Today in Mississippi Coast EPA July 2011 by American MainStreet Publications

Periodical postage (ISSN 1052 2433)

Coast Electric Power Association

JULY 2011

I N

M I S S I S S I P P I

Murals portray Vicksburg history

Cooking slows down in hot weather

Picture This: Mississippi Growing

2 ■ Today in Mississippi ■ July 2011

Talking with Today District 49 Senator Billy Hewes and State Treasurer Tate Reeves, the only majority-party candidates in the race for lieutenant governor, will face each other in the Republican primary election on Aug. 2. Today in Mississippi invited both candidates to submit comments written specifically for our readers. Their responses appear below.

Billy Hewes Temperatures are rising, and festivals and fairs are popping up on every other street corner, which can only mean one thing: There must be an election coming up soon! It’s hard to believe county and state primaries are almost upon us, and candidates will be doing their best to catch your attention in seeking your vote. For me it’s always been a family affair, but I think my kids have gotten wise to me. In over 20 years of service in the legislature, all four of our crew have grown up with their daddy on the road and running for office. With my statewide campaign for lieutenant governor, the travel schedule is nonstop and the intensity level is, well, intense! Paula has always been my biggest supporter and best sounding board, and when it comes to getting to know folks, she’s never met a stranger. She’s become so good at it, her brand of campaigning is known as “Paula-ticking!” Our girls are in college—Katie at Ole Miss, Sarah at State—and with Paula having attended junior college and me graduating from USM, there’s no shortage of constituency groups to discuss around the dinner table. At 17, Gardner is more interested in girls and baseball, but we’re still getting a little work out of him. Our youngest, Sam, probably takes the cake. A couple of months ago while attending an academic competition, he noticed a flyer for a summer camp. Our uninhibited one enthusiastically

asked, “Hey Dad, can I go to a camp this summer?” I replied, “You bet! We’ve already signed you up for one.” He said, “Oh yeah?” To which I said, “Yeah, it’s a CAMPaign. You know, it has the word ‘camp’ in it.” Without hesitating, he retorted, “Yeah, it has the word ‘pain’ in it too.” The office of lieutenant governor is one of the most critical positions in state government because that individual is the presiding officer over the Senate who appoints committees and committee chairmen, and assigns legislation. With the importance of keeping proven, conservative leadership in this position, voters will have a very clear choice in this race, as the main difference between the candidates is that of experience and character. Not just extensive government and political knowhow, but life experience. With my background as a successful business owner, building a family for 25 years with two in college, and living and leading through natural and manmade disasters, I am prepared for the responsibilities of this important post. I am particularly grateful for the electric power associations in the example they set in our communities of civic responsibility and public service. I am proud to have been a supporter of issues important to you and hope to have the opportunity for continued service as Mississippi’s next lieutenant governor. I humbly ask for your vote in the Aug. 2 Republican primary and hope you will keep us in your thoughts and prayers. Paula and I look forward to seeing you out there soon!

www.billyhewes.com

Tate Reeves Thank you to the folks at Electric Power Associations of Mississippi for making editorial space available to candidates. I’m asking for your vote in the Republican primary on Aug. 2. I grew up in Florence, graduated from Florence High School, then attended Millsaps College where I played basketball. I met my wife Elee there, and we now live in Flowood and have two daughters. Before 2003 I had never really thought about running for political office before. After graduating from Millsaps with a degree in economics and earning a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation, I went to work in the private sector. Haley Barbour inspired me with his ambition to change Mississippi for the better, and I decided to run for state treasurer in 2003. I wanted to be part of a team focused on improving our state by creating a business-friendly environment where job creators can thrive and grow successful companies. Thanks to the efforts of a very understanding wife and thousands of dedicated volunteers, I was elected in 2003 as Mississippi’s first Republican treasurer and was re-elected in 2007 with 61 percent of the vote. Now I seek to bring new energy, fresh ideas, conservative management and financial know-how to the legislative branch as our next lieutenant governor. During seven years as state treasurer, I’ve worked hard to reform the way our state borrows money to save taxpayers millions in interest payments, reduce our debt burden, protect our credit rating and ensure that our state is investing in

