By Bob Garver Poster credit IMDB The legacy of the “Tron” franchise is complicated. On a consistently positive note, the series has always been a feast for the eyes and ears, with pleasing, if not groundbreaking special effects and musical scores that heart-pumpingly convey that technological developments are happening every minute. But the films have never quite stuck the landing critically or commercially. The 1982 original is a “cult” movie that defenders see as ahead of the curve and not appreciated in its time. The 2010 follow-up “Tron: Legacy” was given every chance to succeed, yet only performed middlingly on all fronts. And new installment “Tron: Ares” is going to go down as an even bigger disappointment than the second film. Disney keeps insisting that they have a major franchise here, but the original wasn’t the hit that they pretend it was, and the weirdly-spaced-out sequels keep playing as ambitious money pits. The new film opens by filling viewers in on the feud between tech giants ENCOM and Dillinger Systems. Since “Tron: Legacy,” ENCOM has passed from longtime protagonists the Flynn family to Eve Kim (Greta Lee), who wants to use the company’s resources to do good things like cure world hunger and protect the environment. Dillinger Systems is now run by Julian Dillinger (Evan Peters), grandson of original antagonist Ed Dillinger, who wants to do things like build weapons and turn humanity’s problems over to artificial intelligence. His big new breakthrough is Ares (Jared Leto), a program that manifests itself as a superpowered humanoid to do its owner’s bidding. For now, that owner is Julian, but he’s happy to make that owner the military – for the right price, of course. The problem with the tech is that Julian can’t build live beings that can survive more than 29 minutes without disintegrating (though their essences go right back to living in cyberspace afterward). His mother (Gillian Anderson) admonishes him for defrauding investors, but his claims won’t be fraudulent once he obtains an object permanence code. As it turns out, Eve has already discovered the code while toiling away in Alaska. This is both good news and bad news for Julian, good because the code exists, bad because the competition has it. But Julian has Ares on his side, and he can use the crude supersoldier to kill Eve and take the code. Julian instructs Ares to study up on Eve and humanity for the mission, which turns out to be a mistake because Ares decides he likes Eve and humanity. Most movies would have this shift in loyalty occur gradually, this one has it happen in an instant. The rest of the film sees Ares and Eve trying to outwit and evade Julian and backup soldier Athena (Jodie Turner-Smith). Ares’ adventures will take him from a cyberworld attack on ENCOM to the real world to a different cyberworld in the ENCOM mainframe, where a certain former company leader now resides. “Tron: Ares” does just fine when it lets its visuals and Nine Inch Nails score do the talking. I’m sure the designers had fun developing geometry-based aesthetics that probably contain Eater eggs that appeal to math nerds but go way over my head. And everyone knows that NIN is indeed the band you call when technological happenings are afoot. But then the film stumbles when characters do the talking. Leto is yet another artificial being that wants to be human (a comparison to Disney classic “Pinocchio” is made at the first opportunity). Lee is yet another generically-smart do-gooder. Peters is yet another tech-bro villain. Turner-Smith is yet another supposedly-competent assassin that wastes time being dramatic. Despite Peters trying to have some fun chewing scenery, none of these characters bring anything new to the table. This unsolicited sequel manages to do a disservice to a franchise that wasn’t much of a franchise anyway. Grade: C “Tron: Ares” is rated PG-13 for violence/action. Its running time is 119 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at  rrg251@nyu.edu .

Send responses to: andybowman839@gmail.com The difference between a whistleblower or a tattler is their mission- no matter what they publicly declare. Whistling is to trying prevent potential disaster from happening to innocent people. In other words, whistleblowing is attempting to do your part to make sure bad stuff doesn’t continue. It’s definitely a brave act on the part of the whistleblower, knowing even as they speak out that the said bad stuff could very easily land on them. We are definitely talking payback. Tattlers have a very different motive. To tattle is to intend for the victim to hurt. Most of the time, tattlers have what they believe is a perfectly good reason for blabbing. They’ve had problems with someone in the past, and this is the tattler's chance to exact their revenge on the tattlee. Think sibling rivalry at its finest. Warring young siblings are a great example of revenge-taking. There is no one more deliberate than a sister or brother who wants revenge. Ask anyone who grew up in a family of more than just one kid. There really are big differences in tattling and whistleblowing. But unfortunately, in our present world, the difference is usually pretty obscure to most people. Here’s why. If someone is a friend or a benefactor of a person involved in a, ummmm, shall we say, less than exemplary shining activity, it seems it’s a lot more difficult to chew through the moral challenges and know exactly what to do. There are probably very few who quickly and automatically insist on everything in life being above board and godly...especially if they are going to be affected personally. "Losing for me and mine is a whole 'nuther proposition than just loss for you and yours." The golden oldie days of the good guys in white hats outnumbering the bad guys in black hats are long gone. Now it’s usually everyone looking out for #1 Uno And Friends. And our country is showing the effects of this growing trend. Now, we have a country running amok. We have leadership in many areas of authority that is less than stellar and morally upright. And the United States is now undoubtedly feeling the effects of this downward spiral.  Sadly, influential heads of organizations, companies and political figures seem to be deliberately watching all this through blind eyes. And we citizens are accepting this behavior that the generations fifty years before us would never have tolerated. Back then, the public outcry and rage heard across our nation would have demanded a real change at the top of the food chain. And would have actually had a chance to achieve that change. All I know to do is this. Start praying.  And if you personally need to change, do it.  Change for a country comes only one way. Its citizens, who firmly believe that ENOUGH IS ENOUGH, commit to standing up for right, and publicly standing for drastic differences in how we conduct ourself as a nation.

