Brandon318web

volume 5 number 1
Spring 2018
ES
RS
5
CELEBRATING FIVE YEARS
HOMETOWN MAGAZINES
Graham Carraway
Amphitheater at the Quarry
FIT FOR A PRINCESS

2 • Spring 2018

PUBLISHER & EDITOR
Tahya Dobbs
CFO
Kevin Dobbs
CONSULTING EDITOR
Mary Ann Kirby
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Karla Johnson
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Alisha Floyd
SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER
Brenda McCall
PROJECT ASSISTANT
Elise Sears
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Othel Anding
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Charla Jordan
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Camille Anding
Kyle Brown
Charla Jordan
Susan Marquez
Leah Mitchener
Suzanne Ross
Elise Sears
Abbie Walker
DESIGN
Daniel Thomas - 3dt
The groundhog has nothing to do with the arrival of spring! Shadows and groundhogs
hiding from the sun are totally off my radar.
My husband, Kevin, announces spring each year when he brings me the first bouquet of
flowers that he picks in our backyard. The fragrance of those bright yellow faces instantly
takes me back to my childhood.
Their appearance, regardless of the frosty ground they might have had to battle, meant
spring was cleaning up after winter’s harsh visit. An occasional late snow or one more hard
freeze was always a possibility but the spring flowers told me not to worry. Spring was coming.
Easter has been and will always be the bonus that arrives with spring. The harshness of
the cross and the suffering and sorrow that is ascribed to our Savior was immeasurable.
But morning came! Death was defeated for all who would
trust in Jesus. New life was available, and spring arrived
to celebrate that amazing truth. It rolls in every year and
the groundhog can’t take any of the credit.
Just watch for the flowers–and remember the cross.
www.facebook.com
/hometownbrandonmagazine
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CONTACT US AT
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26 Eastgate Drive, Suite F
Brandon, MS 39042
• • •
Hometown Brandon is published by Hometown
Magazines. All rights reserved. No portion of
Hometown Brandon may be reproduced
without written permission from the publisher.
The management of Hometown Brandon is not
responsible for opinions expressed by its
writers or editors. All communications sent to
our editorial staff are subject to publication and
the unrestricted right to be refused, or to be
edited and/or editorially commented on. All
advertisements are subject to approval by the
publisher. The production of Hometown Brandon
is funded by advertising.
In this issue The Way We Were ................. 6
The Treehouse ..................... 8
Kids Q&A......................... 10
The Imperial Mic Drops............. 14
Amphitheater at the Quarry .... 18
Graham Carraway ................. 24
The Fight to Overcome ............. 34
Fit for a Princess ..................40
Yvonne........................... 62
Hometown Brandon • 3

Celebrate with us at
Brandon Presbyterian Church
Easter Services: 8:30 & 11 am
Children’s Resurrection Rally:
Sunday, March 25, 6 pm
209 south college st · brandonpres.com
4 • Spring 2018

NEW!
chicken sandwich
Turn up the flavor with our salsa verde seasoned grilled
chicken sandwich, topped with pepper jack cheese, red onions,
tomatoes, spring mix and mayo on a Jalapeño Roll.
7.99
©2018 McAlister’s Franchisor SPV LLC
1490 West Government St • Suite 5 • Brandon • (601) 824-7465
Hometown Brandon • 5

The way
WE were
Miriam & Mike Dunagin
Leah Mitchener
Many people meet the one
they will spend the rest of their
life with at a young age and then
enjoy many years together–
hoping that nothing intervenes
with their cherished plans. But
sometimes God has a different
path for our lives, and for Miriam
and Mike Dunagin, their love
story is a true testament of faith
and relying on God’s timing and
provision.
Mike and Miriam were both
previously in different marriages
and became friends through their
daughters’ mutual friendship.
The two would see each other at
different events their daughters
were involved in with school,
softball, and other activities. Life
for Mike and Miriam was pictureperfect–blessed
with their own
loving families, they thought
they’d live long healthy lives with
their spouses. However, life is
sometimes not like that.
When Mike and Miriam were
in their forties, they both tragically
lost their loved ones to unexpected
health circumstances. Mike’s wife
was diagnosed with kidney cancer
and lost her battle while Miriam’s
husband passed away from a heart
attack. The two grieved and healed
with their families but knew that,
after some time, they needed a
better support system to help
them through the healing process.
They reconnected at a grieving
seminar which was held at First
Baptist Church of Jackson, which
was also Miriam’s home church at
the time. Since the two knew one
another and lived close by, they
decided to make it easier on
themselves and ride together.
“We would ride together just as
acquaintances. So we did that
together for eight weeks.” Miriam
also shared that on occasion the
two would get a cup of coffee or
some dessert at Shoney’s once
the seminar was over. Little did
they know that their riding
together would lead to something
stronger than the friendship they
already shared.
Mike stated that there wasn’t
really a specific point in their
commuting when they decided to
“date”–rather it was a friendship
that was evolving into something
more. The two shared many of
the same values and related to
one another with their similar
situations. Given the previous
dynamic they had through their
daughters, it didn’t take long for
the two to start dating in the year
2000 when they were attending
the grief recovery seminar. Mike
shared that the two “were on the
same page with what they
wanted–not only in a relationship,
but spiritually as well.”
6 • Spring 2018

“God had given us
a second chance.”
Miriam expressed that their
children to the new life on which
married at First Baptist Jackson,
a time serving Him as we do
relationship was getting to the
they were about to embark,
she made the decision to move
anything else.”
point where they became
together. The transition for the
her membership to Mike’s church,
Mike and Miriam start each
inseparable. “You just want to be
kids was the most difficult part of
First Methodist. Despite any
day with coffee and breakfast.
together all the time. We saw eye
the adjustment. “It took time and
challenges, the Dunagins made
They watch the news and then
to eye with everything and we
patience. We had gone through
it very clear that God carried
dive into the devotional they do
just felt like it was God giving us
the grief, and they had too, but
them through.
together. Upon first meeting the
a second chance.” The two dated
grief is different for everyone.”
Mike shared that losing a
Dunagins, one would never guess
for a year and were married in
Mike shared that even though the
spouse is “dramatic and hard to
that they’re only celebrating
February of 2001.
adjustment period took time,
deal with.” But they got through
seventeen years of marriage. And
As happy as the two were, they
God provided for them. Mike’s
everything that comes with those
even though they’ve experienced
did face some unique struggles
son and daughter soon adjusted
circumstances and are still very
loss and gone through so much
that most “newlyweds” do not
to the family just as Miriam’s
happy together. And while the
change, they are immensely
have to encounter right away.
daughter did, still leaving the girls
Dunagins enjoy fun things such
thankful that God has given
Miriam and Mike faced challenges
as great friends.
as traveling, they also know that
them a second chance to start a
such as deciding on where they
The first seven years of their
they are here for a purpose. “We
new life with one another. n
needed to live, what church they
marriage, Mike and Miriam
are here for God’s purpose,” states
needed to attend, and of course
attended each other’s church.
Miriam. “We need to be about
learning how to adjust their
But once Miriam’s daughter got
His business and we have as great
Hometown Brandon • 7

