tommy Saffle 

CITY OF BRANDON 

Mayor's 

Prayer 

Breakfast 

JULY 3 - BRANDON CIVIC Center 

Livingston Harper, Congressman Gregg Harper, Stanley Shouls, 

Mr. & Mrs. Ronnie Martin 

Col. Lynn Pippen, Rob Oates 

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Whitney 

Jessie & Alfred Thomas 

Tyler Peterson, Ryan Herndon 

Chief Terry Wages, Chef Chris, Gary Huhn 

Forrest Ellzey, Courtney Bullock, Channing Pullen, 

Shannon Pullen 

Greta Webster, Lee Mary Burton, Shirley Ashley, Hosie Jones 


John Yow, Hal Williams, Don Williams 

Roe Grubbs, Robert Morrow, Tim Coulter 

Derek Milner, Mayor Butch Lee, Ted Morris 

Chynel Wallace, Jason Smith 

Earlene Lindsey, Johnnie Anderson, Opal Dryden 

Kelly Wilkerson, Myrtis Boggans, Popfeener Wooten, Bobbie Cage 

Tonya & Jared Leach 

Sandy & Winston Parish 

Mr. & Mrs. Bobby Cleveland 

Mr. & Mrs. Jim Moulds 

Miles McNair, Rickey Emmons 

Dolores Greer, Dot King 

Karlee Ponder, Rusty & Cindy Ponder 


RELIGION THAT GOD 

OUR FATHER ACCEPTS 

AS PURE AND FAULTLESS 

IS THIS: TO LOOK AFTER 

ORPHANS AND WIDOWS 

IN THEIR DISTRESS AND 

TO KEEP ONESELF FROM 

BEING POLLUTED BY THE 

WORLD. JAMES 1:27 

42 64 • July/August / September 2015 2015

By Melanie McMillan 

It’s often said that a journey 

of a thousand miles begins with a single step. For 

Madison resident Tolar Purvis, that single step came 

in the summer of 2013 when he traveled to Guatemala on a 

short-term mission trip with his fellow Jackson Prep basketball 

teammates. The group served in several cities in Guatemala, but 

it was the last stop on the trip that made a lasting impact on Tolar. 

For three days, the team worked at Eagle’s Nest orphanage in the 

city of Sololá, overlooking Lake Atitlan. While there, Tolar felt 

very strongly that he wanted to help the orphanage in some way. 

“I just felt a real calling to go back and serve, but at the time I 

didn’t know what that was or how to go about it”. 

It’s easy to see why his stay at Eagle’s Nest impacted Tolar. 

According to directors Pedro and Felis Patlan, since 2001 the 

orphanage has served more than one thousand children from 

various backgrounds that have been abandoned, abused, neglected 

and/or malnourished. Some of those children have since been 

adopted into their forever homes around the world and some of 

them were returned to their biological families. 

All children at Eagle’s Nest receive a 

Christian education at Colegio Nuevo Día 

(New Day School), a private elementary school 

located at the orphanage. There is also a church 

on site that has approximately one hundred 

members and forty additional members 

attending the youth service on Sundays. Eagle’s 

Nest also serves sixty-five of the poorest 

children in and around the community by 

providing well-balanced meals. These children 

are taught the Bible and are welcome to stay 

on the campus in the afternoon to swim, play 

soccer or basketball or just have a safe place to 

play before they go home. 

The staff at Eagle’s Nest 

serves more than three hundred children on 

a daily basis. In addition, residents and staff at the 

children’s home serve the community together by repairing 

homes, and donating clothes, shoes and food. 

After that first mission trip to Guatemala, Tolar returned 

home and began his junior year at Jackson Prep, but Eagle’s Nest 

was never far from his mind. In the fall of 2013, he contacted 

Pedro and Felis and asked them for some specific ways that he 

could help. The Patlans told Tolar that funds were needed for 

three projects and “Project Eagle’s Nest” was born. With the 

help of Mark Rich, Tolar’s Sunday School teacher at First Baptist 

Church of Jackson, and friend and classmate, Bailey Marble, Tolar 

began work on accomplishing the requested projects. Together, 

Tolar, Mark and Bailey created a brochure, video and website for 

Project Eagle’s Nest. 

Within six months, there was enough money raised for two 

of the projects: a transition home and a garage. The transition 

home is for older children in the orphanage who will soon be 

living on their own. Through the home, teenage 

residents learn life skills that they need to make 

it out in the world. 

The second project, a garage, not only 

provides a place for children’s bicycles, but also 

has an area where teenagers can learn how to 

change tires and oil and other mechanical skills. 

Some even go on to work as mechanics. 

Project Eagle’s Nest is still working to 

accomplish the last goal for the orphanage, 

which is to purchase land adjacent to the 

current facility, which will allow for expansion. 

In the summer of 2014 Tolar returned 

to Eagle’s Nest and this time Mark and Bailey 

Hometown madison Rankin • 65 43

made the trip as well. They worked on the garage that they had 

raised money for. Mark recalls, “It was a great team and a great 

experience. I knew after that trip why Tolar felt so strongly about 

that place and those kids.” 

After that trip, fundraising continued and a 5k race was held 

in November of 2014. Approximately 150 people participated 

and $28,000 was raised for Eagle’s Nest. Plans were being made 

for the next trip, which Tolar and Mark took this June. This 

time, Tolar took several family members. Tolar’s parents Paige 

and Leslea and his younger brother Will made the trip, as well 

as his aunt, Tamara Laney, and cousins Evie and Louise Laney. 

In addition, Mark’s seven-year-old son Ellis accompanied his 

dad on the trip. Madison Central graduates William Young and 

Hayley Proctor, and Jackson Prep students Ava Waller and Ann 

Bradley Maloney rounded out this summer’s mission team. The 

team worked on building a wheelchair ramp and pantry, as well as 

organizing children’s rooms. 

In 2015, Tolar was named a Distinguished Finalist for the 

Prudential Spirit of Community Award and a Mississippi Christian 

Living Magazine Christian Leader of the Future, a tribute to his 

hard work and dedication to Project Eagle’s Nest. When asked 

to describe Tolar and Project Eagle’s Nest, Eagle’s Nest directors 

Pedro and Felis said, “We were very impressed with Tolar from 

the start. But when he told us that he wanted to help raise money 

for our kids at Eagle’s Nest, we were humbled to see that a (then) 

seventeen year old young man had such a big vision after only 

spending just a few hours at our children’s home. Those that 

knew him spoke highly of him and told us to expect big things 

from him and he has lived up to that reputation.” 