By Kara Kimbrough Smoked trout dip, an appetizer at The Switchback at Cataloochee Ranch, offers a new take on traditional dips due to Sous Chef Chris Bankes’ innovative use of fresh ingredients and locally-sourced smoked trout. Drop me an email and I’ll send you the recipe. Photo courtesy of Cataloochee Ranch.    A week in western North Carolina offered breathtaking views of the Great Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains as well as a chance to explore charming towns like Maggie Valley, Waynesville, Lake Junaluska, Clyde and Canton, all within scenic Haywood County. Seeing the mesmerizing stacked blue layers of the Blue Ridge was an unworldly experience. There’s so much more to share (and love) about this unbelievably beautiful area that I’ll describe next week, but first…the food. Ranging from traditional Appalachian fare with a Southern influence, locally-sourced rainbow trout, beef, seasonal vegetables and so much more are served in eateries ranging from cozy hometown diners to sprawling dining rooms in luxurious mountain resorts. Haywood County’s cuisine truly offers something for every preference and budget. With its location in the midst of The Smokies and Blue Ridge Parkway, I expected restaurant prices to reflect those found in similar tourist destinations. I was surprised to learn that most restaurants offer reasonably-priced meals. Families and groups often choose the area for its affordability as well as the diverse selection of dining options. It’s hard to reduce a week’s worth of delicious meals to a short list, but for brevity’s sake, I’ll share a list of my favorites, including a few close seconds. Best pancakes: Joey’s Pancake House, Maggie Valley, NC Believe it or not, this was my first visit to a true “pancake house.” A massive stack of fluffy blueberry pancakes topped with fresh blueberries and doused with Vermont maple syrup was the perfect fuel for a full day of hiking and exploring. Best bagel: Beach Mountain Diner, Waynesville, NC I’ve often shared my love of bagels. The homemade ones at this quaint downtown diner didn’t disappoint. Additions of ham, fried eggs and cheese transformed it into a hearty breakfast sandwich. ·       Honorable mention: Main Street Diner, Waynesville A light pre-flight breakfast was my preference on the last day. This downtown eatery’s version - coated with cream cheese and served with crispy bacon - checked all the boxes. Best wrap: The Swag, Waynesville I’ll share more about this breathtaking mountain resort next week, but can’t omit the post-hike gourmet picnic lunch from my favorites list. Chef Jake Schmidt’s delicious lunch of seasonal fruits and baked goods was highlighted by a massive chicken tortilla wrap. Filled with chunks of roasted chicken, chopped vegetables and a delicate sauce, it was hands-down the best wrap I’d ever tasted. Best Southern classics dinner: Southern Porch, Canton, NC Southern Porch is a delightful eatery occupying an historic building dating back to the 1800’s. A perfectly-charred steak, unbelievably creamy mashed potatoes and gravy and the best fried cabbage and onions of my life combined to create a delicious dinner. However, collard bacon dip, an unusual but delectable appetizer filled with braised collards, bacon and cheese served with homemade tortilla chips, is now on my “must recreate” list. Best pie: Rocky Face Tavern, Canton Located at Springdale Resort, the upscale restaurant serves a variety of creative dishes, including my lunch selection of a hearty BLT topped with spicy pimento cheese. But dessert really took the cake: an infusion of white chocolate elevated classic coconut cream pie to another level. Best fries: The Scotsman Public House, Waynesville The Scotsmen serves traditional Scottish fare alongside Irish dishes like shepherd’s pie and Reuben sandwiches. Everything was amazing, but an appetizer of Scotsman pub poutine – seasoned fries smothered in savory house poutine gravy and crumbled sausage – stole the show. Best artistically created and presented chicken dish: Singletree Heritage Kitchen, Waynesville Stuffed chicken breast is not a new dish, but nothing compares to the incredible version served at this innovative restaurant known for exceptional Appalachian and Southern dishes. My dinner selection of sun-dried tomato and feta stuffed bone-in chicken breast was filled with parmesan polenta, roast Roma tomatoes and lemon Beurre Blanc. The result? A dish that was as beautifully presented as it was delicious. Best “girls’ day out” lunch: Crown & Thistle Tea Room, Waynesville Pairing my own pot of fragrant spiced tea with a three-tiered stand filled with delicious finger sandwiches, homemade scones and preserves and the piece de resistance, a layer of delectable desserts served on delicate fine china was the perfect way to relax and decompress after a busy morning. Best coffee spots: The Orchard and Blue Ghost Outpost, Waynesville Both The Orchard and Blue Ghost Outpost are great places to stop in, relax and enjoy one of a variety of coffee drinks and baked goods.   Most memorable meal: The Switchback at Cataloochee Ranch, Maggie Valley, NC The Switchback at Cataloochee Ranch in Maggie Valley, NC, serves a pork chop that is hearty and delicious enough to be served alone. However, it pairs nicely with seasonal vegetables. Having the opportunity to experience The Switchback, Cataloochee Ranch’s signature restaurant set the bar extremely high for the remainder of my trip. The sprawling grounds and restaurant are both breathtaking, but the real magic occurs in Chef Jeb Aldrich’s kitchen. Here, he combines fresh Appalachian flavors with a European flair to create dishes that are simply divine. * An unbelievably fresh and flavorful appetizer of smoked trout dip with homemade crackers let me know I was in for an incredible dining experience. I wasn’t fully prepared for the best (and perhaps largest) pork chop I had ever been served. Perfectly seasoned, fork-tender and topped with a delicious sauce, it paired beautifully with fingerling potatoes with bacon and herbs and seasonal vegetables. The standout among an array of creative desserts was a simple plum galette made with a handmade butter crust, local plums, almond frangipane, buttermilk and sweet thyme ice cream. I’m still dreaming about these amazing meals, with plans to recreate some of the dishes or better yet, return to sample them again. In the meantime, Cataloochee Ranch Sous Chef Chris Bankes graciously shared the recipe for the amazing smoked trout dip. In the interest of brevity, I’ll share it with you via email; simply message me and I’ll send it your way. For a quick side dish for a cozy fall dinner, try this traditional Appalachian dish of wilted (killed or “kilt”) cabbage. It has withstood the test of time and is still a local favorite. Appalachian "Kilt" Lettuce with Bacon Dressing 1 head of fresh lettuce (iceberg or leaf lettuce), torn into bite-sized pieces 6 slices of bacon, chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons water 1 tablespoon sugar Salt and black pepper to taste       Place torn lettuce into a large serving bowl. In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it is browned and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces and set them aside on a paper towel, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon grease. