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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.

By Misty Strieff Prine Now just sit back and think about the magnitude of that question for a second. Wow. So how about it? Would you like you if you met you? Would you come across as humble and kind or as one of those people who thinks they are above others and are selfish and self-centered? You see, we all need to step back and ask ourselves this question because it will, or at least should, help us to see the importance of our behavior when it comes to those around us. Whether we realize it or not, people are watching us to see how we treat others or how we respond to situations in our lives. Some are waiting for us to slip so that we can become their topic of conversation, but some are literally trying to see how we respond to “life happenings” when we confess to be a Christian so they can respond in a better way than they may have done before…looking to us as “examples.” Yep, we are examples. If that doesn’t stop you in your tracks, I don’t know what will or should. Our lives are open books. God uses us to point others to Him by living our testimonies out loud for all to see. So, I want to encourage you to check yourself. If you were to observe “you”, would you be proud or ashamed? Would you need to do something different at the risk of leading someone away from the Lord instead of to Him? Food for thought for sure! Sometimes we all need to gain a different perspective so that we can become the best versions of ourselves. For, from the time we wake up (praise the Lord) until the time we rest our heads, we are living, breathing testimonies of the goodness and mercies of a God that given us so much to be thankful for. We need to live that out loud for all to see!

Special to Wesson News   Jo Jones (far right) and her granddaughter Kate Norwood (second from left), who is Wesson Founders’ Day Queen, accept Wesson Garden Club prestigious Magnolia Award from WGC’s Cherry Heard (far left) and Marilyn Britt (third from left).  The Magnolia Award recognized landscaping of Steve and Jo Jones. Steve and Jo Jones are recipients of Wesson Garden Club’s annual Magnolia Award.   The Magnolia Award, the most prestigious award presented by the Club, recognizes and honors home gardeners for the best landscaped yard of the year and their love of gardening.     The Jones are known for their outstanding hard work in constantly maintaining a well-groomed landscape year round that includes seasonal flowers, native trees and plants, accents, and shrubs.     The primary basis for receiving the Magnolia Award is consistently maintaining a manicured yard, curb appeal, originality, use of native and seasonal plant material and creativity.  Recipients of the award must have received the Club’s Yard of the Month award within the same calendar year.    WGC also recognized Elise Bell at 2168 King Road for her gardening and landscaping.  Her yard, graced by her skills, won the club’s Rural Yard of the Month honors at the end of 2025.    The WGC awards programs spotlight maintenance principles and elements of landscape design practiced by Wesson area organizations and residents towards encouraging ongoing beautification and cleanliness and cultivating a citizenry that values and protects natural resources and assumes responsibility for enhancing the environment.    The Garden Club's Yard of the Month awards honor properties in organizational, town residential and rural residential (limited to Wesson School District) categories during the spring, summer and fall.   The Wesson Garden Club is a member of the Natchez Trace District, Garden Clubs  of  Mississippi, Inc., and the National Garden Clubs, Inc.

By Bob Garver Poster credit IMDB It has been just over ten years since viewers were first introduced to the work of sci-fi author Andy Weir with Ridley Scott’s “The Martian.” In that film, a scientist (Matt Damon) was stuck on a planet millions of miles from Earth and forced to use his wits to survive against near-insurmountable odds, often punctuating his actions with smart-aleck remarks that only he could hear. New Weir adaptation “Project Hail Mary” is different. In this film, a scientist (Ryan Gosling) is stuck on a spaceship millions of miles from Earth and forced to use his wits to survive against near-insurmountable odds, often punctuating his actions with smart-aleck remarks that only he can hear… until he has an alien buddy that can hear them. Dr. Ryland Grace (Gosling) is on mission to save the Sun (and consequently Earth) from a bacteria that is severely diminishing its output. He’s not what you’d call a “likely” hero (just a schoolteacher with some controversial theories), and he doesn’t exactly “volunteer” for the mission. Sketchy mission organizer Eva Stratt (Sandra Hüller) has to use some nefarious means to get him on the ship, but only because she truly believes his way of thinking makes him the best hope for humanity. His “way of thinking” doesn’t extend to knowing how his spaceship works after over a century in an induced coma. After Grace spends a few days flopping around the ship, the whole vessel is intercepted by an alien spacecraft. Piloting the new ship is a creature that comes to be known as Rocky (voiced by James Ortiz, once he has a voice), because his body is so rock-like. He’s on a mission to save his own planet from the same problems plaguing the Sun. Not having many ideas of his own, his plan is to abduct Grace so they can pool their resources. Of course, Grace doesn’t really know what he’s doing either, but after a tedious process of learning to communicate with one another, the two of them start hatching something resembling a plan to save their respective worlds. And they might just become friends in the process. Okay, I won’t make it suspenseful, they become friends. Grace and Rocky’s friendship is really odd, considering that they never knew the other’s species even existed until they met in outer space. Also, neither can so much as breathe the air on the other’s ship. Grace has to keep his helmet on in Rocky’s, and Rocky has to travel around Grace’s in what I can only describe as a hamster ball. But through inspiring determination, they make it work. And though the attitude is usually kept light, there are very high stakes for both parties. Entire planets need to be saved and sacrifices need to be made. Will those sacrifices have to include our heroes’ ability to get home? How about their very lives? Can they even have a mission successful enough to warrant these kinds of questions? The story of “Project Hail Mary” is very familiar territory, especially if you’ve seen “The Martian.” I joked about it earlier, but Gosling’s character is basically a carbon copy of Damon’s in that film. And the friendship with Rocky has been done before too, in any number of movies where a human has to work together with an animal or alien (“E.T.” comes to mind). Fortunately, the writing, acting, and directing from the ever-enjoyable Phil Lord and Christopher Miller are all crisp enough to make this a decent version of a cookie-cutter space adventure. It could probably stand to eat up less time, but for the most part, “Project Hail Mary” is worth cheering on as much as your favorite sports team making the titular play. Grade: B- “Project Hail Mary” is rated PG-13 for some thematic material and suggestive references. Its running time is 156 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at  rrg251@nyu.edu .

