Electric Power Associations of Mississippi
Periodical postage (ISSN 1052 2433)
APRIL 2011
I N
M I S S I S S I P P I
Students learn leadership ABCs
2
A garden where children grow
4
Reader photos capture wildlife
14
2 ■ Today in Mississippi ■ April 2011
Attitude, belief and commitment are the ABCs of effective leadership, motivational speaker Terry Rhodes told 66 of Mississippi’s top high school juniors at the 25th annual Electric Power Associations of Mississippi Youth Leadership Workshop March 2-4, in Jackson. Rhodes’ presentation was part of an intensive workshop experience that included meetings with state legislators, tours of the state Capitol, team-building exercises, competitions and fun activities. “First, it’s our goal to encourage and challenge students to be active in leadership roles,” said Ron Stewart, senior vice president of Electric Power Associations of Mississippi and host of the three-day event. “Second, we want to equip them with important skills that will enable them to be excellent leaders. This workshop exemplifies our commitment to tomorrow’s leaders.” Stewart praised the students for their many accomplishments and challenged them to make a difference in their school and community. “Now is the time to put your skills to work!” he told them.
In reviewing the past 25 years, Stewart said he is proud of the hundreds of students who have participated in the youth leadership program. “Some of them now serve in state government or medical fields, and many are now educators. And they are quick to tell you the program was a real asset in preparing them for the leadership positions they now hold.” This year’s participants, who represented schools throughout the state, earned the expense-paid trip to the workshop in a competitive selection process sponsored by their electric power asso- Workshop award winners are, from left, Mia Coleman, Leadership and Friendship awards; Jacob Stewart, Spirit Award; Daulton Newman, ciation. Youth Leadership Award; and Joshua Rushing, Leadership Award.
! ALCORN COUNTY EPA Aubrey Hodges, Corinth Abby Noyes, Corinth
Newman wins prestigious Youth Leadership Award Daulton Newman accepts the Youth Leadership Award from Ron Stewart, senior vice president of EPAs of Miss. Daulton is a junior at Eupora High School and the son of Mark and Charlotte Newman. He is captain of his school’s football and Envirothon teams, and a member of FCA, Beta Club and the annual staff. Daulton is an active member of First Baptist Church in Eupora and volunteers by coaching girls softball and basketball. He will serve a one-year term as Mississippi’s representative on the national Youth Leadership Council. The award includes a $1,000 scholarship.
CENTRAL EPA Brittney Coleman, Philadelphia Cole Gressett, Brandon Erica McCoy, Carthage Krissy Winstead, Union COAST EPA David Webb, IV, Pass Christian Joseph Yott Jr., Long Beach DIXIE EPA Hunter Estess, Laurel Mason Robertson, Ellisville Daniel Vial, Laurel
EAST MISS. EPA Dakota Aust, DeKalb Addison Cherry, Louisville Paige Gower, Meridian T’Kylia Moss, Shubuta Abbie Smith, Louisville Kennedy Smith, Meridian 4-COUNTY EPA Brelana Coleman, Columbus Swade Cox, Weir Megan Gammill, Starkville Christian Good, Macon MAGNOLIA EPA Lizzy Carr, Brookhaven Brianna Johnson, Magnolia Garrett Rushing, Brookhaven NATCHEZ TRACE EPA Chace Gore, Eupora Daulton Newman, Eupora
NORTH EAST MISS. EPA Andrea Colston, Abbeville Lauren Cullen, Oxford Jacob Stewart, Gulfport NORTHCENTRAL EPA Kaley Barber, Olive Branch Ashika Bhakta, Holly Springs Samantha Brunson, Olive Branch Alexia Mazique, Byhalia Joshua Rushing, Horn Lake Bailey Smith, Southaven Derek Starnes, Olive Branch Chase Waldrip, Southaven PEARL RIVER VALLEY EPA Natalie Bourn, Columbia Robert “Jr.” Gay, Foxworth
PONTOTOC EPA Marlee Sappington, New Albany Hillary Staten, Pontotoc SINGING RIVER EPA Chanler Booker, Moss Point Lauren Lott, Beaumont SOUTHERN PINE EPA Mia Coleman, Braxton Conner Hemphill, Braxton Warren Smith Jr., Puckett SOUTHWEST MISS. EPA Derek Migues, Wesson Georgianna Pepper, Wesson TALLAHATCHIE VALLEY EPA Jordan Kile, Coldwater Hunter Lawrence, Batesville Austin Davis Smith, Batesville Hannah Waldrip, Sardis
TOMBIGBEE EPA Sarah Childers, Guntown Abby Clayton, Fulton Betsy Kingsley, Mantachie Mason Lee, Nettleton Beth Lindsey, Saltillo Whitney Palmer, Tremont Anna Williams, Tupelo TWIN COUNTY EPA Parker Boyles, Greenville Mary Kendal Champion, Belzoni William Jones, Isola YAZOO VALLEY EPA David Edwards, Yazoo City Terrian Garvis, Pickens James Golden, Vaughan Desiree Haralson, Benton
April 2011 ■ Today in Mississippi
Students flex their leadership muscle at annual workshop felt honored last month to speak to a group of 66 outstanding high school juniors on the subject of leadership. The students came to Jackson from all over the state to take part in the 25th annual Electric Power Associations of Mississippi Youth Leadership Workshop. (See their photo on the facing page.) Their schedule was packed with activities, competitions, motivational presentations and a visit to the state Capitol, where they were recognized in the Senate gallery. They earned the expense-paid trip by winning a local interview and/or essay competition, sponsored by their electric power association. It’s not an easy win, and even to be counted among the finalists is itself an honor. We design every component of the workshop with the goal of teaching the requirements, responsibilities and traits of an effective leader in the school, church and community affairs. Our workshop participants come to us with a good bit of experience in leadership already. They lead team sports at their schools, join academic clubs, hold offices in student organizations, teach Sunday school and volunteer for community service. Leadership requires social skills, and these kids have them. They come from various backgrounds and geographical areas, yet they quickly find they have more in common than not when they first meet at the workshop. They mesh well, and by the end of the three-day event, they have formed solid friendships with each other or at least developed mutual respect. Leadership requires the ability to think clearly about an issue, determine a position and express that position to others. The students get to practice these skills during the workshop’s “town hall” session, where they choose an issue of importance to them and present their viewpoint to the entire group. But I think the most important quality of an
I
■
Our Homeplace
My Opinion Michael Callahan Executive Vice President/CEO EPAs of Mississippi
effective leader is the ability to influence others and develop followers. We see this quality emerge during the workshop’s team-building exercises, when students break into small groups to solve problems on a competitive basis. It’s fascinating to watch tomorrow’s leaders put their heads together at our workshop and tackle the challenges we give them. How useful will these exercises be to their future success? Time will tell, but I’m confident these kids will succeed in life and they will remember the Youth Leadership Workshop with fondness. I hope I get to shake hands with them again some day—after they become mayors, state legislators, congressmen, CEOs or school principals. ••• Another group of Mississippi youths is learning equally important life lessons but in an unconventional way: by working alongside a caring mentor in a community garden. Don’t miss our story in this issue about Tré Roberts and his work to mentor to inner-city youth in Jackson while they tend peas, beans and okra. When it comes to leadership, this man sets an impressive example. I know you will be inspired by his deep commitment to helping guide young people along the right path and teaching them about work and enterprise. I wonder what future entrepreneurs are taking root in Mr. Robert’s garden.
On the cover
Today in Mississippi
An osprey, its eye glinting in the sun, flies off with its catch in a photo by Charles W. Lee, a Singing River Electric member in Pascagoula. See more reader photos of Mississippi wildlife in “Picture This,” pages 14-15.
OFFICERS
Vol. 64 No. 4
The Official Publication of the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi
EDITORIAL OFFICE & ADVERTISING Today in Mississippi (ISSN 1052-2433) is 601-605-8600 a cooperative newspaper published Acceptance of advertising by Today in Mismonthly by Electric Power Associations sissippi does not imply endorsement of of Mississippi, Inc., P.O. Box 3300 Ridgethe advertised product or services by the land, MS 39158-3300, or 665 Highland publisher or Mississippi’s Electric Power Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, MS 39157. Associations. Product satisfaction and dePhone 601-605-8600. Periodical EDITORIAL STAFF livery responsibility lie solely with the adpostage paid at Ridgeland, MS, and adMichael Callahan - Executive Vice President/CEO vertiser. ditional office. The publisher (and/or its Ron Stewart - Senior Vice President, Co-op Services • National advertising representative: agent) reserves the right to refuse or Mark Bridges - Manager, Support Services National Country Market, 800-626-1181 edit all advertising. Jay Swindle - Manager, Advertising POSTMASTER: Send address changes Debbie H. Stringer - Editor Circulation of this issue: 462,226 to: Today, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS Abby Berry - Communications Specialist Non-member subscription price: $9.50 per year 39158-3300 Rickey McMillan - Graphics Specialist Visit us at: Linda Hutcherson - Administrative Assistant
Ronnie Robertson - President Darrell Smith - First Vice President Kevin Doddridge - Second Vice President Brad Robison - Secretary/Treasurer
www.todayinmississippi.com
A bald eagle soars through a crystal-clear sky near the delta town of Arcola. Randy Blackburn, of Hollandale, photographed the majestic bird and submitted it to our “Picture This” feature. See more of our readers’ photos of various forms of Mississippi wildlife on pages 14-15 of this issue.