Sunday school teacher and mentor Mark Rich echoes the 

Patlans’ sentiments. “Tolar’s commitment to this project and 

his desire to see it through to the end and to bless others is 

remarkable. I can’t tell you how many hours he has worked on 

and planned these fundraising efforts and trips. He is spending 

his time doing something that matters. I believe that is what 

Christ means when he says to take up your cross, to die to the 

things that you want to do and do the things He wants you to do, 

the things that matter. Tolar is making a difference in children’s 

lives halfway around the world. I have been inspired by his 

determination to help these children and it has been an honor to 

work alongside him.” 

If you would like to learn more about Project Eagle’s Nest, visit 

To www.projecteaglesnest.com. 

learn more about Project Eagle’s Nest, visit www. projecteaglesnest.com 

66 44 • August July/August / September 2015 2015

Hometown madison Rankin • 45 67

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SAVE THE DATE!! 

Thursday, 

October 29, 2015 

Clyde Muse Center 

Pearl, MS 

Rankin County Chamber 

www.facebook.com/RankinGlowRun 


Few things generate the type of extreme excitement – often described 

as "religion" in the South – other than Division One Football. 

We recently caught up with Hugh Freeze, Dan Mullen and Todd Monken 

for a Hometown Q&A, to find out what their days look like 

just weeks leading up to kick-off. 



Hugh Freeze 

Head Coach 

What is your favorite Ole Miss tradition? 

Walk of Champions. 

Who or what inspired you to become 

a coach? 

My father. 

What do you consider your greatest 

achievement/accomplishment and why? 

Being the father of three girls. 

Is there a part of your job that you 

didn’t anticipate? 

Media. 

If you could give one piece of advice 

to a young person, what would it be? 

Work as hard as you can and trust God with the results. 

What do you love most about oxford? 

It fits my lifestyle. 

What is the most rewarding thing 

about your job? 

Having a platform to influence those I come in contact with. 

What’s your biggest win as a coach? 

Winning the conference title in my second season at 

Lambuth and the 2012 Egg Bowl. 

What is your favorite childhood sports 

memory? 

Playing baseball with all of my friends in a small community. 

What are your feelings about having 

more teams in the national play-offs? 

I would like to see the season shortened to 11 games and an 

eight-team playoff within the bowl structure. 

What’s one of the most difficult things 

about being a public figure? 

The criticism and negativity that comes from social media. 

what’s the most rewarding thing about 

being a public figure? 

The platform to influence people in a positive way. 

What’s your favorite thing to do in 

your spare time? 

Family, golf, and fishing. 

Who is your biggest fan? 

My wife and three daughters. 



Dan Mullen 

Head Coach 

What is the typical day in the life of 

a college coach? 

It changes every day. It starts early and ends late with all 

kinds of surprises in between. 

Who or what inspired you to become a 

coach? 

I have always loved football since I was young. I learned the 

7-times table in math right away because of touchdowns. I 

have always loved teaching young people and have a master’s 

degree in education. So I think I was always drawn to be a 

coach. 



Becoming a head coach. I have had to work for everything 

to get where I am today. I played small college football, had 

no family connections, am from the northeast and yet I am 

the head coach at MSU. It is a lesson that if you are willing 

to work hard, sacrifice and are committed to your goals you 

can make your dreams come true. 

Is there a part of your job that you 

didn’t anticipate? 

There is nothing that can prepare you to be the head coach 

and make all the decisions and deal with all the issues you 

have to deal with. 



Work hard, be willing to make sacrifices and stay committed 

to your goals and you will accomplish them. 

What do you love most about Starkville? 

The people. This is a great community and the best college 

town in the south because of the people that make this town 

great. 



Seeing young men graduate and get to live out their dreams. 

What is your favorite Mississippi State 

tradition? 

The cowbell. It means so much to people. It’s a sense of 

pride that is handed down from generation to generation. 


Graduation Day when my players walk across that stage. 

Besides your home stadium, where is 

your favorite place to play and why? 

Rice-Eccles Stadium at the University of Utah. I had a lot of 

great memories there. 


memory? 

Winning the 1998 New Hampshire State Football 

Championship. 



We need to see how this system works first before we try to 

change again. 

What’s one of the most difficult things 

about being a public figure? 

The most difficult is that I, along with my family, have to 

give up all our privacy in our lives. We are open game to 

anyone, anytime, good or bad. 

what’s the most rewarding thing about 

being a public figure? 

I am in a position to make a positive impact on people lives 

just by being me. You are able to pick people up that are 

going thru hard times. 



Spend time with my family 


My son Canon. 



todd mOnken 

Head Coach 

Who or what inspired you to become 

a coach? 

It would have to be my father. He was a coach and all of his 

brothers were coaches – all high school coaches. I would say 

that was the initial inspiration. 



Getting my college degree in economics (at Knox College). 



You never go wrong with great energy, attitude and body 

language. 



Impacting young player’s lives. Trying to create the best 

version of them you can. 

What is the typical day in the life of 

a college coach? 

First of all, those days are atypical. These is something 

different every day. You go from having one child to 101 

children, so every day is consistently inconsistent. 

What is your favorite Southern Miss 

tradition? 

It is our Eagle Walk before home games. 

What do you love most about Hattiesburg? 

The people. 



Spend time with my son. 

When you hear “Southern Miss fanatic,” 

is there someone who comes to mind 

and why? 

The one that is on the good end and loves everything about 

it is Bill Brodhead. He is not always at everything but he 

loves Southern Miss football. I don’t know if fanatic is the 

word, but he is fanatical about how kids are doing and about 

where we are headed. 


UAB in 2013. 

Besides your home stadium, where is 

your favorite place to play and why? 

Anywhere we are winning. 


memory? 

When I was a kid I was umpiring Little League baseball and 

my brother ended up pitching and couldn’t throw a strike. 

He must have walked like 10 kids and I had to keep calling 

balls, because he wasn’t throwing any strikes. He kept walking 

everybody and I didn’t know if I was doing the right thing 

and that my Mom and Dad would be upset, but he just 

couldn’t get it over the plate. 



I have always believed that a playoff system is unbelievable. 

There should be more teams. It would be more exciting – 

it has been proven with the NCAA Basketball Tournament 

how exciting it is – even just with the four teams that we 

had last year. I would hate to see it go to that, though; just 

based on the bowl games. I don’t think you can have as 

many neutral site games (in a playoff ) because there is a 

lot to be said for going to a bowl game and the reward for 

your season for your players and coaches at a site that hosts 

you and it really is a neat deal for your kids that have never 

been anywhere. The moment you that expand the playoffs it 

really diminishes the bowl. Right now, we don’t diminish the 

bowls. There is two weeks of it and all the other teams get to 

experience the postseason. 


My son Travis. 


No matter where you spend your Saturdays 

during football season, there's one thing for 

certain. hometown hospitality is universal... 

regardless of your colors. So pitch your tent, 

load up the coolers and enjoy the best time 

of year in the South. 