our future in the most fiscally responsible ways possible. I believe our next lieutenant governor should be someone who has executive leadership and a proven record of fighting to protect the best interests of taxpayers. There are still people in Jackson who want government to spend more, borrow more and tax more. Some of them believe government is the answer to every problem and that government can better spend your money than you can. They have power in both parties, and they don’t really care whether a Republican or a Democrat wins as long as it’s an insider who’s accustomed to the ways of the legislature. I believe we need an outsider as lieutenant governor, someone who will serve as a watchdog for taxpayers and a conservative money manager who will fight for every penny of savings we can find. I’ve been your watchdog as state treasurer, and I hope to have your support to continue that role as lieutenant governor. Our faith and values make Mississippi a great place to raise a family. I’m a prolife, pro-Second Amendment conservative who will lead our state into a brighter future. Please take time to learn more about my record by visiting my Website at www.TateReeves.com. Thank you for your consideration and support.

www.tatereeves.com

July 2011 ■ Today in Mississippi

Impact of June’s heat wave will turn up in July’s energy bills ir conditioners, refrigerators and freezers operated furiously to deal with the extreme heat wave that smothered Mississippi last month. Record-breaking temperatures were reported across the state, as a stubborn highpressure weather system parked over the Southeast, blocking cooling rains. At this writing, there’s no relief in sight. Sweltering, humid days in July and August are just a fact of life in Mississippi. Your electric bill will reflect this spike in your electricity use due to extreme temperatures, so please prepare for the possibility of a higher-than-normal bill. In the meantime, I encourage you to take a look around your home to see how you can curtail your electricity use. Do you really need that second refrigerator or freezer chugging away in the garage? Can you turn your thermostat up a few degrees and wash clothes only in cold water? Have you changed your air conditioner’s filter lately? How about using a clothesline instead of the dryer a few times a month? These are a few simple, low- and no-cost ideas that will help reduce your energy consumption. The people at your electric power association will be happy to help you find other ways to save, so please give them a call. ••• Many Mississippians are still struggling to recover from the devastating floods and tornadoes. Restoration of electric service is a major step in their recovery, so we are doing everything in our power to make sure they get electric service as soon as their meter can safely receive it. If you or someone you know has sustained

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Our Homeplace

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

flood damage, please report it to FEMA by calling (800) 621-3362. ••• In this issue, you will meet two candidates vying to become Mississippi’s next lieutenant governor. Today in Mississippi invited District 49 Senator Billy Hewes and State Treasurer Tate Reeves to submit brief comments on their candidacy (see page 2). These Republican candidates will face each other in the Aug. 2 primary election; the winner will appear on the general election ballot Nov. 8. Since these two are the only majority-party candidates for the post, the winner of the primary will face little opposition in November. This is an important year for Mississippi voters, with all state offices being up for election. You can get a list of all the 2011 qualifying candidates for state office at the secretary of state’s Website, www.sos.ms.gov. (Click on Elections and then Candidates and Lobbyists Center.) What better time than Independence Day to resolve to learn about all the candidates so you can make informed choices in August and November. We wish you and your family a fun, safe and meaningful Fourth of July holiday! May God continue to bless our country and our freedom.

On the cover

Today in Mississippi

David Lee, a member of Pontotoc Electric Power Association, composed this stunning portrait of an Elegant Candy daylily as a moth rested on a petal. See more reader photos of Mississippi’s lush life in Picture This, on pages 18-19.

OFFICERS

Our next Picture This feature will showcase photos by kids up to age 18. Find details on page 22.

