Today in Mississippi Coast July 2012

Coast Electric Power Association

Periodical postage (ISSN 1052 2433)

buff reinvents 4 Classic-car the little red wagon 16

Mississippi Cooks: Neshoba County’s ‘Giant Houseparty’ cookbook

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Picture This: Readers show off their best photos

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The road to progress...

. .. ca n b e d a n ge ro u s .

Our crews are here to help provide you power, as your needs grow. Protecting our crews from the dangers of the job is important to us. So when you see crews working along rights of way or building new lines, slow down and give them room to work. They’re working for you.

Help make the road a safer place for workers.

‘Move Over Law’ now protects utility crews The state of Mississippi has expanded the “Move Over Law” to protect utility workers and crews as they labor alongside highways and roads in the state. Under the revised law, if drivers don’t move over or slow down when they approach a utility crew, they risk being fined up to $250. If the violation involves damage to a utility’s vehicle, the fine could be up to $1,000. The more than 2,850 electric power association employees and their family members offer their sincere gratitude to state government leaders for providing them with this extra safety measure with passage of this legislation.

July 2012 I Today in Mississippi

Disaster drill bolsters our capacity for speedy recovery TV commercial from the 1970s depicts Mother Nature as a kindly woman wearing a long, white gown with daisies in her hair. But when she mistakes a particular brand of margarine for butter, she declares, “It’s not nice to fool Mother Nature,” and conjures an ear-splitting lightning strike.

When it comes to natural disasters, Mother Nature always has the last word. Extensive flooding in Florida caused by Tropical Storm Debby last month is her latest reminder.

But there is plenty we can do to minimize the suffering brought about by a natural disaster and to spur the recovery from its destruction.

Preparedness is the key. Electric power associations stand ready for emergency response at all times of the year.

Our preparedness activities include a natural disaster simulation, a drill we conduct each year in the fall. We start by creating a disaster scenario, such as a catastrophic tornado, hurricane, flood or ice storm—all likely occurrences in Mississippi. One time we chose an earthquake, a real possibility for our northwest counties.

One or more electric power associations are chosen to be the “victim” of the disaster, with all 26 electric power associations getting involved in the emergency response.

The afflicted electric power associations assess the damage to their electrical system. They determine what they need in terms of additional manpower and supplies to restore power fast, without sacrificing safety. Coordinating their efforts through the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi, in Ridgeland, electric power associations outside the disaster zone rally to help.

They coordinate efforts to transport emergency crew members, trucks, poles, transformers and conductor where (and if) needed in the disaster zone.

If several electric power associations suffer outages in the disaster, we coordinate with elec-

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On the cover

Our Homeplace

My Opinion Michael Callahan Executive Vice President/CEO EPAs of Mississippi

tric cooperatives in other states to obtain emergency restoration assistance. (In the spirit of mutual aid, we return the favor when a real disaster strikes their areas.)

The electric power associations suffering the imaginary emergency simulate the preparations necessary to feed and house what could be hundreds of assisting lineworkers arriving in their areas. (This in itself can be a huge logistical challenge, especially in our more rural service areas. During our Hurricane Katrina power restoration, more than 12,000 emergency work crew members from across Mississippi and 22 other states poured into our coastal service areas to rebuild power lines and restore power.)

As soon as all the emergency needs are met, our disaster drill ends and the evaluation process begins. We examine our response to the simulation with a critical eye. The goal is to identify ways to improve our emergency preparedness statewide.

This annual disaster drill is but one of the ways electric power associations keep emergency preparedness at the forefront of our operations.

Fast, safe power restoration is crucial for kickstarting Mississippi’s recovery from any natural disaster.

We take this responsibility seriously throughout the year—because you never know when Mother Nature might send a reminder of her powers of destruction.

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Today in Mississippi OFFICERS

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Jones County poultry farmer Ted Darrell Smith - President Kevin Doddridge - First Vice President Mangum has created what he Brad Robison - Second Vice President believes to be the world’s largest Wayne Henson - Secretary/Treasurer motorized Radio Flyer wagon.

EDITORIAL STAFF Michael Callahan - Executive Vice President/CEO Fabricated of steel mounted on Ron Stewart - Senior Vice President, Co-op Services an ambulance chassis, Mangum’s Mark Bridges - Manager, Support Services Jay Swindle - Manager, Advertising version of the iconic child’s Debbie H. Stringer - Editor wagon can carry 11 passengers. Abby Berry - Communications Specialist Rickey McMillan - Graphics Specialist See story on page 4.

Linda Hutcherson - Administrative Assistant

Vol. 65 No. 7

EDITORIAL OFFICE & ADVERTISING 601-605-8600 Acceptance of advertising by Today in Mississippi does not imply endorsement of the advertised product or services by the publisher or Mississippi’s Electric Power Associations. Product satisfaction and delivery responsibility lie solely with the advertiser.

• National advertising representative: National Country Market, 800-626-1181 Circulation of this issue: 450,536 Non-member subscription price: $9.50 per year

The Official Publication of the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi Today in Mississippi (ISSN 1052-2433) is published eleven times a year (Jan.Nov.) by Electric Power Associations of Mississippi, Inc., P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300, or 665 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, MS 39157.

Phone 601-605-8600. Periodical postage paid at Ridgeland, MS, and additional office. The publisher (and/or its agent) reserves the right to refuse or edit all advertising.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Today, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300

Visit us at: www.todayinmississippi.com

The Old Depot Museum opened last month in the 105-year-old Yazoo and Mississippi Valley Railroad depot building in downtown Vicksburg. Exhibits include the Gray & Blue Naval Society collection of models and model railroad layouts, as well as models of ships, riverboats and naval vessels. The museum also houses “The Fall of Dixie,” a diorama of the Siege of Vicksburg manned by 2,300 miniature soldiers. The museum is located at 1010 Levee St. For details, call 601-6386500 or go to www.theolddepot.net.

Mississippi is . . . . . . sitting on a front porch swing sipping iced tea, Just my grandma and me Watching a woodpecker in a cedar tree.

Grandpa and me sitting in a boat, Fishing, watching the cork float, Hearing stories about the Old Folk.

All dressed up, going to town, Sunday best, church bound.

After services, dinner on the ground.

— Lynda O’Quinn, Church Hill Roots. The five branches of my family tree spread from New Jersey to Oregon, but the tree is a Mississippi magnolia with deep roots. I was born here, and I can visit the silent neighborhoods and point out grandparents going back six generations, and more. I expect to join them some (hopefully distant) day, but until then I’ll proudly breathe Mississippi air!

— Jerry Wolf, Starkville This is where I come from, where my heart will always stay.

Country roads and winding streams, the smell of fresh cut hay.

Dogwoods and azaleas blooming underneath the pines.

Butterflies and daffodils and honeysuckle vines.

Singing hymns on Sunday, having dinner on the ground.

Swinging on the front porch, with my family all around.

This is where I come from, this is where I made my start.

Mississippi memories are forever in my heart.

— Karen Bryant, Ellisville

What’s Mississippi to you?

What makes you proud to be a Mississippian? What do you treasure most about life in our state? Send your thoughts to Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158, or email them to news@epaofms.com. Please keep your comments brief. Submissions are subject to editing.

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Today in Mississippi

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July 2012

Ted Mangum’s

‘Little’

red wagon

By Debbie Stringer Joy riding takes on a new meaning when Ted Mangum takes to the road in what may well be the world’s largest motorized Radio Flyer.

Mangum’s handbuilt version of the iconic child’s wagon measures some 18 feet long and is powered by a 460 engine.

The locals wave, Ted Mangum honk or give a thumbsup to their neighbor when Mangum cruises past, his cap turned backwards and a grin on his face.

As he merges onto Interstate 59, drivers slow to

get a better look. Passengers reach for their cameras. No one, it seems, can believe their eyes: A man is waving to them from a giant Radio Flyer wagon pushing 70 mph.

Onlookers hold up their cell phones for a photo as he fuels up at a convenience store in Ellisville. Mangum good naturedly answers their questions, including the inevitable “Where’d you come up with this idea?”

“It’s unreal how much fun this is,” he says as he heads back home.

Mangum, a member of Dixie Electric Power Association, has enjoyed working on hot rods and vintage vehicles for most of his life. He taught paint and body work for 17 years at Jones County Vocational School and is active in the Magnolia Cruisers and Pine Belt Antique Auto Club.

An impressive collection of trophies and plaques

attests to his skill. Many are Best in Show honors for his “sweetheart”: a 1931 Model A pickup he transformed from a “rust bucket” into a gleaming red beauty.

The success of his fabricated Radio Flyer, however, will be determined not by judges but by the reaction of the children who see it.

“The whole time I was building this, I was thinking about little children,” Mangum said.

He finished its construction only two months ago, but already it has made public appearances for charitable causes, including a March of Dimes benefit in Mobile. And when the mother of a seriously ill 2-year-old boy said her son would like a ride after seeing the wagon on a TV newscast, Mangum jumped at the opportunity. “I’d go around the world to ride that boy in this wagon,” he said.

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“You can just work your brain to death building something like this. I think sometimes I’ve got gears for brains anyway.”

Ted Mangum, far left, has restored hot rods and vintage vehicles for most of his life. Though the red wagon project presented unique challenges, solving them was an enjoyable part of building it, he said. The Jones County resident raises poultry for Wayne Farms and serves as senior adult leader at Salem Heights Baptist Church, near Laurel.