Grooving 

in the Grove 


Bacon Cinnamon Rolls 

• 1 can (8 count) Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls 

• 8 slices pre-cooked bacon 

__________________________________________________ 

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees. 

• Unwrap the cinnamon rolls and separate. 

• Carefully unroll each roll and place a piece of bacon on top 

of the dough. 

• Gently re-roll the dough and arrange cinnamon rolls in cake pan. 

• Bake for 15 minutes, or until cinnamon rolls are golden brown. 

• Remove rolls from the oven and cover with the included frosting. 

Prep Time: 5 minutes • Cook Time: 15 minutes • Servings: 8 


Bully’s 

Bulldog Bash 

Blackbean & Corn Salsa 

80 • August / September 2015 

• 1 (8 ounce) cans Rotel 

• 1 (14 ounce) can whole kernel 

or shoepeg corn 

• 1 (16 ounce) can black beans 

• 1 (4 ounce) can green chilies 

(optional) 

• 1 packet taco seasoning mix 

• Shredded fiesta blend cheese 

• Lime juice to taste 

• Drain canned vegetables. 

• Reserve a few tablespoons 

of Rotel liquid. 

• Mix together all ingredients, 

making sure spices are well 

blended. 

• Cover and refrigerate, 

allowing flavors to blend. 

• Serve with a hearty scooped chip

Smoked Ham & Cheese Sliders 

• 24 Hawaiian rolls 

• 24 pieces smoked ham 

• 24 small slices Swiss cheese 

• 1/3 cup Miracle Whip 

• Spread Miracle Whip onto both 

sides of the center of each roll. 

• Place a slice of ham and a slice 

of Swiss inside of each roll. 

• Close rolls and place them into 

a large baking dish or heavy 

cookie sheet. 

• Place very close together. 

Poppy seed sauce 

• 1 Tablespoon poppyseeds 

• 1½ Tablespoons yellow 

mustard 

• ½ cup butter, melted 

• 1 Tablespoon minced onion 

• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire 

sauce 

• In a medium bowl, whisk together 

all ingredients. 

• Pour evenly over all of the 

sandwiches. You do not have to 

use all of the sauce. Just use 

enough to cover the tops. 

• Let sit 10 minutes or until butter 

sets slightly. 

• Cover with foil and bake at 

350 degrees for 12-15 minutes 

or until cheese is melted. 


The Eagle’s Nest 

Snickerdip 

• 2 pkgs. (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened 

• 1/2 cup brown sugar 

• 1 container (8 ounces) Cool Whip 

• 6 Snickers candy bars, chopped into small chunks 

(or 15 to 20 fun size Snickers) 

• 2 to 3 tablespoons caramel sauce for drizzling 

on top (optional) 

• Use a mixer to beat together cream cheese and brown sugar until 

smooth. Mix in Cool Whip. Fold in about three-quarters of the Snickers 

bars. Refrigerate at least a few hours. Before serving drizzle with caramel 

and top with remaining Snickers pieces. Great served with apple slices, 

pretzels, animal crackers and graham crackers for dipping. 


Game Day Frito Chili Pie 

• Set up a big tub of single-serve Fritos and surround with bowls 

of your favorite toppings. 

• Lightly crunch the pack of Fritos in your hands. You don’t want 

them in crumbs, but you want them broken up a bit. 

• Slice open the side of the package. 

• Pour in 3/4 cup of chili. 

• Sprinkle some shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes on top of the chili. 

• Sprinkle onions on top, if desired. 

• Add a spoonful of sour cream, if desired. 

• Top it all with cheese a fiesta blend cheese and some sliced jalapeños 

for an extra kick. 

• Grab a plastic spoon and stick it in the middle, and you’re ready 

to enjoy a genuine Frito Chili Pie – right out of the bag. 



TAILGATING 

& 

7 

1 

6 

2 

1 • Willow Blue • Custom Cowbells 

2 • That Southern Accent • Floral Arrangements 

3 • Chapman’s Florist • Collegiate Pillows 

4 • Mockingbird Marketplace • Sauces & Supplies 

5 • Polk’s • Serving Pieces & Cowbells 

6 • Dream Cakes • Caramel Puffs 

7 • Apple Annies - Collegiate Serving Pieces 

5 

3 4 



The 2015 Randy Watkins 

Golf Group Member-Guest 

tournament was a 4-ball 

format played on Saturday, 

May 16th at Patrick Farms 

Golf Club in Rankin County 

and on Sunday, May 17th 

at Lake Caroline Golf Club 

in Madison County. 

Teams were made up of 

member-member, 

member-guest, 

and guest-guest. 

The Randy Watkins 

Golf Group encompasses the 

members of Lake Caroline, 

Patrick Farms, and Whisper Lake. 

1 2 3 

1 3 

3 1 

2 

4 

1 

2 

3 

4 

4 

2 

D=29 D=19 D=32 

4 5 6 

2 

3 

1 4 

2 

1 

2 

3 

3 

1 4 

4 

D=21 D=21 D=18 

7 8 9 

4 

1 

2 

2 

4 4 

1 

3 

3 

3 

2 

1 

This year’s champions are guest 

Colby Bass and RWGG 

member Ryan Ratcliff. 

RULES & ETIQUETTE 

U.S.G.A. Rules govern play along with the following local rules: 

• Observe cart path rules at all times. 

• Yardages on sprinkler heads are measured to the 

center of the greens. 

• Please repair ball marks and rake bunkers. 

• Proper attire required, soft spikes only. 

• Allow faster players to play through when applicable. 

• No outside food or beverage allowed. 

• Each golfer assumes all risks and danger incidental to 

the game of golf and is personally liable for all damage to 

property or injury to persons which result from golfer’s actions. 

• Out of Bounds is defined by White stakes and/or lines and 

inside edge of all exterior and interior roads. 

• Lateral Water Hazards are marked by Red stakes and/or lines. 

• Water Hazards are marked by Yellow stakes and/or lines. 

D=20 D=22 D=34 

D = Green Depth in Yards. 

www.randywatkinsgolf.com 

Bitt Hammons 

Head of Golf Operations 

Jay Coalter 

GM and Superintendent 

PATRICK FARMS GOLF CLUB 

300 Clubhouse Dr. • Pearl, MS 39208 • 601.664.0304 


The Coach 



Coaches play an important role in the lives of their players. 

Whether it’s football, basketball, baseball or track, the men and women that push 

our kids to limits that even they, themselves, don’t know they can reach, leave imprints 

in the hearts of our young people that are rarely ever forgotten. 

Another summer has come and gone – and 

what a summer it’s been. From contentious 

flag debates and seemingly endless discussions 

of Supreme Court rulings to a couple of 3-point 

magnitude earthquakes in the northern part of 

our metro, there has been no shortage of material 

to keep water-cooler conversations at a full tilt. 