TreehouseElise Sears
The
8 • Spring 2018

When thinking about treehouses, you
typically think of children playing in tiny
shelters in a tree. For Jacklynn Williams,
she would testify that treehouses don’t
have to be so small–and certainly aren’t
just for children. As a child, Jacklynn would
take scraps from her father’s wooden shed
and build playhouses on the ground and
eventually up in the branches above. She
would build them, play in them for a few
hours, and then tear them down and start
a new one.
But Jacklynn didn’t leave her love for
treehouses in the past–instead she took her
childhood passion and turned it into a more
mature version as an adult. It took threeand-a-half
years to build, but her latest
treehouse is greater than she could have
ever imagined. And for the past year,
Jacklynn has enthusiastically used it for
entertaining friends, watching football,
and for personal relaxation.
Hometown Brandon • 9

If you
could
be
anyone
in the
world
for a
day,
who
would
it be
and
why?
Hanna Reedy
Gabriella from High School
Musical. She dates Zac Efron,
and her life seems perfect.
Garrett Moore
Donald Trump, because he is rich
and has a very good-looking wife.
Addie Salter
Savannah LaBrant, because
she is an amazing role model
for young girls. She inspires
people to grow their
relationship with Christ.
Anna Beth Anthony
I would want to be
Sadie Robertson because
she is someone I look up to.
She travels all around the
world to help people seek
the almighty God.
10 • Spring 2018
Maddy Forbes
Taylor McDaniel, my dance
choreographer. She inspires me to
work to my full potential everyday.

Olivia Kate Moss
My future self, because
I would like to see where
I am in the next 15 years,
and see how my decisions
now have influenced
the rest of my life.
Marleigh Blush
Brenna Anthony, because
she loves Jesus and she lets
everyone know it! Mrs. Brenna
inspires me and many others
to reach our full potential!
She is so confident and I hope
one day I can be just like her.
Luke Rogers
Jay Ajayi, because he’s a
Super Bowl champion and
he has a British accent.
Mary Rae
Herrington
I would be Barbie, because
I would have a perfect life
for a day. I would not have
a worry in the world, and
everything would be perfect.
Lillie Grace
Garrett
Emma Watson, because she
is an amazing actress, singer,
and person. She is such a great
person with a great heart.
She is someone that I look
up to and is one of my
biggest role models.
Conerly Tigrett
Alex Morgan, because she
is such a good person.
I strive to be as good at
soccer as she is, and a huge
role model to others.
Hometown Brandon • 11

12 • Spring 2018

Hometown Brandon • 13

14 • Spring 2018

The Imperial Mic Drops, coached by
Steve and Nicole Ciaravino, is a local
FIRST Lego League (FLL) robotics team
from Brandon, Mississippi. FLL consists
of three parts: research project, robotics,
and team building (core values) and is a
world-wide STEM (science, technology,
engineering, and math) community
organization.
The Imperial Mic Drops began after
the students developed a passion for
robotics and research in Venture at
Brandon Elementary School. The team
consists of nine members ranging from
10-13 years old that attend Brandon
Elementary and Brandon Middle Schools.
The Imperial Mic Drops won the
championship award at FIRST Lego
League State Competition at Mississippi
College. The championship award will
allow them to represent the state of
Mississippi at the FLL World Championship
in Houston, Texas, April 17-21, 2018.
As a FLL team, the Imperial Mic Drops
had to design, build, and program a
robot using LEGO MINDSTORMS ®
technology, then compete on a tabletop
playing field, using their robot named
Darth Boto. They also researched a
real-world problem, the contamination
of drinking water from prescription drugs,
and were challenged to develop a
solution. The team learned that most of
the drugs we take are naturally excreted
by our bodies, but some people flush
their pills down the toilet. Unfortunately,
drugs are not completely removed
during the wastewater treatment process
and the water discharged from the
treatment plants ends up in rivers and
lakes and is then used to supply tap
water to communities.
The Imperial Mic Drops developed a
solution to educate the public. They
developed a warning label to be placed
on prescription bags reminding patrons
not to flush medications down the toilet.
Additionally, the team developed an
educational brochure to educate the
public on the proper disposal of
medications.
The
Imperial
Mic
Drops
Advance to World
Championship
Jaime Wheeler
One method of proper disposal is to
place expired or unused medications in
a Ziploc bag of wet coffee grounds.
With the help from two local coffee
shops, East Brandon Coffee Factory
and Mocha Mugs, the team was able
to bag used coffee to assist in proper
medication disposal. The team met with
two local pharmacies, Brandon Discount
Drugs and Olde Towne Drugs while
researching the problem and developing
the solution to educate the public. Both
pharmacies agreed to use the labels,
brochures, and bags of used coffee in
their pharmacies to spread the word
about proper disposal of medications.
The Imperial Mic Drops understand that
they can’t do anything about the
number of drugs people are taking or
wastewater treatment plants, but they
can do something to help educate the
public about this problem. Therefore,
the team hopes to use the educational
tools they developed to change the way
the public disposes of pharmaceuticals.
You can learn more about the team and how to help
them get to FLL World Championship in Houston by
liking them on Facebook, The Imperial Mic Drops.
Hometown Brandon • 15

16 • Spring 2018
Everyone’s Invited!
Join us for a dedication service for the Brandon Amphitheater!
SUNDAY, APRIL 1ST • 7:30-8:00am OPEN HOUSE 2- 4pm