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent. Stir in the apple cider vinegar, water, and sugar. Continue to cook for about 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Pour the hot dressing immediately over the lettuce in the serving bowl. Sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon pieces over the lettuce.  Toss gently to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately while the lettuce is still warm and slightly wilted. Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer from Mississippi. Email her at  kkprco@yahoo.com .

By Kara Kimbrough      The advent of fall is still a couple of weeks away. However, that hasn’t stopped me from looking through my recipe collections in search of favorite fall recipes. As much as I enjoy summer’s cool salads and lighter fare, nothing can compare to fall’s warm and soothing comfort foods.     I’ve been open about my obsession with soups, so including a recipe for thick and hearty cheeseburger soup to ease the transition from summer to fall meals was a given. Along with rotel pasta, a tangier version of regular tomato sauce-based ones and apple cider coffee cake (perfect as a quick on-the-go breakfast with a cup of coffee or afternoon pick-me-up), I’m confident in saying..."Fall dinners are off to a good start!"     Happy fall, ya’ll! Easy (But Still Delicious) Rotel Pasta 8 ounces penne pasta uncooked 1 tablespoon olive oil 1-pound lean ground chuck 1 yellow onion, chopped 10-ounce can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies 1 cup beef broth 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon garlic salt 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream 1/4 cup cream cheese 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese      Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.      In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and onions are tender. Drain if necessary.      Mix in the Rotel tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, garlic salt, and smoked paprika. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until slightly thickened.      Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy whipping cream and cream cheese until well combined and smooth.      Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt into the pasta Creamy Cheeseburger Soup 1/2-pound ground beef 4 tablespoons butter, divided 3/4 cup chopped onion 3/4 cup shredded carrots 3/4 cup diced celery 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes 1-3/4 pounds (about 4 cups) cubed and peeled potatoes (can substitute frozen Potatoes O’Brien) 3 cups chicken broth 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 8 to 16 ounces Velveeta, cubed 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for garnishment) 1/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (optional for garnishment)       In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook and crumble beef until no longer pink, 6-8 minutes; drain and remove from pan. In same saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, celery, basil and parsley until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Add potatoes, broth and ground beef; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until potatoes are tender, 10-12 minutes.      Meanwhile, in a small skillet, melt remaining 3 tablespoons butter. Add flour; cook and stir until bubbly, 3-5 minutes. Add to soup; bring to a boil. Cook and stir 2 minutes. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheese and salt and pepper; cook until cheese melts. Remove from heat; blend in sour cream, if desired. Apple Cider Coffee Cake 2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour ¾ teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature 1 ¼ cup light brown sugar 2 eggs ½ cup unsweetened apple sauce 1 cup apple cider Maple Syrup Glaze ⅓ cup pure maple syrup 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1-1 ½ cups powdered sugar     Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prepare a 9-inch square cake pan with pan spray and lightly coated in flour. In a medium bowl combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and cinnamon; set aside.     In a mixing bowl with paddle attachment, cream together the butter and light brown sugar until light and fluffy. Whisk together the eggs and unsweetened apple sauce and add the mixture to the creamed butter and sugar; continue mixing until fully combined. Start adding the dry ingredients to the mixing bowl, alternating with the spiced apple cider; repeat until all ingredients are incorporated and fully combined.     Pour the Apple Cider Snack Cake batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cake springs back at the touch or a cake taster comes out clean. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool while preparing the maple glaze. To make glaze:      Place the powdered sugar in a medium bowl; set aside.      In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup and butter and heat on medium until the butter is fully melted. Remove the saucepan from the heat, add in the vanilla extract and then pour the mixture over the powdered sugar/ Whisk vigorously until the glaze is smooth and shiny (if you want the glaze to be thicker, add more powdered sugar at this time)      Spread the glaze over the top of the cake; allow to set for 10 minutes before cutting and serving. Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer from Mississippi. Email her at kkprco@yahoo.com .