Mississippi is . . . . . . a place to call your own. Smiling faces, friendly places, the aroma of honeysuckle, magnolias and Mama’s chicken and dumplings. The sweet sound of down-home blues and dancing in the street, children playing and dogs chasing. People coming, people going, always happy to return back to Mississippi—proud to call you home! — Joy Gates, Jackson Mississippi is music that inspires the world. Literature that awakens the imagination. Replete with rich history and culture. Savoring cheese grits, fried chicken, sweet tea and bread pudding. A salty breeze off gulf waters teeming with life. A smile as you stroll off the beaten path. Mississippi is a stranger who becomes a good friend. — Bradford W. Cunningham, Pascagoula Mississippi is fresh broken ground, fresh cut grass, kudzu and honeysuckle in bloom. Where you can grow your own vegetables and meat, and raise your honey, too. I think when the Lord cuts on his nightlight, it shines briefly on Neshoba County first, and then spreads over the rest of the world. May the Lord’s light shine brightly upon us all. — John Duncan, Philadelphia Mississippi is now home to this Arizona Desert transplant for 24 years. It is rural sunrises that paint the eastern sky, quick summer showers, the smell of spring honeysuckle perfuming the air, the rat-tat-tat of a busy woodpecker. At dusk the beautiful colors of a sunset fading to a twilight that lingers, then dims and fades into the night. The sound of a whip-poor-will echoing in the woods and the magnified sounds of the tree frogs lulling you to sleep. — Theresa Tynes, Jayess
What’s Mississippi to you? Each month in this space, we feature readers’ personal reflections on what “Mississippi is.” We’d love to hear from you. Please keep your comments brief and send them to Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158, or e-mail them to news@epaofms.com. Submissions are subject to editing.
3
4
■
a garden where
Today in Mississippi
■
April 2011
grow hildren c Tré Roberts
Tré Roberts uses a community garden as a tool for mentoring and giving purpose to inner-city youth By Debbie Stringer Two years ago when Tré Roberts helped start a vegetable garden at the Jackson Medical Mall, he wasn’t thinking of changing lives. He just wanted to grow produce for low-income residents of an area where fast-food restaurants far outnumber grocery stores. The idea was to encourage healthful home cooking by offering a local source of fresh, organically grown vegetables. Dr. Aaron Shirley, chairman of the board of the Jackson Medical Mall Foundation, asked Roberts to plant the garden. They envisioned a community garden that would involve local youth. Roberts broke ground for the 5-acre plot with the help of some 70 volunteers from the Church of Latter Day Saints. As he worked in the garden, Roberts, an ordained minister and an employee of Blue Cross/Blue Shield of
Jairius McCarty, 9, applies worm castings to a seedling.
Louisiana, recognized a hunger in some of the neighborhood kids that no homegrown tomato could satisfy. “I saw a lot of young black kids who didn’t have father figures. I saw that a lot of young people didn’t have any purpose—they were just walking up and down the streets,” he said. “I realized they have no idea what to do. Some don’t have a dad there to push them. A lot of them are not deficient in love; they’re deficient in guidance. There’s a certain point in a young guy’s life when he needs a male to talk to,” said Roberts, who lives in Clinton with his wife, Erika, and their four children—three daughters and a son, ages 5 to 16. Roberts saw an opportunity to mentor these kids by
inviting them to be a part of the garden project. His own children worked alongside their dad in the family’s spring and fall gardens. There he taught them about seeds, soil and other “life lessons.” The idea for the Jackson Inner-city Gardeners is rooted in this family experience. The plan is to grow the community by growing children—using the garden as the vehicle for teaching life lessons. And in the process, the kids earn armloads of healthful foods to enjoy with their families. “This is more than just a garden. This is a tool, and we want to use it the best we can,” Roberts said. The garden has become a place where young men can gather and feel safe, talk freely about their troubles and learn the value of work. Girls are welcome, too. “[It gives them] the opportunity to be around loving adults, and that’s something we kind of take for granted. But it should be a part of every young person’s life, regardless of their social status,” said Erika Roberts, who works for AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC), in Vicksburg. “I never considered it a ministry, but it has become a ministry,” Roberts said. “We did it because there was a need [for produce] and the medical mall had the property. And along with that, I saw other opportunities.”
April 2011
Among them is education. “I want the kids to be able to grasp the concept of where their food comes from, what it takes from the seed to the table. They need to know all of that,” said Roberts, whose father and grandfather farmed in Madison County. At first, some of the kids complained about getting dirty and turned up their noses at the rabbit manure fertilizer, Roberts said. “But guess what. At the end of the day, everybody’s hands are nasty and they want to know, when you coming back, Farmer Tré?” “It’s a fun place,” said Jarrett Frierson, 18, who has grown close to the Roberts family through the garden project. With encouragement from Roberts, Frierson is ready to take the GED test this month so he can go to college. He wants to be a lawyer. Frierson said he’s learned more than how to grow vegetables from Roberts. “[He’s taught me] how to be a man, things like that. How to take responsibility,” he said.
❂
For this year’s spring garden, the Jackson Inner-city Gardeners moved to a new, larger site on a vacant 19-acre
tract, also provided by the Jackson Medical Mall. Roberts, his 15-year-old son Seth and a group of volunteers spent the past few months cutting trees, clearing underbrush and piling up debris to prepare the new garden site. Youth and adults have worked together to plant fig trees, blueberry bushes, blackberry and raspberry vines, collard and mustard greens, English peas, broccoli and garlic. Soon they will add okra, melons, beans, sweet corn, onions, herbs, tomatoes, peppers, eggplants and squash. There will be a few unfamiliar vegetables, too. “I’ve even got seeds now for something called a snake melon,” Roberts said. All will be certified naturally grown in accordance with standard organic practices. Extension Service personnel at both Alcorn State University and Mississippi State University provide guidance. “We don’t use any chemicals,” Roberts said. “We use manure to fertilize and we pinch out the insects. “In organic gardening, it’s all about the soil, so we will have a lot of work to do to build this soil up to where it needs to be. We can’t just throw triple 13 down there.” The kids are surprised at how fast the seedlings emerge—and gratified at the first sign of the fruits of their labor.
❂ As the garden begins yielding its bounty, Roberts plans to teach his young gardeners how to preserve and market the produce. “We want the kids to be able to go to the farmers market where they can set up their own booth and sell directly to the public. I really want to get them connected to enterprise and learn how to sell things. Hopefully, they’ll be able to sell herbs and stuff to restaurants, too,” Roberts said. The garden is a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) project. Individuals may buy shares in the garden in Roberts, working with son Seth and Brandon Powers, watches the young men use worm castings to add nutrients to the organic garden.
A group of Jackson Inner-city Gardeners volunteers works with members of the Roberts family to tend seedlings in the organization’s new, larger garden plot in Jackson. From left are Nora White, Erika Roberts, Seth Roberts, Brandon Powers, Jairius McCarty and Jarrett Frierson. Most of the youth involved in the project have no experience growing food. “Not unless you count growing peas in kindergarten,” Frierson quipped.
■
Today in Mississippi
■
5
exchange for a regular supply of its produce. “I didn’t want to be dependent on grants to sustain the garden, and so this will be our first year doing CSA,” Roberts said. “I want to make certain that we are able to get the things we need to make this productive, and also to be able to give the kids stipends.” He wants to use some of the garden’s proceeds to fund new experiences for his gardeners. “When fall comes, I want to take these kids to ball games or take them camping. I want to be able to do things with them beyond the garden, so they can get out of their environment,” he said. As cooler weather settles in, he’ll teach them how to cut firewood to earn money to buy Christmas gifts.
❂ Donations of supplies, money, plants and manpower, in addition to the partnership with the Jackson Medical Mall Foundation, keep the garden program growing. “We found out that people are givers. People will bless you if they know that you’re going to do the right thing with [donations],” Roberts said. People of all ages and backgrounds have volunteered to help the girls and boys in the garden, and all are welcome. College students have traveled from as far away as Rutgers University, in New Jersey, to lend a hand. “My thing is, I want people from all over [to come]. I don’t want it to just be inner city, because our inner-city kids need to cross these barriers so they can learn from one another what it takes in order to get along,” Roberts said. He expects a surge of volunteers April 16 for Global Youth Service Day, when high school and college students throughout the Jackson metro area will spend the morning planting a flower garden at the site to attract beneficial insects.