Mangum stops for a fill-up at a pump in Ellisville, top, during a recent cruise on Interstate 59. His wagon’s dismal fuel mileage may be offset by the grins per mile it evokes, above. Outdoor carpeting and vinyl upholstery, right, protect the interior from rain showers on the road. Mangum keeps a shower cap handy to cover the siren’s electronics on the dashboard.

Even Santa wants a ride. Mangum has agreed to chauffeur St. Nick in 2012 Christmas parades in Laurel, Ellisville and Petal.

Mangum got the idea to build the wagon from a couple in Alaska who built a fiberglass, two-seater version based on a small truck chassis. Mangum wanted his to accomodate more passengers, so he started with a 1987 Ford ambulance equipped with a police package.

“The ambulance only had 26,000 miles on it, so mechanically it was in excellent shape,” he said.

He planned to remove only the top of the ambulance, leaving the sides intact. But that didn’t look right, he decided, so he replaced the entire body with his own all-steel fabrication.

Mangum’s flexible work schedule—he raises poultry for Wayne Farms—allowed him the time to figure out how to build his unique vehicle. The project

took about 2,000 hours to complete, he estimated.

“You can just work your brain to death building something like this. I think sometimes I’ve got gears for brains anyway,” he said.

Except for the constraints of tire size and vehicle width, the wagon is built to a 6:1 scale. A real Radio Flyer is 3 feet long; Mangum up-sized his to 18 feet.

To mimic the original wagon’s rounded corners, Mangum split a length of large pipe four ways and welded a piece in each corner. He made a foldable black tongue with a handle that extends 12 feet above the ground.

He raised the driver’s seat about 8 inches, so he can see over the steel sides of the wagon, and installed extensions for the foot pedals. (He’s think-

ing of raising the steering wheel, too.) The three bench seats for passengers are raised 12 inches from the floor and have seat belts installed.

“I did several trial runs trying to work all the bugs out of it,” Mangum said.

For the wheels, he used moon disc hubcaps— the kind used on drag racers—painted white and topped with a red PVC cap.

Safety measures included the installation of a glass panel, tinted red to blend in, across the front of the wagon to eliminate a blind spot.

A friend experienced in sign work painted the bold graphics, altered slightly from the original Radio Flyer logo, down the side of the wagon.

Mangum debuted his creation at the Houston (Texas) Art Car Parade, held in May. His was one of 25 entries chosen from a field of 300 for a special cruise around the city that included stops at children’s hospitals and schools. When a large group of deaf children posed for pictures with Mangum’s wagon, “that was a thrilling thing to see,” he said.

“If I’d have known that it was going to be as much fun as it is, I’d have built this thing 20 years ago,” he continued. “I have a ball every time I take it out.”

Ted Mangum is available on a limited basis for appearances at benefits and special events. For information, call him at 601-498-3650.

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Today in Mississippi I July 2012

Mississippi Fairs & Festivals MAKE PLANS TO ENJOY MISSISSIPPI’S TOP ATTRACTIONS TICKETS: `Õ Ì -i>à \ fÓä U `Õ Ì >Þ\ f£x -ÌÕ`i Ì -i>à \ f£x U -ÌÕ`i Ì >Þ\ f£ä U }ià x > ` 1 `iÀ\ Àii

C h o c taw , M i s s i s s i p p i Wednesday, July 11

Friday, July 13

11:00am 6:00pm 7:00pm 10:15pm

10:00am 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:30pm 10:15pm

Gates Open Chief Phyliss J. Anderson and Guests 2012 Choctaw Indian Princess Pageant World Series Stickball

Gates Open Chief Phyliss J. Anderson and Guests Indigenous Jo Dee Messina World Series Stickball

Thursday, July 12 11:00am 2:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:30pm 10:15pm

Stay at Dancing Rabbit Inn for packages that include discounted

Gates Open R.J. & Jay Paul from “Swamp People” Chief Phyliss J. Anderson and Guests Steve Azar Chris Cagle World Series Stickball

Saturday, July 14 7:00am 10:00am 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:30pm 10:15pm

hotel rooms and

Rez Run 2012 Gates Open Chief Phyliss J. Anderson and Guests The Lost Trailers Clint Black World Series Stickball Championship

pre-purchased fair tickets!

Call 601-389-6600 for information and reservations.

For More Information: 601.650.7450

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ANNUAL

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Have a great Funfilled

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www.neshoba.org • 877-752-2643

www.ChoctawIndianFair.com This is a family, non-alcoholic event.

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$40 season pass; $15 day ticket Children 9 & under FREE

I H a r n e ss & Ru n ni n g H o r se Ra c e s (Sunday Thru Friday)

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I A g A n d 4 - H D i s p l a y s & Ex h i b i t s I Y o ut h T a l e n t C o n t e st I A r t s, C r a f t s & N e e d l e w o r k Ex h i b i t s I B a nd C o n c e r t s

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BLACKBERRY SMOKE Tuesday, July 31 - 8:00pm

JAKE OWEN Wednesday, August 1 - 8:00pm

JERROD NIEMANN Thursday, August 2 - 8:00pm

TRACE ADKINS Friday, August 3 - 8:00pm

July 2012 I Today in Mississippi I 7

Proudly serving Attala, Forrest, Lamar, Lauderdale, Leake, Kemper, Neshoba, Newton, Oktibbeha, Rankin, Scott and Winston counties.

34rd Annual

July 20-21 601-733-2221 or 601-733-5647 www.mswatermelonfestival.com Until 3pm July 21, $5 adults & $3 children under 10 After 3pm, $7 adults & $5 children under 10 (Arm bands are good all day, day of purchase)

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Gospel show Friday night starting at 6pm Entertainment all day Saturday with special musical guest Saturday night

Jason Michael Carroll

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Car & Truck show “Hosted by the Smith County Cruisers Club” 5K MS Watermelon Festival Run Food • Arts and Crafts Bungee jump • Waterwalk Largest Watermelon contest Watermelon eating contest Seed spitting contest

Now - July 29, 2012

July 20-22, 2012

Monday - Thursday • 11am - 5pm Friday - Saturday • 11am - 7pm Sunday • 12pm - 5pm

FRIDAY, JULY 20 Hosted by the Town of Mize Volunteer Fire Department in Mize, Mississippi at the Mize City Park

Blues Panel 4:00-5:00 pm University of Mississippi Museum Special blues panel discussion with Jody Williams, Dick Waterman and Sam Mosely

MS Pecan Festival

Catfish Fry and Blues 5:15-8:00 pm Lawn of Walton-Young House Friday is free for museum members

Sept. 28, 29 & 30 2012 Richton, MS

Featuring Jody Williams, Efie Burt, The Mark Yacavone Blues Band

Admission $10.00 (Children under 4 Free)

SATURDAY, JULY 21

25th Annual

Blues and BBQ 2:00-7:00 pm Lawn of Walton-Young House Featuring Sam Mosely & The Mosely & Johnson Blues Band, Cadillac Funk, Moldy Fig and MS Blind Morris

# Special Performance # Ben Wiley Payton

• ANTIQUE BOOTHS • ARTS & CRAFTS • QUILT SHOW • STOCK DOG DEMOS • LIVE CRAFT DEMOS • PURTIEST ROOSTER CONTEST • PECAN FESTIVAL PAGEANT

• SOUTH’S FINEST FOOD • MULE PULL • ANTIQUE ENGINE SHOW • LIVE BLUEGRASS MUSIC • CHARITY BAKE-OFF • DRAFT HORSE DEMOS • VERA’S PECAN PIES

601-964-8201

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7:15-8:00 pm Bring your coolers and picnic blankets for a unique performance of blues on lawn of Walton-Young house

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Geyser Falls Water Theme Park #MBDL +BDL 3PBE t 1IJMBEFMQIJB .4 A Development of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians

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Today in Mississippi I July 2012

Grave digging tradition a final act of love for departed ou get to experience or learn something new all the time. No matter what you’ve already done or how much you think you know or how old you are. I got my shot at something brand new for me a few weeks ago. I helped dig a grave. For a person! I’ve done it for plenty of pets. But this was way different.

I will admit that I didn’t help all that much. But I was there to do a television story about a tradition that they have at the Chapel of the Cross in Madison County where other members of the congregation pitch in to dig the graves of members who have died and are to be buried in the church’s graveyard. But while I was there, the people doing the digging thought I should take a turn and get a feel for the experience myself.

They started about 4:00 in the afternoon. I didn’t count them, but it seemed to me that maybe a dozen men, more or less, took part. Some Mississippi stayed the whole Seen time; others

by Walt Grayson came and went.

Even family members helped. The daughter of the lady whose grave was being dug took a turn, as well as her son. Back years ago somewhere, this would have been a family and neighbor’s duty. I could see it adding to closure in a way little else could.

The grave digging tradition has been

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I don't know why I waited so long to take my turn at digging. Hindsight: Early on, when the grave wasn't so deep, it would have been a lot easier to climb into and out of it. But you think things you have never thought before when standing near the bottom of a grave you are helping to dig. Deep things, pardon the pun.

going on for several years at the church.

A former pastor suggested it as an act of showing love for a member’s family and for the departed. And although it is hard, long work, it seems to be a tradition embraced by pretty much everybody in the congregation.

They dig the graves by hand, with

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picks and shovels. No machinery is used.