By Kara Kimbrough     It’s been entertaining, to say the least, to watch grownups bicker on the internet this week over whether or not gumbo and chili should be considered soup. I’ll be honest, I have better things to do with my time than argue about such trivial things. I’m too busy looking over my list of soups, stews, chilis and gumbos and deciding which one to make first.     First up…I made a pot of chili topped by a layer of cornbread. This is something I’ve never done and I must say, it looked nice fresh from the oven. However, once I dipped into the bowl, the cornbread sunk into the chili. I think I’ll go back to my regular routine of cooking chili and THEN baking a skillet of cornbread – separately.     Second, I found a “no chopping needed” taco soup recipe that turned out perfectly. And while it’s definitely not a soup or stew, a friend sent me a recipe for baked sweet onion dip that is simply too delicious not to share.     Soup, stew, gumbo or chili – however you want to categorize them is fine with me. Just don’t let Souptember pass you by without trying at least one of these delicious dishes. No Chopping Needed Crockpot Chicken Taco Soup 1 cup mild salsa 1 small onion, diced fine 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained OR 15 ounce can pinto beans, rinsed and drained 15 ounce can corn, drained 14.5 ounce can petite diced tomatoes 3 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning, or store-bought 2 cups low sodium chicken broth 1-pound boneless skinless chicken breasts 8-ounce block cream cheese Optional toppings: cilantro, plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, grated cheese, avocado, green onion, tortilla chips      Place salsa, black beans or pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning and chicken broth in slow cooker. Stir to combine. Place chicken into the slow cooker and completely cover it with the liquid and other ingredients.     Cover and cook on low for 6 hours. Remove chicken and shred or cut into bite-size pieces. Stir chicken back into the soup, then add divided bar of dream cheese, stirring to combine. Cover and cook several more minutes until cream cheese is thoroughly melted. Stir well and serve with additional toppings, if desired.     Serve with toppings as desired. Sweet Onion Baked Dip 2 sweet onions, diced 2 cups mayonnaise 16 ounces shredded Swiss cheese Salt and ground black pepper to taste ¼ cup mozzarella cheese for topping      Preheat oven to 400 degrees and lightly grease an 8" x 8" baking dish. In a medium bowl, mix the first five ingredients together until fully incorporated. Transfer the mixture to the baking dish, spread with a spatula and top with mozzarella cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Remove from the oven. Serve warm with crackers or chips.

Special to The Bolton News St. Mark’s Episcopal Church is inviting the community to its inaugural event for the new quarterly Arts and Lecture Series on Thursday, October 23, at 6:30 p.m., located at 205 W. Main Street, Raymond, MS 39154. This first program, cosponsored by Friends of Raymond, will center on a 30-minute video that chronicles the history of the organization and its dedicated efforts to preserve the historic site of the Battle of Raymond, a significant Civil War location. The video, produced in collaboration with Thaxton Studios, showcases the meticulous excavation, research, and documentation that went into protecting and interpreting the site, offering a compelling look at both historical preservation and storytelling. After the video screening, attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a question-and-answer session with Brigadier General (ret.) Parker Hills, who will provide insights and reflections on the history and significance of the Battle of Raymond. The evening will conclude with a reception at the parish hall, now named The Tullos House in honor of Isla and Max Tullos, longtime supporters and contributors to St. Mark’s. The Tullos House, located on Oak Street just down the hill from the church, provides a welcoming space for attendees to connect and discuss the program. Friends of Raymond was founded in 1998 as a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving, managing, educating, and interpreting Raymond’s history and historical sites. Over the past 25 years, the group has played a pivotal role in safeguarding the community’s Civil War heritage, ensuring that future generations can learn about and appreciate the Battle of Raymond. The organization’s ongoing work includes site preservation, educational programs, historical research, and community outreach. This program offers an enriching experience for history enthusiasts, students, educators, and anyone interested in the story of Raymond. Admission to the event is free, and all members of the community are encouraged to attend to learn more about the city’s history and the efforts to preserve it for generations to come.

