By Jessica Breazeale Have you ever walked into a room and felt like you didn’t fit in—maybe at work, a social event, or even at church? As we get older, we care less about “fitting in”, but it still matters – somewhat. It matters because that sense of belonging shapes how we feel. I like to reframe “fitting in” by redefining it. Fitting in, to me, means being a missing puzzle piece, but sometimes I ask myself: Am I really the puzzle piece needed here to complete the puzzle? Fitting in, to me, means being an added paint color, but sometimes I ask myself: am I really the Pantone that’s needed to make this picture pop, or is my color even necessary here…is it already beautiful as is? Sometimes, the answer is yes, and sometimes it’s no. And that’s okay. Average to Gen Z is, like, totally mid—it’s the basic, typical vibe that isn't standing out or bussin' but it's also not a total fail. It’s the vibe check on the normal, the middle-of-the-road content that’s just, well, average.  • "Mid": Abbreviation for mediocre; used to describe something average or unimpressive. • "Basic": Lacking originality; the standard, expected average. • "Valid, but mid": Something okay, but not exceptional.  While I’m not Gen Z or speak their language very well, I can say I don’t let average (or “mid”) define me—I believe my superpowers do. So, what are your superpowers? You might think you don’t have any, but you do! What makes you stand out? What makes you come alive? What do others come to you for? Your superpowers give you the strength to never worry about being “mid”. Eleanor Roosevelt once said, ‘No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.’ We hear you, Eleanor. Loud and clear! Have you ever had someone make you feel inferior? I know I have…and I do not consent. Do you? As a public relations professional, I worked at jobs where I was expected to do the work of many people – an entire team. Sounds really unrealistic, right? It was emotionally and physically taxing, and it was unfortunately my daily norm. Even though that season was extremely stressful and challenging, I realized later I had developed so many skills that became invaluable! It was hard at the time, but now I realize the real reward was in the hard. I’m better now for those unrealistic expectations that were placed on me, with new superpowers. The experience made me stronger, more flexible, and more resilient. This is why I’m the extreme multitasker I am today. While some might say, “She’s doing too much,” I actually don’t know how to thrive without juggling 700 things at any given moment. According to  The 2023 Girls' Index by ROX , only 55% of 17,500 surveyed U.S. girls in grades 5-12 report feeling confident, a significant drop from 68% in 2017. Confidence plummeted most among younger girls, with 5th-grade confidence dropping from 86% to 68%. Why the decline? Why are these girls feeling less confident?   Could it be the rise in social media usage? 46% of girls now spend 6+ hours daily on these platforms, which correlates with higher rates of stress, sadness, and lower self-image. I’m sure the people who try to make you feel inferior don’t help either, right? Are these girls trying too hard to fit in where they were born to stand out? Are they not aware of their superpowers and just need someone to help them discover those? This is a good place to stop and say this: Why compare yourself to others? You were born for uniqueness. Literally. This realization should take away the desperate quest for approval. Accepting this truth would alleviate the need to compete, be liked, fit in, and feel the longing and ultimate void that will leave you with. Because of the professional tough time I encountered, I gained skills I didn’t have before—like website design, graphic design, and digital marketing. And through all these business challenges, I discovered my greatest superpower: it’s not in the office or any boardroom, but in ministry. The skills I gained—like communication, leadership, and creativity—help me connect with and attempt to make a difference in the lives of others. So, these superpowers don’t just help me succeed, they help me give back and try to make a real impact in people’s lives. Don’t bother yourself with trying to fit in. Wilde obviously understood the superpower of embracing your uniqueness by encouraging authenticity over imitation. There’s power in authenticity, so own your originality…flaws and all. After all, you were designed to be different and called to be set apart. Downloadable Version

Special to Wesson News Canaan and Sarah Eschete  recently opened Wesson's newest business, Wesson Nutrition. It's located in the old police station, renovated for healthy tea drinks, shakes, and more.   The address is 2063 US-51. "It has been a dream, and we’re so grateful to serve our hometown and the surrounding communities. We will be the faces you see behind the bar!" said Sarah. "We’re so excited to bring our dream to our hometown."   Fun fact, they’re also the owners of Crystal Springs Nutrition located at 102 Bo Bo Drive, Crystal Springs, MS 39059.   "Our goal is simple: create a welcoming spot with uplifting energy, friendly faces, and drinks that help you power through your day & help you make better health choices," said Sarah. "We’re excited to bring the same love, quality, and good vibes from Crystal Springs into Wesson. Thank you for supporting local — we can’t wait to see each of you!" said Sarah.   MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR QUESTIONS 1. What are your hobbies? When we’re not in the nutrition club behind the bar, we enjoy our time at home with our girls, and spending time at our church. So our hobbies are work, church, and ballfield. 2. Do you have a special interest in music? Canaan is a part of the worship team at our church. 3. How about movies or theatre? We’re not really being movie people or theatre people. 4. What would you do with the winnings if you won the lottery? We would donate to our church, pay off any debt we have, and invest the rest 5. How would you change the world? There would be no child to ever go hungry or ever feel unloved ever again.