Vol. 64 No. 7

The Official Publication of the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi

EDITORIAL OFFICE & ADVERTISING Today in Mississippi (ISSN 1052-2433) is a cooperative newspaper published 601-605-8600 Acceptance of advertising by Today in Mismonthly by Electric Power Associations of Mississippi, Inc., P.O. Box 3300 Ridgesissippi does not imply endorsement of land, MS 39158-3300, or 665 Highland the advertised product or services by the Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, MS 39157. publisher or Mississippi’s Electric Power Phone 601-605-8600. Periodical Associations. Product satisfaction and deEDITORIAL STAFF postage paid at Ridgeland, MS, and adlivery responsibility lie solely with the adMichael Callahan - Executive Vice President/CEO ditional office. The publisher (and/or its vertiser. Ron Stewart - Senior Vice President, Co-op Services • National advertising representative: agent) reserves the right to refuse or Mark Bridges - Manager, Support Services edit all advertising. National Country Market, 800-626-1181 Jay Swindle - Manager, Advertising POSTMASTER: Send address changes Debbie H. Stringer - Editor Circulation of this issue: 452,326 to: Today, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS Abby Berry - Communications Specialist Non-member subscription price: $9.50 per year 39158-3300 Rickey McMillan - Graphics Specialist Visit us at: Linda Hutcherson - Administrative Assistant

Ronnie Robertson - President Darrell Smith - First Vice President Kevin Doddridge - Second Vice President Brad Robison - Secretary/Treasurer

www.todayinmississippi.com

Ship Island is a great place to fling yourself (and your cares) into the Gulf’s gentle surf. One of Mississippi’s most popular and enduring attractions, Ship Island is a part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Get details at www.msshipisland.com.

Mississippi is . . . . . . the heart of me, my beginning, The place where the wheels of life started spinning, Walking country roads, laughing with my sister As we popped shiny bubbles where the hot tar would blister. It’s Daddy’s fields of watermelon and sweet sugarcane, Splashing in mud puddles after a steamy summer rain, A trip to the Gulf Coast for a flounder gig, Pulling nets full of crabs from the Bay St. Louis bridge. It is catfish, crawfish, French bread and hot sauce, Magnolias, pines, old oak trees hanging full of moss, Picking juicy blackberries from a thorny roadside thicket, Homemade molasses in one of Mama’s buttermilk biscuits. It is figs, satsumas, mayhaw jelly and delicious summer fruits. Mississippi is cherished memories, my family and my roots. — Sheryl Whitfield Freeman, Centerton, Ark. I grew up in Eupora and left to be with my Navy husband in 1955. After spending most of my working years in San Diego, San Pablo and Pinole, Calif., I returned to Mississippi to live in 1990. It has been great to be with family and old friends again. The spirit of caring concern for others and the generosity for those less fortunate has impressed me beyond the imagination. The Christian philosophy of “When you did it to the least of these, my brethren, ye have done it unto me” is seen at every turn. God bless the wonderful people of Mississippi! — Donnie Pollan Hammack,West Point

What’s Mississippi to you? Each month in this space, we feature readers’ personal reflections on what “Mississippi is.” We’d love to hear from you. Please keep your comments brief and send them to Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158, or e-mail them to news@epaofms.com. Submissions are subject to editing.

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Today in Mississippi

HISTORY ■

July 2011

PICTURING

By Debbie Stringer “It was the desire of the developFrom a prehistoric Native Ameriment committee for the murals to can settlement to the Miss Mississtimulate development along the sippi pageant, Vicksburg’s history water front. It has done exactly and culture are showcased in murals that,” said Bill Seratt, executive dithat transform a concrete floodwall rector of the Vicksburg Convention into block-long art gallery. and Visitors Bureau. The Vicksburg Riverfront Murals Since the mural project began, site comprises 32 hand-painted muthe city has added the Children’s rals, most measuring 14 by 24 feet. Art Park and splash fountain at They depict events, people and comCatfish Row, located across the merce significant to the city’s history street from the murals, and last year and development as a port on the an expansive playground was comMississippi River. pleted. Lafayette, La., mural painter Work is under way nearby on a Robert Dafford and his team of transportation museum in the artists created the murals. Local resiLevee Street Depot, set to open in dents housed and fed the artists while early 2012, and on the Lower Misthey worked six years on the paintsissippi River Interpretive Center, a ings, mostly during the winter $27 million U.S. Army Corps of months. Engineers project scheduled to The murals are based on historical open in the spring of 2012. The Vicksburg Riverfront Murals transform a floodwall into an art gallery, with history as its focus. At left, a messenger informs photographs provided by local resiThe Vicksburg Riverfront Murals dents. A plaque mounted in front of Jefferson Davis, pictured at his home south of Vicksburg, that he has been elected president of the Confederate States of America. are located on Levee Street. For deeach mural provides background de- “People are amazed at the clarity and detail displayed in the paintings,” said Bill Seratt, of the Vicksburg Convention and Visitors tails and images of each mural, visit Bureau. tails about the subject matter. www.riverfrontmurals.com. The Organizations, businesses and famVicksburg annual Independence Day Vicksburg residents who conceived and coor“We got the idea from a floodwall in Padilies funded most of the murals. celebration, with live music and fireworks, will dinated the project, beginning in October ucah (Ken.) that was done by the Nellie Caldwell chaired the committee of be held July 4 along the waterfront. 2001. same artist,” Caldwell said.