This article is written by Lora Delohm. Editor of our sister papers, The Leland Progress.   It was funded by a grant from Press Forward.      Leland Public School, pictured above, remains a cornerstone of the community as Mississippi debates school choice. In February 2025, the district earned a Lighthouse School Leader Torch Award — a sign of what’s possible for rural schools.   Mississippi could see a school-choice special session within weeks. Governor Tate Reeves has not ruled out calling lawmakers to take up school choice, and House Speaker Jason White has signaled the House is drafting an “education freedom” package. In the Delta, the question isn’t whether to adopt national models, but whether we can design a system rooted in Mississippi values — one that centers families, community schools and real access. Across the region, families already piece together learning, because many services aren’t available in one place. The crux is whether the state can expand access without draining the small-town schools that hold rural communities together.  The debate has become one of Mississippi’s most contested, with lawmakers, advocates and educators split over what it means for families and local districts. Supporters frame the issue around flexibility and empowerment. Grant Callen, CEO of Empower Mississippi, said education freedom “is about so much more than NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores,” arguing that “children are unique, parents have the primary responsibility to guide their education, and education is too personal to be centrally managed from the top-down” (Empower Mississippi). Others warn the approach could weaken small districts. Erica Jones, president of the Mississippi Association of Educators, said her group believes “the idea of taking taxpayer money intended for a public school and sending it off with a student to support a private school is wrong and will be detrimental to the future of Mississippians and our state’s economy.” Rev. Jessie King, superintendent of the Leland School District, said he worries that school choice without accountability could fracture rural education. “Choice risks creating two educational systems with unlevel playing fields,” King said. “If public dollars follow students, there must be clear accountability. Private schools should not receive public funds without showing educational results and meeting the same physical and instructional standards.” King said those standards include ADA compliance, safe and accessible facilities such as labs and federal IDEA requirements for students with disabilities.   HISTORICAL CONTEXT   In 1969, the U.S. Supreme Court ordered immediate desegregation in Mississippi, ending years of delay and sparking a swift rise in private “segregation academies.” Leland became an early integration model — later chronicled in PBS’s The Harvest — but, by the 1990s, enrollment had resegregated, as private options grew and the farm economy shrank. Nearby Cleveland illustrates the limits of lighter remedies: in 2016, a federal judge ordered consolidation after finding racially identifiable secondary schools. Cleveland Central opened the next year. The lesson is structural — design and enforcement shape who learns together and who opts out.   BRIDGE   Mississippi’s trajectory has improved—early-literacy gains, record graduation and new funding rules that steer dollars by need. In 2024, HB 4130 replaced the Mississippi Adequate Education Program (MAEP) with the Mississippi Student Funding Formula—an enrollment-based, weighted system (low-income/concentrated-poverty, English learners, special education tiers, career and technical education (CTE), gifted, rural-sparsity) with a short hold-harmless and the familiar ‘28 mills or 27%’ local-share cap.   WHERE WE ARE NOW  A decade ago, Mississippi trailed on national tests; today, fourth-grade reading sits above the national average, and math is on par. Graduation has reached a record high, even as broader state scorecards still flag pay, per-pupil spending and readiness gaps. Leland Public School District shows what’s possible when small districts get the right support: in 2025, 100 percent of Leland’s third graders passed both math and English language arts on the Mississippi Academic Assessment Program (MAAP) assessment — a milestone that places Leland among the top performers in the state and signals that Mississippi’s early-literacy and numeracy reforms are taking hold in rural hubs. Nearby Cleveland offers another example: Hayes Cooper Center is a U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon magnet with a long-standing balance goal, and recent cohorts include rural winners from Rankin, Harrison, Hancock, Lowndes and Tippah.   CHARTER SCHOOLS IN THE DELTA  Mississippi’s experiment with public charters has reached the Delta in three locations: Clarksdale Collegiate in Coahoma County, Leflore Legacy Academy in Greenwood, and the newly-approved Mississippi Global Academy in Bolivar County, which is serving fourth to fifth grade this year. Clarksdale Collegiate now serves about 580 students and Leflore Legacy about 225, showing steady growth since founding. State law vests chartering power in the Mississippi Charter School Authorizer Board, meaning new schools enter through a statewide process with a performance contract and oversight. Local board consent is required only in higher-rated districts. After years of slow growth, the board has approved Mississippi’s first charter high school in Clarksdale and a second in Jackson — signaling charters are poised to play a larger role in the state’s K–12 landscape.   GEOGRAPHY MATTERS   While statewide debate often centers on Jackson and other metro areas where charters cluster and commuting options are broader, the Delta reality is different: choice has to work with geography and daily life. “I do not want to drive to Cleveland for everything multiple times a day — and I’m a stay-at-home mom,” one Leland parent said. “I want my life to be here in Leland.” That practical reality keeps many families enrolled in nearby private schools in Greenville or Arcola, in their local public district or homeschooling — not because they oppose new models, but because they want to stay rooted in their own community. Capacity is rarely the limiting factor; most people want a combination of geography, community and quality. “It’s not about open seats. It’s about bodies,” the parent added. Rural schools need more people and more specialized teachers to thrive. Local private schools often support vouchers as a way to stabilize enrollment, while many homeschool families prefer no vouchers at all, to remain independent from state oversight. “My kids went to Washington School, and I just felt so blessed to have this sweet school as an option for our family,” said a former Washington School parent, underscoring how Greenville-area private schools are woven into Leland’s community life. Parents also weigh program quality: “I have one child in private school now, but I am looking into the public magnet on Delta State’s campus, because I’ve heard it is better for high achievers and gifted students,” said a Bolivar County parent. Another added, “I have heard Indianola Academy has an inclusion program, and I wish that was available here in Cleveland,” pointing to how program availability — not just space — drives family decisions.    