French Camp Today Summer 2024

TODAY

Volume LXIX No.2 www.frenchcamp.org SUMMER 2024

In this Issue: • From the Inside Out • Graduation 2024 • A Place to Learn

French Camp Academy, a Christ-centered home and school, exists to serve young people and families for the glory of God.

2 • French Camp TODAY SUMMER 2024

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From the Inside Out

By Sheila Stone

Too soon the meal was over, and each went to some other activity.

“Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is They learn a work ethic in home life which is necessary for every phase old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6 French Camp is a training ground; every aspect is a part of an intricate jigsaw puzzle that, in pieces, can be quite incomprehensible, but put together, form the whole. It is the whole child that is considered here.

Each piece is added with care and with prayer and as the pieces fit together for the individual, they coalesce, making a larger picture, one on a bigger scale. Each child is carefully prepared for whatever will meet him outside these sheltered grounds.

His/her life will become an echo that will trace its origins back to French Camp as it bounces over the hills and across the valleys of life again and again.

Each period of every day, from rising at 6:30 am to bedtime at 9:30 pm, is bent toward training warriors against the world and ombudsmen (representatives) for Christ. The stuff of life, which each one of us struggles in the various seasons of life, is addressed and confronted on a daily basis in the homes as well as the classrooms.

As I sat at a dinner table of ten girls, ages 7-18, they were like many others I personally have taught. This group was a mini United Nations—black, white, even yellow—but a group sharing a meal with a stranger. At first, that’s what I was—a stranger who had invaded their home and was eating at their table. The resident dog, beggar that she was, broke the ice. As the girls began to view me as human, a young seventh grader came and flung her arms around me in an unexpected gesture of love. That’s exactly what each child here needs and that’s exactly what French Camp strives to do.

Whether it be in the classroom, on the playing field or in the homes, lessons are presented with love. Christ taught us to love Him because He first loved us. When we do, we are teaching our students to count all things joy.

In this way each child at French Camp will come to know that he/she is bound in the swaddling clothes of eternal love.

of daily life. Two were on cleanup; two had prepared the meal; the others were free to play in the remaining daylight hours. Two were practicing softball pitches in the yard; one was practicing for cheerleader tryouts; and the house parents had settled on the sofa in the living room to give me a glimpse of the rest of “their” girls’ day. It was an ordinary family night with the dog coming in and out looking for an easy handout. Some of these girls have come from situations far removed from such normalcy.

Here they find life is not only normal in the home, but in every part of daily living. At lunch today, a senior who had become accustomed to the normalcy at French Camp for three years, told me of her plans for the future. This year she’s finishing her academic career with botany, trigonometry, English, and choral music. This may be her favorite because the choral director has taught her to read the notes. In a manner of speaking, she has learned a second language. She plans to study to teach elementary school age and her years at French Camp have already laid the most important foundation.

Each day French Camp is prayed over and played out with care. Each student comes to us wrapped as a gift from God. They become those echoes that trace their origins back to French Camp as they bounce again and again over the hills and valleys of future lives.

These echoes will always remind them of this special place where Christ was made known and made real to them.

I was reminded of this as I ate a delicious breakfast at the French Camp Bed and Breakfast Inn with two ladies who had become friends at French Camp 52 years ago. They still hear those echoes! v

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French Camp TODAY SUMMER 2024 • 3

President's Perspective

French Camp TODAY

Greater Things

On Saturday, May 4, French Camp Academy recognized 6 staff for their 30 plus years of service. It was a beautiful day and we were pleased with a great turn out of family and friends to “give honor to whom honor is due.”

the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. How could anyone F. Stewart Edwards, Jr. do greater things than Jesus you might ask? Jesus was telling them that when He departs from this world He would send a helper—the Holy Spirit. No longer would His people walk in darkness, but they would be guided from the inside by the Spirit of God Himself! It is by this indwelling work of God in His servants that they would be able to do even greater things because God was making Himself known not only through the one, but now through the many.

For two of these recipients, their dedication far surpassed the initial requirement of 30 years. John Robert Cockrell started in 1960 with Margie Newman not far behind in 1963! To put some perspective on this incredible dedication, the price of bread in 1960 was 16¢, milk 31¢, and the average light bill was under $15. John F. Kennedy was elected president and later assassinated in 1963. Chubby Checker performed his first dance and called it “the twist,” the Beetles had their first public performance, Elvis Presley was proAs we celebrate these servants’ large investments, I moted to Seargent in the Army, Hawaii was added to pray it will inspire you as it did me to reflect on my the flag as the 50th state, and Ted Williams retired after life’s call. Are we investing in the “greater things” that hitting his 521st home run for the Boston Red Sox. change eternity? Do we really believe God can use us in changing the course of a life? Am I asking the Lord Here, at French Camp, there was no football team, daily to show me what He wants me to be doing? If no promise of a paycheck, with the fields full of peas, we believe God at His word and trust Jesus for our etercorn, and hay. There were cows to be milked, chickens nal security, why wouldn’t we trust Him in the smaller to be fed, and hogs to be slopped. There were also lots day to day opportunities that come our way? May we of children and staff to be fed. These were hard times all be found resting in the complete and finished work but good times for trusting the Lord and His faithful- of Christ for our salvation and be diligent in the work ness. that we have yet to do in building His Kingdom.

In 1961, after completing his eleventh year of reIf you’re looking for a verse—this is the one that was storing and building back, the beloved President Sam on the framed picture.

Patterson would suffer a heart attack, but thankfully, after a respite of recovery, resumed his work at French Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “AnyCamp Academy until taking the helm of the Reformed one who wants to be first must be the very last, and the Theological Seminary (RTS) he founded in 1966. servant of all.” —Mark 9:35 These dear ones who served so faithfully for so long carried in their hearts the “greater things.” Jesus, in speaking to His closest friends before His death, said this—Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in Me will do

French Camp TODAY (USPS 210-100) is published quarterly in March, June, September and December each year by French Camp Academy, a non-profit, tax-exempt organization. Periodical postage paid at Hattiesburg, MS and all additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to French Camp TODAY, One Fine Place, French Camp, MS 39745-9703.

There is no subscription charge for French Camp TODAY; it is financed by voluntary contributions from friends of the Academy and is printed by Roberson Advertising Services LLC, Bogalusa, LA. Graphics/photographs/text by FCA staff and students. The mailing list of French Camp TODAY is confidential and is not shared with other organizations.

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Reporting in French Camp TODAY is intended to inform readers of the life and work of French Camp Academy, a Christ-centered home and school serving young people and their families for the glory of God. French Camp Academy is accredited by the State Department of Education, Jackson, MS. We desire to hear from you. Please direct correspondence to Lance Ragsdale, Vice President of Development.

French Camp Academy One Fine Place French Camp, MS 39745-9703 662-547-6482 or 662-547-9464 www.frenchcamp.org BOARD OF TRUSTEES Sharkey Burke..................................Brandon Scott Castleman..................... Ocean Springs Vivian Farris....................................... Oxford Glenn Galey................................ Hattiesburg Toxey Hall III..................................... Canton G. Carey Hauenstein........................... Laurel Lee Lampton, Vice Chair.................. Jackson Chuck McBride................................Madison Brooks Mosley, Secretary................. Jackson Tommy Peaster...................................... Flora Hugh Potts, Jr., Chair......................... Oxford F. Stewart Edwards, Jr., FCA President

Mission Statement

French Camp Academy, a Christcentered home and school, exists to serve young people and families for the glory of God.

Circle of Honor from left to right: Glen Barlow (also honoring Debbie Barlow), Carolyn Akers (honoring Russ Akers), John Robert Cockrell, Margie Newman and Bruce Hosket. The total number of years of service for these faithful servants is 268!

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Winter Bassett

Caitlynn Bingham

Dylan Black

Eden Box

Emalee Browning

James Cantey

Allie Chesser

B.J. Chesteen

Reese Churchill

Patrick Collins

Lily Courtney

Ellie Develin

Noah Dew

Martha Ferguson

Winter Bassett

James Cantey

Winter attended FCA for three and a half James attended FCA for five years as a years as a residential student in Cook Home. residential student in Taylor Home. He She is the niece of Chad and Carla Bassett of is the son of David and Jeanna Cantey of Laurel, MS. After high school she plans to Collierville, TN. After high school he plans attend Delta State University and major in to take a gap year and figure out what he elementary education.The staff members that wants to do with his life. The staff member influenced her the most are Mrs. Mooney, who influenced him the most is Mr. Martin Mrs. Akers, and Ms. Bentley. They all taught because he taught him how to be a man of her many life lessons. responsibility.