It is a slow process. Our grave went relatively fast with recent rains having loosened the dirt all the way down: “down” being a hole 54 inches deep, not a full 6 feet like we’ve heard all our lives. And thank goodness—54 inches takes long enough to dig, up to 12 hours in dry weather when our Mississippi hill clay turns into the equivalent of concrete.

As daylight dwindled, it didn’t seem eerie being in a graveyard after dark like I thought it might. The pizza deliveryman didn’t even think it was all that strange when he delivered supper to the workers behind the church.

I stalled as long as I could before taking my turn with the shovel. But I was finally pressed into it as the process was just a few inches shy of the goal. I don’t really know why, but I was a bit nervous. Digging a grave is kind of a serious thing if you think about it. I mean, there is little left you can do for a person

after digging their grave. You don’t want to mess that up. And that deep in, looking at the dirt walls around you, you realize that you’ll have one of these for yourself some day. But then a cheery thought: This isn’t it!

After the grave was finished, the church’s priest, Austin Johnson, blessed it. All the gathered diggers took a sip of Macallan Scotch and poured the rest into the hole with a prayer for the spirit of the departed. (I suppose we Baptists could use grape juice.)

The tradition has meaning for everyone who participates. Feet on the floor of a grave, you are standing as far as you get to go in this life. What happens next is a matter of your faith.

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.” To contact Grayson, send email to walt@waltgrayson.com.

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Tropical Duranta adds interest to area gardens

Duranta’s yellow-orange fruit color, top, provides a fantastic contrast to its flowers, as they are often seen together through the season. Cuban Gold Duranta, below, can be used as an edge plant. It has a formal look when pruned and a casual appearance when left natural. Photos: MSU Extension Service/Gary Bachman

native of the tropical regions of the Caribbean and Central and South America, the Duranta is sure to generate interest in your landscape.

Duranta is commonly called pigeon berry, and it has an arching growth habit with bluish flowers. It produces golden fruit that can feed our feathered friends.

The native plant can reach small-tree status, growing up to 25 feet tall. That’s too large for many of our Mississippi gardens and landscapes.

But plant breeders have solved that problem. They have developed a couple of really nice Duranta selections with a smaller growth habit.

Sapphire Showers is a version that has a more compact, upright habit. It produces tube-shaped flowers from spring through summer. The blue to violet flowers are produced in cascading clusters. Each flower has a white picotee edging that intensifies the look of the flower color.

The fruit of Sapphire Showers is yellow-orange. The fruit contrasts beautifully with the flowers, as they are often seen together through the season.

A Duranta selection that can brighten any landscape is Cuban Gold. The foliage of this variety is a blend of chartreuse and golden yellow. It grows 3 feet

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tall and wide. I’ve heard Cuban Gold described as a tropical boxwood, and it does make a gorgeous edge or hedge plant.

For a formal look, feel free to prune it just like you would boxwood. Allow normal growth for a more casual appearance. Toward the end of the season, it may produce lavender flowers, adding

color contrast to the foliage.

Cuban Gold is a good choice for combination containers, where it can be used as a filler plant. In fact, Cuban Gold Duranta will last for several years when grown in containers.

For the best landscape effect, plant Duranta in full sun or no more than partial shade. Amend the landscape soil

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with organic matter to increase drainage, especially in tight, clay soils. Feed monthly with water-soluble fertilizer to keep your Duranta in peak form.

Duranta is very tolerant of pruning, so don’t be afraid to give your plants a trim every once in a while to keep them neat.

These plants are hardy in zones 9 to 11, but they will die back to the ground after a frost or freeze. In northern Mississippi, Duranta will die back to the ground each winter but will rebound the following spring.

Fruit production may be limited in the northern counties.

Treat your Southern Duranta as you Gardening would a butterfly

by Dr. Gary Bachman bush, and prune the aerial stems back to about 4 inches long each spring before the foliage emerges.

Find a place in your container or landscape for this tropical native and enjoy the beauty it brings to your garden.

Dr. Gary Bachman is MSU horticulturist at the Coastal Research and Extension Center in Biloxi.

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Today in Mississippi I July 2012

Mr. Roy’s summer memories ississippi summers are what they are—hot.

This isn’t a news alert, unless you recently unloaded your moving van displaying a car tag from one of those northern states.

This month’s column is taken from an interview I wrangled out of Mr. Roy, my husband. He was born in George County—Lucedale—and has lived here most of his life. Though he hopscotched to Indiana, Arkansas, Alabama and then Florida for a few years, as determined by his career choices and a stint in the Army. His bachelor’s degree is in mechanical engineering, his master’s in business.

I tagged along beginning with Arkansas. He insisted, since we were married.

I penned his responses to my questions.

“Mr. Roy, I realize that you are much older than I am, therefore I doubt your summer experiences will spark the same memories for me, but there are people that can relate to yours.”

He frowned and kept walking. “Not that much older,” he grumbled.

“Slow down so I can take notes,” I said. “OK, I’m ready to key in your memories on my Ipad.”

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He stepped over a limb that had fallen across our trail in the woods and began. “When school was out each spring, it was time to take my shoes off.

All of my friends did the same. The biggest problem was when I was at my daddy’s car business I’d step on cigarettes people threw on the concrete around the shop.

“Another hazard was stickers. The grass would feel so good as I ran through my yard, then a patch of stickers would surprise me—they were hard to see.

Going barefooted was like being a soldier in a minefield. I was always on the lookout for the next ouch!”

Mr. Roy’s long strides slowed, so Grin ‘n’ I could keep up.

Bare It “Every day was

by Kay Grafe an adventure. The boys in the neighborhood and a few blocks away would gather in the large field behind my house for a game of baseball, or whatever someone dreamed up. Some days we’d make rubber guns and have wars. Our bikes were always handy to charge out to another backyard. Most of our mothers didn’t work,

so they’d make Kool-Aid for us. Soft drinks were too expensive to keep on hand.”

“What would you do on Sundays?” I asked.

“After Sunday school and church we’d head over to my grandparents for dinner. Their house was where Jack’s Hardware is located on Cowart Street. Afterwards, my brother Bobby and I would load up in Dad’s car with Mother and go out to Brushy Creek swimming. Our friends gathered there and we’d dive into the deepest spot trying to locate dead man’s hole. The parents sat on blankets in the sand and visited but kept a watchful eye on us. I was 15 years old before I ever went swimming in a real pool.

“Occasionally on Sunday afternoons my parents took us to Mobile to a Mobile Bear’s baseball game. My friends Edd Evans or Max Lassister would sometimes go with us. Baseball was the major sport back then. During the week, downtown businesses kept their doors open. I remember walking past the stores and radios could be heard broadcasting a baseball game. Especially when Claude Passeau played for the Cubs.”

The trail Mr. Roy and I were following curved, and we followed it into the

back fenced field. We continued the trail around the tree-lined fence and headed south. The trail was also our running and walking track.

“Tell me other memories that stand out when you were a kid,” I said.

He stopped and patted our dogs, and then began. “My daddy and granddaddy made lots of homemade ice cream. I can still taste how good it was. They would buy a block of ice from the ice plant, put it in a croaker sack and hit the sack with an axe to break it up. I remember at night we’d catch lightning bugs, put them in jars and use them for lanterns until our parents called us in for bed.

“But some of the best times were just lying in the grass on my back watching clouds while I dreamed of being a baseball star and playing in the World Series—and a million other dreams.

Even though we lived only 40 miles from the Gulf, we didn’t go to the beach.

I wonder why.”

We made a turn on our track and headed east. I said, “Do you think it was because your daddy worked such long hours?”

He nodded, “I’m sure that’s one reason. He worked six days a week and many days he worked into the night. I never heard him complain about anything. That includes the times he was sick.

“Thinking back on those summers in the late 30s and 40s, I can’t remember having an unhappy day. I didn’t have material things, but I had a wealth of love from both parents.”

I truly believe my husband had a perfect childhood. My wish is that all of us can say the same when we recall our summer memories.

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.

July 2012 I Today in Mississippi

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS Quality Tools at Ridiculously Low Prices R !

PE ON U P S U CO

FACTORY DIRECT TO YOU! How does Harbor Freight Tools sell high quality tools at such ridiculously low prices? We buy direct from the factories who also supply the major brands and sell direct to you. It’s just that simple!

See for yourself at one of our 400 Stores Nationwide and use this 20% Off Coupon on one of our 7,000 products*, plus pick up a Free 1" x 25 Ft. Tape Measure, a $5.99 value. We stock Shop Equipment, Hand Tools, Tarps, Compressors, Air & Power Tools, Woodworking Tools, Welders, Tool Boxes, Generators, and much more.

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WIRELESS DRIVEWAY ALERT SYSTEM

WITH ANY PURCHASE

1" x 25 FT. TAPE MEASURE ITEM 47737/69080/ 69030/69031

Item 47737 shown

REG. PRICE $5.99

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 1 Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or prior purchase. Offer good while supplies last. Shipping & Handling charges may apply if not picked up in-store. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R !

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SAVE 63%

Item 93068 shown

FREE!

12" RATCHET BAR CLAMP/SPREADER LOT NO. 46807/ 68975/69221/ 69222

SAVE 53%

1399

$

REG. PRICE $29.99

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 7 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable.

Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R !

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32 PIECE SAE AND METRIC FULLY POLISHED COMBINATION WRENCH SET

SAVE 32%

Item 46807 shown

1

REG. $ 99 PRICE $5.49

SAVE 46%

1000 LB. CAPACITY

R !