ENROLLMENT MATH IN SMALL DISTRICTS In rural districts, every student counts. If five students leave, the budget tightens. If ten go, a teacher gets cut — that’s the math that matters. Even small enrollment shifts can force staffing changes and eliminate courses. Policy choices will need funding guardrails and transparent reporting to keep small districts stable. Teacher advocates say that if Mississippi adopts Education Savings Accounts (ESA) or vouchers, lawmakers must include protections to keep rural schools viable. “Top three protections you’d put in any Education Savings Account bill for rural districts? An additional pay for those teaching in rural districts, housing assistance as a recruitment/retention tool, and partnership with a college to assist with receiving advance degrees,” said Darein Spann, president of the Mississippi Association of Educators. INNOVATION—NOT IMITATION  Without careful design, school choice won’t automatically help Delta families. Many specialized services — gifted, dyslexia, twice-exceptional (2E) and autism supports — simply don’t exist nearby. A voucher can change the setting without fixing the fit. Education researchers say one option is to build new choices inside rural districts, rather than pulling students away from them. Possible strategies include district-run STEM/STEAM magnets and lab schools, on-campus service contracts for occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, dyslexia therapy, or applied behavior analysis, and targeted scholarships tied to small K–3 class-size pilots — provided transportation, fair admissions, and public reporting are built in, so access is real on a rural map. Local leaders note that Leland is uniquely positioned to pilot this approach. The school board has expressed openness to magnets and specialized programs that could attract and retain families — including researchers stationed at nearby Stoneville labs. “We will support it, as long as it is a part of the public school and the recruiting is equitable,” said Darein Spann, president of the Mississippi Association of Educators. Studies note that well-designed magnets can stabilize enrollment by drawing students in, rather than letting them exit (National Center for Education Statistics, 2023). A pilot magnet or lab school here could test STEM integration, 2E supports and small-class K–3 interventions modeled on Tennessee’s Project STAR — a landmark randomized study showing significant gains in reading, math, graduation rates and adult earnings for students assigned to classes of 13–17 students (Krueger & Whitmore, 2000; Chetty et al., 2011). Parents say they would welcome more options tailored to advanced learners. “My daughter is in private school, but I would ideally like a gifted program option with a project-based curriculum,” said one Washington County parent. Teacher recruitment is another key factor. With Mississippi ranking near the bottom nationally for teacher pay, advocates say the state will need to compete for STEM and high-needs teachers, especially for rural areas. Arkansas set a $50,000 minimum statewide, Tennessee is phasing to $50,000 by 2026, Florida targets $47,500 for starters and Texas routes five-figure stipends to high-needs and rural classrooms through its Teacher Incentive Allotment (Arkansas Dept. of Education, 2024; Tennessee DOE, 2024; Florida DOE, 2023; Texas TEA, 2024). Mississippi can stay competitive by pairing a Consumer Price Index (CPI)-South Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) with stackable STEM and rural shortage supplements in Delta districts, while expanding the state’s $6,000 National Board bonus (MDE, 2025) and teacher residency program. Lawmakers could go further by creating a Louisiana-style yearlong paid residency that places new teachers full-time with trained mentors while they complete coursework and by building an alternate licensure path for content experts that converts to a full license after two to three years of mentored teaching. Spann emphasized that any plan must also simplify certification: “Investments in them. The pay has to be there. Teachers can’t be jumping through hoops to obtain certifications,” he said, calling for streamlined licensure and funded residencies to grow local STEM teachers. WHAT’S AT STAKE Most analysts agree that the question isn’t whether school choice is coming to Mississippi — it’s what form it takes. If a teacher-pay raise is bundled, passage is likely. Any ESA design will also face legal scrutiny under Mississippi’s constitution, which restricts public funds to “free schools” and bars sectarian support. The design will decide who gains or loses in rural communities: metro-style plans or consolidation can lengthen bus rides, thin out teams and erode the Friday-night-lights hub that holds small towns together. “Public-to-private choice doesn’t just affect budgets — it affects property values and community stability,” King said. “When taxpayers believe they are subsidizing outsiders, local support for funding and bond issues erodes. In 2023 and 2024, 31.3 percent of our local district budget came from local taxes, so protecting that investment is critical.” King also warned that a market-driven approach could distort high school athletics. “We have seen in other states how school choice can turn students into commodities,” he said. “The Mississippi High School Activities Association must retain control of athletic eligibility, so competitive balance isn’t lost.” A rural-ready plan should strengthen hub schools, not siphon them, by building choices as services — district magnets, shared courses and on-campus therapies — with three guardrails: a short hold-harmless for small districts, transportation guarantees so access is real, and transparent reporting on enrollment and services. Leland has the ingredients — strong teachers, committed families and university/Stoneville partners — to pilot that model for the Delta. With the right support, Leland can be a blueprint, not just for its own children but for Mississippi’s future. For lawmakers, the lesson is clear: any ESA bill paired with a teacher-pay raise must include rural guardrails — short hold-harmless windows, transportation funding and service guarantees — so communities like Leland can keep thriving even as parents gain new options. FINAL NOTE: THE PATCHWORK IS REAL At the heart of this debate is letting families choose what works for their child. In the Delta, that often means a patchwork of public, private and supplemental learning — so the goal is to expand options without unraveling the community school that anchors the town. This coverage is supported by a grant from Press Forward Mississippi, part of a nationwide philanthropic effort to reinvigorate local news.