Caitlynn Bingham

Allie Chesser

there to talk and encouraged him to stay true in his faith.

*Lily Courtney

Lily attended FCA for six years as a day student. She is the daughter of Paul and Heather Courtney of Ackerman, MS. After high school she plans to attend Mississippi State University and major in pre-pharmacy.

The staff member who influenced her the most is Mr. Chesteen because he made learning history fun.

high school she plans to attend Union University to pursue a career in dentistry.

The staff member who influenced her the most is Coach Watkins. He impacted not only her running but her growth as a student.

Silas Hodge Silas attended FCA for six years as a residential student in Day Home and as a day student. He is the son of Adam and Jill Hodge of Cleveland, TN. After high school he plans to pursue ministry. The staff members who influenced him the most are Mr. and Mrs. Hosket. They helped model and shape him into the man he is today.

Caitlynn attended FCA for six years as a Allie attended FCA for six years as a day Ellie Develin day student. She is the daughter of Ricky student. She is the daughter of Todd and Ellie attended FCA for five years as a day and Lesa Bingham of Kilmichael, MS. After Laura Chesser of Mathiston, MS. After high student. She is the daughter of Justin and high school Caitlynn plans to attend Holmes school she plans to attend Mississippi State Gina Develin of Kosciusko, MS. After high Community College to pursue a degree in University to major in Early Elementary school she plans to attend Mississippi State Sarah Lane nursing. The staff member who influenced Education. The staff members who University to major in marketing. The staff Sarah has attended FCA for three and a half her the most is Mrs. Chesser because she influenced her the most are Mrs. Martin, member who influenced her the most is Mr. years as a day student. She is the daughter of always encouraged her to do her best.

Mrs. Chesser, and Miss Serio because they Chesteen because he taught her so much and Steve and Donna Lane of French Camp, MS. showed her how to be a Proverbs 31 woman.

After high school she plans to attend Holmes made history fun.

Dylan Black Community College and study to become Dylan attended FCA for six years as a B.J. Chesteen Noah Dew an ultrasound technician. The staff member day student. He is the son of Daryle and B.J. attended FCA for six years as a day Noah attended FCA for six years as a day who influenced her the most is Mrs. Martin Jennifer Black of French Camp, MS. After student. He is the son of Billy and Lee student. He is the son of Benjamin and Tara because she was a constant encourager. high school he plans to attend trade school Anne Chesteen of French Camp, MS. After Dew of Kosciusko, MS. After high school he to become a diesel mechanic. The staff high school, he plans to attend Itawamba plans to attend Mississippi State University *Julia Littlejohn member who influenced him the most is Mr. Community College. The staff member who and major in Biomedical Engineering. The Julia attended FCA for six years as a day Chesteen because he made learning fun. influenced him the most is his mom, Mrs. staff member who influenced him the most student. She is the daughter of Mark and Chesteen. is Coach Wright. He coached him to be the Sara Littlejohn of French Camp, MS. After *Eden Box high school she is uncertain what she wants best athlete while helping him grow in his Eden attended FCA for six years as a day Reese Churchill to pursue but is trusting the Lord with walk with Christ. student. She is the daughter of Kevin and Reese attended FCA for two years as a day whatever He has planned. The staff members Tracie Box of French Camp, MS. After high student. He is the son of Kevin and Alison Martha Ferguson who influenced her the most are Coach and school she plans to attend Mississippi State Churchill of Santa Rosa Beach, FL. After Martha attended FCA for three years Mrs. Chesser because they loved her on and University. The staff member that influenced high school he plans to attend Mississippi as a day student. She is the daughter of off the sports field since 7th grade. her the most is Ms. Faith Lawson because State University and pursue a career in Chet and Sherri Ferguson of Zaima, MS. she was always there for her. finance. The staff member who influenced Stokes Loden After high school she plans to attend him the most is Mr. Throgmorton because Stokes attended FCA for five years as a day Hinds Community College for two years *Emalee Browning he showed him how to work hard in student. He is the son of Will and Leslee then finish her degree in Biochemistry Emalee attended FCA for six years as a whatever he does.

Loden of Kosciusko, MS. After high school at Mississippi State University. The staff day student. She is the daughter of Greg he plans to attend community college and member who influenced her the most is Mrs. and Carrie Browning from French Camp, Patrick Collins Martin because her class helped her come to major in psychology. The staff member who MS. After high school she plans to attend Patrick attended FCA for four years as a influenced him the most is Ms. Johnson Impact 360’s gap year program and then residential student in Barrett Home. He is know God. because she always pushed him to do his enroll in Mississippi College with a major the son of Chekith and Patrick Collins of *Averie Gundy best. in marketing communications. The staff Grenada, MS. After high school he plans Averie attended FCA for six years as a day member who influenced her the most is Mrs. to get his degree in landscaping. The staff *Allie McCoy student. She is the daughter of Paul and Ragsdale. member who influenced him the most is Allie attended FCA for six years as a day Annie Gundy of French Camp, MS. After Mr. Larry Mincher because he was always student. She is the daughter of Michael

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French Camp TODAY SUMMER 2024 • 5

Averie Gundy

Silas Hodge

Sarah Lane

Julia Littlejohn

Stokes Loden

Allie McCoy

Boston McCrory

John Moore

Brianna Page

Conner Privitt

Casen Shurden

Savannah Staszefski

Avery Summers

Mikayla Tew

Chloe Tharp

Emma Claire Thomas

Audrey Ugas

Maggie Ulerich

Kendall Williamson

Lacey Wilson-Ross

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

— Proverbs 22:6

pushed him to be the best he could be on and Christi McCoy from French Camp, attend Mississippi Gulf Coast Community Conner Privitt and off the field.

MS. After high school she plans to attend College to major in healthcare marketing Conner attended FCA for three years as a Mississippi State University and major in with a minor in interior design. The staff day student. He is the son of Tim and Leslie Mikayla Tew music. The staff member who influenced Privitt of Winona, MS. After high school he Mikayla attended FCA for five years as a day member who influenced her the most is Mrs. her the most is Ms. Bentley, because she was plans to attend Mississippi College. The staff O’Brien because she encouraged her to never student. She is the daughter of Ronald and always shining brightly for Jesus on good and member who influenced him the most is give up on school.

Tammy Tew of French Camp, MS. After bad days.

Mrs. Chesser because she acted like his mom. high school she plans to attend Holmes, then Maggie Ulerich

*Boston McCrory

transfer to Mississippi State University and Maggie attended FCA for six years as a staff Casen Shurden Boston attended FCA for four years as a day Casen attended FCA for five years as a day major in archaeology. The staff members who student. She is the daughter of Stephen student. She is the daughter of Bryant and influenced her the most are Mr. Chesteen and Erin Ulerich of French Camp, MS. student. He is the son of Curt and Taryn Monica McCrory from Kosciusko, MS. After Shurden of Mathiston, MS. After high and Mrs. Roberts.

After high school she plans to attend Blue high school she plans to attend college and school he plans to go to a community college Mountain Christian University and major in *Chloe Tharp major in mathematics. The staff member counseling and psychology. The staff member and get his welding certificate. The staff Chloe has attended FCA for six years as a who influenced her the most is Mrs. Becky member who influenced him the most is who influenced her the most is Mrs. Donald day student. She is the daughter of Jeff and Lawson because she is a constant encourager Coach Wright because he built his character because she always pointed her to God and Rachel Tharp of French Camp, MS. After and listener. showed her what true faith looks like. and made him disciplined. high school she plans to attend Holmes John Moore Community College, then transfer to Kendall Williamson Savannah Staszefski Mississippi State University to get a degree in Kendall has attended FCA for six years as a John attended FCA for six years as both a Savannah attended FCA for six years as a residential and day student. He is the son of day student. She is the daughter of John and elementary education. The staff member who day student. He is the son of Mark and Tracy John and Becky Moore from French Camp, Cindy Staszefski of French Camp, MS. After influenced her the most is Coach Rhodes Williamson of Kosciusko, MS. After high because he always went out of his way to talk school he plans to attend trade school and MS. After high school he plans to attend high school she plans to attend Holmes, Holmes and become a game warden. The get certified as a diesel mechanic. The staff then transfer to Mississippi State University to her and invest in her life. staff member who influenced him the most is and major in elementary education. The member who influenced him the most is Emma Claire Thomas Mr. Arrowood because he showed him how staff member who influenced her the most Mrs. Gundy because she always pushed him Emma Claire attended FCA for six years to live a good life. to be his best. is her dad, an FCA teacher. He is always a as a day student. She is the daughter of “listening ear” to anyone who needs it and he Brianna Page Patrick and Jennifer Thomas of French Lacey Wilson-Ross puts God first in every situation.