Hometown Brandon • 17

THE STARS
ARE COMING OUT TO PLAY!
Brandon Set to Open Amphitheater Kyle Brown
Hank, Alan, Dave!
Those are just a few of the names that
Brandon City officials, along with Red
Mountain Entertainment, unveiled as
the first acts slated to perform at the
Brandon Amphitheater.
In early January, the City of Brandon and
C Spire announced their partnership for the
C Spire Concert Series. A few weeks later,
snow could not cool the excitement as the
first wave of shows was announced in the
Community Bank Club at the Brandon
Amphitheater.
• Wednesday, April 18
Chris Young with special guests Kane
Brown, Morgan Evans & Dee Jay Silver
• Thursday, May 3
Brantley Gilbert with special guests
Aaron Lewis & Josh Phillips
• Saturday, May 12
Hank Williams Jr.
• Tuesday, May 29
Dave Matthews Band
• Friday, June 8
I Love The 90’s featuring Salt-N-Pepa,
Rob Base, Kid N Play, Coolio + more
• Saturday, June 16
Chris Stapleton’s All-American Road
Show with Marty Stuart and Brent Cobb
• Friday, June 22
Alan Jackson with special guest
Randy Houser
• Friday, July 27
Jason Aldean
• Saturday, September 8
Alabama featuring Charlie Daniels Band
“We are extremely excited this day has
finally come after all the effort that has gone
into this project. We look forward to making
this a success for both the City of Brandon
and the state of Mississippi,” stated Brandon
Mayor Butch Lee. With the opening of the
Brandon Amphitheater, the city welcomes a
distinguished group of sponsors, including
18 • Spring 2018

Hometown Brandon • 19

C Spire, Miller Lite/Capital City Beverages,
Community Bank, Brown Bottling Group,
Bob Boyte Honda, Merit Health, Entergy,
Ergon, and Cathead.
As Brandon has developed all the
amenities at The Quarry, the 250-acre park
that houses the Brandon Amphitheater,
community has been at the forefront –
and sponsors took notice.
“At Bob Boyte Honda, we’re all about
community,” said Bob Boyte of Bob Boyte
Honda. “We first opened our doors in
Brandon in 2005, and we’ve been proud
to call Brandon home ever since. Naturally,
we’re all excited about the new Brandon
Amphitheater. It’s going to be a fantastic
venue for generations to come, not only for
our citizens of Brandon, but through events
like the concert series, it will draw people
from miles around to come experience all
that Brandon has to offer. What a big DEAL!”
“Community Bank is honored to sponsor
the VIP room area at the Brandon Amphitheater
at The Quarry,” said Chuck Nicholson,
President and CEO for Community Bank.
“As the only bank with its headquarters in
Rankin County, we are very excited to
support the Amphitheater. We felt this was a
great opportunity to give back to the City of
Brandon.” Community Bank has 47 offices in
four states (Mississippi, Tennessee, Alabama
and Florida) across the Southeast.
City officials began laying out their vision in
2014 to bring about more tourism, recreation,
and lifestyle improvements to Brandon. “The
Board of Aldermen and I began brainstorming
this idea years ago, and it took a lot of people
to bring this to fruition,” said Brandon Mayor
Butch Lee. “From the beginning, the city’s goal
for the Brandon Amphitheater and The
Quarry was to create a quality, family-centric
atmospherethat will bring more economic
growth and increase tourism to our city,
as well as the state.” The Quarry will also
include walking and biking trails, a dog park,
and tournament- equipped baseball fields.
The Amphitheater will offer a flexible
capacity of 7,000 - 8,300, and is comprised
of lower- and upper-level seating, box seats,
as well as a state-of-the-art audio and video
infrastructure, complete with LED video
walls. There will be ample concession windows
and beverage kiosks throughout the venue.
The Community Bank Club is a private
VIP club for Amphitheater sponsors and
box seat holders.
Visit www.brandonamphitheater.com for up-to-date
announcements on all the latest concerts or call the
box office at 601.724.2726.
20 • Spring 2018

Hometown Brandon • 21

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22 • Spring 2018

Brandon
Amphitheater
PRESS CONFERENCE
JANUARY 16, 2018
Hometown Brandon • 23

Graham
Carraway
24 • Spring 2018

Crafting His Own Career
Abigail Walker
Brandon native Graham Carraway says he “can’t sit still.” Between serving up signature
dishes at Estelle in downtown Jackson and crafting one-of-a-kind lettering with his design
business, the twenty-six-year-old has his hands full. But he’s proving that success can come
from chasing your dreams.
Carraway earned a degree in finance from Mississippi State University in 2013. He
worked at an investment firm for a little over a year until he realized he was called to do
something else.
“I always loved to cook,” he says. “My grandmother gave me a food processor when I was 14.”
His dad also passed down his own experimental cooking style to his son. But besides
some bartending in college, Carraway didn’t have any restaurant experience. He got his start
working at Parlor Market in Jackson before moving to Estelle Wine Bar and Bistro, where he
has been the lead line cook since they opened last summer.
Carraway enjoys crafting cuisine that not only tastes good, but also looks good. “You eat
with your eyes first,” he says.
But chef isn’t the only title he holds. Carraway says his other job sort of “fell into [his] lap”
when a friend asked him to address her wedding invitations. “I didn’t know people got paid
to do that,” he says. “I thought it wouldn’t be that hard, but it turned out to be pretty difficult.”
After countless practice envelopes, Carraway mastered his calligraphy skills enough to
keep pursuing the art and eventually start his own lettering business—J. Graham Design.
“I’ve always been interested in lettering and typography,” says Carraway. He adds that his
fascination with graffiti while growing up was a bit of a concern for his parents, but they gave
him a space where he could draw and paint to his heart’s content.
Hometown Brandon • 25

26 • Spring 2018

“ Anyone
can do
what they
want if
they apply
enough
time and
effort
into it.”
J. Graham Design is now a full-time business. From invitations and restaurant
menus to calligraphy and chalkboard art, Carraway puts in more time with
J. Graham Design than his 40 hours cooking at Estelle each week.
“I enjoy the manufacturing side of it,” he says. Carraway resurrected an old
letterpress machine from his father-in-law’s office supply company and now uses
it to recreate the signature style that has made a recent comeback.
He’s done art for businesses such as Lululemon, and was recently commissioned
by the city of Starkville to paint a mural in their downtown. He’s currently working
on a piece for a man who wants the original deed to his house in Tuscany written
in Latin calligraphy.
Caraway says he’s putting together his own calligraphy class, and wants to find
a way to incorporate his love of food and design. He hints at using his catering and
wedding knowledge to possibly open an event space.
“One day I will have to choose between the two, but for now, I’m riding the
double-wave,” he says.
Carraway also loves to garden. Growing up, he enjoyed picking from his
grandmother’s garden, and the first thing he did when moving into his current
house in Jackson was build a huge garden out in his backyard. Besides tomatoes,
cucumbers, okra, and peppers, Carraway also grows more unique vegetables for
his chef friends to practice with. He even found a way to grow watermelons
vertically by hanging them in hammocks he made himself.
“It’s very rewarding that when people ask what I do for a living, I can say,
‘whatever I want to do,’” Carraway says. “I never really feel like I’m working.
It motivates me to do it at a higher level.”
He and wife Olivia, who is in nursing school at UMMC, love to travel.
Carraway also dabbles in woodworking, making cutting boards and spoons.
He says he loves to work with his hands and have something to do every single day.
“I have too many interests,” says Carraway. “But I’m never bored.”
He loves learning new skills. Whether it’s teaching himself how to sew or
figuring out how to re-wire part of his house, Carraway says he enjoys problemsolving
and DIY projects, which often has him watching a lot of YouTube videos.
“Anyone can do what they want if they apply enough time and effort into it,”
says Carraway.
Hometown Brandon • 27