Contact: Jessica Breazeale, 601-757-7811 G.O.A.T. CAMP, which stands for God Over All Things, is a free kids camp that was started by Ricky and Jessica Breazeale of Wesson nearly five years ago. The camp will return April 7 and 8 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Wesson Park for children and teens.   This fun two-night experience is filled with sports, activities, dinner, and guest speakers. Camp is absolutely free thanks to community supporters. Camp is twice a year, every April and October with different volunteer groups hosting various sports and activities each time.   We’ve got something for all ages—sports, activities, arts & crafts, and powerful guest speakers. Plus, dinner is provided by Shop & Wash, so come hungry!   The special Guest Speaker who will commence camp on Wednesday will be Preston Johnson, MLB Baltimore Orioles. Johnson is a Copiah County native and a former Mississippi State Bulldogs baseball College World Series pitcher.   This is more than just a camp—it’s a chance to grow, connect, and learn how to put God Over All Things. Check-in starts at 5:00 p.m.   Camp started nearly five years ago in Brookhaven and moved to Wesson Park last year.   “We found that park was a perfectly central location and nice place to do something for the community. Plus, it’s more convenient since our business is here in town, too,” said Jessica Breazeale, camp director.   Breazeale is referring to her husband Ricky’s company called Grace Foam Solutions, a spray foam distributor on Highway 51. The Breazeales chose the name “Grace Foam Solutions” since their faith is the most important thing to them and they wanted a business name that truly represented their family. The Breazeales The Breazeales have had the pleasure of watching their son grow up as a kid camper and now serving as a teen volunteer.   “I love watching the kids have fun and learn about God in an outside-the-box kind of way. Watching it makes all the hard work more than worth it,” said Jessica. “Older kids used to work with our son and now he’s the one working with the younger ones. It’s so endearing.”   Email goatministry@gmail.com  if you’d like to help or get involved.   Huge thanks to: • MDS Brookhaven who is supplying drinks and snacks. · Shop & Wash is providing pizzas. • Albert Turnage who is providing cookies. • Matt Kitchens who is volunteering and providing drinks. • Copiah Nutrition hosting activities. • WAC Beta Club serving as volunteers. • Co-LIN BSU serving as volunteers and guest speakers. • Southwest BSU serving as sports volunteers and guest speakers. • Co-Lin Football Players and Colettes hosting sports.   · Wesson Post 79 Legion Auxiliary and Gideons volunteering • Co-Lin Choir providing activities. · Grace Foam Solutions hosting camp. • Strong Hope Baptist Church Mission Friends will host an activity. • Decell Memorial United Methodist Church is providing supplies.   GOAT Camps is being recognized by the Mississippi Children’s Foundation (MCF) for bringing the community together by finding meaningful ways to support children and families. GOAT Camps will be highlighted in MCF’s 2026 Risk & Reach Report where state data will show how GOAT Camps played a part in individuals and organizations working  together to create stronger opportunities for the next generation.   Representatives from GOAT Camps will accept this prestigious statewide award called the Reach Award for the work its done in Copiah County.  The award will be presented at the annual conference at the end of April at the Clyde Muse Center in Pearl. This year’s conference is called Sowing Seeds of Success, Cultivating a Bright Future for Mississippi’s Children.     GOAT Ministry / GOAT Camps is currently working on its 501 (c) (3) status. Follow the   GOAT Camps Facebook  page to stay up to date on camp information.