But for my 12-year old, life is much simpler. 

It’s all about sports. 

My son plays baseball. For years we have 

been at the ballparks most every weekend 

during the spring and summer – and I knew 

early on that it would take some industrial-type 

equipment to keep me from exploding from 

the heat. So my husband was kind (and wise) 

enough to invest in a tent, a generator, and a 

couple of commercial-grade fans as a means 

for my survival. He knew that if I was ever 

actually going to see one of these games, and 

certainly if I was expected to be friendly and 

hospitable to the other player’s family members, 

then I would need to keep my core body 

temperature somewhere below boiling and the 

point of spontaneous combustion. 

As it turns out, we’ve made fabulous friends 

throughout our time “in the stands”. And, we all 

share in the common belief that America’s greatest 

pastime is particularly important for our boys – 

and for different reasons than you might think. 

Coaches play such an important role in the 

lives of their players. Whether its football, 

basketball, baseball or track, the men and 

women that push our kids to limits that even 

they, themselves, do not know they can reach, 

leave imprints in the hearts of our young people 

that are rarely ever forgotten. 

Kids will do things for their coaches that they 

might never do otherwise. They have an inherent 

desire to please. My son became a catcher this 

year, and a darn decent one at that. He did it 

because his coaches told him he could do it. 

Heck, I didn’t even know he could do it! But they 

did. A good coach will make his players see what 

they can be, rather than what they are. 

I’ve enjoyed reading all the Q&A’s from the 

area coaches in this particular issue of Hometown. 

What I found interesting is that when asked what 

their most important accomplishment was as a 

coach, none of them said “winning” – not a one. 

It was all about shaping a player’s life, having 

them become productive members of society, 

and teaching a strong work ethic. It was about 

influence versus control. 

These men have proven that in order to be 

a good coach, one must abide by a handful of 

basic rules. And if these rules are adhered to, 

their players will leave absolutely everything 

they have out on the field. 

The first is to be positive and make it fun. 

Great coaches know how to teach without 

criticizing and provide positive reinforcement. 

They help players develop confidence in 

themselves. And confident players someday 

make confident adults. What a gift. 

They set expectations early and provide 

feedback, often. And they teach their teams 

respect – respect for the game, respect for their 

teammates and respect for the opponent. Again, 

sounds a lot like life to me. That could be any 

day at the office for an adult. 

But as I continued to spend more and more 

weekends at the ballpark, I found that even more 

of life’s lessons closely mirror the game. 

For example, it’s imperative to take breaks. 

In the major league it’s called the 7th Inning 

Stretch. In little league, it’s called – well it’s called 

the end of the game. But the lesson in it is that 

no matter how important the task at-hand, it’s 

important to stop, stretch and revitalize. 

Fair or foul? It’s all in how you see it, right? 

Well, in baseball, there’s a clear foul line. But in 

life, there’s not. Sometimes what we think is 

good, isn’t, and vice-versa. And how many times 

have we heard the coach yell, “Pick your pitch!” 

Because as we all know, you can’t take back a 

swing. 

As the great Yogi Berra said, “It ain’t over ‘till 

it’s over.” My son’s baseball team played in the 

state championship several weeks ago. They 

made it to the finals. I’m not sure any of us ever 

thought they would. It was the 5th inning and 

they were down 5-0. Second-place looked 

imminent. But then something happened. These 

12-year old boys reached down into their hot, 

sweaty, filthy, exhausted souls and embarked 

upon a fight that few of us, if any, had ever seen. 

They fought back as if their lives depended on 

it – and won in the 6th inning, 6-5. They won the 

state championship. 

They gave it everything they had and left 

absolutely all of it out on the field. And their 

coaches did, too. No matter how bad the game 

got, they never ... stopped ... swinging. I’ve never 

been more proud. 

So, to our mighty team of baseball warriors 

– T-Train, PK, Pey-Pey, Ford, Austin, Chandler, 

Whup, Stone, Braedon and Zack – these 

lessons will serve you well in life. And it won’t 

be the last time you’ll have to fight hard and 

claw your way off the bottom, either. What starts 

as a simple game of baseball (or football, or 

basketball, etc.) can mold your character and 

help to pave the way for a wonderfully bright 

future. You just have to keep showing up and 

keep swinging. 

And to our coaches – all coaches, for that 

matter. Thank you. Thank you for investing in the 

future of our young people as they learn to 

navigate life both on, and off, the field. And thank 

you for helping them understand the importance of 

being a part of something larger than themselves. 


DELTA 

STATE 

It’s never too early to take the first step. 

www.deltastate.edu/visit 

@DELTASTATE • FACEBOOK.COM/DELTASTATEUNIVERSITY


,, 

,, 


–Nicholas Tew, LCSW– 

I was the kid in grade school who talked through problems with friends–my own 

or theirs. I also thought advanced math was fun. Not okay, but actually fun! 

Well, as it turns out, the basic roots of who I am have remained 

the same throughout the years. I spent 6 ½ years of college, plus 

additional independent studies, becoming a psychotherapist. I also 

recently tutored a college student on graphing quadratic equations. 

I’m a bit of a “mathlete”, too. So when asked to write this article, I 

decided to marry both the psychotherapist and the mathlete together 

to develop my best tips for the back to school season. 

“How does that make you feel?” 

Feelings vary greatly for people during this season of the year. They 

are often coupled with memories, both for better and worse. So for 

some, this time of year may bring anticipation or excitement while for 

others, they may be entrapped in fear, anxiety, or dread. Why fear or 

dread, you ask? Well, recent or distant memories of comparisons to 

others, bullying, or sexual abuse from either a peer or a person of 

influence can be triggered by reminders such as dates, places, people, 

and even environmental cues like temperatures and smells. 

As a loved one of a student, please know that you can help. One of 

the absolute best ways you can convey this is by listening–not passively 

hearing them while multi-tasking, not thinking of ways to fix them or 

their situations while they are talking, and not telling them what or 

how to do something. Each student needs at least 10-15 minutes of 

quality time with a parent or loved one. The amount of time needed 

may be greater depending on the student’s personality type, but it 

should never be less than that. 

I define quality time as offering limited distractions, maintaining 

regular eye contact, and asking lots of questions that are open-ended 

– meaning they cannot be answered by just a simple yes or no. “How 

was your first day of school? What did you most like and dislike? 

What do you think will be your biggest challenge this year? What are 

you most excited or apprehensive about?” Or, “Tell me more about 

that.” All of these are examples of open ended questions. 

Palindromes 

I LOVE palindromes! They are sets of numbers and letters that 

are the same when read forward and backward. Mom. Dad. 757. 

