Special to Wesson News   Jessica Breazeale of Wesson was named an honoree at the Connecting the Dots Foundation annual March banquet for National Women’s History Month, which was thematically framed as “Moving Forward Together! Celebrating Women Who Teach and Inspire Generations.”   The board of directors of the Connecting the Dots Foundation selected Breazeale as one of nine women to honor at the event held on last month at the Jackson Convention Complex.   Maggie Wade Dixon of WLBT 3 and Walt Grayson of WJTV 12 were emcees at the black-tie event. During the event,15 college students were also each presented $1,000 scholarships.  Carter Jewelers, America’s third oldest registered jewelry store, gave each Woman of Distinction a special gift.   Special guests at the event were Miss Mississippi, Miss Mississippi Teen, Miss Black Mississippi, Miss Juneteenth Mississippi, Miss Sweetheart World, and Ms. Black Mississippi.  Ballet Magnificat staged several performances.  Special videos featured Governor Tate Reeves, Congressman Bennie Thompson, Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, among others, congratulating honorees.    “It was such a lovely and inspiring night,” Breazeale said.  “We laughed. We cried. We listened to amazing music from a saxophonist from Rochester, NY.  It was a special night.  One that I’ll always remember.” Also honored as Women of Distinction were Dr. Erica Webber Jones, President of the Mississippi Association of Educators; Gabrielle Hyde, elementary teacher; the late Misha Mck, actress and activist; Kristen Stephenson, educator; Dr. Kimberly Hilliard, President/CEO of the Center for Social Entrepreneurship and engineer; Dr. Nia Day, a catalyst for nursing service, leadership and advocacy; and Dr. Jennifer Young Wallace, tenured associate professor of k12 PhD program at Jackson State University.   “I didn’t know they would ask me to speak,” said Breazeale.  “As I stepped up to the podium, I earnestly asked if ‘they were sure they got the right person.’  I’m not even in the same ballpark as the other Honorees.”    Breazeale’s 17 years in ministry and eclectic experience in education and non-profits were behind her nomination by Founder Dr. Luckett and selection by the Connecting The Dots Foundation board.   “Ministry is hard,” said Breazeale.  “Sometimes gut-wrenching. But I don’t do it because it’s easy or always fun. I do it because I’m called to effect change. I see a lot of things that need to be changed. If not me, then who? If not now, then when? So I keep powering on by God’s grace.”   Connecting The Dots Foundation inspires, empowers, and connects community service organizations by helping them realize their dreams and accomplish their goals through the development of activities, education, and financial support. CEO Dr. Marilyn Johnson-Luckett of Jackson leads the foundation.   Connecting The Dots Foundation seeks to bridge financial gaps of non-profits, missions, schools, churches, and projects to inspire communities to realize their dreams. It assists non-profit organizations in accomplishing their goals through fundraising events and donations.

Co-Lin’s 2024-2025 Hall of Fame inductees included from left, Greyson Ridge Clanton of Meadville, Alexandria Wall of Brookhaven, Andrew Jones of McCall Creek, Clifton Jernigan of Eupora, Reagan Newman of Wesson, and Anna Grace McCreary of Brookhaven; pictured with Co-Lin President Dr. Dewayne Middleton. Copiah-Lincoln Community College’s Wesson Campus inducted six outstanding students to the college’s Hall of Fame at their annual awards day program. The Hall of Fame is the most prestigious award given to a student and is voted on by students, faculty, and staff members. Only college sophomores are eligible for the honor and basis for selection includes fineness of character, superior scholarship, worthy leadership, and contribution to the betterment of Copiah-Lincoln. Inductees included Greyson Ridge Clanton of Meadville, Clifton Jernigan of Eupora, Andrew Jones of McCall Creek, Anna Grace McCreary of Brookhaven, Reagan Newman of Wesson, and Alexandria Wall of Brookhaven. Clanton is a member of the Trailblazers and is in active in the Baptist Student Union. He is a member of the Eta Omega Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa and is the recipient of a Co-Lin Foundation scholarship. Clanton was selected to Who’s Who at Copiah-Lincoln Community College. Following his graduation in May, he will begin Co-Lin’s Medical Radiologic Technology program in August and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in