Let’s take a moment before the start of another busy workweek to count our blessings and say thank you and congratulations to those deserving of praise.

• Wow! Kudos to the United Way of West Central Mississippi on the tremendous success of its first 5K True Color Run, which served as a kick off to the new campaign season. And what a success it was! We don’t have an exact count, but we heard over and over again from those in attendance that it was the biggest crowd many had seen here for an event in a long time.

We hope the excitement of the Color Run extends well into the United Way fundraising season. When United Way comes calling, remember the many partner agencies who benefit from your donation and consider giving generously.

• Hearty congratulations to Miss Mississippi Hannah Roberts, who did an amazing job of representing Mississippi in the Miss America pageant, held Sept. 13. Roberts took first runner-up. Despite her busy schedule, Roberts, who is from Mount Olive, was back in Vicksburg talking to the Vicksburg Lions Club on Wednesday.

Hannah, Vicksburg’s proud of you!

• Finding one’s calling isn’t easy. Many people don’t in this life, or at least don’t follow that calling.

That’s not the situation for Rebecca Busby, who never planned to teach adults, much less adults with special needs. However, when given the opportunity, Busby was willing to give it a try. In doing so, she found her life’s work.

Her job at Jacob’s Ladder suits her perfectly, she said. Perhaps we should all take a lesson from Busby in giving opportunities a try before dismissing them. It turned out pretty well for her.

• Congratulations to Exelena Martin on her 48-year run as a neighborhood grocer of sorts in Vicksburg.

Martin operated Martin Grocer Penny Store at her home on Meadow Street. She plans to close it by the end of this month in order to spend time with her family, including 18 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Martin, here’s wishing you a long and relaxing retirement.