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HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 8 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable.

Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R !

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LEATHER INDUSTRIAL WORK GLOVES - 5 PAIRS LOT NO. 66287

LOT NO. 91214

SAVE 50%

39

99

REG. PRICE $79.99

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 3 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable.

Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

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5

$ 99

ELECTRIC CHAIN SAW SHARPENER 4-1/4" GRINDING WHEEL INCLUDED

LOT NO. 68221/ 93213

Item 68221 shown

2999

$

SAVE 40%

REG. PRICE $49.99

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 3 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable.

Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R !

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Item 68528 shown

3200 RATED WATTS/ 4000 MAX. WATTS PORTABLE GENERATORS (212 CC)

SAVE $160

LOT NO. 68528/ 67560/69729/69676 LOT NO. 68527/69728/69675, CALIFORNIA ONLY

28999

$

$

400 Stores Nationwide

REG. PRICE $449.99

•

R !

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12 PIECE CUSHION GRIP SCREWDRIVER SET

SAVE 58% Item 68868 shown

9

RECIPROCATING SAW WITH ROTATING HANDLE

LOT NO. 65570

SAVE 50%

19

$

REG. PRICE $11.99

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 9 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R !

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4000 LB. CAPACITY CABLE WINCH PULLER LOT NO. 30329/69854 For dead loads only; not for lifting.

Item 30329 shown

REG. 99 PRICE

12 VOLT MAGNETIC TOWING LIGHT KIT

SAVE 66%

1299

$

$39.99

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 5 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable.

Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R !

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4

$ 99

SAVE 48%

REG. PRICE $24.99

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 6 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R !

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TRIPLE BALL TRAILER HITCH Item 94141 shown

LOT NO. 96933/ 67455/69626

9

WEIGHS 74 LBS.

LOT NO. 68048/69227

10/2/55 AMP, 6/12 VOLT BATTERY CHARGER/ ENGINE STARTER LOT NO. 66783

SAVE $70

69

$

REG. 99$139.99 PRICE

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 4 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable.

Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R !

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580 LB. CAPACITY FOUR DRAWER TOOL CART LOT NO. 95659

9999

$

SAVE 55%

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 4 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R !

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Item 68048 shown

RAPID PUMP® 3 TON HEAVY DUTY STEEL FLOOR JACK

SAVE $130

REG. PRICE $44.99

REG. PRICE $29.99

Item 96933 shown

REG. PRICE $229.99

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 3 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable.

Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

LOT NO. 94141/69874

1999

$

$ 99

70 dB Noise Level

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 4 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable.

Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

REG. PRICE $9.99

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 8 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

REG. PRICE $ 99 $19.99

R !

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Item 95275 shown

REG. PRICE $79.99

REG. PRICE $9.99

5

$ 99

SAVE 50%

R !

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LOT NO. 95275/69486

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 4 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable.

Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

ANGLE GRINDER

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 8 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable.

Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

QUIET!

3999

R !

LOT NO. 4-1/2" PE ON 95578/69645 SU UP CO

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 6 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable.

Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

3 GALLON, 100 PSI OILLESS PANCAKE AIR COMPRESSOR

SAVE 50%

ANY SINGLE ITEM!

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 1 Save 20% on any one item purchased at our store. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon, gift cards, Inside Track Club membership, phone or online orders, extended service plans or on any of the following: compressors, generators, tool storage or carts, welders, floor jacks, Campbell Hausfeld products, open box items, in-store event or parking lot sale items. Not valid on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase date with original receipt. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

SAVE 40%

99

AUTO-DARKENING WELDING HELMET WITH BLUE FLAME DESIGN

$

7

$ 99 REG. PRICE $14.99

One size fits all.

REG. PRICE $24.99

OFF

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LOT NO. 68854

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 6 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable.

Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

20%

R !

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LOT NO. 93888

8 FT. 8" x 11 FT. 6" FARM QUALITY TARP LOT NO. 2707

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 7 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable.

Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

MOVER'S DOLLY

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40%

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 6 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable.

Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

16

$

ON ALL HAND TOOLS!

Item 95578 shown

Requires one 9 volt and three C batteries (sold separately).

LOT NO. 93068/ 69590

R !

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LIFETIME WARRANTY

2999

$ SAVE 50%

REG. PRICE $59.99

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 3 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R !

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SAVE $50

2000 LB. ELECTRIC WINCH WITH REMOTE CONTROL AND AUTOMATIC BRAKE LOT NO. 68146

$

4999 REG. PRICE $99.99

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 4 Good at our stores or website or by phone. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/12. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

Order Online at HarborFreight.com and We'll Ship Your Order

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Today in Mississippi I July 2012

Where our members have the power

Communicators: Melissa Russo and April Lollar For Today in Mississippi information, call 877-7MY-CEPA (877-769-2372) www.coastepa.com

CEO’s message

Together we save Coast Electric works every day to balance the rising costs of doing business with making sure rates are affordable for our members. While costs are going up in a number of areas, the greatest threat to affordable power is new and constantly changing environmental regulations.

Electric cooperatives like Robert Occhi Coast Electric use coal as a relatively inexpensive source of electric generation. South Mississippi Electric, the electric cooperative that generates the electricity distributed to you

by Coast Electric, depended on coal for 54.7 percent of the power produced in 2011. For this reason, regulations issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that target coal are of particular concern for electric power associations in Mississippi and across the nation, and to our members’ pocketbooks.

Over the past decade, the EPA has issued three significant regulations that impact coal-fired generation. The costs of complying with these regulations have become costly to power producers, especially not-for-profit electric cooperatives. The equipment necessary to make a coal plant compliant is so expensive that in some situations it is more cost-effective to close a plant down. In addition, the short period of time proposed for complying with the regulations does not allow power producers enough time for planning, nor does it take into consideration the limited number of contract specialists who are qualified to construct and implement compliance controls.

Imagine trying to build a house with an architect and contractor who continually make changes without your input and without talking to each other. In addition, the architect creates an unrealistic construction schedule for the contractor, meaning you cannot get materials delivered or laborers hired to begin construction. This is a good analogy of what the electric industry is facing through these EPA regulations.

The bottom line is that these proposed regulations

eliminate coal as an option for producing electricity. In the absence of coal, alternative sources of fuel will need to meet the electricity demands of our members. New plants

“Coast Electric and South Mississippi Electric are working to ensure that our members have the most affordable and reliable electric system today and into the future.”

- Robert Occhi, President and CEO will have to replace old coal plants to meet the growing need for electricity. Again, this means higher costs to Coast Electric members.

Coast Electric and South Mississippi Electric are working to ensure that our members have the most affordable and reliable electric system today and into the future.

Recent projects include steps to make our generation fleet more efficient, cost-effective and environmentally compliant.

By the end of fall this year, the Moselle Repower Project at the J.T. Dudley, Sr. Generation Complex (Plant Moselle) will result in the capability of the plant to generate 37 percent more electricity using the same amount of fuel as before. This represents a savings of $25,000 to $40,000 per day for the first unit, which was completed in May. The second unit is scheduled to be completed in October. The total project cost is expected to be $220 million.

Coast Electric and South Mississippi Electric are also investigating other options for future power generation that will enable us to maintain environmental compliance and keep power bills affordable.

Even with all of the changes and challenges we face, we remain committed to providing the best value for safe and reliable electric energy for our members.

Coast Electric Power Association offices will be closed Wednesday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day. Dispatchers will be on duty and crews will remain on call. If you have an outage, please call 877-769-2372.

Have a safe and happy 4th!

July 2012

QA QUESTIONS

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Today in Mississippi

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Pump up your pool’s efficiency

ANSWERS

How can I reduce my power bill during the summer months?

Typically, 45 percent of your water heater to 120 degrees utility bill goes for heating and cool• Install a water heater timer ing. Setting your • Use ceiling fans while thermostat at 78 in a room to make you feel degrees while at home durcooler and turn the thering the summer and even mostat up higher when you are away In addition to these tips can save energy and money. you should consider Coast As the weather heats up this Electric’s Time of Use rate summer you can: program. The Time of Use • Install window coverings rate gives you control of to prevent heat gain your electric bill by through your windows rewarding you for using • Use the bathroom fan electricity during certain This month’s question is when showering or bathing times of the day. By reducanswered by our Hancock County to remove the heat and ing your electric use during Residential Energy humidity peak times, you have the Representative • Use energy efficient opportunity to decrease Clay Sweet. lighting that does not proyour energy costs. duce a lot of heat as a To learn more about the byproduct Time of Use rate program • Dry clothes naturally (clothesline) or in and other energy efficiency tips please visit the cooler times of the day www.coastepa.com or contact your local • Cook during the cooler parts of the day Residential Energy Representative: • Seal cracks and openings around winHancock County: Clay Sweet 228-363dows and doors to prevent cool air from 7261, Harrison County: Phillippe Michel escaping your home 228-539-5720 or Pearl River County: • Turn down the temperature on your Scott White 601-889-5109.