radiologic sciences afterwards. He is the son of Shane and Missy Clanton of Meadville. Jernigan is a Pitts Presidential Scholar and serves as President of the Trailblazers and Vice President of Student Government Association. He also serves as President of the Eta Omega Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa and the Co-Lin C.A.R.E.S Club. Jernigan is active with the Baptist Student Union and serves on the leadership team and in the praise band. He is a member of the Alpha Omega Science Club, Mu Alpha Theta, Co-Lin Honors College, and the Wolf Tales student newspaper. He is also on the Co-Lin Cheerleading team serving as the college’s mascot, Mr. Wolf. He was named Phi Theta Kappa Officer of the Year, Most Distinguished Regional Member for MS/LA, and to Who’s Who at Co-Lin. He was elected by his peers as Mr. Co-Lin. Jernigan was a member of the Wolves Tennis team his freshman year where he was named MACCC All-Academic First Team. He has been awarded the Presidential Partnership Scholarship to Mississippi State University where he will pursue a bachelor’s degree in microbiology with plans to attend medical school to become a pediatric physician. He is the son of Bubba and Randee Jernigan of Eupora. Jones serves as Vice President of Research for the Eta Omega Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa and Vice President of the Co-Lin C.A.R.E.S. Club. He is active with the Baptist Student Union and serves on the leadership team. Jones was selected to Who’s Who at Copiah-Lincoln Community College and is a Co-Lin Foundation scholarship recipient. He is a member of Mu Alpha Theta, Alpha Omega Science Club, Trailblazers, and Sigma Kappa Delta. After Co-Lin, Jones will continue his education at Mississippi College to earn a degree in biology with plans to attend medical school and become a rural family medicine physician. He is the son of Brad and Kristie Jones of McCall Creek. McCreary serves as President of the Student Government Association and Vice President of Service for Mu Alpha Theta. She is a member of the Co-Lin Honors College, Council of Presidents, and the Trailblazers. McCreary is a member of the Trillium Yearbook Staff, Alpha Omega Science Club, and the Eta Omega Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa. She was selected to Who’s Who at Copiah-Lincoln Community College and is a Co-Lin Foundation scholarship recipient. After graduating from Co-Lin in May, McCreary will attend Mississippi State University majoring in biological sciences with plans to attend physician’s assistant school and specialize in dermatology. She is the daughter of Rob and Melainie McCreary of Brookhaven. Newman serves as Vice President of Scholarship for the Eta Omega Chapter Phi Theta Kappa and is on the college’s dance team, the Colettes. She is on the leadership team at the Baptist Student Union serving as co-bible study leader and overseeing communications. She is a member of Mu Alpha Theta, the Trailblazers, and the Art Students League. She was selected as Co-Lin’s Most Beautiful 2024 during the college’s annual Trillium Beauty Pageant. She was a homecoming maid her freshman year and was selected to Who’s Who at Copiah-Lincoln Community College and as a Campus Favorite. Newman received numerous scholarships including the Co-Lin Leadership Scholarship and Foundation scholarships. She was elected by her peers as Miss Co-Lin. After Co-Lin, Newman plans to continue her education at Mississippi State University to earn a degree in Architecture. She is the daughter of Cliff and Tammy Newman of Wesson. Wall serves as President of Mu Alpha Theta, Vice President of Communications for Co-Lin C.A.R.E.S, and Vice President of Communications for Phi Theta Kappa. She is the Secretary for both Sigma Kappa Delta and Future Business Leaders of America. Wall is the Percussion Section leader for the Blue Wave Show Band, serves as a tutor in The Writing Center, and is a representative for the Student Government Association. She is in Co-Lin’s Honors College, is on the Council of Presidents, and is the Band Council Treasurer. She was selected to Who’s Who at Copiah-Lincoln Community College and as a Campus Favorite. She is a member of the Trillium Yearbook Staff, Trailblazers, and Wolf Tales student newspaper. She was named to the Phi Theta Kappa All-Mississippi Academic Team and was awarded the National Mu Alpha Theta scholarship. After Co-Lin, she plans to attend Mississippi State University to major in political science with a minor in Spanish. She is the daughter of Misty Sias Wall of Brookhaven.

