SUMMARY: Good morning, and thank you for joining WX at midday. I'm Jamie Doris. Police in Wiggins are investigating vandalism and attempted arson at the Church of Latter-Day Saints over the weekend. Noah Noble reports live from the scene that someone broke into the church, smashed a glass door, and wrote obscenities and messages like “you don't belong here” on the walls. An attempted fire burnt itself out without causing further damage. The crime was discovered by church members on Sunday morning. The State Fire Marshal and Mississippi Bureau of Investigations are involved, and the case could be classified as a hate crime. Further details will be provided in the Evening News.

Officials are searching for suspects after the vandalism of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Hall Street in Wiggins.

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SUMMARY: In a feature on WXXV News 25's Amazing Women of South Mississippi, Velma Barker discusses her community service work, including over 30 years as a bus monitor, which allowed her to spend more time with her children. She founded the nonprofit Backpack Buddies to address food insecurity among children. The organization provides weekend food supplies for students in need, initially serving 10 students and expanding with community support. Velma emphasizes the importance of volunteerism, highlighting how essential it is to help those who struggle with basic needs. Her contributions have garnered appreciation for her impact on the community.

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SUMMARY: Local track and field coach Larry Fairley recently trained a group of talented athletes for the Region 6 Championship held in Jackson, Mississippi, from July 4-7. Competing against athletes from Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi, the top five from each division qualified for the National Junior Olympics at Texas A&M. Fairley instills confidence in his athletes, evident in their success. Seven athletes from Fairley Track Club advanced to the National Junior Olympics, with highlights including Samuel King winning regional champion in discus and multiple other athletes earning medals. Congratulations to all and best of luck at the Junior Olympics.

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