A:

ENERGY efficiency tip Look to your windows for energy savings. Use weather stripping on old windows, and, if you can, add storm windows. In hot climates, add solar film screening to west-facing windows to catch heat. For new units, consider double-glazed panes; in cold climates, “low-e” coatings on glass can help reduce heat loss. Find more ways to save at TogetherWeSave.com.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

By Kelly Trapnell time by 30-minute increments until you After a low-impact workout in the are satisfied. If six hours works well, try backyard, a swimming pool provides the decreasing filtration time to find a balperfect summer retreat. But who wants it ance with energy efficiency. To keep to be a wallet drain? Soak up these pool debris down without running your efficiency tips to save money while pump overtime, use a skimmer to manumaintaining your personal, pristine oasis.

Each pool is equipped with an energy guzzler: the pump. The bigger the pump, the higher the power bill. Make sure your pool uses the smallest pump possible. New products like variablespeed pumps offer a good way to save. A knowledgeable pool supA clean pool for your family doesn’t have to break the bank. Run your pool’s pump ply or service firm can for six hours or less per day, and use a timer to run your filter for several short perihelp choose a proper ods rather than allowing debris to pile up after one long continuous filteration. pump for your pool, tak- Source: Kelly Trapnell ing into consideration its ally clean the water. Also, try using a size, filter and piping. timer to run your filter for several short Greater savings can come from decreasing pump operation time, no periods during the day rather than matter the pump size. Keep drains clear allowing debris to pile up after one long of debris, or your pump will work hard- continuous filtration. er to circulate water. Also, find a proper • I need my pump to run continuously balance for backwashing the filter. Too to keep algae at bay – FALSE. Proper much backwashing — the process of fil- chemical balance and brushing down tering and disposing of dirty water — pool walls are the best algae fighters. wastes water, while too little strains the Make sure your pool isn’t draining pump. energy dollars needlessly by adjusting Here are some common myths that pump time and investing a little leglead to extra pump time (and wasted work. You’ll have a prime poolside spot energy): to relax in afterward, and the relief you’ll • I need to run my pump to keep see on your power bill will be well worth chemicals mixed – FALSE. Circulate the effort. Find more ways to save energy while adding chemicals, and they will around your home at stay mixed. There is no need to recircuwww.TogetherWeSave.com. late the water each day to “re-mix” the water.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy, • My pool will be dirty if I don’t run Pentair Water Pool & Spa, Inc. my pump to constantly clean debris – Kelly Trapnell writes on safety and energy efficiency issues for the National Rural FALSE. Try running your pump for six Electric Cooperative Association, the hours or less a day, as suggested by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Arlington, Va.-based service arm of the EnergySavers.gov. If the cleanliness is nation’s 900-plus consumer-owned, notnot to your liking, increase filtration for-profit electric cooperatives.

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Today in Mississippi I July 2012

VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

Reduces power out

By Archie Dickens, Coast Electric System Right-of-Way Coordinator It’s no secret that today’s society has been blessed to experience and enjoy luxuries far greater than any previous generation. At the push of a button, an entire meal can be prepared, temperatures can be controlled within the home, money can be transferred from one account to another and messages can be sent around the world. More importantly, severe weather can be monitored and forecasted days in advance, resulting in timely evacuations and the protection of property.

From the invention of the light bulb to the creation of the smart phone, society has become reliant on the advancement of technology. As a result, electronic consumers depend on reliable electricity, whether to run their devices directly or to keep batteries charged. Consequently, electric providers are constantly seeking ways to prevent power interruptions, keeping consumers connected to a continuous flow of electricity. Electric providers understand that a successful Vegetation Management Program (VMP) allows them to distribute their product safely, while delivering dependable electric service at the lowest possible cost.

Most electric providers express the importance of an effective VMP, however, when operation budgets are scaled back, vegetation crews are normally the first to go. Furthermore, electric consumers expect their power to always be on, but when crews attempt to reduce or remove problem vegetation¸ the property owners are the first to complain. Coast Electric serves 90 percent of the land mass in Hancock, Harrison and Pearl River counties, and understands the importance of a successful VMP. Also, Coast electric works hard to communicate with memberowners the importance of pruning or removing trees that historically produce unsafe conditions, have been proven to cause power outages and force the utility to operate inefficiently. Coast Electric recognizes that safety, reliability, and cost efficiency are the three major components of a successful VMP, and that a VMP is important for the cooperative to fulfill its mission.

Although electricity improves quality of life, it can For many electric consumers, power interruptions also be very dangerous. Far too often, trees located are more than just an inconvenience. When a power near electric lines produce unsafe conditions that outage occurs a business may be forced to stop opermay potentially cause death or serious injuries. Sadly, ation or producing products, resulting in lost revboth children and adults have been electrocuted by enues for the company and its employees. Also, contacting power lines while climbing trees. In addi- when schools lose their connection to electric service tion, the contact of high-voltage lines is the most teachers are prevented from using electronic devices common event that results in a tree worker’s death. essential to educating their students. More imporTherefore, agencies such as the Occupational Safety tantly, power interruptions can be a matter of life or and Health Administration (OSHA), Rural Utilities death for hospitals or care-giving facilities that Service and the National Electrical Safety Code are require electricity to treat and monitor their patients. put in place to establish and enforce policies that For these reasons, and many more, electric providers promote safety condihave increased their tions for the public, efforts in promoting their electric personnel and VMP as being an essen“Coast Electric evaluated and updated their tree workers. Coast tial part in keeping the current VMP, and after four years of hard Electric, along with lights on. Furthermore, work, the electric cooperative’ s reported their vegetation crews, an effective VMP is not follows every means only a dedication to prevegetation-related outages have decreased necessary to keep venting power outages by 63 percent.” member-owners, but a commitment in Archie Dickens employees and the reducing the time public safe. required to restore elecNot only does tric service. In other Coast Electric understand the importance of safety, words, when an outage occurs, regardless the reason, the electric cooperative understands the significance clear electric rights of way allow utility crews to of providing reliable service. In today’s society, eleclocate and repair problems faster. While it’s true that tric consumers can be greatly inconvenienced when a power outage can be very inconvenient, for some electric service is interrupted briefly, much less for the lack of electric service can be life changing. long periods of time. For many electric providers, Therefore, electric providers like Coast Electric vegetation-related issues are the single leading cause understand that a successful VMP is essential in the for reported power interruptions. In fact, poor vege- process of providing reliable service. tation management practices were a key contributor A VMP can be expensive. However, power outto the 2003 Northeast United States blackout that ages and restorations are also very costly for the elecaffected millions of electric consumers. In 2007, the tric provider and consumer. In addition, costly damsingle leading cause of Coast Electric’s reported out- ages and line loss can occur when vegetation comes ages was due to vegetation-related issues. For this into contact with energized conductors. Line loss is reason, Coast Electric evaluated and updated their the diversion of electricity from its intended flow current VMP, and after four years of hard work, the path due to the contact of an electric line with a forelectric cooperative’s reported vegetation-related out- eign object, such as a tree. Consequently, power outages have decreased by 63 percent. By reducing ages and restoration, and repairs and line loss power interruptions Coast Electric, along with every increase the cost of providing electric service, and electric provider, can improve the quality of life in this cost is passed on to electric consumers in the the communities they serve. form of high bills. Now more than ever, consumers

rely on th quality se fuel price rates of e to reduce nances b removals ability fo out affec grated ve commitm price pos providers Trees t or directi controlle that prev nance an ensure sy easement often pre efficientl impleme the electr types of v All ele safely pro Over the lized a va growing of distrib Electric’s mechanic entire cir the remo tors and facilities. dead, dyi structura damage e rent VM reported ing safe c

July 2012

I

Today in Mississippi

utages

rely on their electric providers to make available quality service at affordable prices. In a time where fuel prices continue to escalate, along with the rising rates of equipment and labor, Coast Electric was able to reduce their cost per mile for right of way maintenances by almost 10 percent, mostly due to tree removals and selective herbicide applications. The ability for Coast Electric to reduce overall costs without affecting system reliability is a tribute to an integrated vegetation management plan. In essence, the commitment to provide superior service at the lowest price possible can be accomplished by electric providers through a successful VMP. Trees that don’t respond well to heavy trimming or directional pruning may need to be removed or controlled with tree growth rates. Also, vegetation that prevents crews from performing routine maintenance and potential hazard trees must be removed to ensure system reliability. Additionally, inadequate easements, tree ordinances and budget concerns often prevent electric providers from operating as efficiently as possible. As a result, diverse VMPs are implemented across the country to meet the needs of the electric provider and consumer, along with the types of vegetation growing in their service territory.

All electric providers have the responsibility to safely provide quality service at affordable prices.

Over the past several years, Coast Electric has utilized a variety of methods to manage vegetation growing in and around approximately 13,000 acres of distribution rights of way. Currently, Coast Electric’s VMP is on a three-year cycle, using mechanical methods and selective herbicides on entire circuits. Coast Electric places an emphasis on the removal of trees located directly under conductors and the removal of danger trees near electric facilities. Coast Electric defines danger trees as being dead, dying, diseased, damaged, leaning or otherwise structurally unsound, having the potential to fall and damage electric facilities. Since establishing its current VMP, Coast Electric has seen a reduction of reported outages and operating costs, while promoting safe conditions in the communities they serve.

These trees don’t only create potential outages and inconvenience; they also create unsafe conditions for line workers and members.

Keeping rights-of-way clear is also importa nt around undergroun transformers. d

CEPA Reported Vegetation Related Outages

800 700

729

600 596

500 400

423

300 200

267

100 0 2007

2008

2009

2010

This chart shows the significant decrease in vegetation-related outages for Coast Electric members after the cooperative’s new Vegetation Management Plan was implemented in 2007.

