Special to The Bolton News The Mayor and Board of Aldermen convened on November 4, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. for its first bi-monthly meeting. Following the invocation and roll call, the board confirmed a quorum and began discussions covering a range of town matters, from ordinance updates to holiday closures and upcoming community events. Public appearances were made by Chasitie and Charlton Watson and by Amia Edwards, providing residents with the opportunity to share input and engage directly with town leadership. Under unfinished business, the board reviewed proposed amendments to the transient vendor and mobile food vendor ordinances. These updates are intended to establish clearer regulations and improve consistency in oversight for temporary vendors and food truck operations within the town. In new business, the board approved a proclamation setting the official holiday schedule for the upcoming season. Town offices will close on November 27 and 28 for Thanksgiving, December 25 and 26 for Christmas, and January 1 and 2 for New Year’s. The board also granted approval for the Town Clerk to attend the 2025 Winter Municipal Clerk Conference in Flowood from December 10–12, ensuring continued professional development and up-to-date knowledge of municipal procedures. Other actions included the approval of the town’s worker’s compensation plan through the Mississippi Municipal Service Company and the acceptance of the 2025 Town of Bolton Audit Report. Before adjournment, board members discussed plans for the town’s participation in the upcoming Christmas parade, including details about the community float. The first bi-monthly meeting reflected Bolton’s commitment to efficient governance, greater community involvement, and proactive planning as the town moves into the holiday season and prepares for the year ahead. Mayor and Board of Aldermen Meeting Agenda, November 4, 2025

Special to The Bolton News The Bolton Baptist Church is inviting vendors, farmers, and community members to take part in its upcoming Farmers Market and Animal Swap  on Saturday, November 15 , from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.  This free event will take place on the church grounds in Bolton, Mississippi , and promises a morning filled with local flavor, creativity, and community connection. Organizers are still looking for craft vendors, bakers, and animal owners  interested in participating. Handmade goods, home-baked treats, locally grown produce, farm-fresh eggs, and unique artisan items are all welcome additions. For animal enthusiasts, the swap offers a great opportunity to trade, sell, or purchase livestock such as chickens, rabbits, goats, and other small farm animals in a friendly, small-town atmosphere. The Farmers Market and Animal Swap aims to highlight the hard work and talents of local individuals while providing a place for neighbors to meet, mingle, and support one another. Visitors can expect a wide range of goods—from handcrafted items and baked goods to farm products and animals—making it a true showcase of Bolton’s community spirit. Vendor spots are available at no cost, making this an excellent opportunity for first-time sellers and seasoned vendors alike. Those interested in setting up a booth or bringing animals to the swap are encouraged to reach out as soon as possible to reserve a space. With good food, friendly faces, and a shared love of local traditions, the Bolton Baptist Church Farmers Market and Animal Swap promises to be a memorable event for all who attend.

Governor Tate Reeves today issued Executive Order 1589 to reestablish the Presidential Fitness Test for elementary, middle and high school students across Mississippi. Executive Order 1589 comes after President Donald J. Trump issued an executive order that reestablished the President's Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition and reinstituted the Presidential Fitness Test. "Students across the country are spending far too much time sitting around looking at screens and eating too much highly-processed junk food," said Governor Tate Reeves. "We know that obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and poor nutrition lead to more negative health outcomes. If we want more healthy adults in our society, it's important that we encourage students to be physically active and educate them on healthy eating habits. Mississippi will do its part to build a healthier America." Executive Order 1589 directs State Health Officer Dr. Daniel Edney to deliver a report to Governor Reeves that proposes evidence-based strategies and suggests public information/education campaigns to address deficiencies in nutrition, diet and exercise across the state. Additionally, it requests that State Superintendent of Education Dr. Lance Evans work with United States Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to create a report for Governor Reeves that proposes a plan for reestablishing the Presidential Fitness Test. Both reports are due to Governor Reeves on June 30, 2026. The Presidential Fitness Test will be implemented in Mississippi during the 2026-2027 academic year. A copy of Executive Order 1589 can be found  here .