Brianna attended FCA for six years as a Camp, MS. After high school she plans Lacey has attended FCA for two years as a residential student in Griffin Home. She *Avery Summers is the daughter of Andrew and Stella Page Avery attended FCA for six years as a day of Tylertown, MS. After high school she student. He is the son of Lonny and Karla plans to attend the University of Southern Summers of Kosciusko, MS. After high Mississippi and earn a degree in criminal school he plans to study pre-med and go on justice. The staff member who influenced her to medical school for anesthesiology. The the most is Mrs. Cox because she was there staff member who influenced him the most throughout all her time at FCA. Her shining is Coach Wright because he instilled certain light and love of Jesus was constant and values into his life while playing sports and consistent.

to attend Mississippi State University. The residential student in Cook Home. She is staff member who influenced her the most the daughter of Doug and Susan Ross of is Coach Rhodes because he never failed to Memphis, TN. After high school she plans make her smile and is such a Godly example. to attend East MS Community College then transfer to Mississippi State University. The Audrey Ugas staff member who influenced her the most is Audrey has attended FCA for three years as a residential student in Cook Home. She is Mrs. Gundy because she always brightened the daughter of Brent and Tammy Harrel of her day and showed her what true joy is like.

Biloxi, MS. After high school she plans to

*Honor Graduates

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Teaching from a Christian Perspective When asked how he integrates a Christian world and life view in his math class, Mr. Joe Watkins, math teacher and cross country/track & field coach said this:

Israel did as recorded in Judges, when they did what was right in their own eyes. However, Romans 3:10 reminds us, there is no one righteous, not even one.

“During my 15 years of teaching math here The first thing that everyone should learn at FCA, I have seen more and more how math in math class is that our natural tendency is shows man’s sin nature and God’s consistency wrong, even when we intend to do right. If we and faithfulness. were capable of doing right all the time, then NO ONE would need to take math, because As a fallen people, when we are at our BEST, they wouldn’t err. They would do right. In fact, we might try to do what the people of ancient even after being shown what is right, it is still our natural tendency to follow our misconceptions, even when we mean to do right. Many wellintentioned students can still fail.

This continues to reaffirm that we should lean not on our own understanding.

bra, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Calculus the more we find more consistency, more faithfulness, more ways that simple truths are shown to be true over and over. Similarly, when we dive into the Word of God, we see the same deep truths shown and reaffirmed to be true over and over.”

Just as God is, Math is irrefutably true. 2+5=7. This is true not some of the time, but every day, every time, and this example just scratches the surface. The deeper we dive into the intricacies of Alge-

Pray that FCA teachers will continue to help young people grapple with the eternal truths mined from God’s Creation and His Holy Scriptures. We give God thanks and praise for all of our dedicated teachers and staff that continue to unfold the wonderful truths of God. v

School is Cool!

Staff Member Focus Ahna and Chris Mooney have dedicated the past five years to nurturing young lives as houseparents at Cook Home. They are blessed with three children: Adaleigh, Araylee, and Cross. As alumni of FCA—Ahna in 2010 and Chris in 2008—they felt a deep calling to impact the lives of adolescents.

Please keep their ministry to high school-aged girls in your prayers, as they generously impart their faith in Christ and life experiences.

Way to go Ahna and Chris! v Left: Chris and Ahna are pictured with their graduating seniors from Cook Home.

Find out more about employment opportunities at www.frenchcamp.org/contact#employment-panel

or scan QR code to explore more.

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French Camp TODAY SUMMER 2024 • 7

Junior Senior

Banquet 2024

FCA Art Club Students interested in the creative side of life had opportunities this year to participate in the new FCA Art Club sponsored by Mrs. Joy Martin, Bible teacher and Taylor Home house parent.

The goal of the Art Club is to showcase students’ God-given artistic abilities to foster vibrant visual culture at French Camp Academy.

Students enjoyed designing t-shirts, stickers, and hearing an interior design student from Mississippi State University talk about their program.

They even “Elf-bombed” Ms. JoAnn’s high school office at Christmas with paper snowflakes and lights! v

High School Chorus

Congratulations to our FCA SINGERS and accompanist Allie McCoy who received superior scores in sight-reading and performance recently at the Choral Art Festival!

Junior High School Chorus

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Congratulations to the 2024 Hall of Fame! From left to right: These two seniors are really going places!

Allie McCoy, Eden Box, Avery Summers, Silas Hodge, Em- Congratulations to Ms. and Mr. FCA: alee Browning, Boston McCrory and Averie Gundy.

Averie Gundy and Silas Hodge.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.— 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Boy Scouts Troop 109 Learning to Serve The local Scout Troop rolled up their sleeves in April to help clean-up and spruce up Rainwater Observatory just in time for MidSouth Star Gaze, an annual event hosted by Rainwater Observatory for amateur astronomers and astro-photographers. Camping sites were reorganized and they cleaned up debris from wind and storms. Many thanks to Boy Scout Troop 109! v

Check out this spectacular shot of the aurora taken by John Miele from Birmingham, Alabama here at Rainwater Observatory during the Star Gaze with our domes in the foreground!

What an absolutely glorious sight to behold! v This photo was taken by Jon Talbot at Rainwater Observatory during the Star Gaze!

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Congratulations 2024 Graduates

Graduation Photos courtesy of Michaela Parker

Boston McCrory, Valedictorian FCA Honor Graduates, from left to right: Avery Summers, Emalee Browning, Allie McCoy, Julia Littlejohn, Lily Courtney, Boston McCrory, and Averie Gundy, Salutatorian Averie Gundy, and Eden Box.

Averie Gundy has been named STAR Liv Gundy, FCA Junior, won st Student for the 2023-2024 school year 1 Alternate and Overall Scholastic by the Mississippi Economic Council Award at the Distinguished Women (MEC) Student Teacher Achievement of Choctaw County competition in Recognition (STAR) program. Hunter March. Way to go, Liv! McKnight was designated as STAR Teacher.

On February 21-23, Liv Gundy, Class of 2025, represented French Camp Academy and Choctaw County as a 4-County Electric Cooperative Youth Leadership Delegate at the ECM Cooperative Youth Workshop in Jackson.

Winning third place to achieve this honor, Liv was one of 17 candidates who submitted essays and participated in interviews. Liv heads to Washington, DC in June for the National Rural Electric Cooperation workshop.

These FCA staff members were recently honored in chapel for their full-time continuous service in five year increments.

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Athletic Team photos courtesy of Holly Wright

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Congratulations to Brennan McGlothin for winning his second straight Tennis State Championship.

(Pictured left with Coach Larry Mincher).

For the 4th year in a row, the FCA Girls Track team has won the State Championship! Congratulations!

An Education on the Field!

Spring athletics at French Camp Academy offer many opportunities for students to get involved. FCA competes against other schools in the MHSAA (Mississippi High School Activities Association). The spring sports we participate in are baseball, softball, tennis, and track and field.

FCA produces solid and competitive athletic teams. This spring each of our teams made it to post-season appearances. Our baseball and softball teams made it to the first round of the playoffs while tennis and track and field sent many individuals to the state finals. We attribute any successes in athletics to the goodness of the Lord as our student-athletes use their talents and hard work for His glory. v

Sports—Opportunities to Learn Here at French Camp Academy, athletics is a major part of the student experience. Coaches strive to not only teach and train our student-athletes in their respective sports but for something much greater—teaching and training them in the Truth. Our greatest desire is to share a living knowledge of our living God through sports. In addition, our athletic programs focus on integrity and accountability, work ethic, teamwork, resilience, and many other transferable life skills.

Scan the QR code to watch a video highlighting the FCA athletic program.

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French Camp TODAY SUMMER 2024 • 11

Learn About A ‘Life Income Gift’

A Family Legacy

You may be tired of living at the mercy of the fluctuating stock and real estate markets. If so, a Life Income Gift, otherwise known as a Charitable Gift Annuity, is a gift made to French Camp Academy that can provide you with a secure source of fixed payments for life.

Benefits of a Life Income Gift • Receive fixed payments to you or another annuitant you designate for life.

• Receive a charitable income tax deduction for the charitable gift portion of the annuity.

• Benefit from payments that may be partially tax-free.

• Further the charitable work of French Camp Academy with your gift.

How a Life Income Gift works • A Life Income Gift is a way to make a gift to support French Camp Academy.

• You transfer cash or property to French Camp Academy.

• In exchange, we contract with you to pay fixed payments to you for life. The payment can be quite high depending on your age, and a portion of each payment may even be tax-free.