2/20/2022. Race car. All palindromes. You may be asking why I value 

these little nuggets of joy that randomly – yet symmetrically – appear 

in the world. Well, I’ll tell you. Palindromes are one of the most 

excellent forms for giving constructive criticism, helping a student 

with homework, or aiding them in problem solving the drama that is 

middle school. 

Here’s the form to use: praise-critique-praise. For both your 

benefit as well as the student’s, more efficiency and peace can be 

had by following the praise-critique-praise method than by blowing 

up and steam shooting out of your head in a very Looney Tunes kind 

of fashion. 

Here are a few examples of how to use it: “You did a great job 

coming home and getting your homework knocked out right after 

school (praise). However, staying up until 2:00 a.m. on school nights 

is not going to work (critique). Know that I am very proud, however, 

of how hard you’re working in school already (praise).” 

Or, “You did a good job getting your chores done (praise). It’s not 

okay that I had to ask you to do them 5 times before you did, though 

(critique). But I’m proud you’re learning to be responsible (praise).” 

This tip is particularly helpful because the human brain is wired to 

more easily recall bad experiences/feelings than good. For this reason, 

it takes a greater number of positive feedback to outweigh the bad. 

One can never receive too much positive feedback. 

Connectivity 

One of the greatest modern marvels to me is wireless connectivity. 

I remember having to use dial-up when using the internet and now 

I’m frustrated if it takes more than 5 seconds for a webpage to load. 

My how times change. Connectivity, in a general sense though, is by 

no means new. Connection has been occurring within ourselves, 

among one another, and with our environment since the beginning of 

humanity. Be it good or bad, healthy or unhealthy, constructive or 

destructive – connection is at the heart of spirituality. And while the 

bond between us and the things outside are almost always invisible, 

they can still hold great power. 

In light of this, it’s essential for both students and their loved ones 

to remember the importance of maintaining healthy spiritual 

connections. I believe the greatest and most life-giving spiritual 

connection comes through God. Obviously, other connections play 

notable roles in our lives as well; those with friends, family, faith 

families, organizations, and even technology. Developing and 

maintaining spiritual health through positive connections can help 

students and loved ones remain grounded. 

My hope is that God gives us: 1) Eyes to see the various feelings 

that can accompany returning to school and the presence of mind to 

use engaged listening to process those feelings; 2) Mouths to speak 

and ears to hear positive feedback that outweighs negative feedback 

and criticisms; 3) Hearts that remain connected to Whom and that 

which brings life, health, and wholeness to one’s self and those around 

her or him. 

If you know a student or loved one having difficulty, please 

encourage them to contact Crossroads Counseling Center. We stand 

ready to help each person develop inner health and hope to better face 

the challenges of the world in which we live. 




serving our community 

Captain Todd Sanford 

RICHLAND Fire Department 

Why did you decide to become a fireman? 

Growing up, when I saw a fire truck, I always 

thought they were cool and how cool it would be to 

ride in one. As a teenager and early adult, I started 

to think about how to become a firefighter. I always 

wanted a job that was exciting and full of rewards. 

The fire service has given me that and has been 

good to me and my family. I can honestly say it has 

been one of the best decisions I have ever made. 

How long have you been with the Richland 

Fire Department? 

This year, in October, I will celebrate my 25th year. 

What do you enjoy most about your typical 

day as a fireman? 

I guess the thing I enjoy the most is the time I get to 

spend with my brothers. I enjoy the times we get to 

cook together and enjoy sitting and talking together 

about our families. 

Tell us about your family. 

This past January my wife, Denise Sanford, and I 

celebrated our 23rd wedding anniversary. We have 

three beautiful children; Clint, Morgan, and Jarren 

Sanford and one grandson Landon. 

Share some things that you enjoy in your 

spare time. 

I enjoy playing my guitar every chance I get. 

My family and I enjoy the outdoors. We love to 

go camping and fishing together. 

Who is someone you admire and why? 

My dad is the one I admire the most. He is my hero. 

He taught me how to be a good father and to 

always be there for my family. 

What is your favorite holiday and why? 

I would have to say Christmas is my favorite. It’s the 

time all of my family gets together and remembers 

the reason for the season and enjoy God’s blessing 

on us together. 

What is the biggest mistake you think 

young people make today? 

I think the biggest mistake young people make is 

not listening to the advice of their parents and other 

elders in their lives. 

If you could give one piece of advice to a 

young person, what would it be? 

I would say enjoy being young and that part of your 

life you can never relive. Don’t rush time and get a 

good education. 

What is most rewarding about your job? 

The most rewarding thing is to have the opportunity 

to help someone that might be having a bad day 

and really needs someone to help them. 

Where do you see yourself ten years 

from now? 

I see myself retired, able to travel and spend time 

with family and friends. 

Hometown Salute 

In every issue of "Hometown Rankin" Magazine, we like to introduce a member of the fire and/or police 

departments in our towns. These men and women work tirelessly to serve and protect the citizens of our 

communities, and for that, we are deeply grateful. Please join us in giving a great big Hometown Salute for 

their generous devotion to helping others. 


FLOWOOD's finest 

Chief Richie McCluskey 

flowood police Department 

Why did you decide to become a 

policeman? 

My uncle worked with the railroad police and 

was a big influence. I would sometimes go 

riding with him and thought it would be an 

exciting career and one that I could help 

people and make a positive impact. The riding 

continued with various agencies where I also 

discovered the brotherhood and sisterhood 

behind the badge and I realized, early on, that 

this was something I wanted to part of. 

How long have you been with your 

current police department? 

I started my career here in 1988 when then 

Chief Gary Rhoads hired me at 21 years old. 

I left in 2000 and joined the Mississippi 

Attorney General’s Office as a state police 

investigator. When I heard my former partner 

Johnny DeWitt was retiring, I pursed my career 

dream and was re-hired in January. 

What do you enjoy most about your 

typical day as a policeman? 

The camaraderie of the officers and the privilege 

of holding a position to help someone at any 

given time. 

What is the toughest thing you have 

experienced as a policeman? 

Telling family they have lost a loved one. 

Tell us about your family. 

My wife Michelle and I have been married for 

17 years. We have two awesome children, 

Anna (15) & Ben (12) who both attend Brandon 

schools. 

Share some things that you enjoy in 

your spare time. 

Hunting, fishing, spending time on our family 

farm and most any water sport. 

What are three things on your 

bucket list? 

Professionally, my list is complete. Personally 

however, I would like to SCUBA dive in Belize, 

fly in a fighter jet, and surf in Hawaii. 

Who is someone you admire and why? 

I would have to say my dad. Growing up I 

watched him build a successful business 

through hard work and he is the most 

generous person I know. 


achievement/accomplishment and 

why? 

Becoming the Flowood police chief is my 

greatest professional achivement. I grew up 

in Flowood and started my career here. 