Misty Strieff Prine A simple, whispered prayer can move even the biggest mountain. So many today are grieving over the loss of loved ones, have loved ones in the hospital, dealing with unanswered questions or are simply fighting battles that just seem almost too much to bear. I’ve been amid trials in my life before where I forgot to pray because my earthly body and strength were just too weak to see past the hurt or pain. However, it is in those times when the Lord says to draw near to Him and He will give us rest. We might not can muster up a strong, in depth, glory filled prayer request, but we can simply whisper, “Lord, please help me. I don’t know what to do anymore. I can’t handle this on my own.” Friends, right then and there, God meets us. Even when there are no words to be found, we just need to humble ourselves and just give it to Him. We need to just get somewhere away from all the distractions, BE STILL and simply...listen. We’d be surprised at what we hear and how we come out of that moment completely changed. There is so much going on in our world today and we have to be there for one another as believers and pray for one another. I’m going to share the lyrics of a song I used to sing years ago, and I think you’ll understand why, now more than ever, when we have arms that can’t reach where they want to, we can be there for one another through whispered prayers.   “Whispered Prayers” by Karen Peck and New River: “Souls in danger, bodies broken. Troubles here and everywhere. Arms that can't reach where they want to, somehow make it through whispered prayer. Whispered Prayers. Ride the wings of holy angels from here to there. There is power in whispered prayers. God is listening when we speak them. There is power in whispered prayer. Dark the midnight, low the valley. Doesn't seem that life is fair. What we need is our God's presence. It is ours now through whispered prayers. Whispered Prayers. Ride the wings of holy angels from here to there. There is power in whispered prayers. God is listening when we speak them. There is power in whispered prayer. God is listening when we speak them. There is power in whispered prayers.

Special to Wesson News Devin Shane Merrill (Courtesy: Lincoln County Jail) A Wesson man has been sentenced in connection with a 2025 crash that claimed the life of a four-year-old child, bringing a difficult chapter to a close for the victim’s family and the community. Devin Shane Merrill, 28, pleaded guilty on March 31, 2026, in 14th District Circuit Court to charges of aggravated DUI causing death and DUI child endangerment. The charges stem from a crash that occurred on February 18, 2025, on Bogue Chitto Road near Pricedale Drive. According to investigators, Merrill was driving a Ford Escape when the vehicle left the right side of the roadway just after noon and struck multiple trees. Merrill was treated at King’s Daughters Medical Center and later released. His passenger, four-year-old Lincoln Carona, was airlifted to the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, where he died two days later from injuries sustained in the crash. Authorities later received toxicology results, and Merrill was arrested on May 17, 2025. He was formally charged with aggravated DUI causing injury or death and DUI child endangerment. During the March 31 sentencing, the court handed down a 25-year sentence for the aggravated DUI charge, with 20 years to serve, five years suspended, and five years of post-release supervision. He also received a 25-year sentence for child endangerment, with 10 years to serve, 15 years suspended, and five years of post-release supervision. The sentences are to run consecutively, meaning Merrill will serve a total of 35 years in prison, with 20 years suspended, followed by post-release supervision. He was also ordered to pay court costs and $6,000 in fines. Merrill will serve his sentence in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections. Before sentencing, Lincoln’s aunt, Lyndsay Caston, addressed the court and spoke about the life that was lost and the lasting impact on their family. She described Lincoln as a joyful child who loved Spider-Man, being silly, and spending time with people who loved him. She told the court that while the crash may not have been intentional, the decision to drive under the influence was a choice that led to the loss of a young life and forever changed their family. A statement from Lincoln’s father, Matt Carona, was also shared with the court. In his statement, he expressed his belief that his son is in a better place but said Lincoln deserved the chance to grow up and live his life. He also shared concerns about Merrill’s behavior since the crash and the danger he believes it could pose if repeated. Family members said that while no sentence can bring Lincoln back, they hoped the outcome of the case would reflect the seriousness of the decisions that led to the crash and the life that was lost.