• You will receive a charitable income tax deduction for the gift portion of the annuity.

• You also receive satisfaction knowing that you will be helping further our mission.

• If you decide to fund your Life Income Gift with cash, a significant portion of the annuity payment will be tax-free.

You may also make a gift of appreciated securities to fund a Life Income Gift and avoid a portion of the capital gains tax.

Please contact Lance Ragsdale at lragsdale@frenchcamp.org or call 662-547-6482 to explore the possibilities. v

Captain Daniel Braswell supports the mission of French Camp Academy because it changed the trajectory of his father’s life many years ago. Danny’s kind-hearted father was Rev. Buford Wallace Braswell, Jr. When Wallace was a little boy, his father walked out on his family. French Camp Academy was a place where he was able to grow, continue his education, and learn how to be a godly man. He rubbed shoulders and sat under the preaching of Rev. Sam Patterson who was also President of French Camp Academy. After graduating in 1955, Wallace set out on a journey that led to many accomplishments.

He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps when he was only 17. He advanced from Private to Sergeant and completed flight school to become a Naval Aviator and commissioned officer.

While serving our country in uniform for over 22 years, Wallace earned his high school diploma as well as his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He was combat wounded twice in Vietnam for which he was awarded two Purple Heart medals as well as a Bronze Star medal with Combat “V.” He and his wife have raised two children. He retired from the USMC as “Major.” Wallace, sensing a call into fulltime ministry, completed a seminary degree in Birmingham and served the church as Anglican priest.

When Captain Braswell looks back on his father’s life, he cannot help but feel inspired and a sense of loyalty to the One Fine Place who helped his father gain a foothold on a solid, faith-based foundation. v

An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.— Proverbs 18:15

Honor Gifts

Honor gifts show appreciation to a living person­–such as teachers, pastors, parents, etc., while helping students at FCA. To make an Honor Gift, you may use the form/envelope provided, designating the type of gift you are making. The honoree will be notified of your thoughtfulness. Amounts of gifts are never divulged.

January ANGLE, ANN P., Como, MS Mr. and Mrs. Robert Lynn Taylor BOWE, WELDON, Hoover, AL Mr. and Mrs. Ashton R. Hardy BRUTON, LEE AND GINGER, Oxford, MS Dr. and Mrs. Joe Donald Pegram CHASE, LINDA, Ridgeland, MS Ms. Dianne Barnette CHUCK BENTLEY FAMILY, French Camp, MS Mr. and Mrs. John Hutchinson CORLEY, NOVA, Hattiesburg, MS Mr. and Mrs. James E. Morris HOLMAN, GEORGE AND FRANCES Mr. and Mrs. James Stephenson HOWELL, ANN ROSE, Laurel, MS Mr. and Mrs. James E. Morris LITTLEJOHN, LARRY AND JERE’, French Camp, MS Mr. and Mrs. James E. Long KEMP, SAM AND MARY DEE Mrs. Jodi McNeese PEARSON, LAHLETE Mr. Gene Luster

SORENSEN, KEVIN, French Camp, MS Mr. Doug McAllaster STOWERS, PHIL, Henderson, NV Mrs. Candy Kyle WIMAN, REV. AND MRS. RICHARD, Belzoni, MS Mr. Gene Luster

February

ADAMS, TONY Ms. Ellen Wilson ALLEN, RUTH, Gallatin, TN Mr. and Mrs. Jack Alexander CHILDREN AT FRENCH CAMP Mr. Charlie Holland CHUCK BENTLEY FAMILY, French Camp, MS Mr. and Mrs. John Hutchinson ELLISON, SCOTTY, Ethel, MS Mrs. Polly Allen FLYNT, AIDEEN, Memphis, TN Mr. and Mrs. Richard B. Flynt HARTING, LISA KATHERINE, Flowood, MS The Lackey Foundation KITCHINGS, MR. AND MRS. TAYLOR, Ridgeland, MS Mr. and Mrs. John E. Shaw

LAMPKIN, BOBBY, Vera, OK Ms. Sharon E. Donovan LAMPKIN, BRIAN, Vicksburg, MS Ms. Sharon E. Donovan OWENSBY, NOAH, Grenada, MS Mr. Joey Clingan PRICE, EARL AND MELINDA, Kosciusko, MS Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Jenkins ROBERTS, TERRY, French Camp, MS Mr. and Mrs. Jordan Wright SHAW, MR. AND MRS. JOHN D., Oxford, MS Mr. and Mrs. John E. Shaw SORENSEN, KEVIN, French Camp, MS Mr. Doug McAllaster TOWNSEND, ANN, Columbus, MS Mr. and Mrs. Clyde L. Stokes WHEELER, MR. AND MRS. DOUG, Monroe, LA Mr. and Mrs. John E. Shaw WILLIFORD, EDWARD, Brookhaven, MS Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Dixon WILLOUGHBY, TRAVIS Mr. and Mrs. Mike Catchings

March ALLEN, POLLY, Ethel, MS Mr. Michael Joseph Quayle BOLER, JOE AND LYNELL, Birmingham, AL Mr. and Mrs. Charles Edgar Sentell CAIN, GERRY ANNETTE BELL, Ridgeland, MS Mrs. Polly Allen CATCHINGS, MATTHEW, Savoy, TX Mr. and Mrs. Mike Catchings CHILDREN AT FRENCH CAMP Mrs. Virginia M. Sutton Mr. Charlie Holland CURTIS, BOBBYE, Long Beach, MS Mr. and Mrs. Ricky Sinquefield EDWARDS, JR., F. STEWART, French Camp, MS Mrs. Goree’ D. Robins EDWARDS, STEWART AND REBECCA, French Camp, MS Mr. Samuel Clemons FAIR, III, DAVIS L., Oxford, MS Mr. and Mrs. Reginald L. Holley FLETCHER, WILLIE RAY, Kosciusko, MS Mr. and Mrs. James K. Williamson FLYNT, AIDEEN, Memphis, TN

Mr. and Mrs. Richard B. Flynt GOTTEN, JR., NICHOLAS, Memphis, TN Dr. and Mrs. Nicholas Gotten Jr. HOWELL, FAYE, Oxford, MS Ms. Gayle McGraw Ms. Fran Fuller Ms. Rossie McDougal HUFF, MADELINE Ananda Saytanar Foundation KEY, PATRICIA, Cordova, AL Mr. Joey Clingan MILLER, BETTY, Brandon, MS Mr. and Mrs. Larry Fulton RAGSDALE, LANCE AND ANNE KATHERINE, French Camp, MS Mr. Samuel Clemons STEWART, HELEN, Dallas, TX Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Scott Galyen STRAHAN, ROSE, Cleveland, MS Rev. James A. Breland THOMAS, TONY, French Camp, MS Mr. Michael Joseph Quayle THOMPSON, MARIA, Louisville, MS Mr. and Mrs. William McKinley

12 • French Camp TODAY SUMMER 2024

Memorial Gifts

www.frenchcamp.org

We strive to answer memorials and notify relatives as quickly and accurately as possible after they are received. When you send in a memorial, please include the name of the deceased, the complete address of the person you wish notified and your complete address. Important: IF YOU DO NOT INCLUDE A NAME and ADDRESS OF A RELATIVE OR FRIEND OF THE DECEASED, WE WILL BE UNABLE TO NOTIFY ANYONE OF YOUR GIFT. Follow the same procedure for honor gifts. (A blank form and envelope appear in this issue.)