Vicksburg erected an arch of cotton bales, above, for President William McKinley’s visit in 1901, the subject of this mural. “The Blues Are the Roots, the Rest Are the Fruits,” at right, pays tribute to Vicksburg native Willie Dixon, a musician and songwriter who helped define the blues and rock-and-roll.

July 2011

A detail from the “War Between the States” mural depicts a naval battle at Vicksburg, above. Union troops lay siege to the city from May 17 until its surrender on July 4, 1863. At left, a detail from “The Nation’s Most Destructive Flood (1927)” shows volunteers helping displaced victims in a refugee camp in Vicksburg.

“Methodism and the Founding of Vicksburg,” above right, is a tribute to Methodists’ formative role in the area. “Washington Street: Vicksburg’s Commercial Center,” above, depicts a busy 1912 street scene with a trolley, a wide variety of retailers and the distant Yazoo Canal.

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Today in Mississippi

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Today in Mississippi ■ July 2011

Mississippi

Lamar County Bluegrass Festival July 22-23, 2011

Fairs & Festivals MAKE PLANS TO ENJOY MISSISSIPPI’S TOP ATTRACTIONS

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Sept. 9-11, 2011 Holly Springs, Mississippi ●

Hummingbird Banding Live Animal Shows & Bird Experts ● Doug Tallamy, author of Bringing Nature Home ● Antebellum Davis Home ● Nature Vendors & Artisans ● Native Plant Sale ● Guided Nature Walks & Wagon Rides ●

Car show • Camel rides • Food • Arts and Crafts Bungee jump • Waterwalk Largest Watermelon contest Watermelon eating contest

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July 22 thru July 29, 2011 Highway 21, 8 miles southwest of Philadelphia

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STEEL MAGNOLIA Tuesday, July 26 - 8:00pm

RODNEY ATKINS Wednesday, July 27 - 8:00pm

NEAL MCCOY Thursday, July 28 - 8:00pm

JOHN MICHAEL MONTGOMERY Friday, July 29 - 8:00pm

July 2011 ■ Today in Mississippi ■ 7

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Today in Mississippi ■ July 2011

Landowner preserves mysterious rocks e finally got to make our long-planned excursion out to a wooded hilltop southwest of Louisville a few days ago. I made the remark to Mr. Webb Pruitt Lee, owner of the land, that it hardly seemed possible we got rained out the first few times we tried to come here. At first glance, what we went to see hardly seemed worth the effort. Just a couple of hefty rocks standing upright on their ends and another lying flat in the grass. Spindly pine saplings were beginning to close in the little clearing where the rocks have been for no telling how long. But these rocks are more than just rocks. They are the subject of an ancient legend that I had never heard before, or even heard of before. Ken Spellman mentioned the rocks to me when I was in Louisville doing a story about the Fire Engine Museum. He just off-handedly asked me if I’d like to go out and see Indian Head Rock sometime. Sounded interesting. So he contacted Mr. Lee and we set and canceled many dates over the winter because of rain. But the other day was perfect for driving back into the woods. No danger of getting stuck anywhere this summer so far. Past the gate off the county road, the land gradually rises to a pretty good height. Mr. Lee says the hill used to be a lot higher. But in WPA days, a lot of red dirt was graded from the hill and used in road construction around Winston County. Mr. Lee says back when he was a boy, you could stand atop that hill at night and see the lights of not only nearby Louisville, but Philadelphia and Noxapater and even as far away as Kosciusko. The first time he saw the hill was when his family moved to Winston County out of the Delta after the flood of 1927. At the top of this hill at that time were five similar sized rocks, about 3 or 4 feet high, all spaced evenly standing on end straight in a row. Over time he heard the legend of Chief Chickamawcaw in association with these rocks. Chickamawcaw had chased the ancestors of the Choctaws and finally