I unknowingly prepared myself for this 

opportunity through the work and training 

I received with the attorney general’s office 

over the past 15 years. For me, returning to 

lead the department I started with is the 

ultimate achievement. 

What is your favorite holiday and why? 

Easter, because our Savior was resurrected. 

What is your favorite childhood 

memory? 

Being a kid in Flowood and playing Sunday 

afternoon football near the reservoir with a 

group of friends and spending summers fishing 

with my grandfather. 

What is the biggest mistake you think 

young people make today? 

Following and not leading. Every opportunity 

I get to influence a kid to be a leader, I take 

advantage of it. 



Everyone has a gift. Find that gift and use it with 

passion, integrity and loyalty. 

What is most rewarding about your job? 

A lot of the things I’ve learned professionally I 

learned the hard way. Being able to share my 

experiences with young officers reminds me of 

my goal and that is to leave a positive impression. 

Where do you see yourself ten years 

from now? 

I’ve always heard that if you enjoy what you do 

you’ll never work a day. I have always enjoyed 

what I do, so likely leading the Flowood Police 

Department. 




Alma Darensburg, LeeAnn Coxwell 

Betty & James Clanton 

Brooks Baldwin, Bob Boyte, Tiffany Boyte, Patrick Groves, 

Tandy Boyte, Heather Boyte, Richard Henley 

Rankin County 

Wild Game Banquet 

May 30, 2015 

Guest Speaker Hank Parker 

Brandon FUMC, Crossgates UMC, McLaurin 

Heights UMC, St. Mark’s UMC, Shiloh UMC, 

Marvin UMC 

Benefitting Habitat for Humanity 

Hank Parker 

Larry Swales, Rusty Williard, Marcia Diann 

Liam Alford, Bob Lyle 

Lilah Parker, Donny Parker, 

Anna Scott Parker, Jordan Therrell 

Patsey Warren, Marty & Mike Vinson Paul McLemore, Doug Payne, David McKay Mayor Butch & Pam Lee 


Connie Jones, Sandy Parish, Charla Jordan 

Charles McClintock, Ed Sallis 

David Ruth, Mel Coxwell, Randy Walker 

Jason & Lori Chapman, Ethan, Dylan, 

Lily Marie Chapman 

Shad White, Bobby Morgan, Mike Sillis 

Mel Coxwell, Dodie Conklin, Johnny Beck 

Pam Ware, Holly Ware, Will Hedgepeth, 

Catherine Hedgepeth 

Shane & Sykes King, Andrew Burke, 

Collin Moore 

Simbai Mhuka, Jatutu Pambi, Julian Kanombirira, Rudaviro 

Mvundura, Martha Mugwebi 

Stanley & Lisa Chapman, Anna Lauren 


www.pelahatchie.org 


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Blaine Hill, Mackenzie Thompson, Jean Ross, Reid Wuestefeld 

Muscadine Health Fair 

Saturday, May 30 

Muscadine Park • Pelahatchie 

Calvin Fulton & Karri Fulton 

Jean & Jacey Cooper, 

Abby & Rawls Hemeter 

Jalen Hurst, Kelsey Williams, Cody Myers 

Gary & Kim Kiddy 

Justin Stevens & Laverne Harper 

Ellen Davis, Megan Hall, Bettye Massey 

Howard Beeman, Margie Warren, 

Mark Davis, Brady Harrell 

Trevor Williams & Austin Banes 

D'Angelise Lister, Chico Vdemgba, Jennifer Bolen 



Soli Deo Gloria 

On & Off 

the Field 

Coaching high school 

football is about more 

than just fundamentals 

and winning ball games. 

According to these area 

Rankin County coaches, 

it's about providing leadership 

to young men so they can 

handle themselves both 

on and off the field. And 

winning a game or two 

along the way doesn't 

hurt, either . 


Coach Jason Cook 

Park Place Christian Academy 

What is your most challenging task as a football coach? 

Getting players to give the kind of unnatural effort that is required to be 

successful in a sport like football. 

What is your greatest reward as a coach? 

Seeing players “get it”. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing people 

successfully work through a situation that seems difficult or unattainable. 

How do you balance coaching and family life? 

My priorities are faith, family, friends, and football. I pray for the ability to keep 

these priorities in proper order. In a job like this, one must lean heavily on the 

Lord to stay reminded of the need to keep family ahead of a demanding job like 

this. 

Soli Deo Gloria 

What is the one character trait you would like your players to say 

you taught them? 

A love for God. This will alter all other character traits. 

What do you consider to be the most significant accomplishment of 

your coaching career? 

Taking a football team (Richland High) through a 0-24 stretch and seeing them 

reach the 4A playoffs two years later. 


Coach Ricky Black 

Jackson Prep 


Re-organizing and organizing the team concept each year that blends individual 

skills and responsibilities into a cohesive and successful team effort that each 

participant enjoys. 


Watching players work through their frustration level to reach their full potential 

and experience visible evidence of coaching and teaching in their development 

from boys to men. 


Time is important to everyone. Coaching, done well, requires a tremendous 

amount of time. Each team becomes a part of your family. Balancing requires 

clear communication, a flexible family and a dedicated wife. My wife, Linda, 

hasn’t missed a game in my 44 years of coaching. Our family consists of our 

daughter Paige, son in-law Kyle, granddaughter Haze and grandson, Grayson. 

What is the one character trait you would like your players to have? 

Understanding that the decisions you make reveals your true character as an 

athlete and a gentleman. 



If you stay in this profession long enough, you will receive tangible evidence of 

your success. But the most valuable accomplishment is the intangible–seeing 

young men develop into independent individuals of integrity. 


Coach Jason Goodwin 

Puckett High School 


I would say that one of the most challenging aspects of coaching in general, not 

just coaching football, is keeping the players motivated and focused. 


For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a coach is having the chance to 

help shape a young man’s life. I love the game of football, and I surely love 

winning football games. But nothing means more to me than seeing a former 

player that has taken the lessons learned from the game and applied them to 

life. Seeing a young man become a productive member of society, a good family 

man, someone who gives back to his community…that’s what this is all about. 


Balancing family life with a professional life is very challenging for all parents. I 

tend to take quality time wherever I can find it. Although I am rarely able to pick 

up my children from school, I try to take them to school in the mornings. I use 

that time to talk with them and set a positive tone for their day. We also have a 

Saturday morning ritual where I take them to get donuts. My wife brings our girls 

to help feed the players the pre-game meal and to the football games, so they 

feel like part of the team. During season, I may not spend a large amount of time 

at home, but I try to make the small moments count. 

What is the one character trait you would like your players to say you 

taught them? 

As my players move forward, I hope they feel like I have helped them understand 

the importance of being a part of something that is larger than self. I want them to 

understand the importance of working toward a common a goal, of being selfless 

in an effort to realize that goal. Of course, this is an important trait for an athlete, 

but it is also an imperative trait for a good man. 