January ABLES, SHIRLEY Mrs. Charlene E. Rone ALLEN, BERT, Oxford, MS Ms. Dorothy Allen ASHFORD, ESTER JEAN, French Camp, MS Mrs. Bonnie L. Black ATKINSON, DYER, Houston, MS Mr. and Mrs. Marty Warrington BELK, DORIS ANN HOOD Mr. and Mrs. William F. Lacey BESWICK, BRUCE, French Camp, MS Ms. Sybil Clark Ms. Jamie W. Senyard Mr. and Mrs. Willie M. Blaine Mrs. Regina Phillips BIGGERS, JR., NEAL B. Mr. and Mrs. William Lewis Jr. BREAZEALE, WILLIAM WESLEY, Kosciusko, MS Mrs. Linda P. Parkerson BROADFOOT, JR., WALTER MARION, Memphis, TN Mr. William A. Watts BROWN, ANDY, Flowood, MS Dr. and Mrs. William Franklin Sneed BROWN, HILLARY BROOKE ELLINGTON Mr. and Mrs. Larry Hardy BROWN, ROSEL SEIPP, Harlem, GA Mr. Edward L. Brown BURCHFIELD, SERRA, Pinson, AL Mr. and Mrs. Mike Catchings BURKE, REDA S., Wiggins, MS Mr. and Mrs. Jerry D. Hoover BYERS, LEE AND LOU ELLA Mr. and Mrs. George G. Byers CAMPBELL, JOSEPH COOPER AND VIRGINIA, Madison, MS Mr. and Mrs. James Michael Taylor CANALE, WARREN STEPHEN, Memphis, TN Mrs. Geri Graeber Pitts CANTRELL, JENNIE Mrs. Ann Bryan Jameson CHATHAM, JR., GERALD, Hernando, MS Mrs. Elizabeth Jenkins CLAY, JR., NATHAN Mr. and Mrs. John F. Phillips III COGGINS, HUBERT AND SADIE Mr. and Mrs. Frank E. Record COKER, KATHY ERICKSON, Yazoo City, MS Mrs. Martha W. Hogue COKER, MARGARET Ms. Carol Jones Alexander COOK, PATSY ANN, Jackson, MS Mr. Cyril Boyce Cook DIECKMAN, MARY ANN, Brandon, MS Mrs. Martha Godfrey Vance DRAPER, MAVIS REYNOLDS, Kosciusko, MS Mrs. Mary C. Sexton Mr. Rex H. Brunt Ms. Katie Lovelace Mr. and Mrs. Michael L. Nelson Judge and Mrs. John C. Love Jr. Mr. and Mrs. George R. Fair Mrs. Ygondine W. Sturdivant Mr. and Mrs. Harris F. Powers Jr. Dr. and Mrs. Joe Donald Pegram Mr. and Mrs. Henry Paris Mrs. Sara Burney Mize Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Cascio Mr. and Mrs. Reginald L. Holley Mr. and Mrs. James H. Briscoe EDEN, CHARLEY, Duck Hill, MS Mr. and Mrs. Robert Spraberry EDWARDS, JEFF, Duncan, MS Mrs. Vera B. Mullins ELLIOTT, JAMES ALLEN, Ridgeland, MS Mrs. Barbara P. Nick ELLISON, HOWARD CECIL, Ethel, MS Mr. and Mrs. William F. Lacey FATHER OF SARAI STORMENT, Mexico Dr. and Mrs. Alfred P. Chestnut GARRETSON, BARBARA, Brandon, MS Ms. Amanda Wigton GARRETSON, BOBBYE HARRIS, Brandon, MS Mr. and Mrs. Donald K. Shumaker GASTON, BEN, Indianola, MS Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Holley GILBERT, III, JAMES AUSTIN Ms. Charlene B. McGriff Mr. and Mrs. Alex Don Roberts Dr. and Mrs. Carey Johnston

GINN, MORRIS AND OPAL Mrs. Elizabeth McKinley Ms. Libby Johnson GODFREY, LARRY LEROY, Clinton, MS Mr. and Mrs. Mabry W. Linn GOWAN, JR., WILLIAM A., Madison, MS Mr. and Mrs. Jerry D. Johnson GRAVES, PRENTISS, Ridgeland, MS Mr. and Mrs. Carl Voss HARVEY, BARBARA, Kosciusko, MS Mr. and Mrs. William F. Lacey HERRING, DOUG AND MARION, Jacksonville, FL Mrs. Marion Herring Stoute HOLLAND, GARY, Gore Springs, MS Mrs. Martha Godfrey Vance HOLMES, ROMA JEAN WALDRON Mrs. Margarita Stanford Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Bond HOOKER, LAMAR, Kosciusko, MS Mr. and Mrs. William F. Lacey HUBER, SARAH, Madison, MS Mrs. Elizabeth M. Mitchell INMAN, SANDRA, Hazel Green, AL Mr. Joey Clingan JENKINS, SWEP Mrs. Elizabeth Jenkins JOLLY, JOHN D., Russellville, AL Mr. and Mrs. William F. Lacey JOURDAN, MARGARET SULLIVANT, Oxford, MS Mrs. Geri Graeber Pitts KEA, DORIS Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Kea KEMP, ERNIE, Branson West, MO Ms. Jane Riggs KIRKPATRICK, BOBBIE Ellzey & Associates, P. A. Buddy Ellzey, Karen and Kelley LOTT, SR., HARRY Mr. Charlie Holland LYELL, LOUIS JAMES, Jackson, MS Mr. and Mrs. Auburn C. Lambeth MARTIN, JOSEPH MOODY, Jackson, MS Mr. and Mrs. Auburn C. Lambeth MCDANIEL, RICKEY Mr. and Mrs. William F. Lacey MITCHELL, JR., HENRY RAYMOND AND FRANCES H., Oxford, MS Mr. and Mrs. Robert F. Mazurkiewicz MOYER, NANCY JO Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Jenkins MUSE, JIMMY Mrs. Margaret Clark NATIONS, DANIEL KENT, Sontag, MS Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Kent Nations NEAL, MARTHA JEAN GREEN, Philadelphia, MS Mr. and Mrs. David Herrington NEISWINGER, MIKE, Canton, MS Mrs. Martha Godfrey Vance NOBLE, MARY BEVERLY, Flowood, MS Mr. and Mrs. Joseph E. Lotterhos Mr. and Mrs. John F. Phillips III NORWOOD, GENE STANFORD, Greenwood, MS Anonymous NUNAN, T. RUSSELL, Decatur, GA Miss Sarah Elizabeth Nunan OAKES, JEANETTE Mr. and Mrs. Ivan Bryant III OSTNER, JR., MAX BROWN, Memphis, TN Mr. William A. Watts Mr. and Mrs. Philip D. Willcoxon Mr. and Mrs. Larry Whitlock Mrs. Kay K. Kelsey PAYNE, PRESTON Mr. John P. Montgomery PERRY, JR., GEORGE C., Jackson, MS Ms. Edith L. Perry PETERMANN, JR., JOHN, Jackson, MS Ms. Luticia Johnson PIERCE, CLARA FRANCES Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Broom POWELL, JIMMY, Walthall, MS Ms. Reta G. Washam PROFILET, JR., WILLIAM, Grenada, MS Ms. Elizabeth Wilson Mr. and Mrs. Earl V. Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Ward S. Taylor PURVIS, DAVID W., Meridian, MS Mrs. Margaret Clark QUAYLE, JANET E. LAUGHMILLER, Ridgeland, MS Mr. Lee Livingston Dr. and Mrs. Craig Flowers Mrs. Polly Allen

Ms. Helen Elizabeth Cook Mr. and Mrs. Charles Williams Jr. Dr. and Mrs. Allen R. Yates Mr. and Mrs. Robert M. Frey Mr. and Mrs. Steve M. Edwards Dr. and Mrs. Carey Johnston Mr. and Mrs. Sells Newman Dr. and Mrs. Alfred P. Chestnut Mr. and Mrs. Mark Valentine RAGUSA, BARBARA ANN WILLIAMS, Gainesville, FL Dr. and Mrs. Homer A. Ooten RAINEY, WILLIAM, Franklin, TN Ms. Nancy W. Riley RECORD, BILL AND EDNA Mr. and Mrs. Frank E. Record REED, CLAUDICE TURNER Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Bond RIBELIN, NATHAN EDD, Forth Worth, TX Mrs. Nancy Barton ROBERTS, DOT Mr. and Mrs. Henry Paris ROBERTSON, JR., JOHN W. Mrs. Mildred Severance Stevenson ROBINSON, CHARLIE Mr. and Mrs. Odean Busby ROBINSON, ROBERT LEWIS, Iuka, MS Judge and Mrs. John C. Love Jr. Mrs. Jo Ann Robinson Young Mrs. Martha Godfrey Vance ROGERS, KHRISTI LYN LONG, Holly Springs, MS Mr. Ralph W. Rogers ASKEW, ROMA LUCILLE Patricia Wood SHAMOON, JIMEL, Greenville, MS Mrs. Barbara P. Nick SHEPARD, SHIRLEY, Carthage, MS Mr. and Mrs. David Herrington SINGLETARY, MARTHA ANNE Mrs. Linda P. Parkerson STANFORD, BILLY WAYNE, Clinton, MS Highland Colony Baptist Church STANLEY, LENOIR W., Corinth, MS Mrs. Geri Graeber Pitts STOCK, CHLOE, Greenville, MS Mr. and Mrs. H. L. Dawkins Jr. STORY, MARTHA GERALDINE HERRING Mr. and Mrs. George R. Fair SUDDUTH, CHAS Mr. James T. Baxter III SUDDUTH, GLADYS Mr. James T. Baxter III SUDDUTH, JR., CHARLES MAXWELL, Jackson, MS Ms. Gina Tice Dr. and Mrs. Alfred P. Chestnut Mr. and Mrs. Steve M. Edwards Mr. James T. Baxter III SWAFFORD, B. J. Mrs. Sam R. Simkins and Festus TAYLOR, MARY ELLEN PALMER, Hoschton, GA Mrs. Beth Stennis Mrs. Margaret S. Womble Mr. Walter H. Palmer Ms. Marilyn M. McClendon Mr. and Mrs. Cuyler A. Dunbar TAYLOR, WARREN Mr. and Mrs. William T. Jeanes THOMPSON, DEAN LATHAM, Mountain Lakes, NJ Dr. and Mrs. Homer A. Ooten THOMPSON, MARY Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Bond THOMPSON, SHERRY, Tupelo, MS Mr. and Mrs. Ralph C. Henderson THOMPSON, W. A. AND ANITA Mr. and Mrs. William A. Thompson III VANTREASE, SR., JAMES F. Mrs. Irene M. Vantrease WADDELL, LISA DART, Tallahassee, FL Dr. and Mrs. Homer A. Ooten WILLIAMS, RUTH ANN ORR, Raymond, MS Ms. Julie Lampley YANDELL, JULIA SHANNON, Madison, MS Mrs. Deanna Wilbourn Ms. Mary Melissa Lavender Mrs. Ygondine W. Sturdivant Mr. George Cunningham Ms. Marian S. Alexander YATES, BONNIE SUE HOLT, Conroe, TX Mr. and Mrs. Donald E. Yates YATES, JACK B. Ms. Sarah H. Ellison