Special to Wesson News   Pastor Ken Dale Sullivan with children at Union Hall Baptist Church. (Photo credit: Special to Wesson News)             Around town, folk know Ken Dale Sullivan as a former mortician who brought his specialized skills to the public and private sectors, a politician who sought local and state elected offices and a restaurateur.               Sullivan, who says he identifies with Jonah, the Biblical character who ran away from God’s call and was swallowed by a whale, is now serving Union Hall Baptist Church in Brookhaven as its pastor and looks on his past career life as an attempt to run away from God’s call to his new ministry.               Born in 1976, Sullivan grew up in the New Zion community outside Crystal Spring, a rural area where he learned hunt and fish and went to kindergarten, elementary, middle and high schools.               Baseball was a sports passion in his childhood and youth, but he was a better musician than an athlete, and went to Co-Lin on a band scholarship after graduating from Crystal Spring High School in 1995.               “I studied pre-med at Co-Lin, but interrupted my education there to take a job at Stringer’s Funeral Home in Hazlehurst, where I was fascinated by the work,” he says.  “I returned to Co-Lin, went on to Southern Mississippi University, where I earned a degree in business administration in 2000, and then studied mortuary science at Gulf Coast Community College.”               Sullivan started 15 years in mortuary jobs at Moore Funeral Service in Hattiesburg, moving to the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in 2006 as the anatomical materials specialist working with surgical students, teachers and researchers in using cadavers.  From 2006-2017, Sullivan also operated Clean Scene, a small business that remediated crime scenes for law enforcement agencies throughout Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.               In 2017, UMMC made Sullivan Associate Director of Environmental Services to oversee 63 workers in its janitorial division, a short-lived job, as it turned out, because UMMC contracted out the division’s work to a private organization later that year.               “I was offered a job by the private contractor, but I grew up in a family the enjoyed cooking good food and had always dreamed of operating a restaurant.  Things fell into place in 2018, and he opened Dump’s Barbeque in the old Newman’s Liquor Store in Wesson,” Sullivan says.     Sullivan also ran away from God’s call, pursuing public office twice in elections for the state legislature and Copiah County supervisors.   Five and one-half years after opening Dump’s, however, he finally yielded to God’s call when Union Hall Baptist Church him to become its interim pastor.               “I knew as a child that I was called to be a pastor,” Sullivan recalls.  “I even preached a sermon on Jonah and the whale when I was three or four years old.at New Zion Baptist Church.  I continued Dump’s while serving as an interim pastor at Union Hall, but closed the doors there in May 2024 for the last time when the church called me to serve full time.”             The same day he closed Dump’s Sullivan learned another would-be Wesson restaurateur was ready to take over the building – “another sign I made the right decision to pursue the ministry,” he says.               At Union Hall, Sullivan says he found a “loving congregation” and “I have worked with it to become a praying congregation.”  The response to his pastorate have been marked with Sunday worship services now drawing 70 to 80 persons compared to 30 when he came on board as the interim pastor.               Sullivan calls his wife, the former Kris Santa Ana, his “partner in ministry.”  He met the sister of Nelson Santa Ana, former pastor at Wesson Baptist Church, in 2012 and married her the same year – “one of my best blessings,” Sullivan says.  She is now a counselor at Utica Elementary School and a former journalist, salesperson and teacher.  They have two daughters – Kenzie, 23, who is married and lives in Colorado, and Mary Grace, 20, a third-year education student at Ole Miss.   What are your hobbies? I like spending time with family, working on a 1972 Cadillac, fishing and cooking   Are you a reader? I read the Bible and commentaries.  For pleasure, I read biographies to learn about real people.  Understanding people is what being a pastor is all about.  I recently completed reading Cornbread Mafia  – a story about people.   How about music? When I was in a band, my instrument was the trombone.  I can play the guitar a little bit.  I love to sing and I enjoy listening to all kinds of  music – Christian, country, rock.  I am also an Elvis fan.   Do you go to the theater or movies? I like ballet.  I enjoy the old gangster movies.  If sports events are theater, I am looking forward to rooting for a new Jackson minor league team following the departure elsewhere of the Mississippi Braves.  I also follow the New York Yankees.   If you won a lot of money in the lottery, how would you spend it? The one thing I wouldn’t do, unlike many people, is quit my job.  I might buy some land with a pond, where I can fish.   How would you change the world? That’s what we’re trying to do at Union Hall Baptist Church.  Showing the love of Christ, helping people understand the blood of Christ through which God changes people.