Tablescapes
Luncheon
Brandon Garden Club
February 24, 2018
28 • Spring 2018

Hometown Brandon • 29

30 • Spring 2018

Hometown Brandon • 31

Serving
OUR
Why did you decide to be a policeman?
I grew up in a small town, Bay Springs,
Mississippi, where life was simple and safe.
After moving to Jackson in the early 80s,
marrying, and having a baby girl, I wanted
that same safe, free-from-crime atmosphere
for my child and all others. I felt I could
not demand or expect a safe environment
if I wasn’t willing to give some effort to
that expectation. Becoming a policeman
was my offer to my community for a safe
environment.
How long have you been with the Brandon
Police Department?
Four years.
Tell us about your family.
My wife Pam attended high school in
Hinds County, graduating from Forest
Hill High School, then attended Hinds Jr.
College and USM where she majored in
music. She is a wonderful pianist,
homemaker, and mother. Having worked
most of her adult life in the accounting
profession as assistant to the managing
partner, first with Arthur Andersen, then
with Haddox Reid, she retired four years
ago and is now home for good. My daughter,
Madison Wallace, graduated high school
from Copiah Academy in 2006, attended
Co-Lin Community College, and then
attended USM for her B.S. in English
Literature, graduating in 2010. She then
attended graduate school at Mississippi
College and now works as a proposal writer
for local attorneys. My son-in-law, Clint
Wallace, is a chief warrant officer with the
MS Army National Guard and flies
helicopters. He is a graduate of Delta State.
Share some things you enjoy doing in your
spare time.
My spare time is devoted to my family and
our home. I also enjoy yard work, some
hunting, and helping others.
PATROLMAN
Robert F. Thomas
BRANDON POLICE
DEPARTMENT
What is the toughest thing you have
experienced in your job?
Child abuse and domestic cases have always
been extremely difficult for me as a father
and a husband. Facing the sad faces of a
family who have been abused and rejected
by an adult is a travesty. The family is the
basic unit for our national reputation and
should, at all costs, be protected and well
provided for.
What are three things on your bucket list?
Number one on my bucket list is building
a workshop for me and my wife. We plan
to do woodworking crafts after retirement.
Second, I plan to escort my wife to an
André Rieu concert in Amsterdam.
Third, work the first event at Brandon’s
new Amphitheater this coming spring.
Where do you see yourself ten years from now?
I see myself fully retired, looking back at
my life with satisfaction, knowing I gave
with my soul, body, and spirit.
Who is someone you admire and why?
I admire so many people it is difficult to
single a person out. I will say that Donald
J. Trump as the President of the United
States is currently high on my list. He is
focused on the greatness of America, he is
determined to lift the average American
out of the status quo, and he believes in
our Republic, the American dream, and
the American culture. In his eyes, all
Americans are great.
If you could give one piece of advice to
a young person, what would it be?
Believe in yourself and your dreams. Don’t
expect someone else to make your dreams
come true. You must be willing to do the
tough things in life in order to fully enjoy
the pleasant things in life.
What is a favorite childhood memory?
My fondest childhood memory is the
simple life. Having fun with friends
during the day and knowing I had a safe
warm environment to return to after the
day ended.
What is the biggest mistake you think
young people make today?
I do believe a great mistake young people
make today is failure to believe in oneself.
No one can do for another the things one
is unwilling to do for oneself.
What is your favorite thing about the
City of Brandon?
My favorite thing about Brandon is its
citizenry. I have been across this nation
and have seen, in only a few locations, the
beauty and majesty of the greater Brandon
community. If you think about it, it is plain
to see; the residents and visitors of Brandon
are simply relaxed and focused. Families
are safe and the community is vibrant and
growing.
32 • Spring 2018

Hometown Brandon • 33

34 • Spring 2018

THE FIGHT TO
OVERCOME
Do you remember what
it was like to be a kid?
You probably did things like ride bikes with the
neighborhood kids, throw stink bombs at each other that
you had scandalously purchased from the ice cream
man, and played baseball in the backyard between
trampoline and swing set height-jumping competitions.
Each day was always an adventure waiting to happen.
But just like those childhood baseball games, life can
throw us curve balls sometimes. They come in many
forms; some can be surmounted in a day, and some
we will spend a lifetime overcoming. But that’s what we
do as people: we overcome. The Bargender family
knows this all too well. This is the story of their journey
of strength, love, and patience through faith.
David and Jennifer Bargender are originally from
sunny California. David, an engineer with Raytheon, was
transferred out of state. In August of 2007, David and
Jennifer, along with their six children, made the
community of Crossgates their new home in Brandon,
Mississippi. After having four daughters in a row, the
streak was broken when the family welcomed twin
boys; Mitchell and Matthew.
Leah Mitchener
Though they were born together, the boys have faced
separate challenges in their 13 years of life so far. Mitchell
is on the autism spectrum and is considered highfunctioning,
nonverbal. Matthew, on the other hand, has
been battling kidney, liver, and heart issues since the age
of three that have caused him to be very small for his age
and dictated a life full of doctor visits and hospital stays.
Matthew’s diagnosis is known as Primary Hyperoxylaria
Type 1, which is a genetic condition characterized by
recurring kidney and bladder stones. The condition often
results in end stage renal disease, and can be life-threatening.
Hometown Brandon • 35

36 • Spring 2018
“I thank God every
day when we wake up
and he’s alive and
we can see him for
one more day.”