Special to Wesson News (Photo from DG Foods website) Poultry processing and portioning company DG Foods is expanding its operations in Hazlehurst with a $1.19 million investment that will create 32 new jobs. The project will allow the company to increase production capacity and continue growing its presence in Copiah County. DG Foods provides deboning, tender portioning and other custom poultry processing services. The expansion includes the installation of new automated chicken nugget portioning equipment, which will significantly increase the company’s nugget production to meet rising customer and consumer demand. The project is being supported by the Mississippi Development Authority through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive, or MFLEX, program, with additional assistance from Copiah County. Headquartered in Hazlehurst, DG Foods opened its original 55,000-square-foot facility in 2004 and has grown into a major local employer with approximately 375 workers. Company officials say the 32 new positions will be filled across two shifts, with 16 employees per shift. The second shift is expected to begin in mid-May. “DG Foods' expansion in Hazlehurst shows how Mississippi companies can grow, modernize and stay competitive while continuing to create jobs in their hometowns,” said Tate Reeves. “This $1.19 million investment strengthens an established local employer and brings dozens of new job opportunities to Copiah County. I thank the DG Foods team for continuing to invest in the community they have called home for more than 20 years.” Officials with the Mississippi Development Authority said the project is an example of how supporting existing industry can have a lasting impact on local communities. “Economic development isn't just about recruiting new companies. It's about reinvesting in the industries and employers already doing the work, like Hazlehurst's DG Foods,” said Bill Cork. “This expansion creates jobs, ramps up production and drives local tax revenue, which keeps communities thriving.” DG Foods leadership said the project would not be possible without strong partnerships at the state and local levels. “DG Foods is grateful for the support from the Mississippi Development Authority. This partnership has played an important role in our growth, and we appreciate the opportunity to work together on this project,” said Chris Carter. “We are excited to invest further in our Hazlehurst operations, strengthen our capabilities with new technology and create additional jobs for the community we call home.” Local economic development leaders also praised the project and its impact on the area. “Copiah County Economic Development District is grateful to the Mississippi Development Authority for its support of Copiah County and DG Foods, which will help strengthen the company's operations, create new jobs and assist with the continued economic growth of our community,” said Arthur L. Evans Jr.. The expansion continues a more than 20-year history for DG Foods in Hazlehurst and reflects ongoing investment in both technology and the local workforce, positioning the company for continued growth in the years ahead.

The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 79 in Wesson is inviting the community to take part in its upcoming “Heart of the Table,” a tablescape competition and silent auction designed to bring together creativity, community spirit, and charitable giving. The two-day event will begin Friday, May 1, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., as contestants set up their themed tablescapes at the historic Old School building in Wesson. Activities will continue Saturday, May 2, starting at 8 a.m. with the opening of the silent auction at the park in Wesson. Attendees are encouraged to look for a white tent near the ice cream parlor, Park Place Concessions. Contestants will have from 8 to 8:30 a.m. to check placements and make final adjustments before judging begins at 9 a.m. Judging will run through 11 a.m. A VIP viewing of the displays will be held from 12 to 1 p.m., followed by public viewing and People’s Choice voting from 1 to 5 p.m. Admission for public viewing is $1. The silent auction at the park will close at 2 p.m. and will reopen at the historic Old School building at 3 p.m. Closing ceremonies, including the announcement of auction winners and tablescape competition winners, will take place at 5 p.m. The event is the result of months of planning, with the committee working since December to build what organizers hope will become a lasting community tradition. So far, organizers reported more than $1,500 in donated items and gifts for the silent auction. However, they are continuing to seek additional support in the form of monetary donations, auction items, services, and participant entries in the tablescape competition. This event is in conjunction with Wesson’s Annual Founder’s Day celebration. Community members are encouraged to participate by creating a tablescape as part of a group. Ideal participants include Sunday School classes, civic clubs, local businesses, and groups of friends. Registration forms can be submitted by mail or dropped off at the Wesson Library. The event is being organized by committee chairperson Janet Currie, along with committee members Dixie Thornton, Cathy Stroud, Judy Chester-Turner, and Laurie Chassion. “We need participation from Wesson and the surrounding communities. We are hosting this fundraiser to honor our veterans and military personnel. We hope this event will be the first of many, and everyone will come join in the fun and visit the Old Wesson School for the event,” said Currie, event chair. “We hope this tablescape event will be held every year so the funds will help support our missions.” For additional details email alaunit79wesson@gmail.com .