❂ In the three years Roberts has lead the medical mall garden project, he has managed to retain all his young volunteers. “Even though they’d complain at first, I never lost a kid. All the kids who started with us are still working with us,” he said. Roberts also leads a garden project for students studying botany at Wingfield High School in Jackson. He cares deeply about young people and devotes much of his spare time to mentoring them. “It’s taught me a lot about really being a servant. But believe you me, when you invest in people, it can hurt. Because you get mad sometimes when they ain’t done what they’re supposed to do. You get angry at their dad, because where is he? “You’re going to have all those different emotions, but what it all boils down to is, you love those kids,” Roberts said. The Jackson Inner-city Gardeners garden is located at the corner of West Northside Drive and Medgar Evers Boulevard, in Jackson. Produce will be available for sale at the garden. For more information, including sale dates, visit the Website at www.jiggarden.com or call Tré Roberts at (225) 287-3159.
6
â–
Today in Mississippi â– April 2011
Welcoming back color to the landscape
I
s it just my imagination soms. They weren’t burned back by a late or are the colors of freeze after sprouting. Then again, I may spring a little more vivid have perceived all of this color as being this year than they have different because I have never driven that been in the past? many miles before with the light just Over spring break, granddaughter right to highlight the new leaves and Emily and I traveled up Highway 25 buds. from Jackson to Aberdeen to But whichever, after the speak to the Friends of the Licold winter, the early display of brary about the new book and spring this year was welcomed. also to shoot a story for televiArriving at the library in sion in the Old Aberdeen Aberdeen, we were handed a Cemetery. As we were going brochure for the town’s Spring up, the new leaves on the Pilgrimage. I am trying to right side of the road were think of all the other places in backlit by the morning sun. Mississippi the state that have spring and And as we drove home that afpilgrimages; Columbus, VicksSeen ternoon, the leaves on the opburg and Holly Springs come by Walt Grayson posite side of the road were to mind right away. And I’m backlit by the evening sun. sure there are more, and there And the light pouring through the redare places that have pilgrimages that call buds and maples and other sprouts them something else—Heritage Tours, seemed like a rainbow of color. for instance. I even made a comment to Emily Natchez, of course, has the Grandabout how it seemed the leaves and flow- daddy of Mississippi Pilgrimages. And it ers were more colorful this spring. But was the flowers of spring that prompted Emily is just 11 years old, so she doesn’t the tours of the old antebellum mansions have nearly as many springs to compare in Natchez back in 1936. People had this year’s crop with as I do. I know we been coming there every spring for years didn’t have a hard freeze after the first to tour the gardens around the old warm-up in February this year. So that homes. Then that year, after everything may account for more foliage and bloshad budded and bloomed, a late freeze
one night wiped out all the flowers that people had packed the town to see. So someone decided just to open up the old houses and let the people come inside and tour them, since the gardens were dead. And since then, the flowers have just been backdrops for touring the old homes. But back to the question of whether this spring was more colorful or not. Besides not getting a late freeze after the last good cold snap, I think that it may have been the harshness of the winter that made spring a little more welcome than usual for me personally this year. After the last snow, it was clouds of Bradford pear blossoms, followed by redbuds and maples and Carolina jasmine and then the dogwood and azaleas, all leading up to crape myrtle and summer; stair steps climbing from cold winter to cold watermelon. Stair steps I have come to recognize and look forward to. Stair steps young Emily will have to grow over time to realize that through all the other chapters and changes that happen in life, the spring flowers are a constant that will always come around to pull you out of your winter. And sometimes, they seem to be more vivid than at other times.
Redbud and green leaves seemed more abundant to me this spring. Maybe is was the lack of a late hard freeze, or maybe it was because I was overly tired of winter. Whichever, I considered it a treat. Photo: Walt Grayson
Walt Grayson is the host of “Mississippi Roads� on Mississippi Public Broadcasting television and the author of two “Looking Around Mississippi� books and “Oh! That Reminds Me: More Mississippi Homegrown Stories.�
Pepp ered Bee f Steaks with Caramelized Onions Ingredients: 2 beef round sirloin tip center steaks, cut 1 inch thick (about 8 ounces each) 2 tablespoons butter 2 large yellow or red onions, cut crosswise into 1/4-inch thick slices salt 2 teaspoons seasoned pepper blend 1. Heat butter in large nonstick skillet over medium heat until melted. Add onions; cook 18 to 21 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally. Season with salt, as desired. Remove from skillet; keep warm. 2. Press seasoning evenly onto beef steaks. Place steaks in same skillet. Cook over medium heat 14 to 15 minutes for medium rare (145°F) doneness, turning twice. (Do not overcook.) 3. Carve steaks into thin slices. Serve with onions. Total Recipe Time: 30 - 35 minutes • Makes 4 servings
For More great BEEF recipes go to:
www.msb ee f.org
Mississippi Beef Council
680 Monroe St. Suite A • Jackson, MS 39202 • (601) 353-4520
Sponsored by Mississippi’s Beef Producers through the Beef Checkoff Program
BEAUTIFUL TREE-LINED STREETS, MEMORABLE MUSEUMS, UNIQUE DOWNTOWN SHOPPING, AND RICH HISTORY AWAIT YOU‌
CorinthVisitor’s Bureau
‡ ::: &25,17+ 1(7
April 2011 â– Today in Mississippi â– 7
Impulse buying isn’t rational, our trip proves
L
ashamed to say that I waste food like I ast month I wrote how waste water. So many starving and I’m impulse buying over disposing. The guilt has consumed me to the years caused furnithe point that I’ve given up grocery shopture overload in our ping and turned the job over to my genhouse. I’ve made a pledge to practice austerity—live a thrifty eral manager. I’m positive that will work, since he isn’t tempted to life. I realized the grocery store spend extra money. was the first place to start. Last week we had to take a My rot drawers are filled little trip to Orlando. The with a variety of produce— general had several days of cabbage and such—and it meetings, so he wasn’t availgrows all sorts of weird tentaable to have fun. cles when left alone. Much of “What are you planning my produce becomes unrecogto do while I’m in my meetnizable. The term is deliquesce Grin ‘n’ ings?� he asked. (during decomposition it turns Bare It “Sleep late and write on to liquid). by Kay Grafe my novel,� I said. The packages of meats, “If I know you, shopping milk and eggs warn: don’t use after this date: 3-5-11. The words are hid- will be a priority,� he said. “Absolutely not! I’m not going anyden in tiny script printed upside down. place that would tempt me. I have work Would one extra month kill us? If I to do. I’ll stay in the hotel room all day, added catsup and soy sauce, we couldn’t taste tainted food. I’d also leave a note on unless I go out to the pool. But no shopping centers for me. I’m living a life of the counter explaining—just in case we were found lifeless with our heads resting austerity. I won’t turn the TV to the Home Shopping Network or use the in our plates. I’ve been tempted to use iPhone.� moldy bread when the cupboard was The first day I fixed coffee in a cute bare. Truth is, I threw all of the above in little pot that made either one or two the garbage. The out-of-date canned goods I didn’t cups. It had a matching container that was stackable with three compartments trust either, so out they went. I’m It’s What You Love About Travel. It’s What You Love About America.
for coffee and sweeteners. I began writing about 9:30. At 1:00 I ate an apple and brown rice chips. I was thirsty, so I used ice from the ice bucket (which matched the coffee pot and stackable container) for my bottle of green tea. As I began writing again I had an idea that didn’t match my novel. So when the housekeeping lady came to clean at 3:00, I tried to talk to her, but she was from Barbados and didn’t understand me. She ushered in the floor manager, who was from Aruba. She could speak a little English, so I demonstrated what I wanted with sign language and pantomimed the part she didn’t understand. She excused herself and went to converse with the hotel manager. By 4:30 I’d written two chapters and bought a coffee pot, matching ice bucket and stackable coffee holder. I also tried to buy the bedroom table lamp, but the answer was, “Sowee, no lamps for sale.� By 5:00 when the general arrived, I explained my transactions and waited for a lecture. He was speechless. Later, after dinner he said, “I’m truly amazed. I suspect you’re the only woman in this hotel who went shopping and never left the room.� “Just wait until tomorrow,� I said. “I
plan to make an offer on the computer desk and matching chair.� I felt guilty for failing my thriftiness test. But as Scarlet said, “I’ll worry about that tomorrow.� She wasn’t rational either.
Kay Grafe is the author of “Oh My Gosh, Virginia.� To order, send name, address, phone number and $16.95 plus 3.50 S&H to Kay Grafe, 2142 Fig Farm Road, Lucedale, MS 39452.