One in every 1,000 kids is diagnosed with this rare illness.
“We were told by a kidney specialist that, at some point,
he would have kidney failure, and that’s with taking
medication to prevent it. They said he would be 25 or 30
years old,” explained Jennifer. “But on April 12, 2016, he had
complete kidney failure. He was 11.”
Matthew’s kidneys were removed later that August.
But by the following May, he began to experience heart
failure as well. That’s when he was transported by
helicopter from Jackson to Children’s Hospital in Birmingham
where he could get the best treatment and care for
all of the different issues he is facing.
Matthew started out on dialysis seven days a week
for seven hours a day. Soon, doctors decided to drop him
down to six days a week for only five hours. “We go to the
hospital and then we come home because he is completely
wiped out from treatment. Doing dialysis is like running a
marathon,” said Jennifer. Matthew is now on the kidney
transplant list, waiting for a matching donor to become
available. “It had already been decided that he would have
a transplant at Children’s of Alabama because the success
rate is high there. He needs kidneys and a liver, not just
kidneys. It makes it a little more intense.”
Being separated from each other has been hard for
the Bargender family, but David has had to stay living in
Brandon to be close to his work in Forest and to keep the
kids in their school district. Jennifer and Matthew have
been staying in an apartment in Hoover just outside of
Birmingham so that the hospital is never far away. The
family makes a point to visit Jennifer and Matthew in
Alabama as much as possible, because every minute
they have together is a treasured gift. “Honestly, it’s day to
day with him,” said Jennifer in a hushed tone. “I thank God
every day when we wake up and he’s alive and that we
can see him for one more day.”
While Matthew continues his education through
homebound services with the Rankin County School
District and does what he can to maintain a semblance
of an average childhood, he still has a tough road ahead
of him. He misses his friends, his school, and tries to
distract himself with an interest in history and obsession
with the music of Broadway’s hit musical Hamilton. With
the unconditional love and supportive prayers of his big
family and all those who know and love him in his school,
community, and beyond, he keeps fighting to overcome
every obstacle he encounters. ●
Hometown Brandon • 37

38 • Spring 2018

ServingOUR
Community
How long have you been with the Brandon
Fire Department?
13 years.
Tell us about your family.
I have a fiancé and a three year old son
that I love very much.
What is the toughest thing you have
experienced in your job?
Being away from home for the time that
I am and having to miss holidays and
other important events.
Share some things you enjoy doing in your
spare time.
Mostly spending time with my family and
occasionally hunting and fishing. I recently
coached my son’s soccer team and had a
lot of fun with it.
What are three things on your bucket list?
Visit Ireland and play golf. Dive the Great
Barrier Reef in Australia. And buy and
restore a 1962-69 Lincoln Continental.
FIREFIGHTER
Matt Head
BRANDON
FIRE DEPARTMENT
Who is someone you admire and why?
I have always enjoyed reading Kurt
Vonnegut novels so I guess you could say
that I admire him. Mainly because of his
experiences during World War II and his
ability to illustrate it for what it was.
Where do you see yourself ten years from now?
Hopefully closer to my retirement goal of
owning a cabin in the Ozark Mountains
overlooking a river.
If you could give one piece of advice to a young
person, what would it be?
If you ever feel like you have your mind
made up on something, just sleep on it
and see how much you like it in the
morning.
What is a favorite childhood memory?
Growing up in Saint Louis, Missouri,
I would have to say my favorite memory
would be going to Busch Stadium to
watch the Cardinals play and seeing the
best short stop of all time—three time
Golden Glove winner, Ozzie Smith.
What is the biggest mistake you think young
people make today?
Acting on pure emotion and not logic.
What is your favorite thing about the
City of Brandon?
The fire department—and the opportunity
to help someone in need.
Hometown Brandon • 39

40 • Spring 2018

Fit for a
Princess
Every year the City of Brandon holds a
Princess Ball attended by hundreds of
local princesses—most often with their
dads as their escorts. Sometimes, however, there
may not be a dad in the picture at which point
other great men step into that roll for the night.
And then other times, dad may be unable to
attend for reasons beyond anyone’s control.
It became our desire, at Hometown Brandon Magazine,
to identify some girls who may not have considered
attending the Princess Ball because they had no one
to take them. We contacted the schools and three
Brandon principals quickly assisted us in finding
four girls.
New dresses and shoes were purchased. Headwaves
Salon provided hair and make-up. Kroger florist
made corsages. Chapman’s Florist provided tiaras.
And Othel Anding Photography documented the
evening with pictures as four extraordinary Brandon
firemen escorted four very special princesses on a
night they’ll never forget. It was magical! Thank
you to everyone that contributed to this remarkable
evening. j
Hometown Brandon • 41

Savannah
Wilkerson
Brandon Elementary
Escort,
Chief
TERRY WAGES
Savannah
42 • Spring 2018

Hannah
Wiindham
Brandon Elementary
Escort,
Captain
BRIAN ROBERTS
Hannah
Hometown Brandon • 43

Isabella
Stuart
StoneBridge Elementary
Escort,
Division Chief
Training Officer
CRAIG NASH
Isabella
44 • Spring 2018

Jaida
Kelly
Brandon Elementary
Escort,
Captain
STEVE DEDMON
Jaida
Hometown Brandon • 45

City of Brandon
2018
Princess
Ball
46 • Spring 2018

Hometown Brandon • 47

48 • Spring 2018

Hometown Brandon • 49

50 • Spring 2016

Investing is about more than money.
At Edward Jones, we stop to ask you the question:
“What’s important to you?” Without that insight
and a real understanding of your goals, investing
holds little meaning.
Contact your Edward Jones financial advisor for
a one-on-one appointment to discuss what’s
really important: your goals.
MKD-8652A-A
Cindee M Herlocker
Financial Advisor
.
101 High Pointe Ct Suite A
Brandon, MS 39042
601-824-2487
www.edwardjones.com
Member SIPC
Hometown Brandon • 51