By Bob Garver Poster credit IMDB A popular criticism I’ve heard about “The Smashing Machine” is that it tries too hard to subvert expectations. I assume that this is a reference to the way the film follows mixed martial artist Mark Kerr (Dwayne Johnson) on his journey not to a major win, but to his first professional loss. The film is building to a milestone in Kerr’s life that may not be pleasant, but is undeniably important. But I came out of the film more concerned about another expectation the film subverted: the expectation that it not put me to sleep. The film opens in 1997 with Kerr’s professional debut in a tournament in Brazil. College prodigy Kerr is a hulking, polished beast who makes short work of his shlubby opponents to win the tournament. He goes on to enjoy success in the early days of the Ultimate Fighting Championship before finding steady work in Japan’s Pride promotion. And he never experiences a loss. He tells an interviewer that he can’t even wrap his head around the concept of a loss. The easy joke would be to say that he can’t wrap his head around a lot of things, but I’ll be nice and say that he means this as a motivational tactic. In between fights, we learn about Kerr’s personal life. He has a girlfriend named Dawn (Emily Blunt) and a best friend in fellow fighter Mark Coleman (Ryan Bader). He also has a drug problem, with an addiction to prescription painkillers. Perhaps more alarmingly, he has emotional and psychological issues. He’s liable to break things when angry, as one might expect, but he’s also likely to break down crying, which might be another one of those expectations that the film subverts. When it seems he’s lost a fight midway through the film, he undignifiedly (though not without a legitimate point) complains about the officiating until the loss is taken off his record. The film builds to the biggest tournament of Kerr’s life at the 2000 Pride Grand Prix. Will he earn yet another win and the all-important first loss will come later? Will he lose to his opponent from the controversial earlier fight? Will he lose to Coleman, who has been on a hot streak lately? Or will he lose to some presumed jobber in the first round? It’s possible, given how distracted he is over a fight with Dawn. It was an incredibly stupid fight and I’ve never been more sure that a character holding a gun isn’t going to fire it, but it wouldn’t be the first time someone had a serious breakdown over something stupid. At the center of the film is Johnson’s performance, which has been built up as Oscar-worthy. It’s… fine. He’s obviously put a lot of discipline into the physical aspects of the role (he’s more buff here than he ever was in his WWE days), and he’s willing to go to places emotionally that he doesn’t usually go in his more popcorn-y fare. But I don’t see an Oscar in Johnson’s future here, for two reasons. 1) the movie has been a disappointment at the box office, whether or not it’s fair to blame that Taylor Swift “launch party” for stealing its audience, and 2) the movie is incredibly boring. How did a movie that takes place in the bone-crunching world of MMA, starring an actor as exciting as Dwayne Johnson, and directed by Benny Safdie, one half of the team that brought us the 135-minute anxiety attack that was “Uncut Gems” get to be so boring? That’s the subversion of expectations that kills this movie, not anything it does with the story, but just the insistence that Mark Kerr is so inherently interesting that it’s a treat to see him so much as get groceries. “The Smashing Machine” was clearly made by people with a lot of reverence for Kerr, but the movie doesn’t make me see why I should have the same reverence. Grade: C “The Smashing Machine” is rated R for language and some drug abuse. Its running time is 123 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at  rrg251@nyu.edu .

Special to The Bolton News Agenda for the October 7, 2025 MBOA Bolton city leaders met Tuesday, October 7, 2025, in the Meeting Room at City Hall, located at 202 Bolton Raymond Road, to discuss matters shaping the community. The Mayor and Board of Aldermen reviewed ongoing projects, addressed city operations, and considered updates from various departments. During the meeting, officials discussed upcoming improvements to local roads, maintenance plans for public facilities, and enhancements to community services. Budget updates were also presented, highlighting the city’s efforts to allocate resources effectively while supporting essential programs. The board also addressed initiatives aimed at promoting public safety and infrastructure development, including updates on utility services and planning for future city improvements. Officials emphasized their focus on creating a safe, well-managed, and thriving environment for all residents, while encouraging the public to remain engaged with city governance. The Mayor and Board of Aldermen invited residents to attend future meetings to stay informed about ongoing projects and decisions impacting Bolton, reaffirming the city’s dedication to open communication and active community participation.