)LQDOO\ $ 7RXJK 6XSHU *OXH
2011 Spring Pilgrimage - March 12 - April 16, 2011 Natchez Bluff Blues Festival - April 29 - May 1, 2011 Natchez Festival of Music - Through out the month of May Symphony of Gardens Tour - May 6 - 7, 2011
FOR THE TOUGHEST JOBS ON PLANET EARTHÂŽ
>GJ EGJ= AF>GJE9LAGF 9F< LG J=IM=KL 9 >J== NAKALGJK ?MA<=
)%0((%.,/%./*, ooo&NakalFYl[`]r&gj_
1-800-966-3458 Made in USA Š 2011 Gorilla Glue Company
8
Today in Mississippi ■ April 2011
■
April is Safe Digging Month Planning a home improvement job? Planting a tree? Installing a fence or deck? WAIT! Whether you are planning to do it yourself or hire a professional, smart digging means calling 811 before each job. In a proclamation, Gov. Haley Barbour stressed the importance of calling before you dig. “Undesired consequences such as service interruption, damage to the environment, personal injury and even death are the potential results,” Barbour said in proclaiming April as Safe Digging Month. “Electric power associations have been a partner with Mississippi 811 from the beginning,” said Michael Callahan, CEO of Electric Power Associations of Mississippi. “First and foremost, it’s a safety
issue, as striking a single line can cause injury or death. It can also cause outages and uneccessary repair costs.” Homeowners often make risky assumptions about whether or not they should get their utility lines marked, but every digging job requires a call to 811— even small projects like planting trees and shrubs. The depth of utility lines varies, and there may be multiple utility lines in a common area. Digging without calling first can disrupt service to an entire neighborhood, harm you and those around you, and potentially result in fines and repair costs. Calling 811 before every digging job gets your underground utility lines marked free and helps prevent undesired consequences.
Looking for youth leadership program participants from years past If you are one of the more than 1,000 who have, then we are looking for you. We want you to help us celebrate the 25th anniversary of our youth leadership program. How you can help us If you are a past participant or the parent of one, please take the time to
send us the participant’s name, address, email and a current bio to: EPAs of Mississippi P.O. Box 3300 Ridgeland, MS 39158 Or you can provide the information online by visiting our Website, www.epaofms.com.
We look forward to hearing from you! Visit www.epaofms.com and click on the “youth leadership” button.
Greenwood. in . .. e m ti g n ri p S te ra b Cele Plan your weekend in Greenw
ood around amazing events
you can’t miss!
River to the Rails April 8-9, 2011 Back by popular demand with food, art, music, and activities for the entire family.
www.mainstreetgreenwood.com
The Temptation Review featuring Dennis Edwards Friday, April 29, 2011 Hosted by Mississippi Valley State University Foundation at the Leflore County Civic Center. www.mvsu.edu
Robert Johnson’s 100th Birthday Celebration May 5-8, 2011 Celebrate legendary blues musician Robert Johnson’s 100th birthday with free live music, panel discussions, guided tours, cooking classes, and spa specials.
www.greenwoodms.org/robertjohnson
All persons preparing to dig must call Mississippi 811 or utilize our online E-locate system two days prior to the beginning of any work. Underground facilities will be marked using the color code system and then work may proceed.
Robert Johnson Exposed, Cottonlandia Museum May 5th - September 10th, 2011 Explore Robert Johnson’s life and legacy with original album art, family pictures, and interpretations of the legend.
www.greenwoodms.org/robertjohnson
Bikes, Blues & Bayous Saturday, August 6, 2011 Three rides for all levels of cycling: 20-mile, 46-mile,and 58-mile rides, with hospitality stations hosted throughout.
www.greenwoodms.com
New Re-sealable bag!
KKILL LAKE AKE WEEDS EDS
Walk-in Baths Starting at $2,399 Why Luter’s Supply?
Proven o e AQUACIDE AQUAC CIDE PELLETS LLETS S
Marble size pellets. W Work ork at any depth.
"Spread it and forget et it!"
Before
After
10 0 lb. ba bag g treats tre eats up to 4,000 4, ,000 sq.ft. $ $79.00. 50 0 lb. ba bag g treats tre eats up to 20,000 20 0,000 sq.ft. $308.00. $3 308.00.
Emmette Luter, Owner
“I believe so much in our walk-in baths that I had one installed in my own home.”
FREE F REE SHIPPING! Cer Certified tifie ed and appro approved ved ffor or use b by y state agencies a agencies.. State per permit mit ma may y be req required. uired. Registered with the F Federal ederal a E. P P.. A.
Luter’s Supply
800-328-9350 800-328-9 350 www.KillLakeWeeds.com/42C www .KillLakeWeeds.com/42C om/42C Our
56th year
• Hundreds in stock • More than 70 models offered • 60 years in business • FREE Shipping • 3 American-made brands • Wholesale prices • World’s largest single location Jacuzzi brand dealer
Tylertown, MS
Write Wr ite ffor or FREE E inf information: ormation: n:
AQUACIDE A Q UACIDE QU C IDE CO CO. O.
PO Bo Box x 10748, DEPT 42C 2C White Bear Lak Lake, e, MN 55110-0748 -0748
Call us today at 601-876-3455
www.LuterSupply.com
April 2011
■
Today in Mississippi
■
9
Chance encounters: Careful with the youngsters
S
pring is here. And with fields, even our back porches, can be litspring comes renewing, erally inundated with the new models of various wildlife species. Nature has refreshing from the equipped them all to do quite well if doldrums of winter. given the proper setting, but we often, Everywhere we turn perhaps inadvertently, disrupt there is quickening. The world this setting. We must be is suddenly alive. And with that aware, careful. So what are we comes the potential for chance likely to see; what should we encounters that could bring watch for and avoid? harm to some of that new life. Perhaps the most common One element of spring is for homeowners are the birds. that we generally become more Did you fail to bring in your active in the outside world. favorite hunting boots from Gardening, lawn work, propMississippi the porch when you last finerty maintenance, farming, Outdoors ished with them? If so, there recreation—all these increase is probably a wren nest in at our contact with the world outby Tony Kinton least one of them. A hat or side the confines of our houses. flower pot or shelf in the corner may This world is the domain of a great also have been put into service as a nestmany wild things, and these creatures ing place. These little birds seem to have can be significantly impacted by our a special affinity for such hideouts. daily routines as spring’s warmth coaxes The logical solution, if indeed the us outdoors. nest has been built and the eggs or For the most part here in the Southyoung are there, is to simply leave them east, spring is that time when the young alone. The little guys will hatch and vaare born or hatched. The woods and
cate, and a careful watch will reveal when this happens. If you then wish to avoid the situation again, remove the object of attraction and all is well. And, the young have suffered no ill effect from it all. Monitor the family dogs and cats. Seems they simply can’t ignore a baby wren new from the nest and most vulnerable. The little ones will quickly become rather efficient at avoiding danger, but they must be given a chance. Those more ambitious chores such as mowing or disking fields can lead to additional encounters. Rabbit nests will be perhaps the most com- A mower cut too close to this turkey nest, opening the area to predators. Something demon, and these are par- stroyed the nest. Photo by Tony Kinton. ticularly difficult to fawns will be present. Whitetails are locate and avoid. One tactic that can be ubiquitous; they live in our backyards. at least marginally beneficial is to walk And young fawns are particularly vulnerthe property before beginning the work. able to mowing equipment, especially If you are fortunate enough to actually implements that mow outward some disfind a nest, mark the area with flagging tance from the tractor powering them. and stay away from it. And like those The baby deer will simply lie there conboots on the porch, the nest will be vacealed—as nature has instructed them to cated soon as the young grow and exdo—and allow the tractor to pass. It is pand their territory. The residue left at the mower blade, protruding several feet the initial mowing/disking can then be to one side that is the culprit. Be careful. incorporated into the manicure. The same goes for turkey nests. How- Walk a field thoroughly and look closely. And with all wildlife, think twice beever, these are often quite easy to find. The hen the nest belongs to will likely be fore launching a rescue mission. More times than not, no rescue is needed and a most visible character in the drama, in fact could be the worst thing to do. and if a hen turkey is present around a What is needed, however, is care not to field at this time of year, chances are destroy the natural surroundings. The quite good that she has or is preparing a nest nearby. Even in grass and weeds that wild things will generally do just fine. are tall, a turkey nest can generally be lo- Enjoy them from a distance and give them their space and survival necessities. cated with judicious reconnaissance. If one is found, give it a wide berth and cause it no disruption. Mowing too close, even though the nest may not be Tony Kinton has been an active outdoors destroyed, will open the hiding place up writer for 30 years. His books, “Outside and to predators. There is a reason that hen Other Reflections” and “Fishing Mississippi,” are chose that spot in the high grass! available through local bookstores or from the auAnd while it probably won’t be an thor at P.O. Box 88, Carthage, MS 39051. Price issue for another month or more now, is $25 each.
10 ■ Today in Mississippi ■ April 2011
NEWS FROM YOUR
ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION OPERATING HEAVY MACHINERY?
Don’t do it near power lines If your springtime weekends are full of chores that involve ladders, irrigation pipes and other unwieldy machinery, keep them as far away from power lines as possible. First rule: Look up. Before carrying anything tall around your yard—like a ladder—know where the overhead power lines are located. Also: • Most local laws require you to leave a clearance of at least 10 feet from power lines (depending on the voltage) when you’re operating machinery. Best practice: Give your equipment twice the required clearance to minimize electrical risk. • The manufacturer of your equipment might recommend even greater clearances. Follow those guidelines. • Face away from power lines while you work. • If a chore requires you to work near a power line, enlist the help of a friend or family member to watch you work and alert you if you’re inching too close to the line.