Kenneth Wayne Marler August 17, 1958 - March 31, 2026 67 Years of age Kenneth Wayne Marler, son of Fred Everett Marler and Harvine Catherine Marler, passed away on March 31, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, Fred Everett Marler and Harvine Catherine Marler; his brother, Freddie Marler; his brother, Mitchell Marler; and his sister, Linda Marler, with whom he is now reunited. Kenny was a father, stepfather, and a proud Army veteran who cherished time with those he loved most. For most of his life, Kenny worked as an electrical foreman, leading crews across the United States to restore power in cities and communities devastated by natural disasters. His work was more than a job—it was a calling to serve others in times of great need. Through his leadership, skill, and dedication, he helped bring light and hope back to countless people during difficult times. In the last year of his career, Kenny had the opportunity to teach a lineman class at Copiah-Lincoln Community College, where he shared decades of knowledge and experience with his students. Teaching quickly became one of the highlights of his adult life, and he took great pride in guiding the next generation. Kenny had a deep passion for the outdoors and the simple joys of life. He loved hunting, camping on the river, working on and fixing cars, and spending time fishing with his children and grandchildren—moments that created lasting memories for all who shared them. He enjoyed gathering family and friends for crawfish boils and treasured traveling with his wife, Debbie. Kenny’s friendships were many, and if you were a friend of Kenny’s, you knew he would be the first to help in a time of need—a loyal friend for life. He found great joy in sharing his love of the outdoors with those around him. During his retirement, one of Kenny’s greatest passions was karaoke and recording songs with himself as the lead singer. He loved to sing and brought joy to those around him—often recording late at night under the carport, where his music could be heard by anyone nearby, whether they were expecting a concert or not. He is survived by his loving wife, Debbie Marler, the love of his life; his daughters, Ashley Owens (Lee) and Lacey Johnson (Kent), whom he loved dearly and of whom he was immensely proud; his stepdaughter, Brittany Brewer; and his stepson, Christopher Brewer, with whom he loved sharing his many life adventures and stories; his grandchildren; Kyle Johnson, Sawyer and Tucker Owens, who brought him great joy; and his brother, Charles Marler. He leaves behind a family who will continue to carry his memory forward with love. Kenny’s life was a testament to the importance of family, hard work, friendship, and service to others. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Funeral services will be held at Springhill Baptist Church at 3:00 PM on April 6, 2026, located at 1020 Martinsville Road, Wesson. Visitation will be held from 2:00 to 3:00 PM prior to the service. Flowers may be sent to Springhill Baptist Church. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Kenny Marler please visit our Sympathy Store .

By Bob Garver Poster credit IMDB In 2019’s “Ready or Not,” Grace MacCaullay (Samara Weaving) won the deadly game of Hide and Seek that ended the lives of the entire La Domas family. It all tied into a Satanic ritual that frankly didn’t make much sense. Now she has to play another, also-deadly game of Hide and Seek against four other families that hold high standing in the Satanic cult. The twist this time is that she has her estranged sister Faith (Kathryn Newton) in tow. Following (and I mean “immediately” following) Grace’s witty one-liner from the end of the last movie, she passes out and is taken to the hospital, where Faith, never removed as her emergency contact, reluctantly comes to visit. They’re soon attacked by a player (Kevin Durand) who wants to win the game before it starts. The cheater pays a heavy price, courtesy of the game’s ghostly overseer. But the sisters are soon knocked unconscious and brought to the resort of the Danforth twins – Titus (Shawn Hatosy) and Ursula (Sarah Michelle Gellar) – to start the game properly. An unnamed lawyer (Elijah Wood) spells out the rules. Representatives from four families will be competing. Whoever kills Grace first, wins. If Grace can survive until dawn, she wins. Faith is not officially part of the game, though she’ll both help Grace and be used as leverage against her in the course of the movie. If a player dies, another family member can take their place in the game. No families can kill members of the other families, or their entire family will be killed. The winner gets a special ring that lets them rule the world (yes, familiar territory for Wood). Other players include both Danforth twins with their cousin Kip (Dan Bierne) as backup, Spanish actor Ignacio El Caido (Nestor Carbonell) with his children Francesca (Maia Jae) and Felipe (Juan Pavlo Romero), Chinese businesswoman Wan Chen Xing (Olivia Cheng) and her son Fu (Antony Hall), and Indian partyboy Viraj Rajan (Nadeem Umar-Khitab) with his younger brother Madhu (Varun Saranga) and Madhu’s wife Martina (Masa Lizdek). A movie like this wouldn’t let the players have seconds unless it had plans for them, so be prepared for a high body count, as if all the weapons in the film’s advertising weren’t enough of an indication. The game is a deadly free-for-all, with the film’s favorite method of killing once again involving people exploding like big bloody balloons. The Danforth twins, they of the homefield advantage and most star power, are particularly conniving competitors. Grace and Faith spend the movie trying to keep each other alive while practically wanting to kill each other over past decisions. Frankly, I could have done without this aspect of the story. I can appreciate the writers wanting to give these characters depth, but there’s not much interesting about their backstory, and the rekindling of their relationship throws off the movie’s pace. On the plus side, it’s nice to have newer scream queen Newton joining established scream queen Weaving. I had fun with the film’s action and banter. The deft touch of directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett was sorely missing from the recent “Scream 7” after they directed the fifth and sixth installments to surprising watchability. Fortunately, we didn’t have to wait long for another project of theirs. “Ready or Not 2: Here I Come” isn’t going to set the cinematic or even horror world on fire, but it has enough of what I like in my horror thrillers for me to give it a recommendation. Grade: B- “Ready or Not 2: Here I Come” is rated R for strong bloody violence, gore, pervasive language and brief drug use. Its running time is 108 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at  rrg251@nyu.edu .