February ADAMS, TONY Mr. and Mrs. Claude Fluker ADAMS, WILLIAM ANTHONY, Carrollton, MS Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Cascio ALLEN, LARRY, Kosciusko, MS Mr. and Mrs. James K. Williamson Mr. and Mrs. Allen Warrington ANDERSON, GRAYSON W., Houston, TX Mrs. Speight W. Anderson ATKINSON, MRS. ROXENE, Starkville, MS Mrs. Ellen Drane Mauldin Mr. and Mrs. Brent Barfield Mr. and Mrs. Larry Box Mr. and Mrs. Victor L. Zitta BAIN, DAVID, Kosciusko, MS Ms. Edna Bell BELL, JR., FRED ALLEN, Kosciusko, MS Mrs. Virginia C. Steadman Mr. and Mrs. C. L. Manderson II Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Jenkins Mrs. Polly Allen BLAKELY, GEORGE CURTIS Mr. Jeffrey Mark Scobey BRADY, DAN, Jackson, MS Mr. and Mrs. Lewis R. Herrington BRANDON, SR., WILLIAM DOUGLAS, Bryson City, NC Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hamrick Mrs. Peggy Threadgill Mr. and Mrs. Carl McAllister, Mac, Marilyn, Angie, Mike, Betsy and John Ms. Nancy Chryst BRASWELL, DOROTHY LAQUE STRAIN, Greenwood, MS Itta City Presbyterian Church Mr. and Mrs. Terry McKibbon Mr. and Mrs. Kirk E. Lee and Mac Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Luckett BROWN, ROSEL SEIPP, Harlem, GA Mr. Edward L. Brown BROWN, VELMA, Lucedale, MS Ms. Annie Ruth Thigpen BYERS, LEE LOGAN AND LOU ELLA Mr. and Mrs. George G. Byers BYRD, GLEN, Jackson, MS Mr. and Mrs. Willie M. Blaine CAIN, CLAUDE SHELBY, Ridgeland, MS Mr. and Mrs. John North Mr. and Mrs. Gary Carpenter Mr. and Mrs. William G. Cook Jr. Mr. Michael Armstrong Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Hunter, Charlie and April Mr. Charlie Cook Ms. Carolyn Berry CHANDLER, ROBERT MICHAEL, Kosciusko, MS Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Jenkins CHATHAM, JR., GERALD, Hernando, MS Mrs. Elizabeth Jenkins CHESSER, MELANIE, Starkville, MS Mr. William R. Buckley Sr. COKER, MARY KATHERINE ERICKSON, Yazoo City, MS Mr. and Mrs. Jep Barbour IV Mr. and Mrs. Clayton Swayze COWSERT, DUKE Salem Independent Methodist Church DAVIS, GRIFFIN, Lexington, KY Mr. and Mrs. William Gary Davis DAVIS, H. JERRY, Yazoo City, MS Mrs. Joyce J. Long DEAN, CHARLES, Leland, MS Mr. and Mrs. John Terry Gibbs DEAN, JR., STANLEY, Hot Springs Village, AR Mr. and Mrs. Charles Reece DRAPER, MAVIS REYNOLDS, Kosciusko, MS Mr. and Mrs. C. L. Manderson II GARDNER, MARILYN DRAUGHN Dr. and Mrs. Ben McCarty GARRETSON, BOBBYE HARRIS, Brandon, MS Mr. and Mrs. John D. Holt GINN, MORRIS AND OPAL Ms. Libby Johnson Mrs. Elizabeth McKinley GOOCH, WILLIAM D. The Graeber Family of Marks, MS GOODWIN, ROBERT C., Valparaiso, IN Mrs. Roberta C. Breyfogle GRAFE, KAYE, Lucedale, MS Ms. Annie Ruth Thigpen GRAHAM, PATSY Mr. and Mrs. John W. Savage III

GRAY, LETITIA, Thomastown, MS Ms. Patricia Barr GREEN, ELAINE, St. Louis, MO Mr. and Mrs. Dale Brooks HARDY, BOBBY, Philadelphia, MS Mrs. Helen Thomasson HEARON, JR., T. ROSCOE, Hattiesburg, MS Mrs. Anita T. Hearon HENRY, BETTY, West Point, MS Mr. and Mrs. James Merle Jent HERRING, DOUG AND MARION, Jacksonville, FL Mrs. Marion Herring Stoute HODGES, CATHY, Algoma, MS Mrs. Billie Jean Ford HUBER, SARAH, Madison, MS Mrs. Terry Burkley IVEY, PAULA, Starkville, MS Mr. Carl E. Ivey Jr. JAY, JR., ELTON EDWARD, Brandon, MS Mr. John J. Watson JENKINS, SWEP Mrs. Elizabeth Jenkins Mrs. Kristine E. Owen JENNINGS, SAM, Oxford, MS Mr. and Mrs. Lewis R. Herrington JOHNSON, BETTIE HORRELL, Jackson, MS Mrs. Ruth Horrell Allen JOHNSON, DAVID B. Ganier Planting Company JOHNSON, JAMES W. Ganier Planting Company JONES, JESSIE DEEN, Tchula, MS Mrs. Nora Deen Link Maloy JONES, WILLIAM EVERARDE, Tchula, MS Mrs. Nora Deen Link Maloy JOURDAN, MARGARET SULLIVANT BROWN, Oxford, MS The Graeber Family of Marks, MS KEA, DORIS Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Kea KING, DORA BERNICE Mr. and Mrs. Tom Guest LEGGETT, FRANK, Oxford, MS Mrs. Rachel C. Martin MARTIN, JIM, Crowder, MS The Graeber Family of Marks, MS MCTUNE, LARRY, Tupelo, MS Ms. Betty McTune MILLS, FRAN BYERS, Water Valley, MS Dr. and Mrs. Johnny A. Smith NATIONS, DANIEL KENT, Sontag, MS Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Kent Nations NEWELL, JACK LORD, Starkville, MS Mr. and Mrs. John W. Irving NOWELL, WAUDINE Ms. Jamie Varner OAKES, JEANETTE Mr. David Neal McCrory PAYNE, ELIZABETH NEWELL, Hattiesburg, MS Mr. and Mrs. David Nettles PICKLE, MARVIN LARRY, Kosciusko, MS Mr. and Mrs. C. L. Manderson II Mr. James W. Atwood Mr. and Mrs. John E. Shaw Judge and Mrs. John C. Love Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Billy Randall Dew Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Parks QUAYLE, JANET E. LAUGHMILLER, Ridgeland, MS Ms. Julia R. Potter Mrs. Ann Woodson RAY, JEFF, Eupora, MS Mr. and Mrs. Lanny M. Wilson RICH, ELLA ROSE THORNTON, French Camp, MS Mr. Charles A. Rich ROBBINS, CHARLOTTE BATTLE, Memphis, TN Mrs. Geri Graeber Pitts ROBINSON, ROBERT LEWIS, Iuke, MS Dr. and Mrs. Bela J. Chain Jr. ROOKER, KIMBERLY Mr. and Mrs. Charles Edgar Sentell SCHAFER, JIMMY, Kosciusko, MS Mr. and Mrs. Allen Warrington SCOGGINS, CHARLES GRADY, Starkville, MS Mrs. June Scoggins SHAFFER, JIMMY, Kosciusko, MS Mr. and Mrs. John E. Shaw SHARP, WANDA Mr. and Mrs. Leon Sharp SIMPSON, BETTY Mrs. Anne Moore McKee SMATHERS, ROY Ms. Donna Ray