• If your helper is going to take over the job for a while, stop and re-evaluate the safe clearances. Talk about safety plans so anyone who is operating equipment on your property is aware of necessary clearances. • Use highly visible ground markers to alert your helpers that they’re near overhead power lines. Use maps or diagrams to show the location of power lines when planning or performing work. • Machinery such as irrigation pipes, grain augers, silos, cranes and excavators can easily contact a power line if you change the position or elevation. Always lower machinery before relocating it. • Designate areas for high-risk operations, such as elevating machinery. Evaluate machinery height before work begins, when the tools are well clear of power lines. • Clean up power tools before putting them away, and check tools for rust and cords for fraying before each use. Never store tools outdoors. • Carry pipes horizontally—and get a
partner to help you. If you try it on your own, you’ll wind up carrying the pipes vertically, which makes them more likely to swipe a power line. • Never touch a downed power line; always assume it is live. If your vehicle
or the machinery in your truck bed comes into contact with a power line, do not exit the vehicle. Call your electric power association, to disconnect the line so you can safely leave your vehicle.
Stay safe during spring storms In the United States, lightning kills an average of 66 people per year and injures another 300, according to the National Weather Service. In an effort to decrease these numbers, Safe Electricity offers the following tips to stay safe during storms: • If you’re close enough to the storm to hear thunder, you’re most
likely close enough to be struck by lightning. Seek shelter immediately. • Do not seek shelter under trees, picnic or rain shelters, or in openframe vehicles. • Don’t plug in or unplug anything electrical during the storm. • Don’t use corded telephones – phone use is the No. 1 cause of in-
door lightning injuries in the United States. • Avoid contact with water, pipes, washers, or dryers. • If you can’t find shelter in a building or in a closed-frame vehicle, keep your feet together and sit on the ground away from water, high ground or open spaces.
• If a person is struck by lightning, call 911 and care for the victim immediately. You can not be harmed by touching the victim after he or she has been struck. Visit www.SafeElectricity.org for more information on electrical safety. © Safe Electricity, All Rights Reserved
April 2011 ■ Today in Mississippi ■ 11
How-to make your refrigerator more efficient You have heard the prank call “Is your refrigerator running?” Well, the joke is on you if you haven’t cleaned the coils of your refrigerator. By doing this, you are keeping it running efficiently. Energy efficiency is about stopping leaks and replacing old, inefficient appliances with new, energy efficient ones, but conserving energy is also about cleaning and maintaining those appliances in your home. The refrigerator needs a simple cleaning twice a year, which can save $5-$10 a month and cut down on appliance repair costs. Condenser coils are located on the back of the fridge or across the bottom. These coils cool and condense the refrigerant. The coils cannot efficiently release heat if they are clogged with dirt and dust. When the coils are clogged, your compressor must work harder and longer than it should, which uses more energy and shortens the life of your refrigerator.
Materials you will need for this project:
Step 1: Unsnap the grille at the bottom of the refrigerator to access the coils. If your coils are located on the back, you will have to roll the fridge out to get to them. Step 2: Clean the coils with a special coil cleaning brush to loosen the dirt and dust. Vacuum the coils as you brush. Be careful not to bend the fan blades.
Vacuum
Coil cleaning brush *Safety note: Always wear safety goggles when using tools.
This spring, think summer Warm temperatures this spring make it a great time to think about how warm it could get this summer. A rise in temperature can also mean a rise in energy bills as well. Give your air conditioner a fighting chance at keeping your home cool in the months ahead, without using more electricity than necessary.
Here are some tips to keep energy bills low this summer: • Trade your traditional incandescent light bulbs for compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs). The new generation of CFLs uses far less energy. • Call a service technician to give your airconditioning system—and any window units—a thorough once-over before the weather gets hot. • Change air conditioner filters monthly from now until October. Try these hot ideas to cool off your summer months!
Ceiling fans can cool off energy costs Ceiling fans can be a great way to increase the energy savings in your home while providing a comfortable living environment. A decorative alternative to typical light fixtures, ceiling fans can cut summer energy use. Ceiling fans do not lower the temperature in a room. The cooling effect occurs when air from the ceiling fan blows across a person’s skin.
Shade yourself from heat, high energy costs Avoid this summer’s heat and the potential for high energy costs by adding sunscreens. They can block up to 70 percent of the sun’s heat and glare, keep your home cooler and lower your cooling costs by up to 30 percent.
12
■
Today in Mississippi ■ April 2011
Mississippi
Cooks FEATURED COOKBOOK:
Bread Broken & Shared Seafood, sauces, restaurant favorites, salad dressings, rich desserts, candies, Cajun cuisine, Southwestern-inspired dishes and brunch ideas—this is but a sampling of the recipes filling more than 350 pages in “Bread Broken & Shared.” Indeed, the strength of this cookbook is the incredible variety of its recipe collection. All occasions are covered, from sandwiches and snacks to holiday feasts. The recipes come from members of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, in Moss Point. The church was dedicated in 1887. Inside the bell tower, pictured on the cookbook cover, a marble statue of St. Joseph holds a pine limb staff to depict the significance of forests in the history of the parish. “Bread Broken and Shared” is available by mail for $20 plus $3 S&H per copy. Send your name and address to St. Joseph
1 tsp. vanilla extract 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts 2 (1.4-oz) Heath candy bars, chopped
In a small bowl, cream butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the pudding mix, water and vanilla. Gradually add flour. Stir in nuts and chopped candy bars. Roll into 1-inch bars. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 325 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes, or until lightly browned. Cool for 3 minutes before removing to wire racks. Yield: 5 dozen
Salmon Salad 3 cups medium shell macaroni 4 radishes, sliced 1/2 bell pepper, coarsely chopped 2 green onions, thinly sliced 1/4 cup shredded carrots 3 Tbsp. white wine vinegar 1/3 cup olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 tsp. dried basil 1/4 tsp. dry mustard 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 2 (6.5-oz.) cans pink salmon, drained, bones removed
Okra Corn Bread 3/4 cup hush puppy mix 1 egg, beaten 3 Tbsp. oil 1 (8-oz.) can cream-style corn
1/2 tsp. Cajun seasoning 1/2 cup milk 2 cups thinly sliced okra
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients except okra; mix well. Stir in okra and pour into a greased 8-by-8-inch baking dish. Bake for 45 minutes. Cut into squares.
Pasta Fagioli Soup the Worker Catholic Church, Ladies Auxiliary, P.O. Box 8549, Moss Point, MS 39562.
1 tsp. salt 1 1/2 cups flaked coconut 2 cups shredded carrots 1 (8-oz.) can crushed pineapple, undrained 1/2 cup chopped nuts
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Beat oil, eggs and sugar. Add flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt; beat until smooth. Add coconut, carrots, pineapple and nuts. Pour into 3 (9-inch) cake pans that have been oiled and floured. Bake 30 minutes. Cool and frost with Coconut Frosting. Coconut Frosting: 1 cup flaked coconut, divided 1/4 cup margarine, softened 1 (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1 cup butter, softened 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar 1 (3.4-oz.) pkg. instant lemon pudding mix 2 tsp. water
Prepare macaroni according to package directions; drain and cool. Place in a large bowl; add radishes, bell pepper, onions and carrots. In small bowl, combine vinegar, oil, garlic, basil and mustard. Pour over pasta and vegetables. Toss well. Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours or overnight. Just before serving, add tomatoes and salmon. Toss gently. Makes about 6 (1-cup) servings.
Coconut Carrot Cake 1 cup vegetable oil 3 eggs 2 cups sugar 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 1/2 tsp. baking soda 2 tsp. cinnamon
Butter Ball Chiffons
1 lb. powdered sugar 1 Tbsp. milk 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
Toast coconut; cool. Cream margarine and cream cheese. Add powdered sugar alternately with milk and vanilla; beat smooth. Add half the toasted coconut. Frost cake. Top with remaining coconut.
1 lb. ground beef 1 cup diced onion 1 cup julienned carrots 1 cup chopped celery 2 cloves garlic, pressed 2 (14.5-oz.) cans diced tomatoes 1 (15-oz.) can tomato sauce 1 Tbsp. white vinegar 1 (15-oz.) can red kidney beans, with liquid
1 (15-oz.) can great northern beans, with liquid 1 (12-oz.) can V-8 juice 1/2 tsp. pepper 1/2 tsp. salt 1 tsp. dried basil 1 tsp. dried oregano 1/2 tsp. dried thyme 1/2 lb. (12-oz. pkg.) ditalini pasta, or small pasta shells
Brown meat; drain off most fat. Add onion, carrot, celery and garlic; saute 10 minutes. Add remaining ingredients except pasta; simmer 1 hour. Cook pasta al dente. Drain and add to pot; simmer 5 to 10 minutes.