Send responses to:  andybowman839@gmail.com     It really is innocent looking, because it looks just like wet pavement. But it can be dangerous as a rattlesnake. And just like that reptile, it strikes when you least expect it, with the intent to cause you a lot of pain and destruction. Truly unseeable, hiding in plain sight.  With absolutely no redeeming value, it is only there to jangle your nerves at best, and send you careening out of control at worst. Black ice is the byproduct of snow or freezing rain, a warming-up period, and then severely dropping temperatures which refreezes that water into a smooth-as-glass, black, unseeable sheet of ice. Capable of turning your vehicle into a whirling dervish, then ending your sudden adventure upside down in the nearby ditch. Or in front of an oncoming car. Hitting your brakes when you suddenly realize, “Houston, we have a problem” doesn’t help you at all. In fact, it is the worst thing you can do. Brakes attempting to grab at that slick mess will only complicate things, and will likely cause a bigger crash than if you had just chosen to grab your ears and ride it out until it’s over. Sound familiar? If you have ever had to drive in winter time in one of our states that receives snow, rain, sleet or an ice storm, then you likely know of what I speak. You can be merrily tooling along, listening to your favorite podcast or music and suddenly find yourself on a Winter Wonderland Swirling and Whirling Adventure, worthy of a five-star rating at Disney World. Five heart-stopping seconds later, when your car settles down and coasts to a stop, you let loose of the breath you hadn’t realized you were holding. You quickly check yourself and everyone else in the car for injuries. And hopefully finding none, you proceed with the next series of necessities. You open the car door and gingerly feel your way out of the car to determine how much damage you’ve inflicted during your ride into the great unknown. Returning to your seat, you fish around for your lost cell phone which flew to the backseat and is now resting under your seven-year-old’s feet. About then, you realize that somewhere in all that excitement and terror, you had needed a bathroom break…but way too late now. If you have never been the petrified recipient of one of our ‘famous free exciting rides in wintertime’ then count yourself very fortunate. Because that free ride invariably costs you. Not only will your insurance company hit you with a higher deductible, but will also hike your annual rate for the privilege of providing you with accident coverage. And of course, there is always the likely expense of another vehicle while yours is being repaired. Never forget the old adage, “Ain’t nothin’ free.”  Especially an unexpected fun-filled whirl on black ice. Sounds exactly like life itself.

By: Michael Watson, MS Secretary of State Mississippi's next Election Day on Tuesday, November 4, is one week away. Polls will open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 7:00 p.m. Any voter in line at 7:00 p.m. is legally entitled to cast a ballot. To view the list of counties that may have an election on November 4,  click here . Visit the  My Election Day portal  to receive election information tailored to your specific address, including a sample ballot. As you type your address into the system, similar addresses should populate. Simply click on yours to get started. Mississippians are encouraged to educate themselves on all races prior to heading to the polls. Problems at the polls observed by state observers or otherwise reported to our Elections Division will be referred to the authorities, including the Attorney General's Office or the appropriate District Attorney's Office. As a reminder, the Secretary of State's Office has no enforcement authority over election-related issues. For questions, please contact the Elections Division at 1-800-829-6786, email  ElectionsAnswers@sos.ms.gov , or visit  YallVote.ms . ELECTION DAY REMINDERS In-Person Absentee Voting Deadline:  The last day to vote absentee vote in-person is Saturday, November 1. Mail-In Absentee Voting Deadline:  All mail-in absentee ballots must be postmarked by November 4 and received by Circuit Clerk's Offices by November 12. Voter ID Affidavit Ballot Deadline:  Voters who cast an affidavit ballot because they forgot their voter ID must present an acceptable form of photo ID to their Circuit Clerk's Office by November 12. Polling Place Location:  Contact your Circuit Clerk's Office to verify your polling place. Voter Photo ID:  Voters are required to show photo identification at the polls. A voter without an acceptable form of photo identification is entitled to cast an affidavit ballot. Click here to view a list of acceptable photo IDs. Campaigning:  It is unlawful to campaign for any candidate within 150 feet of any entrance to a polling place, unless on private property. Loitering:  The polling places should be clear for 30 feet from every entrance of all people except election officials, voters waiting to vote, or authorized poll watchers. Camera Phones:  Voters are prohibited from taking pictures of their marked ballot.