Lawrence "Penny" Henry Hammons September 17, 1936 - April 12, 2025 Chancellor Funeral Home- Byram, MS Penny Hammons, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished member of the community, passed away on April 12, 2025, in Jackson, Mississippi. Born on September 17, 1936, in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, Penny lived a life enriched with love, laughter, and a passion for both his family and his work in the automotive industry as a talented mechanic. Penny was not only known for his exceptional skills as a mechanic but also for his active spirit and the warmth he brought to everyone around him. He was an adventurer at heart, deeply passionate about traveling with his beloved wife, Wren Tullos-Hammons. Together, they explored the open roads in their motor home, creating countless memories that would be cherished by their family for generations to come. In the quiet moments of life, Penny found solace in his garden, where his love for nurturing peppers and tomatoes flourished. His green thumb not only allowed him to create unique blends from his pepper harvests but also provided him with the joy of working outdoors, often seen riding on his tractors, embodying the essence of an outdoorsman who cherished every moment spent in nature. Penny's family was his greatest treasure. He is survived by his loving wife, Wren Tullos-Hammons, three devoted sons, Bobby Hammons, Wally Hammons, and the late Keith Hammons, along with his precious grandchildren, Dewayne Hammons, Tanya Long, and Derek Hammons. His legacy continues through his numerous great-grandchildren—Eli, Gracie, Levi, Allie, Ridge, Lake, and Hattie—who were the light of his life, bringing immeasurable joy in his later years. Penny also leaves behind his sister, Evelyn January, whose bond he cherished dearly. He was predeceased by his parents, Clarence Hammons and Ruby Johnson, as well as his brothers, Rayford Hammons and Billy Hammons, and his son, Keith Hammons. A visitation will be held on April 15, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Chancellor Funeral Home Byram Location in Byram, Mississippi. Additional visitation will take place on April 16, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 1000 AM. Penny will be laid to rest at Pilgrims Rest Baptist Church Cemetery in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, at 11:15 AM. Penny Hammons will be remembered for his generous spirit, unwavering love for his family, and his zest for life. His memory will be carried on in the hearts of all who loved him, and his legacy will inspire future generations to embrace and celebrate the joys of life, adventure, and family. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Lawrence "Penny" Henry Hammons, please visit our flower store .

By: Guest Columnist Dr. Stephanie Duguid Brandi Gremillion, First DKG Mini-Grant Recipient 2025 The Theta Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma is excited to announce Brandi Gremillion of Wesson as the inaugural recipient of the chapter’s new Mini-Grant program. Brandi’s proposal focused on increasing student success by ensuring that every child in her classroom has access to a personal set of headphones—a tool she believes is essential for focused learning in today’s technology-integrated environment. With this mini-grant, Brandi will be able to enhance the educational experience for her students, promoting both independence and engagement in the classroom and beyond. The Theta Chapter is proud to support innovative educators like Brandi and looks forward to seeing the difference her efforts will make in the lives of her students. Delta Kappa Gamma is a professional honor society for women educators that promotes excellence in education, leadership, and service. The Theta Chapter actively supports teachers in the chapter through initiatives like the newly launched Mini-Grant program.

By: Guest Columnist Dr. Stephanie Duguid Kaylee Walker, DKG Grant-In-Aid Recipient, 2025 The Theta Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma is proud to announce Kaylee Walker of Brookhaven as the 2025 recipient of its annual Grant-in-Aid award. A standout student from Copiah-Lincoln Community College, Kaylee is preparing to transfer to the Mississippi University for Women this fall, where she will pursue a degree in English education. Dedicated to supporting the future of teaching, Delta Kappa Gamma awards this honor each year to an aspiring educator who demonstrates academic excellence, leadership, and a passion for learning. Kaylee’s commitment to becoming an English teacher and inspiring the next generation of students is both admirable and promising. The Theta Chapter celebrates Kaylee’s achievements and looks forward to the positive impact she will make in Mississippi classrooms in the years to come. Delta Kappa Gamma is an international society of women educators committed to promoting professional excellence, personal growth, and the advancement of education worldwide. The Theta Chapter, based in Wesson, supports local students and educators through scholarships and service.