BRANDON PUBLIC LIBRARY
1475 W. GOV. ST • (601) 825-2672 • brandonatcmrls.lib.ms.us
March • April • May
BOOK SALE! It’s the Spring Sale!
Sponsored by the Friends of the Brandon Library
Friday, April 27 • 10am-5pm
Saturday, April 28 • 10am-4pm
Monday, April 30 • 10am-8pm Bag Day ($5 a bag or $10 a box)
Celebrate Spring at Your Library
Saturday, April 28, 10am-4pm
Historical Buildings Open - Children’s Activities
Antique Car Show
To display your antique car, please 601-825-2672
or email brandon@cmrls.lib.ms.us. There is no charge to display.
AARP Tax Aide • Fridays through April 13, 10am-2pm
The signup procedure to have your taxes prepared in 2018 has changed.
Anyone wishing to have their taxes prepared by AARP Tax Aide Brandon
must contact the Brandon Library by phone 601-825-2672. Appointments
will be taken up to three weeks in advance. Appointment slots are limited
and the number of slots may vary per date.
Baby & Me • Mondays at 10:30am Bond with your baby through music,
movement, and stories. For ages 0-15 months.
Beading Class • Mondays at 4pm and 6pm
Please register by the second of the month.
March 12 Chan Luu Wrapped Bracelet in shades of brown - $6 supply fee
April 9 Martha Scarborough will show us how to make classy wire
earrings - $3 supply fee
May 14 Black and White Loom Bracelet - $4 supply fee
(You must have a bead loom)
Brandon Book Club • Mondays at 10:30am
Stop by and discuss this month’s book.
March 12 Mrs. Lincoln’s Dressmaker by Jennifer Chiaverini
April 8 Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance
May 14 Glass Castle by Jeandette Walls
Brandon Quilters • Mondays • March 5, April 2, May 7 at 6pm
Cozy up with the Brandon Quilters for their meeting.
Brandon Walking Club • Saturdays at 11am
**NEW** Join us every Saturday morning at 11am for a walk in the park!
You can listen to music and chat with friends, and the more you walk, the
higher your chance of winning a prize in our monthly drawing!
Bridge for Beginners • Wednesdays at 1:30pm Let’s play Bridge.
BYOP Bring Your Own Project • Thursdays at 1pm
Weekly daytime crafting group.
Chess Club for Teens and Adults • 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 6pm
Coin Club • Thursdays, March 1, April 5, May 3 at 6pm
Love old and new currency? Join the Brandon Coin Club for their monthly
meeting!
Coin Show • Saturday, March 10 at 10am Join many numismatists from
around the area and see what this hobby is all about.
Creative Crafters • Thursdays at 6pm Join us as we learn and craft
together.
Dulcimer Group • Mondays at 6pm
Bring your own dulcimer and let’s jam together.
Duplo Free Play • Wednesdays, March 7, April 4, and May 2 at 11:30am
Come join the fun of building with Duplo Blocks. For ages 3-5.
Family Night • Thursdays at 6pm
March 22 • Come enjoy our Spring Fling with picture bingo, snacks, and
a craft!
Friends of the Brandon Library Meeting • Tuesdays, March 20, April 17
and May 15 at 6pm
Join the Friends to support your local library!
Gardening @ Your Library • First Wednesdays at 10:30am
Gardening at its best. Sponsored by the Master Gardeners.
March 7 Straw Bale Gardening April 4 and May 2
Genealogy Events
Genealogy Club • Thursday, March 1, April 5, May 3 at 10:30am
Genealogy topics and assistance are the topic of the day.
DNA Discovery Group • Thursday, March 15, April 19, May 17 at 10:30am
Understand the differences in DNA tests and testing companies. Learn
about, discuss and test out different databases to enhance your Family
History research. Bring your laptop if you like. Free.
Kid Connection • Tuesdays at 4pm
Grades K-5 afterschool story and craft hour.
1st and 3rd Tuesdays - Grades K-6 afterschool story and craft hour.
2nd and 4th Tuesdays • Chess Club for ages 7-12.
Lego Free Play • Thursdays, March 15, April 12, May 10 at 3pm
Be creative and use your imagination to build with our Legos for ages 6-12.
Let’s Zip It Up! • Saturday, April 14 at 10:30am
We will learn how to sew zippers with Carolyn! Call the Brandon Library at
601-825-2672 for details.
Middle Grade Monday • For middle graders age 10-13
End of the Rainbow • Monday, March 12 at 5pm
Show what would be at the end of YOUR rainbow through artwork!
Snap Circuits • Monday, March 26 at 5pm
Embrace your inner electrician with Snap Circuits!
National Library Week • April 9-13 • Theme for the week is “Libraries
Lead”. Join us at the library this week as we celebrate the Brandon Public
Library and its impact on our community. CMRLS will be announcing some
new programs and incentives this week. Stay tuned!
Preschool Story Time • Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10:30am
Songs, stories, and crafts for preschoolers aged 3-5.
Sign Language • Saturdays, March 10 & 24, April 14 & 28, May 12 & 26
at 10:30am Learn to speak with your hands! Free class.
Teens • For teens age 13+
Find Your Alter-Ego • Monday, March 5 at 5pm
Since it is Multiple Personality Day, we will get in touch with our alter-egos
and see who has the most creative characters.
Teen & Middle Grade Game Night • Monday, March 19 at 5pm
Play Apples to Apples, Man Bites Dog, Jenga, and more! For ages 10+.
Third Thursday Book Club March 15 at 6:30pm
Mrs. Sherlock Holmes by Brad Ricca
Toddler Time • Mondays at 10:30am
Come join us for stories, songs, and finger plays for ages 0-2 years.
It’s Trivia Night! • Tuesdays, March6, April 3, and May 1 at 6pm
**NEW** Bring your team (or family) and join us at Lost Pizza Co. across the
street from the library for fun, and, of course, prizes!
V.V.A. Meeting • Wednesdays, March 14, April 11, and May 9 at 10:30am
Join local veterans for their monthly meeting!
Video Game Day • Saturdays - For gamers age 8+. Please register.
March 17 • Smash Brothers Tournament 12pm-3pm
April 21 • Minecraft 10am and 1pm. Registration required.
May 19 • Mario Kart Tournament 12pm-3pm
Word Salad • Thursdays • March 1, April 5, May 3 at 6pm
**NEW** Do you like to write? Are you stuck mid-sentence in your future
bestseller, or perhaps brainstorming ideas for your blog? Join our new
writing group for writing discussions, critiques, and more!
Services offered at the Brandon Library
Black and White and color printing/copying, Scanning, Wireless Printing
Additional services offered by the Friends of the Brandon Library
Free shredding services
Notary services available for a fee of $3 Available 10-8 Monday-Thursday
and 10-5 on Friday. Call to check Saturday availability.
The library will be closed:
May 28 for Memorial Day
______________________________________________________
A full calendar of events can be located at our website www.cmrls.lib.ms.
us. Click on Events and select Brandon under Location.
Brandon Public Library is part of the Central Mississippi Regional Library
System, which serves Rankin, Scott, Simpson, and Smith Counties.
52 • Spring 2018