Special to Wesson News Literary Arts, Visual Arts and Media Arts students at Brookhaven-based Mississippi School of the Arts (MSA) captured 171 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards – 92 Honorable Mentions, 51 Silver Keys, 27 Gold Keys and a prestigious American Visions Award – during the 2025-2026 school year. Gold Key and American Visions art advanced to national competition and the winners are on display through May 10 The Mississippi Museum of Art at Jackson.  Writing award winners will be recognized at a awards ceremony at the Eudora Welty House in the Spring. For more than 100 years, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards have recognized the vision, ingenuity, and talent of youth nationwide, and provided opportunities for creative teens to be celebrated. Each year, students at the Mississippi School of the Arts (MSA), as well as other schools across the state and nation, participate in the competition. Thousands of submissions are juried state-by-state to see which will advance to the national level. Mississippi School of the Arts is no stranger to Scholastics, having received state and national awards since the school’s inception. The awards are presented by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, whose mission is to identify students with exceptional artistic and literary talent and present their remarkable work to the world. Students receive opportunities for recognition, exhibition, publication, and scholarship. In the Literary Arts Discipline, instructed by Dr. Nadia Alexis, 10 students received Gold Key Awards, including one Senior portfolio, 23 students received Silver Key Awards, including two Senior portfolios, and 46 received Honorable Mentions, including two Senior portfolios.  They were:   James Ballard  (Sr) – 6 Awards ( Silver Key, 4 Honorable Mention including portfolio Honorable Mention) Dorothea Cates-Foster  (Jr) – 3 Awards (2 Silver Key, 1 Honorable Mention) Elayjah Earles  (Jr) – 12 Awards (2 Gold Key, 3 Silver Key including Silver portfolio, 7 Honorable Mention) Kemarrion Galmore  (Jr) – 6 Awards (1 Silver Key, 5 Honorable Mention) Stephanie Hartmann  (Sr) – 8 Awards (3 Silver Key including Silver portfolio, 5 Honorable Mention) Sarah House  (Jr) – 2 Awards (2 Honorable Mention) Quentin McClinton  (Sr) – 1 Award (1 Honorable Mention) Lydia Nytes  (Jr) – 1 Award (1 Honorable Mention) Lela Reed  (Jr) – 5 Awards (1 Gold Key, 4 Honorable Mention) Lily Ross  (Jr) – 3 Awards (2 Silver Key, 1 Honorable Mention) Robin Russell  (Jr) – 2 Awards (2 Honorable Mention) Patrick Ryan  (Sr) – 9 Awards (5 Gold Key, 3 Silver Key, 1 Honorable Mention) Richie Stover  (Sr) – 9 Awards (2 Gold Key including Gold portfolio, 1 Silver Key, 6 Honorable Mention) Nick Scott  (Jr) – 3 Awards (1 Silver Key, 2 Honorable Mention) Kierstyn Warner  (Sr) – 6 Awards (2 Silver Key, 4 Honorable Mention including portfolio Honorable Me ntion) Richie Stover  received an award for a submission entered through the Academic English Department instructed by Tobie Lambert. Cassidy Hodges  (Jr Visual) received 3 Awards (3 Silver Key) for self-submissions.