I have had many great accomplishments throughout my coaching career that I 

am proud of. The number of players that have received college degrees through 

their efforts on the football field as well as being a part of a state championship 

team certainly rank highly. But I would say I am proudest and feel the most 

satisfaction after talking with former players. I may receive a text from a former 

player asking for my thoughts as he navigates his way through college. A former 

player may call me up and say, “Hey Coach, remember when…” Those are my 

proudest moments as a coach–reminiscing and reconnecting and just 

maintaining those personal connections. 


Coach Toby Collumns 

Northwest Rankin High School 


Making sure that the job doesn’t become so consuming that it takes away from 

my family life. All football coaches have to be a father figure for so many kids 

and we all love that we can do that. However, at the end of the day I have three 

beautiful kids and a great wife that needs that figure as well. 


Watching young boys come into the program and at the end of their time, 

leaving as mature young men ready to be productive citizens. It’s also very 

rewarding to have players come back and tell you that the lessons they’ve 

learned playing this great sport have helped them with life. 


This is the most difficult thing for any coach–but with my family, it has become 

an integral part of our lives. My kids have always been comfortable hanging out 

at the field house and getting to know the players. My wife and kids just look at 

the team as an extension of our family in a lot of ways. 


taught them? 

I would like for every player that leaves our program to know the benefits of 

hard work. I would like for them to know what it means to sacrifice for a greater 

good and to know how important teamwork is in life. I would also love for them 

to know how important faith is and to never lose sight of the big picture. 

What do you consider to be the most significant accomplishment 

of your coaching career? 

I like to think that my greatest accomplishment is yet to happen! 


Coach Matt Butts 

East Rankin Academy 


Trying to balance my coaching career and my family life. I work very long hours 

during football season, but I also have a wife and four children at home who also 

need my time. Time management is a must. 


A big reward for me as a coach is to see a young man work hard and develop 

his athletic and football skills to become the best football player he can possibly 

be; however, the greatest reward is when football players come back after they 

have graduated and say “THANK YOU.” 


I have struggled with balancing coaching and family life in the past, but the more 

I coach the better I have become. I have learned that I can get most of my work 

done at the office during working hours if I manage my time well and that what I 

have to take home I can finish after my family goes to bed. 

What is one character trait you would like your players to say you 

taught them? 

The one character trait I would like for my players to say I taught them is to 

pursue excellence in their lives. 



Having the opportunity to mentor a couple of former players into the coaching 

profession as they have begun their coaching careers is one of my most 

significant accomplishments. 


Coach Bill Ward 

Pelahatchie High School 


As a coach there are many challenges. Trying to keep everyone on the page 

and going in the same direction is very trying. Getting good coaches that work 

together and getting the players working and functioning together along with 

the administration and supporters all working for the same goal. To keeping your 

facilities in great shape. These are just a few of the tasks. 


I have been blessed with many rewards from coaching. From winning a state 

championship to watching my players grow into productive men and living good 

lives and still coming back to pull for our school and making me feel like maybe I 

had a small part in it. 


This a tough one because during the season, you have to stay with it until you 

get the job done. I tell my coaches that if we have something to do, let’s get 

after it. And when we’re done, I send them home. 



Fairness. And that we worked harder than any of the opposition. 



When I look back and think that I have stayed in one place for this long, that’s 

a pretty good accomplishment. I guess I did something right or either fooled a 

lot of people. 


Coach Michael Granberry 

Pisgah High School 


Dealing with all of the distractions that kids face today. They are being pulled in so many 

directions and many of them, bad. High school sports are a positive influence where kids 

can slow down and learn lessons that still matter. Discipline, unselfishness, character, work 

ethic, handling adversity, and accountability may not be the cool thing, but they still help 

make a successful adult. 


When a former player comes back to tell you that they have become a successful student, 

employee, husband, and father. I think the ultimate goal is to give students a few years they 

will never forget and to try and instill some lessons and a work ethic that they can use 

moving forward. 


This can be a difficult thing for coaches. However, I am very blessed to work at a school 

where my family can be a part of everything we do. My dad volunteers on our coaching 

staff and my wife, daughter, and mother never miss a game. All of our coaches do a great 

job of including their families with our football program. Our home end zone will look like a 

kid zone some nights with all of our families and kids sitting there. Also, we are very mindful 

of priorities and make a conscious effort to get our coaches home with their families as 

much as possible. 

What is the one character trait you would like your players to say you taught them? 

We expect our players to represent themselves and our football program with character. 

We ask them to do everything the “right way”. From how they act in English class, to the 

way they act on the field Friday nights, and even how they act on Saturday night when 

nobody is watching. We are so lucky at Pisgah to coach a great group of kids who try to 

reflect this everyday. 

What do you consider to be the most significant accomplishment of your 

coaching career? 

I have been fortunate as a coach to be part of some successful accomplishments in several 

different sports. However, to watch last year’s football team start the season 0-4 and turn 

that around to win the 1st Division Championship in school history and have the most 

successful season in school history was special. Also, to get to share that with such an 

awesome group of players, coaches, students, my family, and our community was an 

awesome experience. 


Coach Paul Burtnett II 

Richland High School 


Players losing the interest for football. When you are part of a program that is rebuilding and/or 

down in success, sometimes the kids lose the love. Gratification is what these kids want. They 

play their Xbox to win and they can start the game over if it looks like they’re going to lose. 

They can turn it off and come back to it from the other distractions of being a teenage boy. 

Football is not on these kids’ minds – playing the game because you love it or because it’s 

been a part of your life since birth. Players want to win and if it doesn’t look promising, they 

move on to others interest. 


Players returning as coaches themselves. Players saying they went into coaching because they 

saw my love for the profession and they wanted to give back just as I gave to them. Whether it 

be as the father figure they needed, the ride home when needed, or making them into men by 

using a game to teach life lessons—that’s why I went into coaching. Will Blair did all that for me 

and then some. He was a great man and I pray to be like him. 


Very carefully and with lots of prayers! The first year is the most difficult. You get caught up 

trying to do so much. You neglect your faith and family so you can win at football. I’ve made 

that mistake before in previous coaching jobs. I’m wiser this time. I take days off to spend with 

the wife and kids. We vacation with family and/or friends. When I’m home, I’m home. I prioritize 

better. My wife and I spend time in the flowerbed. And even though it’s the flowerbed at the 

field house, it’s spending time with her. That’s what I didn’t do so well in the past. It’s living for 

God, who allows me to do all this. Without Him, none of this is possible, anyway. I give thanks 

to so many people that have helped me in all of this. My life revolves around faith, family and 

football and that faith and family help me be a better football coach. It’s hard to balance 

coaching if you let a sport be more than a sport. 

