Ocean Springs Real Estate: A “Taj Mahal”-inspired, unfinished five-bedroom estate on nearly an acre with 126 feet of water frontage is back on the market in Ocean Springs, now listed at $2.5 million after first appearing in 2016 for $2 million. Local Arts & Community: Starkville Town & Country Garden Club earned 16 certificates of achievement at the Garden Clubs of Mississippi meeting in Oxford, including Honor Roll Club status. Health & Research: Mississippi State University is recruiting adults (with and without intellectual or developmental disabilities) for a cardiovascular and fitness study, offering a free detailed health report. Education Watch: Mississippi’s chronic absenteeism rate fell to 26.5% for 2025-26, down from 27.6% the year before, as state attendance policies take effect. Student Debt: Mississippi leads the nation in federal student loan defaults, with 28.3% of borrowers in default, raising concerns about repayment and life choices. Culture & Nature: Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge is hosting a two-week artist-in-residence program focused on plein air painting and the refuge’s wildlife and light. Community Calendar: Weekend highlights include Oktoberfest events in Columbus and a Barktober Fest pet parade in Starkville-area Lowndes County.