Send responses to: andybowman839@gmail.com A man, who had already lost his beloved wife to an illness that had taken her life a few months earlier, had only one child. An adorable blonde-haired dark-eyed baby girl they had named Leslie Raynelle. Leslie was understandably the light of her dad’s life. Everything he did, everything he worked for, was focused on what was best for his little daughter. But then a catastrophic day came. The day when the man’s entire beloved hometown, where he had lived his entire life, was put in the laser focus of certain unavoidable disaster. At the last possible moment, Little Leslie’s daddy realized that he had the solution for the safety of the townspeople at his fingertips, but to do so he undoubtedly would have to let his own baby die as a result of his actions. Suddenly he was in the unenviable position of having to make an agonizing decision; save the people of the village, or rescue her. He didn’t have the time and ability to do both and be successful. The man made his decision, and saved the lives of an entire small town. Later, after everyone in the vicinity was safe, there were those who criticized, vilified, and even hated him for leaving his nine-month-old baby girl to obvious death. Public opinion was sharply divided for and against the man. Many wanted to bring criminal neglect charges against the grieving father. Others mourned his loss with him, hailed the man as their hero, and vigorously defended him.  They recognized his sacrifice in giving up the one he loved, in order that so many could live. That man lived the rest of his life on earth dogged by his double reputation of killer and deliverer. Miserable, grieving and alone, he left his hometown and relocated several times through the years in an effort to find peace. But no matter where he lived, gossip, questioning of his real motives, and long-held grudges followed him. News stories on national television and all the other venues made the rounds and re-rounds. Even years later the sad facts of the baby’s death were dug up, investigated for potential foul play, and discussed endlessly. Again, and again.   The only peace he was able to find was in his heart. He knew that he had given up his Leslie, the center of his entire world, for the greater good of a town that misunderstood his motives and his agonizing actions. Sounds horrible. A father who loved his child deeply, but had to make the decision to deliberately let her die. So that others could live, and have the opportunity to be with their loved ones for a full life. Same thing God the Father did to His Son thousands of years ago. For you and I. And so many misunderstand His heart and His actions too.

Special to Wesson News   Mississippi Agriculture and Commerce Commissioner Andy Gipson is running for Governor of the state, but that isn’t why he spoke on March 25 at Sylvarena Baptist Church.   Sylvarena invited senior citizens who are part of churches in the Copiah County Baptist Association to a special luncheon from 11:30 to 1 p.m. then, and the event planners zeroed in on Gipson to speak not so much for his political credentials, but because he is a pastor.   The 49-year old eighth Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce will no doubt talk about his vision for the state as its chief executive, but the Sylvarena Church luncheon expects the farmer, lawyer and minister to draw on his experience to light a spiritual fire among attendees.   Gipson has owned and managed a cattle operation in Simpson County for over 30 years and a tree farm over 20 years.  He is an ordained Baptist minister, having served as a pastor and evangelist.  Gipson and his family opened the Hilltop Memorial Children’s Ranch, a faith-based outreach for children built by his late father on the family farm. Gipson also serves as an advocate for Mississippians suffering from traumatic brain injury, depression and mental illness, and their families.   Mothers Against Drunk Driving named him Legislator of the Year in 2014, 2015 and 2016. In 2014, Pro-Life Mississippi named him Pro-Life Legislator of the Year. The National Rifle Association bestowed its Defender of Freedom Award on Gipson in 2013. That same year, the Central Mississippi Friends of NRA selected him for the Kirk Fordice Freedom Award, named after the former governor.   Gipson received a bachelor of arts in political science in 1999 from Mississippi College and a juris doctorate from Mississippi College School of Law in 2002, graduating first in his class of 113 students. He was active in the Christian Law Students Association and was editor-in-chief of the Mississippi College Law Review.  He has been in private law practice since 2002.   Prior to his service as Commissioner, Gipson served in the Mississippi House of Representative for ten years (District 77: Simpson and Rankin counties), first elected to public service in 2007.   As Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce since April 2, 2018, he launched the Genuine MS ( genuinems.com ) branding initiative to increase public awareness of Mississippi’s farm, food, crafted and fabricated products to increase sales and market opportunity for Mississippi producers, established a “County Correspondents” program in every county to provide local farmers with information from Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce and to hear directly from them on local issues, and started the Agricultural Workforce Development initiative, which includes internships through the department, to connect future leaders to careers in agriculture.  Gipson has also led the way on truth in labeling laws for meat products to ban “fake meat” and prevent consumer confusion from the entry of plant-based and cell-cultured foods.  He has introduced regulatory reforms to increase opportunities for small farmers, mobile vendors and roadside produce stands.   Gipson and his wife, Leslie, have been married since 2001. They have four children — Joseph, Benjamin, Abigail and Sarah. They reside on their small working farm in Simpson County.