caught up with them at this hilltop. According to the legend, he gave the Choctaws the choice to return as slaves or fight to the finish at dawn the next morning. Even thought badly outnumbered, the Choctaws chose to fight and they prayed all night for deliverance. As the sun rose the next morning and war cries went up from Chickamawcaw and his Mississippi band, suddenly the Seen earth opened up and swallowed the by Walt Grayson Chief and his leading warriors, leaving the Choctaws safe. After eons of erosion, these rocks appeared and are supposed to be the petrified remains of Chief Chickamawcaw. There are only three of the rocks still at the site. All of them were bulldozed down the hillside back when they were getting dirt from here. Mr. Lee took some big tractors and managed to pull

Mr. Webb Pruitt Lee takes a seat beside the biggest stone at Indian Head Rock and proceeds to tell story after story, from the 1927 flood to being shot down in a B-17 in World War II. He, as well as I, was most fascinated trying to puzzle out why these rocks are here and where they might have come from. Photo: Walt Grayson

four back up to the top. One is still out I like them because after all these years in the woods somewhere. Another was of chasing stories around Mississippi, I stolen recently. still get to run into places and legends I am pretty certain the stones are not that are brand new to me. the petrified remains of anyone. But they Walt Grayson is the host of “Mississippi Roads” on could be an important ancient archeolog- Mississippi Public Broadcasting television and the auical site. Whoever put them here wanted thor of two “Looking Around Mississippi” books and them here really badly. They must weight “Oh! That Reminds Me: More Mississippi Homegrown Stories.” a ton each.

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July 2011

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Today in Mississippi

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Today in Mississippi ■ July 2011

The way to a man’s heart no longer through his tummy ere’s a question to ponder: If our economy is in a downhill spiral, according to the media, why do so many fastfood haunts and restaurants have people waiting in line to get served? Pick any night of the week in Lucedale or towns the size of Mobile, Hattiesburg or Jackson, then drive by their restaurants. What do you see? The eateries’ parking lots are overflowing. Are we drowning our economy’s problems in vats of grease, or have we gotten lazy? Our home schooled cooks who are steeped in family recipes have slyly retreated. In our recent past young wives were taught the basics of homemaking: first was cooking, then cleaning, ironing and “Honey, can I get you anything else?” Cooking came natural for some, especially if they enjoyed creating meals

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everyone liked. They established the reputation of “good cook.” Housecleaning is another story. As for me, I like my house clean (who doesn’t) but I don’t like it squeaky clean above writing, entertaining grandchildren, shopping, jogging, Grin ‘n’ playing bridge, Bare It reading and the trillion other available fun activities. As for ironing, I despise it but I do iron if wrinkles are conspicuous. I’ll tackle the subject “Honey, can I get you anything else?” in another column. I don’t want to think that applies to me, yet it probably does. Today my mind’s on cooking and eating away from home. At this moment as I write, the sun is going down and a meal is due on our table. My best customer is looking inside the refrigerator, opening pantry doors and closing them with a nosier bonk than normal. This is the place when many wives or husbands say, “Let’s go out for dinner.” And this is also the place when wives or husbands say, “Sounds good to me. Do you want fast food or a put-your-shirt-and-shoes-on restaurant?” I suppose I’ve fallen behind the times. I still cook. One of the many things that has

