Real Talk with Riggin

Open House events are coming up at Notre Dame Regional High School, offering families an inside look at the school’s strong academic programs, faith-based community, and vibrant student life. Assistant Director of Advancement for Enrollment Management Meg Garner invites prospective students and their families to tour the campus, meet faculty and current students, and learn more about the opportunities that make Notre Dame a leader in Catholic education. Garner says the Open House is the perfect time to experience firsthand the welcoming environment and excellence that define the Notre Dame tradition.

“The Nine Lives of Christopher Columbus” with Professor of History and Anthropology and author Dr. Matthew Restall explores how the image of Columbus has evolved over the centuries—from celebrated explorer to controversial symbol. Dr. Restall, known for his groundbreaking work Seven Myths of the Spanish Conquest, examines how historical narratives, political agendas, and cultural movements have continually reshaped the legacy of Columbus. His research challenges long-held assumptions, revealing a more complex and human story behind the man credited with “discovering” the New World.

The 9th Annual Ms. Blind Diva Empowerment Pageant is shining a spotlight on strength, confidence, and resilience, celebrating women who are blind or visually impaired and empowering them to embrace their inner and outer beauty. This year’s Miss Director’s Choice, Lakesha Guest, embodies the spirit of the event—grace, determination, and inspiration. Through her journey and advocacy, Guest continues to show that true vision comes from courage and self-belief, not sight. The pageant, now in its ninth year, remains a powerful platform for empowerment, awareness, and breaking barriers.

Google is once again under fire for alleged political bias, this time for reportedly using a discredited organization’s “hate map” to target allies of former President Donald Trump. According to Tom Olohan, Staff Writer for MRC Free Speech America, the tech giant has relied on data from the controversial Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), whose “hate map” has been widely criticized for labeling mainstream conservative and religious organizations as extremist. Olohan notes that this move raises serious concerns about viewpoint discrimination and the suppression of legitimate political voices, as Google’s actions could influence public perception and limit online visibility for individuals and groups aligned with Trump-era policies.

Nominations are now open for the R.A. Fulenwider Meritorious Community Service Award, an honor recognizing outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the Jackson community through leadership, service, and dedication. President and CEO of the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce, Brian Gerau, encourages community members to nominate those who go above and beyond to make Jackson a better place to live and work. The award highlights the spirit of service and civic pride that defines the community, celebrating those whose efforts have a lasting and positive impact.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now open, giving students and families the opportunity to apply for crucial financial assistance for college and career training programs. Education finance expert Jack Wallace encourages students to complete their FAFSA as early as possible to maximize eligibility for federal grants, scholarships, and low-interest loans. Wallace notes that timely submission can make a significant difference in the amount of aid awarded, as some funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. He advises students to gather necessary documents early and double-check their information to avoid delays in processing.

A Quarter Auction Fundraiser for Fly Me Home is set to bring the community together in a fun and meaningful way, according to Board Member Jeri Cain. The event will feature a lively auction where participants can bid on a wide variety of items using quarters, all to support the nonprofit’s mission of helping families with emergency transportation needs. Cain says the fundraiser offers a chance for people to enjoy an exciting evening while contributing to a cause that makes a real difference for those facing unexpected hardships. Proceeds from the event will go directly toward ensuring Fly Me Home can continue providing vital travel assistance when it’s needed most.

Author Brian Reisinger discusses the growing dilemma of being “Land Rich, Cash Poor,” a challenge faced by countless rural Americans who own valuable farmland or property but struggle with day-to-day financial stability. Reisinger explores how rising land values, property taxes, and economic shifts have left many families asset-heavy but income-strapped, forcing tough decisions about whether to sell land that’s been in their family for generations. Through his insightful storytelling, Reisinger highlights the emotional and cultural weight of this issue, showing how it reflects broader tensions between wealth on paper and real financial security in rural America.

Pastor and Program Director at Soulful Harvest Ministries joins the conversation to address the ongoing challenges surrounding mental illness in the Black community. He emphasizes the importance of breaking the stigma that too often prevents individuals from seeking help, noting that cultural, spiritual, and historical factors have long contributed to silence on the issue. Through faith-based outreach and community education, Soulful Harvest Ministries is working to create safe spaces for open dialogue, healing, and access to professional mental health resources—helping individuals find hope, strength, and restoration.

DOJ’s Simpson throws gun rights under the bus in the new U.S. v. Peterson filing, according to Vice President of the American Suppressor Association Owen Miller. Miller says the Department of Justice’s latest arguments could set a dangerous precedent by undermining long-standing Second Amendment protections. He warns that by expanding federal power over firearm ownership and accessories, the DOJ risks criminalizing law-abiding gun owners and weakening constitutional rights the Supreme Court has repeatedly affirmed.