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Columns

I'm failing to get with the program

I know some of y’all will find this column radical while others will be totally copacetic with it. I mean, I am not trying to psych anybody, you dig it.

Power of prevention: Screenings save lives

In healthcare, we’re always working to help people be healthy—but a lot of the time, we’re just trying to get them well. It sounds similar, but there’s a big difference.

It's never too early for the Christmas Elderly Project

Happy end of summer to all of you! We are gearing up for another Christmas Elderly project . I know it might seem early, but it is never too early to begin working on a large project like this one. The grant application has to be in by the end of August, in order for the grant items that we request be delivered in a timely manner. I have been working on that application – a wonderful excuse to stay inside where it is cool!!

Here's to the caregivers

I’m reading a book right now, Composing a Life, recommended to me long ago by Marc Boswell, who lived here for a number of years as director of the nonprofit Together for Hope. (We miss you, Marc!) It’s written by Mary Catherine Bateson, the daughter of anthropologist Margaret Mead, and delves into the lives of four women to show the creative potential of how we might choose to live and respond to our lives.

Making an impact: Special ladies

(This is the third column in a series depicting women who I think the world of.) Maybe I saved her for last because she is the hardest and the easiest. Edna Bishop Brock.

LETTER TO THE EDITORS

DEAR EDITORS: Last week, East Carroll Parish lost an educator and a friend. Ann Coleman Powell was a product of this community and an excellent ambassador for its people.

911 delays purchase

East Carroll Parish 911 Director Debra Hopkins informed the communications district board at its quarterly meeting recently that the purchase of new call taking equipment had been placed on hold. Hopkins said that she had officially rejected the requests for proposals that had been issued for new equipment until the problem of reliable internet in her office was resolved.

Accepting what I can't control

My niece has been in the hospital. She was there a total of five days I believe, suffering from a rare bacterial infection.

Planting hope: Staying positive when gloomy

If I am honest, I am struggling to see the positives in life lately on the farm and on the daily. I'm winning the battle because I know that in rural communities like ours, life is full of seasons — both on the land and in the heart.

Making an impact: Special ladies

Judge Ragland five feet tall and imposing (This is the second column in a series depicting women who I think the world of.) Most of you don’t know the second strong Southern woman who has influenced my life, but believe me, she was a very unforgettable personality if you knew her. Alwine Mulhearn Smith Ragland was born in 1913 to an affluent family that owned the Mulhearn Funeral Homes in Monroe.