On December 10, 2024, the Winston County Self Help Cooperative (WCSHC) hosted its 40th anniversary celebration at the flagship building on Highpoint-Weir Road in Louisville, Mississippi. Attendees arrived as early as 9 AM to ensure a good seat. Upon our arrival, slightly after 9 AM, we were greeted warmly by Mrs. Lorine Gladly and WCSHC staff, Mrs. Pam O’Bryant and Mrs. Mayla Odom, while we patiently waited in line to sign in. As we stepped into the grand entry hall, our eyes met an incredible eight-foot-tall celebratory banner bursting with color and adorned with balloons! Across from the serving table, a short hallway beckoned, leading us into a realm of festivity and joy waiting to unfold.
From the moment we stepped inside, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. Mrs. Rosie and her talented crew transformed the room into a stunning spectacle, with tables draped in pristine white linens, accented with classic decorations, and exquisite ponceaus that added a touch of elegance. At the forefront, a grand table awaited the honored guests. As the eager early arrivals took their carefully selected seats, a lively chatter filled the air, each conversation crackling with anticipation for the incredible event unfolding.
As the hour approached, more attendees poured into the entry hall, turning it into a vibrant tapestry of laughter and conversation that felt like a joyous reunion of long-lost friends. The air buzzed with energy as guests donned a stunning array of outfits, from sleek three-piece suits to dazzling evening gowns and sharp business attire that radiated sophistication. The celebration hall sparkled with elegance, setting the stage for an unforgettable event.
By welcoming everyone, Mr. Frank Taylor, WCSHC Team Leader, promptly began the event at 10 AM. Then, with an electrifying presence, Mrs. Mary Ann Kelly (WCSHC) took the stage as the Mistress of Ceremony, radiating confidence and enthusiasm. She reminded the audience of the significance of our gathering and set the tone for a thoughtful celebration of 40 years of service.
Following, Pastor Annie Thomas (WCSHC) prayed a moving prayer, and Mrs. Maxine Coburn (WCSHC) delivered a warm welcome to everyone in attendance.
In an energetic atmosphere, Mr. Allen McReynolds took the stage to reiterate the purpose of the day’s event. Following his words, Mrs. Odom unveiled the rich history of WCSHC: “In 1985, amid the challenges of the farm crisis, a dedicated group of five farmers from Louisville, Mississippi, came together with a shared vision to sustain their agricultural operations. This esteemed group, comprising Mrs. Omerio Dotson, Mr. Dee Dotson, Mrs. Mary Hannah, Mr. Bobby Hardin, and Mr. Columbus McReynolds—who served as the inaugural president—successfully established a strong organization. Their mission centered on empowering farmers, ranchers, and landowners to ensure the sustainability and growth of their operations, preserve their land legacies, and create opportunities for future generations. The founding of WCSHC is a story of resilience, collaboration, and the pursuit of boundless opportunity.”
Mr. Ben Burkatt from MAC/FSC passionately spoke about the significance of membership, while Mrs. Rosie Harris of WCSHC fought back tears honoring the memory of her beloved friends—WCSHC members who had left us too soon. A lovely slideshow of their smiling faces lit up the backdrop as she honored them by name: “Bobby Hardin, Omera Dotson, Mary Hannah, Dorthy Jean Harper, and Gregory Nicks.” The room fell into a profound silence, filled with a powerful wave of empathy and shared memories as everyone reflected on the lives of these remarkable individuals. It was a moment of connection that united the crowd in an unforgettable tribute.
To provide comfort and uplift, Pastor Willie J. Matthews then delivered a special prayer for WCSHC and its partners and friends before Mrs. T’arie Todman (WCSHC) introduced the guest speaker, Mr. Victor Harris, Publisher of the Minority Farmer Magazine. “…In 1994, he joined the North Carolina Division of Forest Resources as head of engineering services and later was promoted to assistant state forest administration. He began publishing for Minority Landowner magazine in 2006 and serves as publisher and editor… Harris is a North Carolina Registered Forester, a Natural Resources Leadership Institute Fellow, and a Certified Public Manager. He served on the American Forest Foundation’s Woodlands Committee and is a past Board member of the Conservation Trust for North Carolina. He received an honor for the Society of American Foresters’ Outstanding Forestry Journalism Award in 2021.”
Mr. Victor Harris’s presentation focused on love, loss, life, and legacy. He captivated the audience with engaging visuals, compelling statistics, and a moving story of love and loss. At the end of his presentation, he received a sincere standing ovation.
With great enthusiasm, Mr. Taylor took the stage to present certificates to WCSHC’s 2024 Ring of Honor: Gus Towns, Retired Independent Contractor; Kurt Readus, MS State Conservationist/NRCS; Mike Skipper, Retired Ext Agent Extension Office; Roger Jones, Retired HPI/Extension; Chief Terry Crosby, NRCS; Ronald Harris, Retired USDA/NRCS; Ben Burkatt, MAC/FSC; Kim Crisler, Retired MAC; Lloyd Wright, Retired USDA; Homer Wilkes, Ph. D., Under Secretary, USDA; Vivian Dickerson, NRCS, Equity; and Amadou Diop, Outreach Liaison/US Forest Service.
Then, Mr. Taylor honored the organization’s trailblazers, presenting plaques to the outstanding founding members: Mrs. DeBerne Kelly, Mr. Columbus McReynolds, and Mr. Dee Dotson. They graciously embraced the recognition, sharing heartfelt gratitude and inspiration that resonated with the attendees.
Following the presentations, Mr. Taylor opened the floor to partners and friends to share their reflections on WCSHC. Over twenty individuals stood and spoke about WCSHC and Mr. Taylor’s leadership. The audience was on a rollercoaster of emotions, erupting in laughter at some stories while others sparked deep reflection on the organization’s powerful impact. Staff of Alcorn University’s Extension Office presented WCSHC with a plaque, commemorating 40 years of service.
In a heartwarming surprise, Mrs. Todman and the dedicated WCSHC staff honored Mr. Taylor with a plaque that proclaimed, “Celebrating 35 Years of Inspiring Leadership and Unmatched Dedication to Preserving the Heart and Soul of Rural America! Your commitment has made a profound impact, and we are endlessly grateful for your lifelong efforts!” Overwhelmed with emotion, he graciously accepted the tribute and delivered inspiring closing remarks that left everyone cheering.
At last, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived. Pastor Matthews stepped up to bless the delectable feast, and soon after, a savory steak and potato meal was served.
WCSHC would like to thank Sharoone Cooper and Octavius Cobb for preparing the meal and Mrs. Rosie Macon and her staff for serving and decorating the space.
For more photos of this event, please click here.