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Jackson, MS hosted a grand Diwali celebration, inviting the community to experience the traditions and joy of the Festival of Lights. Observed by millions of Hindus worldwide,  Diwali is a time for reflection, renewal, and celebration with family and community. This year’s celebrations highlighted the theme of unity, emphasizing the values of harmony, compassion, and togetherness that Diwali inspires. The festival served as a reminder that when individuals and families come together, they strengthen not only their own bonds but also the fabric of the wider community. “This festival reminds us that the whole world is one family. I can see Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam in practice here, as people from all walks of life come together to celebrate Diwali at the Mandir is truly in spiring”, shared Ramesh Maddali, a member of Telegu Association and a visitor at the event. “ Seeing so many dedicated volunteers in preparation and executing this Diwali event, showed me how service can bring us together a family and community,” shared Sonu Patel, visitor at the mandir In preparation for the celebration, volunteers dedicated weeks of effort to create a vibrant atmosphere at the mandir. The grounds were adorned with colorful decorations, intricate galaxy as theme in decoration, and  displays of light, offering visitors an immersive cultural and spiritual experience that reflected both devotion and artistry. A central feature of the festival was the ‘Annakut,’ or “mountain of food,” in which hundreds of vegetarian dishes prepared by devotees of all ages were beautifully arranged and offered to the Divine. The Annakut served as a symbol of gratitude and devotion while also showcasing the dedication and collective spirit of the community. “I love to be part of a team of volunteers in preparation for Diwali” shared Harin Rao, one of the volunteers at BAPS. Beyond the rituals, the celebration engaged families and guests of all ages with activities such as fireworks, interactive exhibits, and educational programs that conveyed the meaning of Diwali. These experiences fostered learning while building connections across generations. “Experiencing Diwali at BAPS, Jackson is truly special, way the young volunteers participate and provide guided tour in Mandir where theme Galaxy is wonderfully explained with message of Unity” shared Dipak Patel of Ahmedabad Mitra Mandal. Mayor of Flowood City – Mrs Kathy Smith, Mayor of Vicksburg – Willis Thompson, Mayor of Jackson CityJohn Horhn and Councilman Brian Grizzell were some of the dignitaries attended the celebrations. Learned about Indian culture. Appreciated the message of Unity and young volunteers. His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj shared his Diwali blessings, encouraging all to let the light of unity shine brightly in their lives. He explained, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj has taught us that true unity begins with  self-reflection. I must first strive to uphold unity without expecting it from others. Though it may bring challenges, unity can be nurtured through patience, listening, setting aside one’s own opinions, and being flexible.”  He further blessed, “May all your noble wishes be fulfilled, and may your conviction in God grow stronger, leading to ever-deepening devotion.” BAPS mandirs across North America joined in hosting Diwali celebrations, offering a space for spiritual reflection, cultural appreciation, and community unity. As the lights of Diwali continue to inspire, the BAPS Shri  Swaminarayan Mandir in Jackson, MS remains a place where individuals and families come together to celebrate tradition, strengthen values, and foster goodwill.

Special to The Bolton News The Town of Bolton is pleased to announce its annual Christmas Parade, scheduled for Saturday, December 13, 2025. This festive event is a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the holiday season. The town extends a warm invitation to all local elected officials, business owners, churches, schools, and civic and school associations to participate in the parade. Entry fees are set at $10 for industrial entries and $30 for car, horse, or motorcycle clubs, while area bands are invited to join at no charge. Participants are asked to complete the official parade application and submit it along with the applicable fee by Monday, December 1, 2025. Applications can be picked up at the Bolton Library or online here . For additional information or questions, please contact Alfenette Robinson at 601-383-2407. The Town of Bolton looks forward to a memorable and joyous celebration, bringing together the entire community in holiday spirit.

The Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) announced today that due to the ongoing federal shutdown, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for the month of November will not be issued. This pause in benefits is a direct result of the federal shutdown and is not a state-level decision. The United States Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has directed states not to transmit the EBT issuances files to EBT vendors until further notice. As a result, no new SNAP benefits will be issued for November unless federal guidance changes, however, previous benefits will remain accessible. Existing clients are reminded to fulfill all requirements to maintain SNAP eligibility. At this time, MDHS has not received confirmation from federal partners on when benefits will resume. MDHS will provide updates to beneficiaries and retailers as the situation develops. MDHS SNAP customer service representatives will continue to be available to answer technical questions but will not be able to provide information on the timing of benefit issuance. SNAP clients and community groups are encouraged to visit http://www.mdhs.ms.gov/home/federal-shutdown-updates/  for the latest information on SNAP updates and a comprehensive list of local food resources. MEDIA FAQs MDHS is not available for interviews regarding this matter. The following FAQ should answer any questions. Q: Will Mississippi SNAP recipients receive November benefits? A: If the federal government shutdown continues, November SNAP benefits may be delayed or may not be issued. Q: If a SNAP client has a balance on their EBT card from a previous month, will they be able to use those benefits after November 1? A: Currently, SNAP clients will maintain access to previous month benefits. MDHS advises our clients who have unused SNAP benefits from October or previous months to make eligible purchases with those benefits. Because the length of the shutdown is uncertain, MDHS recommends that clients purchase shelf-stable items such as canned goods. Q: When will the state be able to issue SNAP benefits again? A: Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, there is no clear timeline for when states will be able to issue SNAP benefits again. MDHS will continue to follow guidance from the federal government and will communicate when more information is available. SNAP clients and community groups are encouraged to visit http://www.mdhs.ms.gov/home/federal-shutdown-updates/  for SNAP updates and a list of local food resources. Q: What actions should SNAP recipients take to maintain their compliance with program requirements during the shutdown? A: SNAP recipients should continue to report household changes, submit requested verifications, and complete any scheduled interviews. Q: Where can clients find updates about the impact of the federal shutdown on MDHS-administered programs like SNAP? A: Visit MDHS.MS.GOV  or follow our agency's social media accounts for the most up-to-date information. Please note that MDHS county office staff do not have any additional information on SNAP benefits beyond October. http://www.mdhs.ms.gov/home/federal-shutdown-updates/ Q: Are there other resources available to help Mississippi families meet their food needs? A: To find a list of local food pantries, please visit: North Mississippi: Mid-South Food Bank: https://www.midsouthfoodbank.org/find-food?locsearch=38107&loccountry=US&locdistance=25&sortdir=distance-asc&loccategories=none Central Mississippi: Mississippi Food Network: https://www.msfoodnet.org/help/ South Mississippi: Catholic Charities of South Mississippi: https://catholiccharitiesofsouthms.org/ Q: Can SNAP recipients use existing benefits during the shutdown? A: Yes, all benefits on your account prior to November 1, 2025 are available to use. Q: If a SNAP client receives a notice that they were approved for November benefits, will they receive those benefits on their EBT card? A. No. Although MDHS will continue to accept and process applications, SNAP clients will not receive November benefits until and unless further guidance is issued to MDHS by FNS. For additional FAQs, visit https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/home/federal-shutdown-updates/#h-faqs .

Special to The Bolton News Chapel Hill Missionary Baptist Church, located at 5137 North Chapel Hill Road in Bolton, Mississippi, will celebrate its 155th anniversary on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at 11:00 AM. The celebration will take place under the leadership of Reverend Darryl Smothers, who has faithfully guided the church for the past 18 years. The history of Chapel Hill Missionary Baptist Church is one of faith, perseverance, and community. In 1870, the church’s founding ancestors envisioned a sacred place for worship. Although the land was originally owned by the State of Mississippi, they successfully acquired it and built a church atop a hill, naming the location Chapel Hill. Upon the completion of the building, Reverend Joe Van led the congregation, setting the foundation for what would become a longstanding spiritual home. Over the years, the church has faced challenges and celebrated growth. In 1901, the church was rebuilt, and after a snowstorm destroyed the building in 1918, it was rebuilt again. In 1957, under new leadership, another reconstruction took place. Significant improvements followed in 1965, including brick veneering and the laying of a cornerstone. By 1970, the church had air conditioning, carpeting, drapery, and upholstered pews, and the Chapel Hill Gospel Choir was formed. Expansion continued with the construction of a new structure to the south of the church in 1977, and additional updates such as new carpeting and ceiling fans were added in 1987. The early 2000s marked a period of renewed ministry development. In 2004, Chapel Hill introduced a Wednesday Noonday Prayer Service and Women’s Fellowship, began developing a church manual, purchased robes for the youth choir, formed a Men’s Fellowship Choir, and entered the first phase of building a new sanctuary. Reverend Darryl Smothers was elected to lead the church in August 2007. In October 2017, the church began remodeling the interior, including upholstering pews, followed by asphalt paving of the parking lot and installation of a steeple with a cross in 2018. Like many churches, Chapel Hill faced disruptions during the 2020–2021 pandemic, operating at limited capacity and relying on conference call services for Bible study and worship. In March 2022, the church reopened at full capacity, continuing to function as a spiritual center for the community. Despite its long history of resilience and growth, the congregation recognizes that there is still much work to be done. The 155th anniversary of Chapel Hill Missionary Baptist Church is not only a celebration of its rich history but also a testament to the enduring faith and dedication of its members, past and present, as they look forward to the future.

