Do you remember how many times your mom and dad told you to be sure to say “thank you?”

Well, as we all know, they knew what they were talking about. Those two little words are powerful!

This Friday morning, the Adams County Community has a chance to say thank you to the special people who quietly protect us 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

First responders are just that, our dedicated, trained, often volunteer neighbors who answer those calls that are made when they are needed the most. They are our first responders, and what more appropriate time to say thank you than the 10th anniversary of 9/11!

At Natchez Coffee at 8 a.m. Friday morning you are especially invited to join others to listen to Metro Miss-Lou Ambulance, American Medical Response and our newest high-flying neighbors, Air Evac, talk about their services and how they respond to our calls when we need them the most.

Join us as a community as we say thank you to all first responders by celebrating their work and presenting them with small tokens of our appreciation.

Friday Forums are the result of a partnership with Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce, Alcorn State University and Natchez Coffee Company.

Each Friday an interesting topic is discussed and attendees get to ask questions. Topics include political agendas, Corrections Corporation of America, Natchez Little Theater, the real estate outlook for our area, investing during uncertain times, area crime statistics, ArtsNatchez and on and on.

These forums are a way to promote community communication. Your ideas for topics are so welcome. And your presence is even more welcome.

So, let’s make an early Friday morning date to get together with friends and neighbors to visit, talk and enjoy some excellent coffee!

It’s a great way to start the best day of the work week!

And be sure to come this Friday to say thank you to some very deserving folks!

Ruth Nichols is director of external relations at Alcorn State University.