What is the one character trait you would like your players to have? 

TOUGHNESS!! Football is a hard game. Bumps and bruises are just a part of it. Weights, 

conditioning, practices in the heat, and then school work on top of all of that is hard. Adversity 

comes with the territory. But everyone gets knocked down. As coaches, we preach toughness. 

Just because you get knocked down doesn’t mean you stay down. Football is not fun when 

the score board reads 35 to zero with 2:30 left to go in the first quarter. Life is the same way. 

The toughest always win. It’s what got me through my hardest days and I learned it through 

football. 

What do you consider to be the most significant accomplishment of your 

coaching career? 

I’ve had success on the gridiron. I’ve won big games and district titles, played for state 

championships, and I’ve had players go on to college on football scholarships. But the most 

significant accomplishment for me is keeping my family together. Being a husband, a father, 

and a coach to my son and these kids has been a great accomplishment. 


Coach John Perry 

Pearl High School 


Trying to be everything to everyone. When you have kids that come from all 

walks of life and from situations that are not the best, trying to be everything to 

those young men can be difficult. I feel the responsibility of seeing that each one 

of them grow up to be successful fathers, husbands and employees one day. 


The greatest reward as a coach is seeing your players accomplish their goals 

on and off the field. There’s no better feeling than to see them celebrate a win 

in football and in life. 


My family is part of my coaching. My wife is the best coach’s wife a man could 

ask for. She is a big part of our program and present all the time. My son is our 

water boy and my daughter is one of our grid-iron girls. If we are going to be 

close as a family we have to be involved in each other’s activities or it would be 

tough. 



Toughness, the ability to not quit! When life knocks you down, and it will, get up 

and be a man! 



Being able to come home (Pearl) and be the head football coach. I’m the 

school’s first head coach that graduated from Pearl High School. 


Coach Steve Pruett 

Florence High School 


The most challenging task of a football coach is coaching athletes who have so 

many other interests to keep them focused on football. 


The greatest reward as a coach is seeing your players succeed after school. 


Not well. 


taught them? 

To be a Godly man 



Graduating players. 


Coach Jimmy Mills 

McLaurin High School 


To make sure that each player gets what he needs to have a happy and 

successful life. 


To see that my players and coaches achieve a higher level of success than they 

ever imagined. 


This is not hard because I’m very passionate about both. My family is and 

has always been a major part of any school where I’ve coached. My players 

become our extended family. 



That they can reach higher. It is never OK to settle. 



I could say being Coach of the Year or being head football coach at Mississippi 

College. But my greatest accomplishment has to be seeing my players become 

solid citizens. 


Coach Tyler Peterson 

Brandon High School 


Getting all of the different personalities on a football team to forget about 

themselves and to buy into the team concept. What is best for the team is not 

always what is best for me! 


I think that the greatest reward for me is to see my former players go on to be 

successful husbands, fathers, leaders, etc. So many of the lessons that we learn 

through sports go on to be great life lessons. 


I just try to do the best that I can to not let one become top heavy. My family 

understands that the fall is my grind. They are very understanding of the time 

constraint that comes with the coaching profession. I do my best to involve them 

in as much as I can during that time. 


taught them? 

I would like for all of my former players to say that I taught them the importance 

of work ethic and a great attitude. I think that if you have those, the sky is the limit. 



I think that I have been able, with the help of my staffs, to go into some pretty 

down and out programs and change the mindsets and cultures into believing 

that we could play with the best in the state. Getting a team, school, or city to 

believe that you belong when you haven’t in a long time is a tough task. When 

everyone gets on the same page, some amazing things can happen! 


Coach Joe Thrasher 

Hartfield Academy 


Keeping perspective from year to year. Players change and develop differently. 

I know where I want our program to go but it takes time to implement and follow 

through with the foundations to build beyond just one or two years. 


Life change that sometimes comes years down the road. As coaches, we have 

been entrusted in helping young men become men. Throughout my career, the 

best stories I have are of players sharing, years later, about the impact their time 

playing had on them. 


I have been blessed to have a wife that understands the demands of coaching. 

She is an unbelievable support to me as well as my three children. I always try 

and keep my time protected for my family. I want them to know how much I love 

and appreciate their commitment to me and to our institution. 


taught them? 

Integrity. I want these young men to follow passionately after the Lord. Men who 

understand that life does not stop predicated on a win or a loss. Each moment 

we are given is an opportunity to learn and grow. 



Honestly, being at Hartfield Academy and leading this program. My wife 

teaches at Hartfield and all three of my children attend there as well. After 

coaching collegiately for ten years I felt it was time to follow the Lord’s call 

to Hartfield. I am constantly amazed at our growth not only athletically but 

academically and most importantly spiritually. 


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The Time Coin 

Beth waved to her son, Walker, as he 

backed out of the drive. He stopped, 

rolled down his window and said, “This is 

the last time I’ll be doing this.” And with 

another wave he was off to his last football 

season at college. 

It wasn’t raining, but the clouds were 

heavy and dark like Beth’s heart. Sadness 

nudged her and wanted to move in, but 

she refused the request and tried to 

were no butterflies or jitters like that first 

departure. This was just the final leg of a long, 

arduous journey. Maturity was his companion 

today. 

Beth busied herself with the usual work all 

afternoon, but her demeanor was very sober 

and reflective. Time had done it to her again 

– slipped up behind and rearranged life. 

Another era was about to end in their lives, and 

nothing she could do could alter what time and 

concentrate on the blessings she and her family had enjoyed the few 

short weeks he had been home. Beth slowly walked back into the house, 

but Walker’s words followed close behind her. 

Where had the years gone? She thought that she had kept count by 

months, weeks, days, even by the hour. She could remember that first 

summer he pulled out of the drive – his vehicle loaded like a gypsy 

wagon and she and his dad following him with a van filled with more 

typical freshman essentials. It was a giant step from his bedroom down 

the hall to a second floor room in the college dorm. 

Today’s leave was so different. He didn’t need a caravan to carry his 

belongings, and there certainly wasn’t a need for a parent escort. There 

change were affecting. 

Suddenly the words of a song came to her mind: “Seize the moment.” 

It wasn’t just the “firsts” and “lasts” we were to tuck away in our 

scrapbooks. It’s each moment, good and bad that join together to 

make up life. 

It was a fact. Reminiscing over the past, dreaming about or fearing 

the future were enemies that could rob her of the present. Some wise 

person had said that it’s called the “present” because today is a gift. 

The heavy clouds cleared the room as Beth headed for the kitchen. 

Walker would need a box of his favorite cookies. She would start early 

to make his senior year his most special. 


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132 • June 2015 

MyMeritHealth.com

Hometown Rankin - August & September 2015

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