By Jessica Breazeale Have you ever found yourself standing at the base of a mountain, feeling like the journey ahead is insurmountable? Or maybe you’ve looked at a steep slope and thought, “This could be a thrilling ride down.” It all depends on perspective . Let’s start with the mountain. For some, it’s a treacherous climb—a series of obstacles demanding strength, gear, and perseverance. Yet, from a different vantage, that same mountain could look like a joyful slope, full of adventure. It’s not the size of the challenge alone—it’s how we choose to see it. Now, on the flip side, we have the humble molehill. I’ve never really encountered one in person, but I imagine it as a tiny, almost forgettable bump on the ground. Some walk right over it, unaware, while others fixate, letting their minds spiral: “Why is this molehill here? What do I do about it?” Who told that mole it could set up shop on my property? Who does that mole think he is? How can I get rid of him?   In short, a molehill to one person can become a mountain to another.   So, I ask you: which one are you?   Do you make mountains out of molehills? To put this in perspective, each year, fewer than 10 climbers die   while climbing Mount Everest . In stark contrast, the World Health Organization reports that cardiovascular diseases cause about 19.8 million deaths globally each year, roughly 32 percent of all deaths.  While stress isn’t the sole cause, it is a major contributor to these fatalities.   The movie we all know and love, Forrest Gump, had lots of famous quotes. As we all know, in the movie, Forrest often quoted his mama. I find myself doing the same thing now. My mama always said to “choose my battles”. In other words, not everything is a mountain…not everything can be – unless we want to find an early grave.   The mountains in our lives need to be scarce because it takes quite a bit of preparation to be able to accomplish that feat. If it were truly a mountain journey, we’d need proper gear and equipment, good health, a solid state of mind, and even then…we would experience unforeseen challenges along the way. For this reason, we need to “save our battles” as my mama would say. Save those up. Those require a great amount of physical, mental, psychological, and emotional strength. Those need to be available when we really  need them. When you face your next small challenge, pause and consider: is this a mountain, or is it a molehill? And remember, just because you see something as a mountain, doesn’t mean those around you see it that way. And just because you see something as a molehill, it might be a mountain to someone else. I challenge you—pause and " SELAH ," reflect on the Lord, and let Him show you if this is indeed a mountain - or really just a molehill.   So, I ask you: when the time comes, would you rather risk a rare adventure, or let daily stress quietly take your life? Pause, reflect, and choose peace. I’d love to hear your stories—share in the comments: when was a time you chose to pause, reflect, and choose your battle wisely? Downloadable version

Special to Wesson News   Wesson Public Library (WPL) has added two books series to collection for young readers.   At the Library, readers can now find the the Lane Walker sports and “Who Was. . .?” books.   Walker is a professional speaker and a distinguished figure in the realm of education, recognized as a best-selling author and award-winning administrator. With a rich background spanning over 25 years in the wild, Walker's journey began as a dedicated fifth grade teacher and coach before ascending to administrative roles. What sets Walker apart is an unwavering commitment to making a lasting impact on the lives of students. Their extensive experience, coupled with a genuine passion for education, has fueled a drive to inspire and uplift the younger generation. Walker's ethos revolves around the belief that education is not merely a profession but a calling-one that requires dedication, innovation, and a profound sense of responsibility. A multifaceted individual -- a best selling author, an award-winning administrator, and a passionate educator with a quarter-century of experience, his unique journey from the classroom to educational leadership reflects a deep-seated commitment to shaping the future by empowering and inspiring young minds. Walker's work and dedication stand as a testament to the transformative power of education. His sports books, Local Legends, have all hit number one status on Amazon.  His other award-winning books series include Hometown Hunters, a Bronze Medal Moonbeam Best Kids Series, and The Fishing Chronicles, which won a Gold Medal Moonbeam Award for Best Kids Series.   The "Who Was...?" book series is a popular collection of illustrated biographies for young readers, but Librarian Marilyn Britt says older readers will also enjoy them.   Penguin Books publishes the books under the "Who HQ" brand.  The covers significant historical figures, places, and events in an engaging, age-appropriate way.    Known for their distinctive "big-head" caricatures on the covers, the series includes titles like Who Was Albert Einstein? , Who Was Amelia Earhart?  and Who Was Martin Luther King, Jr.? , making history accessible and fun.    Several “Who Was. . .?” books in the WPL collection cover Mississippi influentials.  The "Who HQ" brand also includes "What Was...?", "Where Is...?", and "What Is the Story Of...?" series.