changed in our culture is the empty kitchen syndrome. In some cases cooking is unbearable if we’re ill, exhausted to the max or just plain too old to cook. No, ma’am! That’s not the syndrome I have in mind. It’s the empty kitchen syndrome equipped with the following excuses: been there done that; I don’t won’t to cook; I’m out of the habit of cooking; the kids are gone so why cook for just me and my husband; I don’t like the taste of anything I cook anymore; it’s cheaper to eat out. These are the most used and beloved excuses. Notice that people built and build houses with fabulous up-to-the-minute kitchens, but the kitchens still sparkle like new 10 years later. Don’t misunderstand. I’m not saying eating out is a negative activity. It’s simply another way our culture has changed over the years. I really enjoy eating at different restaurants and sampling their cuisines. I could easily add that habit to my other habits in a Mississippi minute. But I love to cook, so my kitchen isn’t empty—it’s got dishes stacked to the ceiling. My best customer is reading over my

shoulder. He said, “If we ate out more often, think of all the extra time you’d have to fold clothes, vacuum under furniture and iron conspicuous wrinkles out of my shirts.” He made the side effects of eating out sound so dismal that I went straight to the kitchen and made a chicken casserole, boiled corn and fried okra. 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.

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July 2011 ■ Today in Mississippi

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Life just may not get any better than this! t is July in the Southeast. One thing that can be considered a given during this time and in this area is sweltering heat. Perhaps even drought. If June was a reliable indicator, it is safe to say that July will be anything but pleasant when it comes to weather conditions. Makes you want to stay near the AC. But if you can pry yourself loose from the more controlled environment found inside, a simple pleasure waits along the creek banks. Creek-bank fishing is an exercise that was practiced regularly in days past. And while there are those who do it today, the numbers have dwindled. Seems that fishing now equates to big lakes and powerful boats and high-tech rods and reels. There is nothing wrong with this, but to cling tenaciously to such gear and locales precludes some potentially superb fishing action. Finding a creek or other small stream is no chore Mississippi at all; these are Outdoors scattered throughby Tony Kinton out the state. And regardless of their pedestrian appearance, most of these, some little more than diminutive trickles, are loaded with fish. Kentucky and largemouth bass, bluegill, longear (commonly known as redbellies), and the ubiquitous catfish are present in good supply. Just yesterday, as this is written, my friend Neal and I visited such a creek in our area. We arrived there shortly after daylight and stopped

fishing just before 11:00, this dictated by other responsibilities and the heat index. We left the stream with 25 fish in our coolers, and these covered a variety of species: Kentucky bass, largemouth, longear, bluegill, channel cat. Neal even coaxed in a dandy flathead cat caught on a worm and cane pole. If there is a negative side to creek fishing it is actually getting to those good areas. Public access is often limited, and those spots where access is present are seldom the best places to fish. The angler needs often to go up or down from there. And therein rests the difficulty. Streams such as those mentioned here will more times than not be low. Additionally, they will be cluttered with downed timber. Running a motorized boat in these is not an option. One solution is to use a canoe or kayak. Either of these can be pulled over or around the tangles, and either affords a means by which to navigate those deeper holes that will be encountered along the way. Another ploy is to wade. This works wonderfully well in many places, but there will likely be spots here and there that are too deep to wade. Encountering these impedes moving past them. And keep in mind when wade fishing that most lands along streams are privately owned. Leaving the stream and going around a hole can lead to trespass. Always exercise respect in such situations. There is some element of danger in all fishing. While wading, stumbling on or becoming tangled in logs and debris can lead to a most unpleasant situation. And you may encounter old limb hooks or trotlines left over form times when the water was high and boats could enter the

area. Stay on the alert. And watch for snakes. Cottonmouths can be nasty, ill-tempered critters. Keep an eye out for them and stay clear. Fishing gear? For the most part, simple is better. A cane pole with six- to eight-pound line and a No. 6 hook, small split shot and tiny bobber will handle most chores. But take along a tackle box with replacements for all these. You will surely break some off. Worms or crickets are the perfect bait. If bass are the primary target, few things will beat a casting or spinning rig with 12-pound line and a white-skirted spinnerbait. And take a good collection of these as well. You’ll lose them regularly. How to fish? Drop a line down beside every tree or cypress knee and into every speck of cover you encounter. Don’t miss those dark spots along the banks. For Kentucky bass, hit those areas just below any fast water that pours over a shallow or around a timber tangle. The fish are there.