Frogmore Stew 2 Tbsp. Old Bay seasoning 2 lbs. small red potatoes 1 lb. kielbasa, or other smoked link sausage, cut into 1 1/2-inch slices
3 ears corn, halved 2 lbs. unpeeled large shrimp Cocktail sauce
Fill a large pot halfway with water and add Old Bay seasoning. Bring to a boil. Add potatoes; return to a boil and cook 10 minutes. Add sausage and corn; return to a boil and cook 10 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. Add shrimp and cook 3 to 5 minutes, or until shrimp turn pink. Remove all with a slotted spoon onto a serving platter or newspaper-lined table. Serve with additional Old Bay seasoning to sprinkle over all and cocktail sauce. Makes 6 servings.
April 2011 ■ Today in Mississippi
■
African daisies give outstanding flowers ome of the prettiest flowers you can grow in the garden or in containers are African daisies, and these beauties are arriving at garden
Two Serenity selections that have spoon-shaped petals are White Bliss and Lavender Bliss. Their unique shape shows the color contrast between the upper and lower surfaces of the petals. One of the most striking African daisy selections is the centers. Zion copper amethyst, which Known botanically as Oshas good branching characteospermum, African daisies are teristics and flowers early in outstanding flowering plants. the season. With its petals of These plants are from South pastel lavender with copperAfrica and are relatively new to orange tips and a bright purmany home gardeners. African ple-blue speckled center with Southern yellow stamens, this flower daisies have the familiar center Gardening turns heads. disk of the daisy family, but theirs are dark metallic. The For the very best flowering, by Dr. Gary Bachman brightly colored petals come in always plant in full sun. In various shades of white, pink, yellow, coastal counties, African daisies tolerate blue and purple. growing in partial shade because of the African daisies in the popular Serenity warmer climate. series grow 10 to 14 inches tall and For landscape bed plantings, set out reach up to 20 inches wide in the landon 1-foot centers. This allows enough scape. Serenity colors include improved room for the plants to reach mature pink, dark purple, lemonade, honey gold spreads, some greater than 14 inches, and lavender. without crowding. African daisies also
S
13
The African daisy Serenity White Bliss has unique spoon-shaped petals that show the color contrast between the upper and lower surfaces of the petals. Photo: Gary Bachman
grow and flower well when placed in containers. Water consistently to keep the soil from drying out too much, especially right after transplanting. It is crucial to maintain moist soil and potting media to have continual flowering. African daisies need supplemental nutrition for ideal flowering and growth in the landscape. Use a water-soluble fertilizer weekly to promote continual flowering. Those grown in containers require a good slow-release, granular fertilizer in addition to the weekly water-soluble fertilizer applications. Remove fading flowers to keep your African daisies blooming. As the sum-
mer heats up, the increased temperatures will cause the flowers’ size to decrease. When this happens, shear the plant back by one third and apply a heavy dose of water-soluble fertilizer. The plant will produce new growth and be ready to bloom again once temperatures start decreasing in the fall. Although typically grown as an annual, African daisies can overwinter outdoors on the Coast. In cooler zones, place these plants indoors in a sunny window. Dr. Gary Bachman is an assistant Extension professor of horticulture at the Coastal Research and Extension Center in Biloxi.
Co-op scholarships available The Mississippi Council of Cooperatives is sponsoring two $1,000 senior college scholarships and four $500 community/junior college scholarships. Children of employees and/or patrons of cooperative organizations, including electric power associations, are eligible. The L.L. Monroe – Mississippi Council of Cooperatives Scholarship is available to graduating high school seniors and community college transfers who plan to attend a state university. The scholarship committee will select recipients based on financial need, scholastic achievement and extracurricular activity. Special emphasis will be placed on financial need. Deadline for application is April 15. To apply, complete the scholarship application at the Mississippi Council of Cooperatives Website, www.mscouncil.coop. You may apply online or download the form and mail it to Gary Blair, Scholarship Committee Chairman, Mississippi Council of Cooperatives, P.O. Box 744, Brookhaven, MS 39602-0744. The recipients will be advised of their selection by May 1. A check will be mailed to the institution selected by each recipient to apply toward tuition for the fall 2011/spring 2012 semesters.
Complete the scholarship application at the Mississippi Council of Cooperatives Website, www.mscouncil.coop
14 ■ Today in Mississippi
■
April 2011
Picture This...
Wild Life
• Below: Twin whitetail fawns stick close to Mom. By Valerie Mabry, Gulfport
Today in Mississippi readers’photos reveal daily life in the wilds (and backyards) of Mississippi.
Our next“Picture This”theme is Mississippi Growing. Focus on the beauty of flowers, vegetables or other plants in Mississippi gardens, farm fields, woods or waters. Deadline for submissions is June 13. Selected photos will appear in our July issue. For submission details, visit www.todayinmississippi.com or call (601) 605-8600.
• Above: Wren nestlings, at home inside an old hornet nest, await their next meal. By Evelyn Carter, Columbus • Above right: Southern flying squirrels peer out at the world from their knothole. By Steve Hill, Natchez; Southwest Mississippi Electric Power Association • Right: A stealthy gator barely ripples the water. By Alex Fender, D’Iberville; Coast Electric Power Association
• Above: A great blue heron fishes among the lotus in the Pearl River. By Lynn Chamblee, Starkville; 4-County Electric Power Association
April 2011 ■ Today in Mississippi • Left: A barred owl blends with bare branches near Morgan Break National Wildlife Refuge. By Frank Lay, Winona; Delta Electric Power Association
■
15
• Below: An otter, fresh from a swim, ventures onshore. By Larry Pace, Cleveland; Coahoma Electric Power Association
• Above left: An elegant great white heron rests on one leg. By Lou Ann Fowler, Purvis; Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association • Above: A great blue heron grabs lunch. By Becky Hollis, Brandon; Central Electric Power Association
Cover photos: • Squirrel, by Melissa Campbell, Pontotoc; Pontotoc EPA • Osprey, by Charles Lee, Pascagoula; Singing River EPA • Fawn, by Jerome Wicker, Quitman; East Mississippi EPA
• Left: A great egret admires its reflection. By Christina Lusk, Starkville; 4-County Electric Power Association • Above: Water rolls off a mallard duck bathing in Bonita Lake. By Joe Chance, Lauderdale; East Mississippi Electric Power Association • Right: A red fox poses for a portrait. By Gil DeHuff, Columbus; 4-County Electric Power Association
• Cardinal, by Amanda Ellis, Carthage; Central EPA • Wild turkey, by John McDonald, Hancock County
16
■
Today in Mississippi ■ April 2011
Mississippi Marketplace Type or print your ad clearly. Be sure to include your telephone number. Cost is $2.50 per word, $25 minimum. Deadline is the 10th of each month for the next month’s issue. Mail payment with your ad to Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300. Have any questions? Phone (601) 605-8600.
FOR SALE LAND FOR SALE • 47 ACRES • HINDS COUNTY 4 miles south of Bolton, MS. On Houston Road off Raymond-Bolton Road. Two ponds, timber and open with pines planted last spring. Good deer hunting near Jackson, Clinton and Vicksburg area. $3200 per acre. Call 601-941-3726. USED PORTABLE SAWMILLS! Buy/Sell. Call Sawmill Exchange 800-459-2148, 205-969-0007, USA & Canada, www.sawmillexchange.com. LOW MILEAGE ENGINES. BIG SAVINGS! Price includes delivery & 1 year part warranty. Mileage verified. Call Today! 901-266-9996. LowMileageEngines.com. TRACTOR CLUTCHES ALL MAKES. Mike’s Clutch Shop LLC. Old Precision Brake and Clutch building in Jackson call 769-233-7189. “COOK” STORAGE BUILDINGS, BEST BUY, Lifetime Warranty, Rent to own, No Credit Check, Lowest Price Guarantee, South’s Largest Supplier of Carports, Farm and Metal Buildings. Free Delivery, Free Installation. Century Sales, LLC, 111 Beaver Creek Rd, Lucedale, MS 601-947-0105.
FISH / POULTRY AMERICA’S OLDEST & LARGEST RARE BREED HATCHERY. FREE COLOR CATALOG EST. 1917. Over 140 varieties of Baby Chicks, Bantams, Juvenile Birds, Turkeys, Guineas, Peafowl, Game Birds, Waterfowl. Also Hatching Eggs, Incubators, Equipment, Books & Medicines. 1-800-456-3280 (24 Hours A Day) Murray McMurray Hatchery, C145, Webster City, Iowa 50595-0458. WEBSITE: http://www.mcmurrayhatchery.com.