Hometown Brandon • 53

54 • Spring 2018

Hometown Brandon • 55

56 • Spring 2018

PROJECT
Way
Lead the
Mary Dunaway
Brandon Middle School strives to
ensure all students are provided many
opportunities to grow academically,
socially, and athletically. This year, we
are excited to introduce a new academic
program, Project Lead the Way. With
this new program, we are providing an
opportunity for students who are interested
in the field of computer science
to be introduced to advanced computer
science skills including app creation,
robotics, and design applications.
Many job opportunities available
today are in the field of computer
science but often remain unfilled due
to a lack of qualified applicants. We want
to encourage our students to pursue
their interest in computer science and
begin equipping them with the tools
necessary to step into the field as a
career. Project Lead the Way encourages
students to continue pursuing these
interests during their high school years
and at the college level.
This year, Brandon Middle School offers
both 7th grade and 8th grade units
of Project Lead the Way. In 7th grade,
students begin with Design and Modeling
along with Computer Science for
Innovators and Makers. In Design and
Modeling, students are introduced to
engineering concepts. They then apply
the process, aided by design software,
to create items such as a therapeutic toy
or games for children. Computer Science
for Innovators broadens students’ understanding
by combining hardware design
and software development to bring
student designs to life.
In 8th grade, students are introduced
to the world of robotics and mobile app
development through Automation and
Robotics and App Creators. In Automation
and Robotics, students design,
construct, and program VEX robots to
simulate real-world machines such as
an automated assembly line. In App
Creators, students learn to design, create,
and program mobile apps that can be
used to positively impact society.
This year, students in the program
will have the opportunity to tour the Nissan
plant in Canton and have visits from
engineers working at Raytheon. They
also participated in the Congressional
App Challenge, and one of our 7th-grade
students, Alston Tapley, placed 3rd in
District 3 with his mobile app.
We have 40 students in 7th grade
8th grades who are currently enrolled
in this program. Our hope is to increase
units allowing more students to participate.
Brandon Middle School would like
to invite the community and industry
leaders to be active participants in the
program through classroom visits and
sponsorships.
Please contact Brandon Middle School
for more information at 601-825-5998.
Hometown Brandon • 57

ST. DOMINIC’S FAMILY MEDICINE–BRANDON IS PLEASED TO WELCOME
Heather Kuriger, NP
THE NEWEST MEMBER OF OUR FAMILY MEDICINE TEAM
Heather Kuriger is a native of Madison and graduated from Madison Central High School in 1993. She studied at
Hinds Community College and received her Bachelor of Nursing degree from the University of Southern Mississippi
in 1997. She worked as a registered nurse in the fields of oncology and obstetrics before attending the University
of Mississippi Medical Center. She received her Master of Nursing degree as a family nurse practitioner in 2010.
She has worked as a family nurse practitioner in Tupelo, Raleigh and Brandon, specializing in obstetrics and family
medicine. Heather attends Cross Roads Baptist Church in Pelahatchie where she teaches adult Sunday School and
sings in the choir. Her home is in Brandon, and she enjoys her dogs, reading and traveling.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with Heather call
St. Dominic’s Family Medicine- Brandon at 601-200-4790.
Convenient Location with Same Day Appointments Available.
Heather Kuriger, NP
Monday–Friday • Walk-Ins Always Welcome
ST. DOMINIC’S FAMILY MEDICINE–BRANDON
1297 W GOVERNMENT STREET • BRANDON, MS 39042
FMBrandon HR8x5.indd 1
2/1/18 1:49 PM
58 • Spring 2018

Wilderness
Time
You Are Invited
Holy Week Services & Activities
Easter Services
Hometown Brandon • 59

60 • Spring 2018
Everything’s
Coming Up
Tablescapes Tips
Suzanne Ross & Charla Jordan
Definition of Tablescape:
A decorative arrangement of ornaments or other
objects on a tabletop. Origin: 1960s from table +
scape. (Oxford Living Dictionaries)
If spell check on computers is to be
believed, “tablescape” is not a legitimate word.
Surprise! It is, and its usage is common in the
decorative world. For the Brandon Garden Club,
“Tablescapes” describes its successful annual
fundraiser event. By the time this article goes to
print, Brandon Garden Club will have hosted its
tenth Tablescapes Luncheon and Fashion Show.
With the Tablescapes Luncheon’s success,
many of us are often asked what makes a
tablescape special. For us the answer is simple.
We have forty-four tables that are completely
different, with just about everything anyone can
imagine used to decorate them. Over the years,
the tablescapes have included bird’s nests,
butterflies, a majorette’s baton, books, clocks,
aprons, live goldfish, lamps, seashells, sand,
Orange Crush bottles, and the list goes on and
on. China, flatware, chair covers, and place cards
are the building blocks of the tables, but the
creative centerpieces are the show stoppers.
Any home can have an attractive table top
decoration. With the end of winter, spring is the
perfect time to create something special.
Putting a tablescape together may be as
easy as “shopping your home” for items that can
be mixed and matched or given new life with a
coat of spray paint. Use Easter as your theme
with a basket, a rabbit or two, a pretty fabric,
napkins, flowers and maybe a picture frame.
By March tulips, azaleas, jasmine, narcissus
(daffodils), flowering quince, and forsythia
will begin making appearances in the landscape
and are terrific additions to any table décor.
Flowers that were once cut from local
gardens only in spring or summer can now be
purchased year round in local supermarkets and
big box stores. And thanks to increased air
transportation from overseas that began
following World War II, we can obtain common
and exotic flowers from throughout the world
right here in our hometown.
We recommend three great varieties of
economical and long-lasting flowers that are
readily available regardless of season. Alstroemeria
is a perennial native of South America
and looks great with just a few stems in a glass
vase or bunched together in a large urn. The next

“Just living is not enough,”
one must have sunshine,
freedom, and a little flower.”
two are flower cousins, carnations and baby’s
breath, which fell out of favor for awhile. They
are again popular, and wedding planners call
baby’s breath “super chic.” Carnations are
available in as many colors as roses, last longer
than hydrangeas, and are less expensive than
both. Stores sell mixed bouquets that include
alstroemeria, carnations, and baby’s breath in
color combinations appropriate to the season.
After you have gathered items for your
spring tablescape, pick up a couple of mixed
flower bouquets at the supermarket. Take the
bouquets apart, separate the flowers by type,
and remove the leaves. If the flowers came
with a packet of flower food, mix it with water.
Cut the ends of the flowers, place in the water,
and let them soak.
The next step is to check your container
to determine the height of your arrangement
and cut one flower to be the guide. Hold the
largest bloom in one hand and then use your
other hand to arrange the different colors and
textures in a circular pattern. Loosely wrap
floral tape or a rubber band around the stems.
Using your cut flower as a guide, cut the stems
and place bouquet in container. Enjoy!
“Just living is not enough,” said the
butterfly, “one must have sunshine, freedom,
and a little flower.” (Hans Christian Andersen,
The Complete Fairy Tales)
For information on
Brandon Garden Club,
visit thebrandongardenclub.com.
Hometown Brandon • 61

Mrs. Yvonne . . . that is one dedicated woman
demonstrated through the service she consistently
provides to the city’s programs such as our senior
services activities, the Father/Daughter dances,
holiday events, and other community activities.
She’s an asset to our city.
Yvonne
Mayor Butch Lee
62 • Spring 2018