Special to Wesson News   Wesson Chamber of Commerce President Terri Bath (right) with librarian Marilyn Britt (immediate left) and members of Friends of the Library (FOL) at Chamber’s awards ceremony.  FOL was named Organization of the Year. A business, not-for-profit organization and seven individuals received recognition and accepted honors for their contributions and service to Wesson last month.   At a special awards banquet at the Co-Lin Thames Center, the Wesson Chamber of Commerce presented:   Organization of the Year Award to Friends of the Library  for its work in supporting Wesson Public Library through special programs, promotions that encourage use of its resources and funds to expand those resources.  It assists with programs targeted for children and youth and National Library Week and conducts promotions to build user traffic.   Citizens of the Year Awards to Dixie Hutson Thornton  and Michael R. King .  Thornton has served the Wesson community through volunteer leadership in the American Legion Auxiliary in which she served as president of District 7 and is the historian and member of the local executive committee.  As president of the Wesson Garden Club, she helped it achieve state and regional recognition for its programs.  She is active in Sylvarena Baptist Church and serves on the Southern Baptist Region 6 Women’s Missionary Union Board of Directors. In 2014, she worked with the Wesson Chamber of Commerce and Town to set up a town museum to help celebrate Wesson’s 150th anniversary – a temporary facility that will soon return to become a permanent part of the town’s life through the work of Friends of the Library.  Thornton is a 44-year Army wife, mother of one daughter and a granddaughter. King serves as Wesson Ward 4 Alderman and is President and CEO of Summerwind Consultants, Inc., which develops antiterrorism and risk management decision-support software tool.  He spearheaded development of the Wesson Veterans Memorial.  A Brookhaven native, he graduated from Florida State University and started a law enforcement career with the Brookhaven Police Department, which he continued as a military policeman after being commissioned as a U.S. Marine Corps officer in 1983.  He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and U.S. Army Command and Staff College, holding a Master of Military Art and Science.  He received the Legion of Merit Award, Defense Meritorious Service Meda and the Presidential Service Badge and retired as Lieutenant Colonel before founding his consulting firm.   E ducator of the Year Dr. Barbara Roberson , Wesson High School principal.  Wesson Attendance Center Principal Tommy Clopton commended her for “creativity in developing individualized plans for students according to their needs, “pulling all students up and finding the right path for each one.” Roberson has been an educator of 28 years, 14 years at Wesson Attendance Center as a teacher and counselor.   Policeman of the Year to Tim Stevens , Wesson Police Department (WPD) assistant chief.  WPD Police Chief Chad O’Quinn called Stevens “a leader and mentor” who exemplifies the force.  “We’re peacemakers who are confident in our public service, loving what we do,” Q’Quinn said.   Fireman of the Year to Sean Riley .  Wesson Fire Department is small on funds, but big on volunteers like Riley, Chief Ken Carraway said.  “We’re responsible for 72 square miles,” he said.  “Each of us brings 800 training hours to the job, including 120 hours for certification and 12 hours refresher training every year.  We’re prepared for the worst, trained for what we never want to happen.”  Riley, Carraway said, “started as a kid as a junior firefighter, has a kind serving heart and responds to most of our calls.”   Business of the Year to Copiah Bank .  “Wesson is a small town, but has two banks – Trustmark and Copiah – that are solidly committed to its growth with assets,” Chamber President Teri Bath said.  Bath noted new business openings in Wesson encouraged by the presence of the town’s banks:  Spray Foam Solutions with eight to nine new jobs, Fire House Barbeque with seven new jobs, Skidworks, a property maintenance company started by Steven Ashley related to his real estate organization, and Park Place Concessions. In addition to the award winners, the Chamber also honored two recently retired owners of long-time Wesson businesses:  Gerri Bland , who operated Miss Gerri’s Beauty Salon, and Nena Smith , who operated a dance studios.    SIDEBAR        Three speakers, who have helped Wesson in their unique roles in the community, lauded the more than one hundred town leaders, including citizens, government officials and representatives of business and not-for-profit organization on hand at the Chamber of Commerce awards event.        “It’s amazing what you do,” affirmed Representative Becky Currie, who serves the community in the State Legislature.        "The Biblical injunction to help ‘the least of these’ guides me to do what I do to make the community the best,” she said.  “Fixing what needs to be fixed – the Old School, police station, roads, Wesson Attendance Center; supporting Co-Lin, getting funds for you.”        Dr. Jackie Martin, vice president of the Co-Lin Wesson campus, said the local college is seeking to grow with the town.        She cited “student success” as its top priority reflected in Co-Lin’s graduation rate, which is the highest among colleges and universities in Mississippi.        The college is also renovating buildings, improving its athletic facilities and reaching out to local high school students to continue studies at the institution, she said.        Wesson Mayor Alton Shaw said the town is all about “people helping each other” and pointed to its government activity as a venue to that happening.        He said the town operates on a $2 million budget with grant funding that keeps taxes at a minimum in maintaining a Class 7 fire department with volunteers, recent upgrading of police department facilities, and providing a municipal park with a playground.  On the horizon for the town, he said, are road repairs, location of a pharmacy, and opening of a new convenience store.        “We have a lot going on and to be happy about,” Shaw summarized.