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Today in Mississippi I July 2012

Be alert to avoid lightning Did you know lighting can strike even if it’s not raining? Lightning strikes kill 55 to 60 people every year, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

More than 400 people are hit by a bolt each year.

But if you prepare before an outdoor event and know how to protect yourself, you can keep your family safe from lightning. Follow these tips from NOAA: • Plan ahead. Just as you have an emergency plan for fires and weather events like tornadoes and hurricanes, form an action plan for lightning. Choose a safe shelter, and time how long it takes to get there.

• Check the weather. A simple forecast can tell you whether you should delay

outdoor activities to avoid a dangerous situation.

• Look to the sky. Dark skies, whipping winds and lightning flashes are all signs that you should seek shelter.

• Seek shelter. As soon as you hear a rumble of thunder, head for a safe place—an enclosed structure, one with plumbing and wiring is best, or a car.

Open-air shelters, sheds and covered porches are often not safe places. Avoid tall trees that stand alone, towers and poles, as well as metal fences and other conductors of electricity. And keep out of open areas, so that you’re not the tallest object in a field.

• Wait it out. Leaving safe shelter too quickly makes you vulnerable to lightning strikes. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder before

you head back outdoors.

• Avoid corded phones and appliances.

If you’re indoors when a storm hits, do not use corded phones or appliances.

Lightning can travel through your home’s wiring. Also, water is a great conductor of electricity, so don’t take a bath or shower.

If someone near you has been struck by lightning, call 911 immediately. A certified person should begin CPR right away if necessary—the victim will not have an electric charge and is safe to touch.

For more information on how to stay safe in a lightning storm, visit www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov..

Sources: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

75 YEARS Celebrating

his year, Coast Electric is proud celebrate our 75th Anniversary and we want to take you on a trip down memory lane. Our anniversary isn’t just a celebration for employees – it’s a celebration for you, our members. Our members are the reason we exist and the reason we strive to meet our mission of providing superior and reliable service at the lowest possible price. From the day the first lines were strung to today, we want to celebrate where we began and where we are going.

Each month, we will be featuring photos that highlight our history. This month, we review the 60’s. From celebrating the cooperative’s 25th anniversary to the devastation of Camille in 1969, Crews working on Coast it was a bittersweet decade.

Electric’s distribution system

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in the 60’s did more climbing than they do today.

Modern-day bucket trucks allow crews to work more efficiently.

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Celebrate the 4th!

If you want to be safe, instead of buying your own fireworks, plan to take your family to one of these great events that will light up the sky in celebration of America!

Biloxi Fireworks Display

• July 4 at 9 p.m. • Biloxi Small Craft Harbor Highway 90, Biloxi

Watch fireworks from the schooner

• July 4, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.• Schooner Pier Complex, 367 Beach Blvd, Biloxi Contact: Maritime Seafood Museum Phone: 228-435-6320 Admission: Call for tickets Reservations Required Limited Seating!

s F. Coast Echo in 1966 show This photo from the Sea r we Po t of Coast Electric Randall Rester, presiden ive’s first dirt for the cooperat Association, turning the eet near Str in Ma the west side of crew-vehicle building on attuck, Sh .

H.H event from left are U.S. 90. Witnessing the ctor; tra con ral e Hopkins, gene general manager; Georg Rester, ho Ot ; ect hit d Wagner, arc Fre r; cto tra con , lks Fo Sam Seeger, as, attorney; and Felix vice president; Mike Ha director.

Gulfport 4th of July Fireworks

4, 8:45 p.m. • • July Gulfport Harbor, Highway 90, Gulfport Source: www.gulfcoast.org

In 1969, Coast Electric’s service territory was devastated by Hur ricane Camille. After Camille and again after Katrina 2005, Coast Electric employees and members built back stronger than before.

Howard Langfitt (left), manager of the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi, and Senator John C. Stennis attend Coast Electric’s annual members’ meeting on May 9, 1964, at Hancock North Central School. At Coast Electric’s most recent annual meeting, a capital credit retirement of more than $2.8 million was announced to the cooperatives 78,000-plus members. The first retirement of capital credits totaling more than $70,000 was returned to the company’s 3,125 members in 1964.

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Historic Mound Bayou observes 125th anniversary Residents of Mound Bayou will celebrate the unique history of their town with a 125th anniversary observance July 8-14.

Mound Bayou was one of the first allAfrican American communities established after emancipation. Isaiah T. Montgomery and Benjamin Green founded the town in 1887 and initiated its tradition of self-empowerment.

The town had as many as 40 business-

es, three schools, three cotton gins, a newspaper and a Carnegie library in its early years. But when cotton prices fell in the 1920s and 1930s, the town experienced a severe economic decline. Most of the downtown buildings were destroyed by fire in 1941.

Mound Bayou’s revival was sparked in 1942 with the opening of the Taborian Hospital, one of only two African American hospitals in the state during the first half of the 20th century. Owned and operated by African Americans, the Taborian Hospital was the first medical institution in the nation to have an all-black staff.

The vacant hospital building remains standing in downtown Mound Bayou, as do the first Bank of Mound Bayou, established in 1902, and the red brick home of founder Isaiah T.

The Isaiah T. Montgomery house was one of the few buildings to survive the fire that destroyed most of downtown Mound Bayou in 1941. Montgomery was a delegate to the Mississippi Constitutional Convention of 1890.

Montgomery.

The town’s anniversary celebration begins at 8 a.m. July 8 with an Old Time Revival Meeting to share stories of its founders.

Other activities will include the skit “Life Back in the Day” performed by

local youth, a motorcade to founders’ gravesites, Youth Day, opening of a 25year time capsule and a banquet. All events are free, except the banquet.

For more information on the celebration, call city hall at 662-741-2194 or visit www.cityofmoundbayou.org.

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Bicycles and quiet mornings e began at the Gateway near USM’s campus in Hattiesburg and headed toward Prentiss, some 40 miles up the trail. Within minutes we were away from city noise and encroaching buildings and were in the midst of quiet, excluding the sounds of nature that is. Squirrels chattered from the treetops and scurried across the trail; a cardinal sang its melodious song; a mourning dove cooed. The rhythmic patter of running shoes became audible as a jogger approached from the opposite direction and nodded as he passed.

At one point somewhere west of I-59, our near-silent passage allowed us Mississippi to get within a few Outdoors yards of a doe A covered bench makes a good rest stop while cycling on Longleaf Trace. Photo: Tony Kinton standing along the

by Tony Kinton trail’s edge. She nounced reduction in the 40.3 miles Trace (www.longleaftrace.org), the only snorted and bounded away, flag up, into available one way. As a result, it was not one of its kind in Mississippi. This is a the pine and poplar and oak and sweet long before we turned and retraced our Rails-to-Trails Conservancy project, gum woods, her hoof falls crunching in tracks back to the Gateway and the truck. which runs from Hattiesburg to Prentiss leaves yet damp from morning dew. A Still, it had been a glorious morning. We along an abandoned railroad track. crow scolded from the tall confines of a sat briefly in a picnic shelter and had a Longleaf Trace has a minimum width longleaf pine. soft drink and snacks before loading up of 10 feet and is covered with asphalt, Not being long-range bikers and in and heading home, this with a promise to permitting easy navigation for walkers, condition for extended trips, we opted to do another portion of the trail soon. runners or bikers. And while no petroleset our maximum ride at 10 miles, a proThe trail mentioned is the Longleaf um-powered vehicles are allowed, concessions are made for electric carts by those who need them and who make the proper requests. Additionally, there is a 23-mile equestrian trail for horseback enthusiasts; this runs parallel to the paved trail between Carson and Epley.

On its route between Hattiesburg and Prentiss, Longleaf passes through portions of Forrest, Lamar, Marion and Jefferson Davis counties. It touches the towns of, from south to northwest, Hattiesburg, Sumrall, Bassfield, Carson and Prentiss.

These offer various amenities for those who choose to leave the trail for a meal.

Benches, some with overhead covers, are located approximately every five miles.

There are also six stations, plus the two Gateways at Hattiesburg and Prentiss, that offer restrooms: Jackson Road Station, Clyde Depot, Epley Station, Sumrall Station, Bassfield Station and Carson Station. A primitive campsite is

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located adjacent to Carson Station.

And if camping is to be a part of your adventure to Longleaf, there are ample choices in addition to the primitive site at Carson. Since we were coming from the north on Highway 49, we elected to set up on that side of Hattiesburg. We stopped at Okatoma River Resort RV Park to overnight before the morning ride. There is also Paul B. Johnson State Park south of Hattiesburg. Lake Jeff Davis and Lake Mike Conner near the Prentiss end of Longleaf both afford campsites with hookups. A bike rental and retail shop are housed at the Gateway at USM in Hattiesburg.

The Longleaf Trace is a true jewel. It is a means by which visitors can enjoy the natural world of south Mississippi from an asphalt track, as well as offering a variety of entry and exit points at the various stations along the way. It is open yearround to the public and simply should not be missed.

Tony Kinton has been an active outdoors writer for 30 years. His books, “Outside and Other Reflections,” “Fishing Mississippi” and his new Christian historical romance novel, “Summer Lightning Distant Thunder,” are available in bookstores and from the author at www.tonykinton.com, or P.O. Box 88, Carthage, MS 39051.