What are the words you would use to describe
Yvonne Bianchi?
FUN-LOVING...& SERIOUS.
Do these words even go together? Not usually. But for this person,
they do. I have known Miss Yvonne for over 50 years. When I was
young, she was an active member of our church choir. And then life
happened and we lost touch. Bob and I got married and moved to
Crossgates. One day, I looked up one day and there she was! She was
still as friendly as ever! Yvonne never met a stranger.
I wasn’t sure if she would remember me, but she hugged me and asked
about my mom and dad. The time that passed didn’t matter a bit. She
wanted to know all about the things that
were going on in my life. She was interested in me.
When Yvonne first ran for political office, I asked her why in the world
she wanted to do such a thing. To me, it seemed like a lot of work
without much reward. She told me, “Linda, I love my city. I want to
give back to this community by taking care of it and its citizens. I have
prepared myself by taking classes to learn what will be needed for this
job and I am ready to serve.”
And serve she did. For many years, she helped her constituents with
many different, and sometimes difficult, situations. It is impossible
to make everybody happy, so I am sure she made
some enemies along the way. But one could never
question Miss Yvonne’s dedication to the voters who
elected her. The one thing you could be certain of was
that her commitment was always to help the city of
Brandon be the best it could be.
When Yvonne lost her last bid for alderman, she could
have easily disappeared into the sunset. But instead,
she immersed herself in the fun side of life in Brandon.
She supported the city in a new way by becoming
more involved in the activities of the city and of
the Senior Center. She was still listening to folks,
empathizing with them, and loving them.
As I have watched Miss Yvonne through the years,
this strong Christian lady has encouraged me to love
my God, my family, and my friends unconditionally;
to be there when they need me, and to serve them
through all the situations of life.
Miss Yvonne, I am a better person
because of your influence in my life. Thank you.
Linda Moore Wolfe
Yvonne Bianchi.
I don’t know of anyone that hears that name
and doesn’t smile. I’ve known Yvonne for 40 years
—ever since meeting her daughter when I first
moved to Brandon. When we were elected to
serve on the Brandon board of aldermen together,
I got to know her even better—both on a personal
and professional basis. I can honestly say that I
have never worked with anyone so honest and
straight-forward. You knew if she agreed with
you . . . and you knew when she didn’t!
Something I’ve always wanted the citizens of
Brandon to know about Yvonne is that if it wasn’t
for her, we probably would not have a senior
citizen program. As with a lot of programs, it
started with a simple idea for us to consider and
hopefully implement. It was one of Yvonne’s many
ideas that are in place now. She stuck with it until
.............................. >
it came to fruition, with the first event being
Hometown Brandon • 63

comprised of six members around a card
table. Economic resources were thin but we
made it work. Due to her constant poking of
my rib, the city of Brandon now has one of the
bestprograms in the state!
Another thing about Yvonne is that wherever
and whenever you need her, she will be there.
Her strong Christian base and influence has
served her and the citizens of Brandon well.
Her compassion for humanity is widespread
and her concern for the city of Brandon is as
large as her heart.
Yvonne Bianchi, you are a great American and
a beloved friend. I am blessed to have you as
a friend and so is the city of Brandon.
Roe Grubbs
Yvonne Bianchi is a very unique individual. She grew up in a large
family of boys and girls. Her daddy was very musical and could
play several instruments. The girls inherited some of his talent.
They sang as a group for many activities in their neighborhood.
They were athletic, too.
Yvonne’s family was Baptist and going to church was very much
emphasized. She was schooled and trained as a nurse. Yvonne
loves people and helping others. She has served as alderwoman
for the city of Brandon and was involved with the city and its
senior citizen activities that still meets once a week.
She has a gifted voice and loves singing, especially in choirs.
Her vibrant personality and beauty inspires those who know
her. She was the youngest child and was probably spoiled
by her mama. Her mother taught her a lot about the Bible.
We have become friends through a mutual love of music.
She loves to sing and we participate in music at Brandon
Baptist Church and at the music activities on Monday
mornings at the Brandon Civic Center.
Rodney Joyner
64 • Spring 2018

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Hometown Brandon • 65

The
Time
COIN
Camille Anding
Words! Who can count them?
They’re everywhere – on signs,
billboards, assembled in books, letters, and
reports. They spill from our lips – often
without forethought and merge with an
endless flow from tongues of every nation
and tribe.
Some words are put to music to tell
stories or reveal happy or broken hearts.
Other words are written in love letters,
intimate and saturated in romance.
It’s striking to me to realize the power
in words. A collection of the alphabet of
innocent letters can form words that build
up and edify or they can mutilate and destroy.
Words also have the power to lodge in
our minds – like a branding in our brain.
Children learn quickly to use words to
communicate, but their words are less likely
to stick. Their memories are short, and their
hearts more forgiving.
It’s the teenage years when words
become weapons of survival. Sarcastic words
grow in popularity as individuals seek a rank
in the “pecking” order. Group laughter
elevates the speaker while singling out that
individual to be the butt of the joke.
I find it interesting that my memory
has “fogged” over a lot of my childhood’s
details, but one memory is as fresh as the
day it was made. A friend, I thought, singled
me out in a group and formed a series of
words that cut sharper than a dagger. There
was no outward sign of blood, but I learned
that day that hearts can bleed.
After the laughter died, life went back
to the usual. All was history, but I had
learned the searing pain of words and their
ability to leave scars.
The most painful lessons are usually
the best learned. That brief experience has
remained a witness to me and a permanent
reminder of the power of words. I wish
I could say that my own tongue was tamed
from that moment until now, but I can’t.
I still let it say things that are not edifying
or kind.
A wise Proverb says, “Kind words are
like honey – sweet to the soul and healthy
for the body.” Another says, “Gentle words
bring life and health; a deceitful tongue
crushes the spirit.”
Gentle, kind words are what we need.
There are enough scars. n
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YEARS OF LASTING IMPRESSIONS
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DIRECT DIGITAL GREEN CROSS MEDIA
DESIGN
HEDERMAN BROTHERS
247 Industrial Drive N Madison, Mississippi 39110
601-853-7300 1-800-844-7301
www.hederman.com
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More than 30 practices.
Quick appointments.
One number: 844-MSMERIT.
Because there’s Merit in convenient care.
With more than 30 primary care and specialty practices in four counties across the Jackson and Vicksburg metropolitan
areas, Merit Health Medical Group providers offer quality care for your family with your schedule in mind. From sore
throats and fever to annual wellness visits and more specialized care, we’ve got you covered.
To see all locations and specialties, please visit MyMeritDoctor.com
Call 844-MSMERIT for a provider near you.
Walk-ins are welcome at all primary care practices,
or ask about same-day and next-day appointments.