Special to Wesson News In celebration of a decade of powerful advocacy and progress, Wesson resident and lung cancer advocate Kim Whittington participated in the American Lung Association’s 2025 Lung Force Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C., on April 9. The event marked 10 years of amplifying the voices of lung cancer survivors, caregivers, and advocates from across the U.S. who have shared their personal stories with lawmakers to drive lifesaving change. Whittington is driven by the memory of her husband, Harry, who passed from lung cancer 11 years ago. Like many  veterans , he began smoking while serving in the U.S. Air Force. After retiring from the service, he had annual check-ups with his primary care provider, but did not receive any lung scans. He was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer during tests for a stroke. The cancer had metastasized to his brain. He passed eight months after his diagnosis. “As a member of the U.S. Air Force, Harry saw many conflicts and danger, but little did he know the thing that would end his life was hanging from his fingers,” says Whittington.  “He told me cigarettes were passed out in the military just like MREs.  Lung cancer screening should be a part of yearly check-ups, especially for patients with smoking history.  I believe if his lung cancer had been caught earlier, Harry would still be here.” During Advocacy Day, Whittington spoke with the Mississippi Congressional Delegation and their staff to share her personal experience with lung cancer and explain why protecting access to quality and affordable healthcare through Medicaid, and protecting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health are vital for people with or at risk for lung cancer. Lung Force was launched in 2014, with its first advocacy in 2016. Since its inception, Lung Force has played a pivotal role in transforming the landscape of lung cancer research, treatment and awareness. Over the past 10 years, the American Lung Association has: Shared the inspiring stories of more than 1,000 individuals affected by lung cancer with lawmakers, putting a human face to the nation’s leading cause of cancer death.  Increased annual lung cancer research funding through the National Institutes of Health by 142%, surpassing $500 million annually. Contributed to a remarkable 44% increase in the five-year lung cancer survival rate, providing hope to countless patients and families. Paved the way for 67 new lung cancer therapies approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, expanding treatment options and improving outcomes. To help celebrate the tenth anniversary of Lung Foce Advocacy Day and support Kim Whittington, the Lung Association invited Mississippi residents to join the movement by visiting  LUNGFORCE.org/AdvocacyDay  and: Calling Senators and Representatives to echo the voices of LUNG FORCE Heroes.  Sending an email to Congress to advocate for continued support of lung cancer research and healthcare access.  Engaging with lawmakers on social media to raise awareness and inspire action The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit:  Lung.org .

Send responses to:  andybowman839@gmail.com Years ago, right after I began CoffeeTime Column, a friend suggested I write an article addressing ‘Dealing with your ex after the divorce.’ Now, I don’t know much, but I do know that a writer is foolish to attempt to write about an unfamiliar subject. And as I have never personally experienced the aftermath of a divorce, writing on it is likely foolhardy on my part. And a possible insult to those who have. So, up to now, I have avoided the entire subject. But yet, her words have kept surfacing in my thoughts as the years have passed. So, I finally did the most prudent and wise thing I could – I drew upon my conversations with divorced people, listening to their experiences of living with divorce in their rear-view mirror. Then I spent some time combining their experiences, thoughts, and hard-won views with some frank teachings from God’s written Word. The following column is the result: Divorce hurts everyone, period.   Not just the couple with a broken marriage, but all those involved in their lives. Kids still at home, kids already out on their own, moms and dads, siblings and friends. Even supervisors at work, who are depending upon jobs being done effectively. Going through a divorce sometimes has a way of clouding the ability to think clearly. And the boss never appreciates that. Divorce takes a toll financially and emotionally on the husband and wife . Though probably not equally, from what I have been repeatedly told. One ex-spouse always seems to hurt so much more, while watching the other seemingly flourish and prance their way through life. That in itself can bring on more anger and bitterness. Not the greatest way to try to walk on. Some important lessons they’ve told me they learned from divorce:    1)   Forgiveness is the best thing for you.  It won’t change your ex-spouse’s behavior, just the consequences of it on your own entire future.  2) Realize if you remarry, you likely will subconsciously assign your ex-spouse’s faults to your new spouse . And fear makes you act defensively, setting you up for another fail.  3) Counseling can help . It helps you deal with this tendency and life to come. How does God feel about divorce? Scripture teaches that He hates divorce. All the above listed pain and problems is partly why. Another reason is Scripture states that when one marries, that person becomes one part of a whole. And any way it’s done, cutting something down the middle ends up creating two severed halves. Not exactly the painful end God intended. The Bible specifically mentions only two reasons for divorcing. Cheating on marriage vows or if the other spouse leaves. Cheating is fairly easy to define. But leaving… is emotional or physical abuse another form of leaving the marriage?  Like I said earlier, I am not qualified to answer, only to own an opinion. And opinions without experience aren’t worth much to someone else who has actually been there.