VACATION RENTALS PEACEFUL SIDE OF THE SMOKIES, TOWNSEND, TN 2 bedroom, 2 bath log home, Jacuzzi, Fireplace,
wrap around porch, Charcoal grill, Picnic table. 228832-7661 or 866-448-6203. WWW.GULFSHORES4RENT.COM, West Beach, 3 great condos, each sleeps 6. Call 404-219-3189 or 404-702-9824. CABINS IN THE SMOKIES, PIGEON FORGE, Convenient and peaceful setting, Call: 251-649-3344 or 251-649-4049. www.hideawayprop.com. APPALACHIAN TRAIL - Cabin by trail in Georgia mountians. 3000’above sea level. Snowy winters, cool summers, inexpensive rates. Call 800-284-6866. www.bloodmountain.com. SMOKY MOUNTAIN CABINS IN PIGEON FORGE. $85 Nightly 1-800-382-4393 www.pantherknob.com. BEACHSIDE 1920’S BED AND BREAKFAST INN, Quaint, Romantic, Complimentary Wine and Cheese in Purple Parrot Bar, Sumptuous Southern Breakfast, swimming pool, The Original Romar House, Orange Beach, Alabama, 1-800-487-6627, www.bbonline.com/al/romarhouse/, Email: originalromar@gulftel.com. GULF SHORES BEACH HOUSE, Nice 2/Br., Gulf View, Directv. Spring $800/week. Summer $995/week. 251-666-5476. SPRING TIME IN THE SMOKIES, near Pigeon Forge in Wears Valley, 3/2, all Amenties. Brochure Available 251-649-9818.
MISCELLANEOUS BECOME AN ORDAINED MINISTER, by Correspondence study. The harvest truly is great, the laborours are few, Luke 10:2. Free info. MCO, 7549 West Cactus #104-207, Peoria, AZ 85351. http://www.ordination.org.
Medicare Supplement Insurance
PLAY GOSPEL SONGS BY EAR! $12.95.“Learn Gospel Music”- chording, runs, fills - $12.95, Both $24. Davidsons, 6727MS Metcalf, Shawnee Mission, Kansas 66204. Call: 913-262-4982.
New Lower Rates for Plan F
START OUR OWN BUSINESS! Mia Bella Gourmet Scented Products. Try the best! Candles/Gifts/Beauty. Wonderful Income Potential. Enter Free Candle Drawing. Visit www.naturesbest.scent-team.com. AVON! We are looking for business minded, computer literate, responsible persons who are serious about building a career or part time reps who want to earn money. Call Kate 1-800-388-0277 or email: katemay17@yahoo.com.
C
DON’T LET YOUR FAMILY MEMORIES FADE AWAY! We can transfer your VHS, VHS-C, Betamax, Minidv, 8mm Reels,16mm Reels,...to DVD. We also convert and transfer your old Audio to CD. To include cassettes, records, audio reel to reels, micro cassettes... Parrot Video Productions LLC. Call: (601) 914-6966 or (888) 560-4058 or visit us www.parrotvideoproductions.com. WORK CLOTHES - Good clean rental type 6 pants and 6 shirts $44.95. Lined work jackets $10.95. Denim jeans $6.00. Call: 800-233-1853. www.usedworkclothing.com FREE BOOKS/DVDS, Soon the“Mark of the Beast” will be enforced as Church and State unite! Let the Bible reveal. The Bible Says, P.O. Box 99, Lenoir City, TN 37771. 1-888-211-1715. thebiblesaystruth@yahoo.com. PUT YOUR OLD HOME MOVIES, SLIDES OR PHOTOS ON DVD. 888-609-9778 or www.transferguy.com.
Male (Non Tobacco)
Female (Non Tobacco)
Age 65 70 75 80 85 90
Age 65 70 75 80 85 90
Mo.Prem. $100.00 $113.00 $136.00 $165.00 $187.00 $198.00
2636 OLD BRANDON RD. • PEARL, MS 39208
64 GUN SAFE
FATBOY $ 1,899.00 Ask about spring sale coupon Available until 4/30/11
Mo.Prem. $ 93.00 $104.00 $126.00 $153.00 $163.00 $173.00
Rates vary slightly by zip code. Not affiliated with any government agency
HAMILTON INSURANCE AGENCY Call
800-336-9861
6 River Bend Place, Flowood, MS 39232 “FREE BABY CHICKS” Get Big Reds, Buff White Rocks, & huge Silver Laced Black Giants. Super healthy, easy-to-raise chicks for only $29.95 per hundred plus 10 FREE. 50 for $18.95 plus postage. To order call toll free now!
1-866-365-0367.
Visa, MasterCard, or C.O.D.
RED TOP CHICK FARMS
RED TOP CHICK FARMS Box 100, Marietta, PA 17547
Box 100, Marietta, PA 17547
Cebu Construction COMPANY, LLC
601-504-9898
• Metal Buildings • Erection • Concrete work • Horse Barns/Arenas Licensed General Contractor
SIGNIFICANT INCOME POTENTIAL, full/part time. Memphis company adding team members to promote ship-to-door food business. Must have computer. Call 601-856-9158.
Buy Mississippi Products From Mississippians
EARN $60,000/YR PART TIME in the livestock or equipment appraisal business. Agricultural background required. Classroom or home study courses available. 800-488-7570. www.amagappraisers.com.
We can fix any problem, statewide, either slab or conventional. No job too big or too small. What ever your foundation needs.
www.cebullc.com
Foundation Problem? For FREE estimate, call. BOWLIN FOUNDATION CO., INC. 1-800-898-0567, Jackson area 936-7775
53 Since 19
Generators ensure electricity during power failures but can create tragic consequences if not wired properly through a transfer switch. If you are using a generator during a power outage, a double-throw switch is required between your generator and the electrical system to prevent current from feeding back into the power line. Current feeding back into the line can result in serious — even fatal — injuries to crewmen who are already working tireless hours to restore power.
DISCOUNT GUN SAFE
601-939-8233
DIVORCE MADE EASY, In Pro Se Uncontested, in prison, alien, lost - $149.95, Call 10am-10pm. 28 years experience. 417-443-6511.
Please install generators safely. Don’t put a utility worker’s life on the line.
April 2011
Tired of Losing Money?
■
Today in Mississippi
■
17
Work Hard, Invest Right, and the Sky’s the Limit.
GROW your SAVINGS with Fixed Indexed Annuities (IRA, TSA, NQ, 401K and Pension Rollovers) (Free no-obligation statewide in-home consultation!)
Safe, Secure, Retirement Solutions
INCREDIBLE RATES OF RETURN Richie Culotta
601-657-4271
Culotta Insurance & Investments
Serving Mississippi & Louisiana STATEWIDE Since 1992
www.culottainsuranceandinvestments.com
FARM BARNS
Hattiesburg, MS • 1-601-296-0550 Our Prices Include Labor & Metal Sides
30x50x10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$6,440 40x60x12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$9,399 50x75x14 . . . . . . . . . . . . .$13,693 80x120x16 (M1) . . . . . . . .$33,000
Also Available in Wood Sides
Minis 30x100 with 20 10ʼx15ʼ units - $11,000
30 x 50 x 10 = $7995.00
Log Sides
Mobile Home Owners: ROOF KING
Mobile Home Super Insulated Roof Over Systems. 40 Year Warranty. Factory Direct from
ROOF KING 1-800-276-0176 www.roofking.net
“DON’T RETIRE OLD & BROKE” “FREEDOMFLEX” OFFERS: $$ GUARANTEED RETURN $$ $$ COMPOUND INTEREST DAILY $$
LOG HOMES
Wilderness Cabins - Save 15-20% 640-960 sq.ft. Financing Available
C & S Construction 601-500-1875
www.loghouseguys.com
GET STARTED TODAY! $25WK/$106MO
CALL NOW
601-940-6384
18
■
Today in Mississippi ■ April 2011
Mississippi
Events
We gladly list events of statewide interest, as space allows. Submissions should reach us at least two months prior to the event date and must include a phone number with area code. Mail submissions to Mississippi Events, Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 391583300; fax to (601) 605-8601; or e-mail to news@epaofms.com. All events are subject to change. We recommend calling to confirm dates and times before traveling. For more events and statewide tourism information, go to www.visitmississippi.org.
Studio Art Quilt Associates: “12 Voices,” through June 23, Laurel. Twenty-six works by 12 of today’s finest quilt artists. Free. Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. Details: (601) 6496374; www.lrma.org. “Celebrate the Gulf” Marine Education Festival, April 2, Pass Christian. More than 20 exhibitors, youth activities, touch tank of marine animals and more. Free. War Memorial Park. Details: (228) 475-7047. Two Rivers Bluegrass Festival, April 5-9, Leakesville. Live music, special events, camping. Admission. Greene County Rural Events Center. Details: (601) 408-5965. 73rd Annual Holly Springs Pilgrimage: A Festival of Art and Architecture, April 8-10, Holly Springs. Five antebellum mansions with costumed guides; Pilcher organ recitals, carriage rides and more. Admission. Details: (662) 252-2365; (888) 687-4765. Museum Day Heritage Open House, April 9, Hernando. Reenactors, speakers, live bluegrass, cakewalks, exhibits and more; 10 a.m. 2 p.m. Free. DeSoto County Museum. Details: (662) 429-8852; info@desotomuseum.org. Women’s Spring Conference, April 9, West Point. With Rita Sweatt and Kerri Ayres. Hosted by First Baptist Church; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Admission. The Civic W/P. Details: (662) 494-7749.