Send responses to: andybowman839@gmail.com Have you ever noticed that those rigid rules you insist your kids obey rarely bring about long-term enthusiastic obedience? “Mom told us to not do that. Yay!!!” Instead, rebellion later on is usually the result. When your back is turned. When your kid is turned loose on his own. When you are not there playing policeman. When they get to a place in their life that allows a teen to make a few of their own choices, often a young person who was reared under heavily restrictive guidelines with no explanations, will decide to find out what they were missing. Think along the lines of a kid going to college and out on their own for the first time. Feeling the heady thrill that comes with total freedom of choice. Coupled with long-denied desires of doing anything and everything that mom and dad declared off-limits. Add in the natural rebellion that comes with hormones that fluctuate like waves in the ocean. You potentially have what can be termed as a perfect storm. Ask any parent who dares to be totally honest with you. There is a second reason that using strict rules of conduct alone doesn’t really work long term. Unless you have been successful in instilling in that immature brain of your child the same line of reasoning, the same set of values, and the same fear of venturing off the safe beaten path of obedience that rules your behavior, then all you have accomplished is getting your kid to obey as long as you hold the reins. Good luck with that. I do believe that an average teen who is out on his own can be guided… to some degree. But for that to be true, effective loving guidance has to be started lonnnng before the teen years hit. So, just how do we parents accomplish the impossible? Beginning in the elementary years, the effective firm “ NO!” coupled with a smack on a diapered bottom that worked on your toddler has to have “Here’s why you can’t fill in the blank .” Stated unequivocally in logical and age-appropriate terms that your child can understand. Just yelling, “Because I said so!” isn’t going to go very far in getting your kid to want to cooperate. If that tired old sentence is your standard go-to, then very likely you have on your hands a child living out the old saying; ‘I’m sitting quietly on the outside, but I’m defiantly standing on the inside.’  And believe me, it only gets worse when hormones are added to the mix. My belief for the almost impossible job of parenting? Imitation : Pick up your Bible and read how your wise Creator parents you. Patience: Remember, your child is the student, you are the teacher, so teach. Loving firmness : Stick to your guns. I repeat, YOU are the teacher. How will Junior learn if you don’t stay firm? Fearlessness: Do not be afraid to enforce the word NO. Parent, do your job well. Or you will regret the results later on.

Special to Wesson News   Sonya Cowens (center) with Librarian Marilyn Britt (left) and District 92 Mississippi House of Representative Becky Currie. Life-long Wesson resident Sonya Cowen celebrated her 80th birthday last month with friends at Wesson Baptist Church.   Friends organized Cowen’s birthday and celebrated it with her. Among the folk on hand who organized the party and celebrated with Cowen were Barbara Locke, Janice Puckett, Carolyn Frazier, June Owens, Sharon Langley, Janet Currie, Cherry Head, Marilyn Britt, Diane McIntyre, Ann Williams, Joy Philips, Dr. Steve Liverman, Peggy Newman, Mary Ann Jasper, Lee Ann Knight, Sharon Speights and Rhonda Ishee.   In all, some 150 persons attended and shared slices of birthday cakes baked by Wendy Harrell.    Mississippi House of Representatives proclamation honored Sonya Cowen for life’s work and achievements. Mississippi District 92 House of Representative Becky Currie presented Cowen a special birthday proclamation passed by the full House that recognized her life’s work and achievements   Cowen is a 1963 graduate of Co-Lin High School and a 1965 graduate of the college. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in education and library science from Mississippi College and completed additional study at Mississippi College and The University of Southern Mississippi.    She established the first library at Wesson Elementary School and worked there as a teacher and elementary and high school librarian for 30 years. She worked as an assistant librarian in the Evelyn W. Oswalt Library.   Servers at Cowen’s birthday. Cowen is a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International, which selected her as a Woman of Distinction in 1990, and also is a member of the Co-Lin alumni association and the Band and its Colette Alumni Chapter, the Wesson Garden Club, the 50+ Club, the Old Wesson School Community Center Committee and Wesson Baptist Church, where she has taught Sunday School.   She was Co-Lin Alumna of the Year in 2010, Wesson Elementary Teacher of the Year, Wesson High School Teacher of the Year and honored by Wesson Chamber of Commerce Educator of the Year as Wesson’s Ageless Hero.  She was married to the late Hollis J. Cowen Jr., and they had two children, Hollis J. Cowen III (Trey) of Wesson and Katrina Smith and husband, Lane, of Flagstaff, Arizona.