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Apricot Nectar Cake

Cooks Mississippi

FEATURED COOKBOOK:

‘Giant Houseparty Cookbook’ Tradition runs deep at the annual Neshoba County Fair, where people have been gathering and camping since 1889. Today, the fair bills itself as Mississippi’s Giant Houseparty, an eight-day fun-filled event where more than 600 cabins fill with families and friends. This year’s fair is set for July 27 - Aug. 3.

This being Mississippi, food plays an important role in the festivities of the fair’s cabin community. And as some of the older cabins are handed down for new generations to enjoy and share, so are the recipes. The “Giant Houseparty Cookbook” presents many of these recipe traditions in a section devoted to fair food, plus a wide variety of others contributed by local families.

Nancy Reagan provided her recipe for Vienna Chocolate Bars to the cookbook.

Ronald and Nancy Reagan visited the fair in 1980, during his first campaign for the presidency.

The third printing of this popular cookbook, first published in 1981, features a lay-flat binding and some 375 pages of recipes. It is available in stores or may be ordered by mail.

To order, send $25 plus $6 S&H to Community Development Partnership, PO Box 330, Philadelphia, MS 39350.

For more information call 877-752-2643.

Learn more about the upcoming Neshoba County Fair at www.neshobacountyfair.org.

Nancy Reagan’s Vienna Chocolate Bars 2 sticks butter 2 egg yolks 1 1/2 cups sugar, divided 2 1/2 cups flour 1 (10-oz.) jar raspberry jelly or apricot preserves

1 cup semisweet chocolate bits 4 egg whites 1/4 tsp. salt 2 cups finely chopped nuts

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cream the butter with the egg yolks and 1/2 cup of the sugar. Add flour and knead with the fingers. Pat batter out on a greased cookie sheet to about 3/8-inch thickness. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until lightly browned.

Remove from oven; spread with jelly and top with chocolate bits. Beat egg whites with salt until stiff. Fold in remaining cup of sugar and nuts. Gently spread on top of jelly and chocolate. Bake for about 25 minutes. Cut into squares or bars. Yields 24 bars, cut 1 by 3 inches.

1 pkg. Duncan Hines Lemon Supreme cake mix 1/2 cup Wesson oil

1 cup apricot nectar 2 Tbsp. lemon flavoring 4 eggs

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Blend together the cake mix, oil, apricot nectar and lemon flavoring. Fold in eggs one at a time. Beat for 3 minutes. Bake in tube pan for 1 hour. Drizzle with glaze while cake is hot. Cool before turning out of pan.

Glaze: 2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted

1/3 cup apricot nectar 1 Tbsp. pure lemon juice

Beat all ingredients until sugar is dissolved.

Summer Fruit Bowl 3 medium bananas, sliced 4 medium oranges, pared and sectioned

1 cup strawberries, halved 1 cup seedless green grapes, halved

Peel bananas; slice into a bowl and cover completely with other fruit. Cover the bowl and chill well. Just before serving, pour dressing over fruit. Toss until fruit is well coated. Yield: 10 servings Sour Cream–Honey Dressing: 1/2 cup dairy sour cream

1 Tbsp. honey 1 Tbsp. orange juice

Blend together sour cream, honey and orange juice. Serve salad in crisp lettuce cups or on slices of fresh pineapple. Pour dressing over salad.

Mississippi Cornbread 1/2 cup cornbread mix 1/2 cup cream-style corn 2 eggs

1/2 cup cooking oil 1 cup sour cream 2 Tbsp. diced onion

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Mix all ingredients together and bake in a hot, greased skillet for 25 minutes.

Squash Au Gratin 1/4 cup margarine or butter 4 cups thinly sliced squash: yellow, white or zucchini 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

1/8 tsp. black pepper 2 tomatoes, sliced thin, or 1 cup canned tomatoes, sliced 1/2 cup grated cheese

Melt margarine in a skillet or Dutch oven, which has a tightly fitted lid. Add squash and all other ingredients except cheese. Cover and cook about 15 minutes, or until squash is tender. Sprinkle with cheese and place under broiler unit of oven for 1 or 2 minutes to melt and lightly brown cheese. Makes 4 or 5 servings.

Spoon Burgers 1 lb. ground beef 1 onion, chopped 1/2 (14-oz.) bottle catsup 1 (5-oz.) can Pet evaporated milk

3/4 tsp. salt 1 tsp. prepared mustard 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

In a deep iron skillet or Dutch oven, brown ground beef and onion. Add catsup, milk, salt, mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer about 20 minutes. Will serve 8 to 10 people.

Blackberry Trifle 1 cup blackberry jam 1 cup sugar 1 cup buttermilk 1/2 cup butter 2 Tbsp. flour

4 eggs, separated 1 tsp. vanilla 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie shell 4 Tbsp. sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix well the jam, sugar, buttermilk, butter, flour, egg yolks and vanilla. Pour into unbaked pie shell. Bake about 40 minutes. Beat the 4 egg whites until stiff, gradually adding the sugar. Spread meringue on top of pie and return to oven to brown lightly.

Williams Brothers

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From bacon to boots

Still a general merchandiser

By Nancy Jo Maples Williams Brothers. Peggy and Sid’s Inside the doorway of Williams father are the children of the late Brothers near Philadelphia, time might Amzie and Nannie Mae Williams. appear to stand still but everything is Amzie and his brother, Brown actually abuzz.

Williams, started the store. However, It’s one of those exceptionally rare Brown sold his share to Amzie in the country stores where people can purchase 1940s and ventured into politics, anything from horse collars to hoop serving as Mississippi’s Highway cheese.

Commissioner.

“This cheese is the best I’ve ever tasted.

Williams Brothers began selling That’s because it general merwas made from chandise and milk last June,” Sid ‘We played together as kids until we has maintained Williams, one of that image. were old enough to work, and then the store owners Hams hang our play days turned into work days.’ alongside the said as he handed me a freshly cut —Sid Williams horse collars on wedge. “June propainted beams duces the best just above the cow’s milk and therefore the best cheese. groceries. The store also offers horse briHowever, since cheese must be aged, this dles, fertilizer, garden seed, posts and cheese is a year old. The guys who work gates. There are locally canned goods, here with me every day agree it’s the best sweet potatoes from Vardaman, and genwe have ever had.” eral grocery and household items.

The men Sid references are an AfricanPeople come here for blue jeans, baby American and a Choctaw whom he has clothes, designer dressknown all of his life. Their fathers worked es, cowboy boots and for his father, the late Cooper Williams, shoes. in the store that has been in the Williams While Sid manages family since 1907. the grocery and farm “We played together as kids until we side of the store, his were old enough to work, and then our cousin Jane Dees play days turned into work days,” Sid Crosswhite manages the said. dry goods side. Jane is One of those men, Tommy Lee Kelly, Peggy’s daughter. earned his college degree in 1977 and “We sell more boots then returned to Williams Brothers. He is and shoes than anyusually near the front entrance slicing thing,” Jane said. “Our Sid Williams, one of the store’s owners, slices a wedge of Wisconsin hoop bologna or bacon alongside Sid. The store niche is that we offer cheese for a customer. Grocery items are displayed next to the harnesses. sells 90 to 100 slabs of bacon every something for the Saturday. Its weekly bacon sales average whole family – the little children, the mother of football celebrities Peyton and 4,000 to 5,000 pounds. It sells about 10 mother and the grandmother.”

Eli Manning. Their photographs adorn hoops of cheese per day. A wooden hoop That niche includes products for male the walls along with dozens of snapshots contains approximately 22 pounds, which shoppers. depicting the store’s history, including means Williams Brothers retails more “Believe it or not, we still sell a lot of early scenes showing old-fashioned cash than 200 pounds of cheese each day. The overalls,” Jane said. “That person is usual- registers and men holding cotton bolls in cheese is from Wisconsin. The bacon ly 50 years and up. We also sell baby front of the Williams’ cotton gin that comes from Texas. ones. The grandchildren want to wear operated across the street many years ago.

Regular customers notice the store what grandpa is wearing.”

“Some visit out of curiosity. It fascikeeps employees such as Tommy Lee Some people aren’t looking for boots nates me that I can look out on the floor Kelly and Sid’s Choctaw friend, Felton or bacon. Sometimes people just come on a Saturday and not recognize anyone,” John, for the long run. here.

Jane said. “We have a mixture of cusCustomers also relish seeing the familSome come here for the Manning con- tomers. Some might be visiting family or iar face of Sid’s aunt, Peggy Williams nection. Sid’s sister Olivia is wife to foot- might originally be from this area. Others Dees, who at age 81 still works at ball legend Archie Manning and the might have read about us in a magazine

or know about the Manning connection.”

Many visit for nostalgic reasons. Such was the case with a man from Amory the morning Sid sliced the delectable cheese. He was a Neshoba County native who had attended school with Sid’s uncle and was traveling to a relative’s 80th birthday celebration in nearby Decatur. He just wanted to stop by and see the place where little had changed.

Time might never stand still, but a visit to Williams Brothers can offer an adventuresome pause.