Carpet steaming, also known as steam cleaning, is an effective method that penetrates deep into your carpet fibers to remove dirt, allergens, and stains that regular vacuuming cannot. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding and implementing the process of carpet steaming at home. Why Choose Carpet Steaming? Carpet steaming ensures that your carpets are not only clean on the surface but also deep down. This incredibly beneficial process can extend the lifespan of your carpets and revive their appearance, making them look brand new. How Carpet Steaming Works The carpet steaming process is straightforward. A carpet steamer heats water to a high temperature to create steam. This steam is then applied to the carpet, loosening any ingrained dirt and killing dust mites and bacteria. The machine then sucks up the moisture, along with the dislodged dirt, leaving your carpet clean and almost completely dry. The Process of Carpet Steaming Equipment Needed for Carpet Steaming You'll need a carpet steam cleaner, which you can rent or purchase. Most models come with the necessary attachments. Preparations Before Steaming Before steaming, vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove any loose dirt and debris. Move furniture out of the room or cover it with plastic sheeting. Pre-treat any stains on the carpet using a suitable stain remover. The Steaming Process The steamer should be filled with water and, if required, a cleaning solution. Switch on the machine and slowly move it across the carpet, allowing it to breathe in the dirt removed by the steam. Best Carpet Steam Cleaners Some of the best available carpet steam cleaners are the Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Max Clean Pet Pro, the Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe, and the Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner. Each has its unique advantages and features, ensuring you can find one that suits your specific needs. DIY Tips for Carpet Steaming Never oversoak your carpets as excess moisture can lead to mildew and mold growth. Allow your carpet to dry thoroughly before walking on it to avoid dirt from your shoes adhering to the damp fibers. Regularly empty and clean out the steamer’s recovery tank to ensure optimal performance. When to Hire a Professional Carpet Cleaner While carpet cleaning can be done at home using rented equipment or your own steam cleaner, there are situations when hiring a professional may be necessary or more beneficial: When you're dealing with tough stains: Professional carpet cleaners possess the skills and have access to powerful cleaning agents to remove stubborn stains that general steaming may not tackle effectively. To extend the lifespan of the carpet: Regular cleaning can maintain the surface of your carpet, but professional cleaning can deep clean and rejuvenate the fibers, extending the life of your carpet. When you need specialized tools: Professional carpet cleaners have a variety of tools to clean other flooring surfaces, not just carpets. Time-savings: If you're busy and want to save time, a professional cleaner can handle the job efficiently while you focus on other tasks. Regular Maintenance: Carpets should be cleaned professionally at least once every 24 months. Remember, while hiring a professional carpet cleaner may cost more upfront compared to a DIY approach, the benefits gained such as time saved, superior cleaning, and extended carpet life can offer more value in the long run. In conclusion, carpet steaming is worth considering if you want to maintain and prolong the lifespan of your carpets. By following the tips and steps in this guide, you can rejuvenate your carpets, making your home look and feel fresh and clean.

Small businesses need to fill in the cracks where their internal resources are lacking, but many small business owners don't know how much and what tech types to outsource. Here's a list of tech-related tasks small businesses in Wesson, MS can pay other companies to complete without breaking the bank. Web Design and Development The internet is an integral part of modern businesses, so it's only natural that you need a website to get started. Do-it-yourself web design has improved in recent years, but it still may not be a great option if you lack design skills or web development know-how. Instead, consider hiring a freelance web designer to give your company a more professional web presence. Social Media Management Another key element of operating a small business today is social media management. This is a job that is best done by a social media marketing agency or someone with knowledge of the changing face of these platforms. You probably don't have time to learn everything about social media so you can keep up with the latest trending topics and platforms. If you're up-to-date and just want help to manage your brand's accounts, consider using social media scheduling software, such as Hootsuite . Software/App Development Software and apps are the future of small businesses, so it's wise to hire an app developer or software company that can build you an in-house solution to make your small company thrive. If you don't have the budget or expertise yourself, why not hire a software development company to build a tool to help your company work more efficiently? IT Services Hiring a managed IT service provider is a cost-effective way to keep your business protected from hackers and viruses. Most service providers will have a range of packages depending on your business' needs, so you can work with them to figure out what services you need and at what price. Also, look for an MSP that offers cybersecurity, backup, and cloud services as a complete package. Accounting Running your accounting department can be time-consuming and tedious, but there are ways to simplify it. For example, accounting software like Xero can automate many of the tasks your small business went through to log transactions by hand. Of course, this is only helpful if you have the accounting know-how to understand the financial aspect. If not, consider