From Michael Watson, MS Secretary of State As a reminder, Mississippians need to be aware of upcoming important dates and deadlines for the November 4 elections. To view the list of counties that may have an election on November 4,  click here . Visit the  My Election Day portal  to receive election information tailored to your specific address, including a sample ballot. As you type your address into the system, similar addresses should populate. Simply click on yours to get started. Mississippians are encouraged to educate themselves on all races prior to heading to the polls. In-Person Absentee Voting Circuit Clerk's Offices will be open this Saturday, October 25, from 8:00 a.m. until noon for in-person absentee voting for the November 4 elections. The last day to vote in-person absentee is Saturday, November 1. Circuit Clerk's Offices will be open from 8:00 a.m. until noon. All mail-in absentee ballots must be postmarked by Tuesday, November 4 (Election Day). To track your mail-in absentee ballot, visit the  My Election Day portal . To learn more about absentee voting requirements, visit the Secretary of State's  Absentee Voting Information webpage . UOCAVA Voter Registration Deadline For non-registered UOCAVA voters to vote in the November 4 elections, Circuit Clerk's Offices must be in actual receipt of a completed Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) from a UOCAVA voter by Saturday, October 25. For more information regarding how to cast a UOCAVA ballot, please contact your local election officials or email  UOCAVA@sos.ms.gov . Campaign Finance Deadline All opposed candidates seeking election this year, and political committees which have accepted contributions or made expenditures in support of or in opposition to these county general or special election candidates must file the Pre-Election Report with the appropriate offices by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 28. The Secretary of State's Office is your primary and trusted source for election information. For questions, please contact the Elections Division at 1-800-829-6786, email  ElectionsAnswers@sos.ms.gov , or visit  YallVote.ms . Important Dates for the November 4 Elections October 25  - Saturday In-Person Absentee Voting Begins November 1  - In-Person Absentee Voting Deadline November 4  - Election Day Deadline for the postmark of mail-in absentee ballots

Dexter Lydell Robinson February 26, 1968 - October 16, 2025 Dexter Lydell Robinson, age 57, of Bolton, Mississippi, departed this life on October 16, 2025. Dexter received his education at Hinds Agricultural High School in Utica, Mississippi. He was employed with Douglas Express Delivery, where he continued to pursue his passion for commercial driving and customer service. He is survived by his mother, Dianne Robinson; brother, Aubrey Robinson; daughter, Vernesha Robinson; and a host of other relatives and friends who will cherish the times that were shared for a lifetime. Dexter lived a life full of kindness, compassion toward others, and was a true believer in God's Plan. He never met a stranger and never dwelled on the burdens or tribulations that life might have brought.  He courageously fought colon cancer until the Lord called him Home. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”— 2 Timothy 4:7 Bolton Funeral Home located at 205 Bolton Brownsville Road, Bolton, MS is in charge of arrangements. Funeral services will be private and confidential. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Dexter Lydell Robinson, please visit our flower store .

Send responses to: andybowman839@gmail.com   Depression.  A word that absolutely can send dread coursing through the veins. Whether you have witnessed its debilitating effect on a loved one or experienced it yourself, you know it physically changes things. The depressed person can be blinded to seeing beauty around them. It actually can make a clear blue sky look dingy. A riot of flowers in front of a sparkling fountain, surrounded by a sea of perfectly groomed emerald green grass can be seen, but yet, not really seen. Not the way you would see it. Those vivid colors seem to be encased in gray in a depressed person’s eyes. Their mind just doesn’t comprehend beauty, nor can they experience pleasure in life the same way as the mind of someone who is not a victim of depression. Understanding and coping with this can be difficult for their friends and loved ones. A dear friend has been watching the changes in Vikki in the last month. Normally involved and friendly to everyone, she has become quiet, moody and more home-bound that Jacey has ever known her to be. She has repeatedly questioned Vikki, but the answers she always gives are noncommittal and vague, not giving a clue why her outlook on life is so different lately. When socially required, she will actually laugh, but it’s a small sad sound that never reaches her distant eyes. One day, after realizing Vikki was simply not going to talk about her problem, Jacey resorted to the tried-and-true method of helping.  She invites Vikki on an outing to hopefully help her to snap out of it. “We’ll go for a nice long walk in our favorite park. I can show you those flowers I’ve been talking about, then go sit for a while by that little lake. We can watch the baby ducks swimming after their momma. They are so stinkin’ cute at this age!”  Only to be met with a shrug of indifference and a tiny sigh. Later, her determined friend tries again. “Hey, I know! Let’s have lunch tomorrow at Pedro’s Café, and then go for a drive through that ritzy neighborhood where you love to look at those humongous houses!” But this suggestion only garners a quick glance from Vikki, eyes filling with tears as she turns away to hide her face. “Oh Jacey, I don’t think so. I’m just pretty tired lately. Maybe some other time, okay?” Vikki is definitely hurting, no doubt. Her vision ability has narrowed down to a small pinpoint – and it includes only her pain. And any apparent rejection her good friend may be feeling? Well honestly, Vikki has a hard time recognizing or even caring by that point. There is no intention to offend her friend. She simply feels deadened and frozen. Living in a deep gray fog, where no joy or purpose can penetrate.