Visit the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi at www.epaofms.com
City Wide Rummage Sale, April 9, Laurel. Rent space to sell new and used items. Preregistration. Fairgrounds. Details: (601) 3196086; www.myrummagesales.com. Book Signing and Photo Exhibit Opening, April 15, Clarksdale. Author Roger Stolle, photographer Lou Bopp and forward author Jeff Konkel to sign “Hidden History of Mississippi Blues” and open Bopp’s exhibit of photos from the book; 3-5 p.m. Cat Head Delta Blues & Folk Art. Details: (662) 624-5992; roger@cathead.biz. Dixieland Old Time Engine and Agriculture Club Spring Show, April 15-16, Laurel. Fairgrounds. Details: (601) 261-0929. Mississippi Opry, April 16, Pearl. Polkville City Limits; 6 p.m. Admission. Pearl Community Room. Details: (601) 331-6672. Magnolia Arts Market, April 16, Magnolia. Local and Louisiana artists with fine art, crafts, baked goods and more; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Downtown. Details: (601) 783-5072; lorifelix@att.net. Double 16 Spring Trail Ride, April 16, Poplarville. Entertainment, supper. Admission. Gumpond area. Details: (601) 550-5905. Mudbug Bash, April 16, Hernando. Crawfish dinner, auctions, restaurant samples; 6-11 p.m. Benefits Palmer Home for Children. Admission. Panola Street. Details: (901) 870-1450. Spring Gardening Extravaganza, April 16, Brookhaven. Vendors, gardening seminars, kids’ activities. Railroad Park. Details: (601) 823-4064; breauxdjbq@sleekcom.com. 31st Annual Alcorn State University Jazz Festival, April 16, Vicksburg. University, college and high school jazz ensembles from around the country and internationally acclaimed jazz artists to perform. Free. Vicksburg Convention Center. Details: (601) 877-6602,
Your electric power association values your opinions and welcomes questions. We need to know how you feel about these issues. We’ve made it convenient for you to contact us with “Let’s Talk,” a part of the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi’s Website. “Let’s Talk” is a quick, simple-to-use communications link, and we encourage you to give it a try. Just go to www.epaofms.com and click on “Let’s Talk.” Then let us know what’s on your mind. We will respond to your questions through articles in future issues of Today in Mississippi and on our Website.
(866) 822-6338; www.alcorn.edu/jazzfest. Pinefest, April 16, Laurel. Working homestead with more than 60 buildings and displays. Confederate encampment, gem mining, Southern Strings Dulcimers, butter churning, clogging, food and much more. Admission. Landrum’s Homestead and Village. Details: (601) 6492546; www.landrums.com. Philadelphia Gun Show, April 16-17, Philadelphia. Buy, sell, trade, appraise. Admission. Neshoba County Coliseum. Details: (601) 498-4235. Fourth Annual Rotary 5K Run/Walk, April 23, Hattiesburg. Long Leaf Trace, USM Gateway; 8 a.m. Details: (601) 268-5035; nadine.archuleta@wesley.com. Farmers Market Festival, April 28, Biloxi. Vendors, entertainment, gardening booths, cooking instructions, plants and more; 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Corner of Howard and Hopkins. Details: (228) 435-6296. Green Thumbs in the Park, April 29, Forest. Gardening talks, plant sales, birdhouses and more; 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Free. Town square park. Details: (601) 469-4241. Wesson Founders Day Celebration, April 2930, Wesson. Arts and crafts, antiques, gospel singing, games, car show, parade, music, street dance. Details: (601) 643-5000. Sherman School Reunion, April 30, Sherman. Open to all former Sherman students, teachers and friends; 10:30 a.m. Plate lunches. Cravin’ Catfish Restaurant. Details: (270) 483-9552, (931) 320-2441. Folk and Music Festival, April 30, Big Creek, Calhoun County. The Cobb Family, performers from Mt. View, Ark., and local talent. Craft vendors and traditional craft demonstrations. Details: (662) 628-0727. City Wide Rummage Sale, April 30, Brookhaven. Rent a booth to sell new and used items. Pre-registration. Lincoln Civic Center. Details: (601) 319-6086; www.myrummagesales.com. Chickasaw Elementary Spring Festival, April 30, Olive Branch. Carnival games, food, crafts, exhibitions, entertainment, silent auction and more; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free. Chickasaw Elementary. Details: (901) 491-8159. Dog Fest ‘11, April 30, Meridian. East Central Miss. Kennel Club event. Contests, weightpulling competition, demonstrations, vendors, concessions. Lauderdale Agri-Center. Details: (601) 938-6409; www.ecmkc.org. Hernando Farmers Market, April 30 - Oct. 29, Hernando. Local agricultural products, baked goods, soaps, crafts and more; Saturdays, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Hernando Courthouse Square. Details: ksomayer@gmail.com. Martin Lawrence, May 5, Southaven. Comedian, actor and star of TV series “Martin”; 8 p.m. DeSoto Civic Center Theatre. Details: (662)
470-2131; www.ticketmaster.com. The Tallahatchie Hayride, May 7, Greenville. Country music stage show and street festival; noon - 6 p.m. Free. E.E. Bass Cultural Arts Center. Details: (662) 332-2256. Day in the Park, May 7, Morton. Arts and crafts, 5K run, antique tractors, entertainment, domino tournament, political speaking, drawing and more. Crossin Dixon in concert, 8 p.m. Farris Municipal Park. Details: (601) 732-8609. George County Firefighters Association Barbecue Challenge, May 7, Lucedale. Barbecue, arts and crafts, entertainment, kids’ games, car and bike show. Lucedale City Park. Details: (601) 508-8131; (601) 508-5388. 12th Annual Kite Fest, May 7, Long Beach. Kite demonstrations, free kite-making workshops, kids’ activities and kite surfing demonstrations. Admission. Long Beach Harbor. Details: (228) 604-0014; emily@mscoastchamber.com. 22nd Annual Okatoma Festival, May 7, Collins. Arts and crafts, entertainment, 5K run, parade, children’s fair, quilt exhibit, antique car show and more. Downtown. Details: (601) 765-6012; www.covingtonchamber.com. Crossroads Blues and Heritage Festival, May 7, Rosedale. Featuring Eden Brent, Guitar Mikey and The Real Thing, Big T and others; 1 p.m. Admission. River Resort. Details: (662) 402-6251; www.rosedaleblues.com. May Fest, May 7, Enterprise. Arts and crafts, entertainment, food, children’s games, activities. Ritchey Park. Details: (601) 604-3002. Big M Motorfest Car and Bike Show, May 7, Hernando. Music, vendors, food, cars and bikes. Downtown. Details: (662) 890-7433; www.cruzinsouth.com. Mississippi Coast Jazz Society Dance, May 8, Biloxi. Admission; 2-5 p.m. Hard Rock Casino. Details: (228) 392-4177. Greene County Museum Open House, May 10, Leakesville. Join museum volunteers for refreshments and history. Greene County Museum. Details: (601) 989-2421, (601) 394-4343. Mississippi Gulf Coast Honor Flight Meeting, May 11, Pascagoula. Merchants and Marine Bank; 7 p.m. Details: (228) 217-9296; mgchonorflight@gmail.com. The Battle of Brandon BBQ Challenge, May 13-14, Brandon. State championship event sanctioned by Kansas City Barbeque Society. Shiloh City Park. Details: (601) 278-7108.
Event Cancellation The Canal Zone Reunion, usually held in the spring at Davis Bayou Campground, Ocean Springs, is cancelled for this year. For more information, call (601) 248-9173.
April 2011 Seal your home's envelope - walls, floors, ceiling and roof - to save up to 10% on your annual bill. Add weather stripping around windows and doors to reduce drafts. Use caulking to seal around ducts, plumbing and any other openings in walls, floors and ceilings to reduce air leakage. Begin in the attic, a common place for warm air to escape. Seal larger gaps that cannot be covered with caulk with expanding foam. a reminder from your electric power association
■
Today in Mississippi
■
19
Scan code to find out how to work with a CEP distributor READ CODE WITH SMARTPHONE QR CODE READER (SEARCH FOR A FREE APP CALLED “SCANLIFE”)
Are you working with a CEP™ FHUWLÀHG GLVWULEXWRU" SEE A COMPLETE LIST OF CERTIFIED PROFESSIONALS AT WWW.NAED-CEP.ORG Developed by NAED, the Certified Electrical Professional™ [CEP] is an industry certification for key electrical distribution sales positions. By working exclusively with CEP certified professionals, you’re guaranteed credibility and professionalism in the areas of product knowledge, customer service, sales skills, and other essential skills which elevate electrical distribution above the retail channel.
Ask see your local distributor of choice to get involved.
CD or IRA Maturing?
Learn about a safe investment that beats low bank rates & avoid probate
Ask us about 7.5% Income Growth
O’Mire Financial 1-800-844-3254 406 B Orchard Park Dr. Ridgeland, MS 39157