outsourcing your accounting and bookkeeping to a service provider who can care for your accounts while you run your business. When looking at the different software options, consider your business organization type's impact on your taxes and your company's financing complexity. Depending on the setup, you could end up with either more taxes or higher personal tax liability. Look into starting an MS LLC to enjoy these perks and more without the complicated paperwork. Inventory Management For small businesses that deal with physical goods, inventory management is vital to stay on top of their finances. Software can eliminate some of this hassle by counting your inventory automatically. Options include inventory management software such as Sellbrite and inFlow . It's Okay to Outsource You don't have to do it all yourself. With software and companies specializing in IT solutions, you can manage everything from web design and accounting to inventory management. To find local businesses to outsource these services in Wesson, subscribe to Wesson News . Read more: Mississippi Development Authority Grants Stimulate Municipal Economies Read more: T op Reasons Why Your Home-Based Business Needs Proper Insurance Read more: Stigall Treads Rocky Business Road Read more: Businesses are reopening cautiously

As technology advances, more and more people are finding it a lot easier to reach their entrepreneurial dreams right from the comfort of their own homes. You no longer have to fight traffic on your commute, nor do you have to have put on work clothes, if you don’t want to! The ability to run a successful business right from your home office is a dream that many people only wish they could do. Despite the fact that it’s now easier than ever to become a business owner, the biggest factor that stops a lot of people from accomplishing their dreams is the costs associated with running a business. Running a business from home isn’t going to have as many upfront costs as it would building a business from the ground-up but there are still costs associated with this business venture. To reduce financial burdens, business owners are constantly looking for ways to cut business costs but in their search, they make the decision to cut the most important part of their business… their business insurance policy. Lots of home-based business owners won’t invest in business insurance because they don’t think they need it since they work from home. In fact, a lot of business owners have the misconception that their homeowner’s insurance policy will cover their business, but it won’t. Unfortunately, it’s not until some type of disaster happens that they find this out. By working for yourself, you have a lot more flexibility and freedom but it also means that you and your business are at a higher risk of exposure to certain threats, and because of that, it’s important that you protect what you’ve built. Investing in business insurance doesn’t have to break the bank, either. Companies like Simply Business provide businesses with coverage to meet your business needs at an affordable rate. To simply put it, business insurance isn’t an option for your business… it’s a necessity. Here are the top reasons why your business needs proper coverage. You’ve Taken Out a Small Business Loan As you know, it takes money to make money, which is why some small business owners take out small business loans. But there are conditions to taking out loans for small businesses, and one of those conditions is that you must carry insurance. Lending institutions require the businesses they loan money to, to carry business insurance because it protects your business… it’s for your benefit and it’s a safety net that assures them that their loan to you will be protected and you’ll be able to make your payments in the event some type of business interruption occurs. You Live in an Area Susceptible to Disasters If you live in an area that’s prone to natural disasters like tornadoes, floods, or hurricanes, your home and business are at an extremely high risk for suffering damages. According to US News , California is the most at risk for natural disasters. But just pay attention to the weather you have in your area… Depending on the type of business you have and the types of natural disasters your area is prone to, it may require you to have an additional (more specific) policy to your standard business insurance coverage. Your State Requires It Depending on the state you live in, it may be required for you to carry business insurance. This is especially true if you have employees. But carrying business insurance is just a smart business move regardless of your state laws on it. All too often, people look at business insurance as this extra monthly expense, when it’s really the saving grace to your business’ survival. You Have Employees Just because you’re running a home-based business, that doesn’t mean you can’t have employees, whether they’re remote workers or come to your home a few days out the week. But if you do have employees, you indeed are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance to cover them in case they suffer any injuries while on the job. You Have the Potential to Get Sued As a business owner, whether you’re selling products or services, you’re at risk for litigation. Someone could claim your products were defective and caused them harm… Depending on the type of business you’re running and the services you’re providing, someone could also say that your services caused severe damages to their health or business. The point is that you never know what could happen during the course of running your business. Everything from natural disasters to facing lengthy lawsuits, the moment you become a business owner, you automatically have a target on your back. Protecting your business and everything you’ve built is what’s going to keep your business “in business.” Read more: Mississippi Development Authority Grants Stimulate Municipal Economies Read more: Stigall Treads Rocky Business Road Read more: The Best Outsourcing Options for Small Businesses