www.frenchcamp.org STANFORD, BILLY WAYNE, Clinton, MS Music Forum of Jackson STEVENS, III, ANDY J., West, MS Mr. and Mrs. Aubrey L. Hathcock Jr. SUDDUTH, JR., CHARLES MAXWELL, Jackson, MS Mr. and Mrs. Gerald McCaffery Dr. and Mrs. John C. Neill Ms. Carra Artis Dr. Charles H. Williams TAYLOR, MARY ELLEN PALMER, Hoschton, GA Mr. and Mrs. Spencer Mooney THORNTON, SARAH LONGINO The Graeber Family of Marks, MS TILLOTSON, RICHARD V., Vicksburg, MS Ms. Lana Fuller TRIPLETT, ALLEN, Fulton, MS Mr. and Mrs. Donald K. Shumaker TURNIPSEED, BETTY STEVENS, Carrollton, MS Ms. Jane Riggs VLEREBOME, PETER Mr. and Mrs. Keith A. McCoy WADLINGTON, III, BEDFORD WARNER, Madison, MS The Graeber Family of Marks, MS WALCK, GENE Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Gilchrist WALDROP, MAX AND ANN, Aiken, SC Mr. and Mrs. John W. Savage III Ms. Mary Alice Waldrop WIGLEY, DANA, Mableton, GA Mr. John Richard Hayes Jr. Ms. Patricia Ann Hayes WILLIAMS, RUTH ANN ORR, Raymond, MS Ms. Julie Lampley WILLIAMSON, JULIAN B., Plano, TX Mrs. Betty Ann Campbell Williamson WILSON, BOB, Oxford, MS Mr. J. Andrew Long YANDELL, JULIA SHANNON, Madison, MS The Graeber Family of Marks, MS YATES, BONNIE SUE HOLT, Conroe, TX Mr. and Mrs. Donald E. Yates

March

ADAMS, TONY, Carrollton, MS Mr. and Mrs. Perry Jenkins AIKEN, BEE, Jackson, MS Mrs. Mildred Severance Stevenson AKERS, JIMMY JOE Mrs. Tammy Alford ALFORD, JERRY, Winona, MS Mr. and Mrs. John Terry Gibbs ANDERSON, GRAYSON W., Houston, TX Mrs. Speight W. Anderson BELL, JR., FRED ALLEN, Kosciusko, MS

French Camp TODAY SUMMER 2024 • 13 Mr. and Mrs. James H. Briscoe Mrs. Dianne E. Johnston Mr. and Mrs. Richard G. Noble Mr. and Mrs. William F. Lacey Mrs. Mary Ann Stevens Mr. and Mrs. Al Ray Mr. and Mrs. Michael L. Nelson BESWICK, BRUCE, French Camp, MS Ms. Pam King BIGGERS, JR., NEAL B. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Smith Mrs. Judy M. McPeters BLOODWORTH, MARIE, Grenada, MS Mr. and Mrs. David W. Carr BRANDON, SR., WILLIAM DOUGLAS, Bryson City, NC Mr. and Mrs. Gary S. Williams Mr. and Mr.s Robert C. Schmid Mr. and Mrs. William A. Schmid Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Smith BRATTEN, DAVID RUSSELL, Memphis, TN Mrs. Geri Graeber Pitts BRIDGES, SISSY Mrs. Anne Moore McKee BRITT, SAMMY, Cleveland, MS Ms. Joyce Sledge BROWN, ROSEL SEIPP, Harlem, GA Mr. Edward L. Brown BUCHIGNANI, JR., JOHN SHEA, Memphis, TN Mrs. Geri Graeber Pitts BURNS, PATSY, Kosciusko, MS Mr. and Mrs. William F. Lacey BYERS, LEE AND LOU ELLA Mr. and Mrs. George G. Byers CAIN, CLAUDE SHELBY, Ridgeland, MS Mrs. Polly Allen CALVERT, ROBERT, West Point, MS Mrs. Gail Ratliff Long and Jim CHAPMAN, AILEEN R. GRAFTON, Madison, MS Mr. William James Chapman CHATHAM, JR., GERALD, Hernando, MS Mrs. Elizabeth Jenkins COGGINS, HUBERT AND SADIE Mr. and Mrs. Frank E. Record COKER, RACHEL WHITMAN, Diamondhead, MS Dr. and Mrs. Bela J. Chain Jr. COLLINS, MARGARET, Starkville, MS Dr. and Mrs. George T. Bates COOK, MR. AND MRS. WILLIAM, Jackson, MS Ms. Helen Elizabeth Cook DELONG, JR., ROBERT WARREN, New Orleans, LA Mrs. Geri Graeber Pitts DEW, JEFF, West, MS Mrs. Mary Ann Stevens DIMORE, VINCENT, Saint Augustine, FL Mr. and Mrs. Frank L. Fair III

DRAPER, MAVIS REYNOLDS, Kosciusko, MS Mr. and Mrs. John Herbert Boydstun DUKE, PATSY CROCKETT, Tupelo, MS Carnathan Law Office DUNLAP, DON Mrs. Goree’ D. Robins ELLIS, SAMMYE, Carthage, MS Judge and Mrs. Vernon R. Cotten FERRIS, MIRIAM Ms. Joyce Sledge GINN, MORRIS AND OPAL Ms. Libby Johnson Mrs. Elizabeth McKinley GREEN, HEATHER, Walnut Grove, MS Rev. and Mrs. Dale Rogers HATHER, KENNETH Mr. and Mrs. William F. Lacey HERRING, DOUG AND MARION, Jacksonville, FL Mrs. Marion Herring Stoute HERRING, HALLIE JEANNE HARRIS, Mayhew, MS Mr. and Mrs. William W. Wicht Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Harold Black Mr. J. Forrest Bennett Mr. and Mrs. Robin L. Roberts Mrs. Virginia Morris Mrs. Mary Ann Chiles Ms. Sheryl G. Fox Mr. and Mrs. Jack Lee Barnett HOLDER, MARY ALICE Mr. and Mrs. Michael Swindle HOWELL, JR., NORRIS GENE, Ripley, MS Dr. and Mrs. Charles E. Holland HOWZE, DOLORES D. Mrs. Lisa M. Gathright JAY, JR., ELTON EDWARD, Brandon, MS Mrs. Margaret Elliott JENKINS, SWEP Mrs. Elizabeth Jenkins Mrs. Kristine E. Owen JUKOBE, BECKY Custom Aesthetic Concrete KIRK, SADIE BABER Mr. and Mrs. Bryan McDonald KIRKBRIDE, LOWELL, Cleveland, MS Ms. Joyce Sledge KUNATH, LAVADA, Golconda, IL Mrs. Elizabeth M. Mitchell LESLEY, LARRY, New Albany, MS Mr. and Mrs. Fred W. Stiles LIDDELL, DICK R., Ridgeland, MS Mrs. Marlene Liddell MANNING, MARGIE Mrs. Irene M. Vantrease MARTIN, JR., WILLIAM W., Oxford, MS Mrs. Rachel C. Martin

Mexico Missions

More than a sight-seeing trip, 2024 provided another opportunity for a unified group of staff, students, and alumni to express their faith through evangelism using puppets, skits, songs, dance, and testimonies.