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Mockingbird mealtime by Jeff Johnson, Quitman; East Mississippi EPA Fresh flower by Drew Greene, age 13, Conehatta; Central EPA Back-to-back egrets by Diane Luke, Columbus; 4-County EPA Tree frog hideaway by Antoinette C. Calandria, Kiln Flower Girl the kitty by Andrea Scurria, Picayune; Coast EPA Rylan Montez Freelon, 9 months, by Olivia Gaston, Bruce Blue macaw by Elizabeth Shoemake, Sumrall; Pearl River Valley EPA Waving flag by Kristen Breland, Wiggins

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9 The grass is always greener... by Allie Stockstill, Kiln; Coast EPA 10 Natchez-Vidalia bridges by Clyde Gousset, Natchez; Southwest Mississippi EPA 11 Melon harvesters Dakota Flowers, Nick Farley, Thomas Honnell and Brandon Weber by Johnny Gilmer, Columbus; 4-County EPA

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Our next Picture This theme is Gotcha: Great Moments in Candid Photos Unposed photos of people or animals being funny or fascinating.

Selected photos will appear in our October issue. Submissions must be emailed or postmarked to us by Sept. 17. For details, visit www.todayinmississippi.com, email news@epaofms.com or call 601-605-8600.

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12 Eye-to-eye by Emily Grace Cooley, age 16, Vancleave; Singing River EPA 13 Last casts of the day by Therese Hewitt, Hattiesburg; Pearl River Valley EPA

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Mississippi Marketplace Type or print your ad clearly. Be sure to include your telephone number.

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 USED PORTABLE SAWMILLS! Buy/Sell. Call Sawmill Exchange 800-459-2148, 205-969-0007, USA & Canada, www.sawmillexchange.com.

HOME IN HARTFIELD SUBDIVISION IN MADISON County School District, 2,326 sq ft, 4BR-3.5BA, built in 2004, one owner, $214,000. Call 601-9069328. http://www.forsalebyowner.com/22210348.

HOME BORDERING GOLF COURSE in Millbrook Estates in Picayune, MS. Call my broker for details at 601-799-3477.

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DON’T LET YOUR FAMILY MEMORIES FADE AWAY! We can transfer your VHS, VHS-C, Betamax, Minidv ... to DVD. We provide Macintosh computer support with 28 years experience.

Parrot Video Productions LLC. Call (601) 826-1168 or visit us at www.parrotvideoproductions.com.

MAKE SURE YOU’RE TRIMMING ONLY LIMBS

When youʼre trimming trees, check for nearby overhead power lines, including lines that might be hidden in the foliage of trees nearby. If knocked down by a falling limb, these lines can kill.

Think Safety !

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July 2012

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Today in Mississippi

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Mississippi

Events Want more than 400,000 readers to know about your event? Send it to us at least two months prior to the event date.

Submissions must include a phone number with area code for publication. Mail to Mississippi Events, Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300; fax to 601-605-8601; or email to news@epaofms.com. Events of statewide interest will be published free of charge as space allows. Event details are subject to change, so we strongly recommend calling to confirm dates and times before traveling. For more events, go to www.visitmississippi.org.

“Close to Home: Photographs by Eudora Welty,” through Oct. 31, Greenwood. Photos made by Welty while traveling Mississippi for the WPA in the 1930s. Admission. Museum of the Mississippi Delta. Details: 662-453-0925; www.museumofthemississippidelta.com.

“Add Art...to Table, Walls and More,” through Aug. 30, Jackson. Exhibit of works by portraitist Roger Long and glass artist Jenny Thomas. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. July 26.

Free. Mississippi Library Commission. Details: 601-432-4111; gloriajw@mlc.lib.ms.us.

Farmers Market, Thursdays through August, Laurel. Open 4-6:30 p.m. at 550 Central Avenue. Details: 601-433-3255.

Cedar Hill Farm Pick-Ur-Own, through Aug. 31, Hernando. Fresh produce, honey, playground, petting zoo, hayride to fields, gift shop. Cedar Hill Farm. Details: 662-429-2540.

Mound Bayou 125th Anniversary Celebration, July 8-14, Mound Bayou. Various events daily, including exhibits, Youth Day, historical reenactment skit, Old Time Revival Meeting, mayor’s banquet and more. Details: 662-741-2194; www.cityofmoundbayou.org.

Tony Kinton Signing/Reading, July 9, Eupora. The author to read from his novel “Summer Lightning Distant Thunder”; noon.

Webster County Library. Details: 662-2587515.

DeSoto Family Theatre Summer Camps, July 9-27, Southhaven. Featuring “Willy Wonka Junior,”“Seussical Jr.” and “Broadway Jr.” Landers Center Theatre. Details: 901-2388098; www.dftonline.org.

Tony Kinton Signing/Reading, July 11, Philadelphia. The author to read from his novel “Summer Lightning Distant Thunder”; 11 a.m., Philadelphia-Neshoba County Library. Details: 601-656-4911.

Cabbage Festival, July 14, Raleigh. Arts, crafts, rides, entertainment, coleslaw-eating contest, karaoke contest, food, benefit car show and more. The Tackle Box. Details: 601-

782-5590, 601-421-9549.

Creative Kids Summer Arts Camp, July 1620, Hernando. Fun and learning with professional artists and craftsmen; 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Ages 6-13. Admission includes lunch. DeSoto Arts Council. Details: 662-404-3361; vickyneyman@gmail.com.

Tyler’s T-ball Team’s Lemonade Stand, July 14, Mount Olive. Second annual benefit for American Cancer Society; 2-5 p.m. Main Street.

Details: 601-797-4490.

34th Annual Mississippi Watermelon Festival, July 20-21, Mize. Jason Michael Carroll in concert, arts and crafts, 5K run, car/truck show, watermelon contests and more. Mize City Park. Details: 601-733-5647; www.mswatermelonfestival.com.

Oxford Blues Festival, July 20-22, Oxford.

Blues panel discussion, catfish fry, barbecue.

Blues performers include Ben Wiley Payton.

Admission. Walton-Young House, University of Mississippi Museum. Details: 662-259-7190; www.oxfordbluesfest.com.

Mississippi Opry Summer Show, July 21, Pearl. Featuring Cross Country, Harmony & Grits; 6 p.m. Admission. Pearl Community Room. Details: 601-331-6672.

“Understanding Ruby-throated Hummingbirds in Your Yard,” July 21, Picayune. James Bell, of the Hummer/Bird Study Group Inc., to present talk on how to fill your yard with hummingbirds; 10-11 a.m.

Register by July 20. The Crosby Arboretum.

Details: 601-799-2311.

Kids Camera Camp, July 23-26, Hernando.

Ages 9-12 will learn about digital cameras and photography; 1-4 p.m. Admission. DeSoto Arts Council Gallery. Details: 662-404-3361; www.desotocameraclub.org.

123rd Neshoba County Fair, July 27 - Aug. 3 Philadelphia. Arts and crafts market, garden and field crop exhibits, home arts exhibits, quilt displays, livestock shows, harness and running horse races, mule races, political speaking, entertainment, midway rides and more. Fairgrounds. Details: 601-656-8480; www.neshobacountyfair.org.

Lamar County Bluegrass Festival, July 27-28, Purvis. Six bands. Admission. Lamar County Community Shelter. Details: 601-794-3406; bluegrass@lamarcounty.com; www.lamarcounty.com.

Tuxedo Reunion, July 28, Meridian. Bring a covered dish to share at lunch; 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Church of the Mediator. Details: 601-483-6802, 601-485-4751.

“Surfing a 300-Mile Long Wave: Great Flood of 2011 Canoe Adventure,” July 31, Rolling Fork. A Lower Delta Talks presentation with John Ruskey; 6:30 p.m. Sharkey-Issaquena County Library. Details: 662-873-4076.

Southern Crossroads Music and Tamale Festival, Aug. 10-11, Jackson. Indoor event featuring War, Steve Azar, Marc Broussard, others. Tamales from various regions; art by local and regional artists. Mississippi Coliseum. Details: 601-213-5900; www.tamalefest.com.

Angela Thomas Women’s Conference: “Dream Another Dream,” Aug. 10-11, Meridian. Friday, 7-9 p.m.; Saturday, 9-11 a.m.

Admission. The Evangel Temple Church.

Details: 601-938-7345; www.theevangeltemple.org.

Mississippi Clogging Extravaganza, Aug. 1012, Gallman. Clogging exhibitions for spectators Saturday 7 p.m. Workshops for dancers Friday 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m.

Details: 601-906-2882; www.msclogextravaganza.com.

Field Walk and Clay Class, Aug. 11, Picayune.

Children to collect natural materials to impress into self-hardening clay. Admission. Register

by Aug. 10. The Crosby Arboretum. Details: 601-799-2311.

Bright Lights, Belhaven Nights Street Festival, Aug. 11, Jackson. Art, five stages of music, children’s activities and food; 5:30-9:30 p.m. Admission. Carlisle Street, Kenwood Place in Belhaven. Details: 601-352-8850; info@greaterbelhaven.com.

Mississippi Coast Jazz Society Jam Session/Dance, Aug. 12, Biloxi. Hard Rock Casino; 2-5 p.m. Details: 228-392-4177.

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Fri., July 27 thru Fri., Aug. 3

Arts & crafts market, garden & field crop exhibits, home arts & crafts exhibits, needlework and quilt displays. State dairy cattle show, beef cattle & sheep shows.

Petting zoo. Harness and running horse races & mule pull. Antique car show.

Local & statewide political speaking. Nightly variety & Nashville entertainment.

Midway amusement & rides by Mitchell Bros. Amusements.

Heart O’Dixie Triathlon. For more information,

visit www.neshobacountyfair.org.

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