Send responses to: andybowman839@gmail.com You know you stepped in it. Big time. Didn’t really mean to do it, but it happened. Now your spouse is hurt and angry. And they are not really waiting breathlessly to hear your apology – they’re way past that. Seeing you hanging by your bleeding ears from a dead tree in the middle of the Sahara Desert more likely fits their emotional need at this point. The last things you need to do at this point is to rush into your “I am sorry. I really am. I’ll try not to ever do, or say, or behave that way again.” Whatever fits at the time. Your hurting spouse is likely to feel like spitting your words into a nearby old filthy tin can as soon as they fall from your lips. Because quick apologies, with no real thought or self-realization behind them, feel worthless and self-serving to the one you hurt. Those kinds of apologies can likely be taken by your spouse as just an escape, a rapid way for you to deescalate the dangerous situation you feel is barreling your way. And too often can result in the same old action on your part happening again. Simply because you didn’t take time to feel and think. Do your relationship a huge favor. Stop and think. Put yourself in your spouse’s shoes. Let yourself realize how your actions or words could have been taken by the one on the receiving end. Deliberately let yourself feel the likely pain that you have inadvertently – or deliberately – caused. Of course, that’s not easy. You said what you said, because at the time, you meant every word. You spewed exactly what you were feeling, and there is no way you now want to take the time to see and feel the viewpoint of the other person. Totally human and natural way to approach a quarrel. We always see ourselves as holding the high ground and our spouse as wallowing around somewhere slightly below our lofty position. Basically, our unsaid position is this:  “You caused me to cause this problem between us. If you had not done so-and-so, or said what you did, I would not have reacted the way I did.” Yep, a totally human and natural way. Of damaging your relationship. Is it worth it? Is holding your defenses shining high and dry on the battle field, so that you don’t have to feel the sting of remorse – is it really worth the long-term damage to what you should hold dear? Better to retreat for a little while and rethink your strategy to include seeing the war from your spouse’s side of things. And then approach the dry barren field between you with a true heartfelt apology. One that lets your spouse know that the words they are hearing have real meaning, instead of a cheap way for you to avoid experiencing repercussions. And then make yourself follow up your mouth with your actions.

Diwali, often referred to as the "Festival of Lights", is a celebration of joy, hope, and togetherness observed by millions around the world. Diwali holds deep cultural and spiritual significance, symbolizing the triumph of  light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is not only celebrated by Hindus, but by people of various religious and cultural backgrounds, uniting communities through vibrant traditions,  spiritual reflection, and shared festivities. This year, the Diwali celebration at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Jackson MS will highlight the theme of unity, inviting communities to come together to honor shared values, cultural heritage, and spiritual reflection. BAPS welcomes the public to join in the festivities and experience the vibrant traditions of Diwali. Who:  BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Jackson MS What:  Diwali Celebration When:  Saturday Oct 25, 2025. 1:00 PM-4:00 PM Where:  BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, 2390 Greenway Dr, Jackson MS 39204 Key highlights of the celebration include: Radiant Mandir Decorations: Visitors will be greeted by colorful lights, handcrafted décor, and intricate rangoli designs that reflect the rich artistic traditions of India. Annakut Offering: A central feature of Diwali, the Annakut will display hundreds of vegetarian dishes arranged as a symbol of gratitude and devotion. Exhibition on this year’s theme “Where there is unity, there is light.” Parking and Entry : Free This celebration provides an opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together, celebrate unity, and share in the joy and warmth of Diwali. For more inquiry, contact: Nayan Mehta, Outreach Admin, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Jackson. 630-670-8877 / legacynayan@gmail.com

Special to The Bolton News Downtown Bolton is gearing up for a night of festive fun as High Horse of Bolton presents the fourth annual Trunk or Treat on Tuesday, October 21, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. This community event has quickly become a favorite local tradition, bringing families, friends, and neighbors together for an evening filled with Halloween spirit. Guests can look forward to an exciting mix of decorated trunks, plenty of candy, and creative costumes lining the streets of downtown. Local food and drink vendors will be on-site, offering a variety of treats to enjoy while taking in the spooky atmosphere. “Trunk or Treat is all about bringing the community together in a fun and safe way,” said Dyamone White, owner and operator of The High Horse: Bite and Beverage Barn of Bolton. “Every year it grows a little more, and it’s amazing to see how much creativity and excitement people put into it.” With its mix of ghosts, goodies, and good company, Bolton’s Trunk or Treat promises to deliver another memorable evening of Halloween fun. Families are encouraged to come out, dress up, and enjoy the magic of the season right in the heart of their town. Those who wish to participate but do not have a trunk to decorate can still be part of the fun by donating candy or other goodies to Bolton City Hall, located at 202 Bolton Raymond Road.  For more information, contact Dyamone White at 601-473-5113 or by email at dyamone@highhorsebolton.com .