Over 1,600 children were able to hear the Gospel message and see the love of Christ through presentations at local schools. v

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.— 2 Timothy 2:15

MAYFIELD, JAMES Ms. Joyce Sledge MCKNIGHT, MARTHA FEATHERSTON, Kosciusko, MS Mrs. Mary Woods and Becky Bennett MORGAN, BOB Mrs. Lela Norris MOYERS, PAUL E., Jackson, MS Dr. Charles H. Williams MULLINS, FRANK AND MARY ANN, Brandon, MS Mr. and Mrs. Larry J. Bleakney Jr. NANCE, JENNY FORD Mr. and Mrs. Del E. Tichnell NEWCOMB, HUGO, Oxford, MS Mr. and Mrs. Fred G. Davis NICHOLSON, BUFORD, Brandon, MS Mrs. Peggy Nicholson NUNAN, T. RUSSELL, Decatur, GA Mr. and Mrs. Dwight Johnson OAKES, JEANETTE Mr. and Mrs. Al Ray PACE, JAMES RALPH, Winona, MS Ms. Mary B. Pace PECOUL, LOUIS Ms. Dorothy Chisholm Pecoul PERRY, JULIA G., Jackson, MS Ms. Edith L. Perry PERRY, SR., GEORGE C. , Sarasota, FL Ms. Edith L. Perry PICKLE, MARVIN LARRY, Kosciusko, MS Mr. and Mrs. James Eddie Thomas Mr. and Mrs. William F. Lacey Mr. and Mrs. Al Ray Mr. and Mrs. Justin Develin Mr. and Mrs. James H. Briscoe PINNEY, BEVERLY Mr. and Mrs. Al Ray PORTER, WILLIAM B., Ridgeland, MS Mrs. Martha W. Hogue POWELL, MR. AND MRS. C. E. Mr. James Powell RECORD, BILL AND EDNA Mr. and Mrs. Frank E. Record REED, JOE WAYNE, Boyle, MS Ms. Joyce Sledge RITCHEY, SR., GEORGE P. Mrs. Carolyn Ritchey King ROBERTS, COLUMBUS LAVERNE, Madison, MS The Peggy Chain Magee Family Dr. and Mrs. Bela J. Chain Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Alex Don Roberts Mr. and Mrs. Peter Kinsey Mr. and Mrs. Hall M. Parks Jr. Mr. A. Clay Stephenson Rev. and Mrs. J. Alex Coblentz ROGERS, LOIS BARBER, San Antonio, TX

Mr. and Mrs. Jerry L. Jones Ms. Nancy W. Riley ROYE, SAMUEL Mr. and Mrs. Johnny H. Favara RUCKERT, ERNIE AND GINNIE, Durham, NC The Jack Johnson Family RUCKERT, ERNIE, Durham, NC Mr. John K. Roessner III SAIK, JUDY PEE, Madison, MS Mr. Samuel Clemons SCOTT, CHARLIE AND BETTY, Mantte, MS Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Smith SHAFFER, JIMMY, Kosciusko, MS Mr. and Mrs. Al Ray SHEA, PAUL Ms. Hannah Shea SIMPSON, BETTE Ms. Joyce Sledge SLEDGE, KEVIN Ms. Joyce Sledge SMITH, EPHRAIM A., Yazoo City, MS Mr. and Mrs. Jerry L. Jones STACK, ASHLEY LAINE Mr. and Mrs. Temple Barry STACY, FRANCIS, New Albany, MS Mr. Don E. Porter STOKES, JR., JOHN WHITTEMORE, Memphis, TN Mrs. Geri Graeber Pitts STOVALL, KATHLEEN, Leland, MS Mr. and Mrs. John Terry Gibbs SUDDUTH, JR., CHARLES MAXWELL, Jackson, MS Dr. and Mrs. William David Hewitt TATE, PAT, Oxford, MS Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Smith TIPTON, ADAM WAYNE, Love, MS Dr. and Mrs. Ancel Cramer Tipton Jr. VANTREASE, SR., JAMES F. Mrs. Irene M. Vantrease WALDROP, MAX L., Aiken, SC Mr. Carl Clifton Booth III WALL, SHERRY, Oxford, MS Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Smith WHALEN, ANN Ms. Joyce Sledge WILLIAMS, RUTH ANN ORR, Raymond, MS Ms. Julie Lampley WOODS, JACK, Florence, AL Mr. and Mrs. William F. Lacey YANDELL, JULIA SHANNON, Madison, MS Mr. and Mrs. T. Calvin Wells YATES, BONNIE SUE HOLT, Conroe, TX Mr. and Mrs. Donald E. Yates

14 • French Camp TODAY SUMMER 2024

www.frenchcamp.org

French Camp Farms, A Place to Learn French Camp Farms is a program of Camp of the Rising Son that uses horses to encourage, build, and equip young people.

Many people ask why we utilize horses in our programming.

Anna Warren, French Camp’s Farm Manager, talks about a number of lessons learned by students who participate. Here are a few examples.

1. They learn the importance and freedom of a trusting relationship when learning to properly train and gain trust from a horse. The Lord created horses with an inherent hierarchy based on respect and submission. Once horses understand their place in the herd by submitting to the higher authority, they are free to come and go, contribute, and be a part of their “community.” Just like us, when we submit to Christ, we learn to do the same thing as we trust Him and move in freedom with an overabundance of grace.

2. Students also learn the difficult practical skill of caring for the facility and animal of a very niche market. They will be able to walk into any barn and show that they know how to clean it, which in turn, helps keep the horses healthy.

3. They learn confidence and control of their emotions.

When they stay calm and collected, even though they are scared, anxious, or angry, they can be successful in making their horse listen—successfully learning how to control a 1,200 pound animal does great things for their view of themselves.

To learn more about French Camp Farms and how you can support its efforts to make an impact in young people, go to https://bitly.ws/3bqcY or scan this QR Code to take you to the donation page.

(Add Horse Program in the Comment Section) v

Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.— Proverbs 9:9

NEEDS LIST

Please call Lance Ragsdale at (662) 547-6482 to let us know if you can help with any of these: • Outdoor games like badminton sets, dodge balls, volley balls, etc.

• Rakes, shovels, safety glasses, and yard gloves • Sedan for Driver's Education • Push lawnmowers • Cake mixes or brownie mixes for birthday celebrations

Scan the QR code with your smart phone and make a donation online through the FCA website.

French Camp Academy’s Support Ministries

www.CampoftheRisingSon.com 662-547-6169

Bed & Breakfast Council House Restaurant Log Cabin Gift Shop Children of God Pottery Double Blessings Thrift Shop www.frenchcamphistoricvillage.com

www.RainwaterObservatory.org 662-547-7283

www.WFCA.FM 662-547-6414

NON-DISCRIMINATORY POLICY French Camp Academy admits students of any race, color, national, or ethnic origin.

www.frenchcamp.org

French Camp TODAY SUMMER 2024 • 15

Alumni President Lynn Downing presents Jasmine Bonty (2022) with the Young Alumus of the Year Award. Jasmine currently works in the FCA Cafeteria.

Todd Chesser is pictured with his wife Laura Collier Chesser (1997), Alumnus of the Year.

Laura has taught English along with other subjects and will be the Assistant Principal for Jr. High in the fall.

Alumni Day Moved to Harvest Festival Weekend!

FCA Circle of Honor

Exciting News for Alumni! On May 4, 2024, the Alumni Association voted to New inductees into the Circle of Honor cel- officially move Alumni Day to Harvest ebrating over 30 years of service to French Camp Festival Weekend!

Academy are Glen and Debbie Barlow, Carolyn Harvest Festival is always a wonderAkers accepting the honor for Russ Akers, John Robert Cockrell, Margie Newman, and Bruce ful time to reconnect with classmates and faculty. It is a fun day for Class Reunions!

Hosket.

Many of our Alumni live too far away to make it to both Alumni Day and Harvest Festival; having both events on the same day is PERFECT! French Camp Community Club

Benefit Auction October 12, 2024, 9:30 am

The Alumni Association invited the Class of 2024 to a breakfast to welcome them as the newest members! The food was delicious and each senior left with a door prize!

Alumni Day will take on a new and exciting look! The Alumni Association business meeting will now be held prior to the traditional Alumni/Staff Soup Supper, Saturday evening, after Harvest Festival.

You will be briefed on current Alumni Association projects and activities and vote on future ones. There are so many things the Alumni Association does for our current FCA Students, and we would love to keep you all informed and involved in these wonderful activities. At 6:00 pm the Traditional Alumni/Staff Soup Supper will commence, with its wonderful food and fellowship!

Please Follow us on Facebook @FCA Alumni Association or scan the QR code below, to find more information about the NEW Alumni Day at Harvest Festival! We will post the day's agenda as soon as it becomes available! v

16 • French Camp TODAY SUMMER 2024

www.frenchcamp.org

Campus Improvements “Renovations” is a word frequently used on the FCA campus these days. Through God’s bountiful provisions our faithful supporters are helping us address a number of projects. These include the softball field, two new staff homes, our athletic field house, football field stadium lights, and removal of an old home on campus. Plans are also being finalized for a new student union. These improvements are all tangible lessons demonstrating God’s faithful provisions for the ministry of French Camp Academy. v

There is nothing too good for a French Camp kid because for many this is their home—Sam Patterson, FCA President 1950-1967.

Stay connected on the web: www.frenchcamp.org

See our latest videos by scanning this QR code with a smart phone. (http://bit.ly/2phU7zI)

Keep up with us on Social Media! Search for French Camp Academy, One Fine Place or go to our website to link directly.