The longear (redbelly) is a handsome fish that inhabits most streams in the Southeast. They seldom grow larger than hand size, but are purely grand on the end of a cane pole. Photo: Tony Kinton

And please, if you don’t want them for a fish fry, treat all fish gently and ease them back into the water immediately after the catch. Enjoy!

Tony Kinton has been an active outdoors writer for 30 years. His books, “Outside and Other Reflections” and “Fishing Mississippi,” are available through local bookstores or from the author at P.O. Box 88, Carthage, MS 39051. Price is $25 each.

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12 ■ Today in Mississippi ■ July 2011

Where our members have the power

CEO’s message

Kiln facility now open Members, I am very pleased to tell you that our headquarters facility in Kiln is open for business. Our new facility opened in June and we hope to see you all at our ribbon cutting and open house on July 27. Since late 2005, many employees have been working in trailers obtained from the city of Bay St. Louis after Hurricane Katrina. While the trailers were a good temporary solution, we are proud to be in a permanent structure in Kiln. The ribbon cutting for our former headquarters in Bay St. Robert Occhi Louis was held in 1971. That facility served us well for several decades and now serves the people of Hancock County as a government building. However, the number of members we serve and the number of employees it takes to pro-

vide service to those members has greatly increased over the years. It became obvious that at some point, our facilities would have to expand to accommodate our growth. Katrina was a catalyst as well and emphasized our need for a centralized headquarters in the northern part of the county. I think you will find the expanded space and memberfriendly features in the new building enhance your experience with us. We thank all of you for your patience as we served you from temporary facilities over the past few years and hope you will join us at the open house to celebrate our new headquarters. We know this building will serve us and you, our members, for many years to come.

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

Employee Spotlight This month’s spotlight is on Human Resources Representative Kim Phillips. Kim has been a full-time employee with the company since 2007, but spent several years prior to that working as a co-op student. Kim’s role as a member of the HR department includes completing administrative duties for the department and assisting in the company’s learning and performance programs. Kim also trains employees how to use various softKim Phillips ware programs. Kim’s dedication to training her fellow employees makes her a great asset to the Coast Electric team. Her job ensures employees are skilled and happy workers who provide exceptional service to members. Coast Electric commends Kim for her service to her co-workers and members. We want you to get to know Coast Electric’s employees. The men and women we feature each month are your neighbors, your friends and the people behind our promise to bring you the most reliable, affordable electric service possible. These employees take pride in serving you, our members, and we honor them for the job they do.

Stay in the know...

Coast Electric’s offices will be closed for

Independence Day on Monday, July 4. Dispatchers will remain on duty at all times.

Call 877-769-2372 to report outages. The employees of Coast Electric wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday!

If you want the latest information about restoration and safety information after storms, you can visit www.coastepa.com, follow @coastelectric on Twitter or like us on Facebook.

July 2011 ■ Today in Mississippi

Q&A

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QUESTIONS

ANSWERS

This month’s question is answered by Residential Energy Representative Clay Sweet.

Q: How can I use Coast Electric’s website to help manage my energy consumption? A: Coast Electric’s website has a lot of great tools that can help you be more energy efficient. When you visit coastepa.com, you will see a number of quick links on the right side of the home page. The HomeEnergySuite link gives you a variety of things to compare and study. For example, you can see the cost of running appliances for certain amounts of time or learn about the differences in energy consumption between an air-tight home as compared to a home with leaks around window and doors. The site can also help you make an informed decision about heating and cooling systems for your home by comparing the efficiency of heat pumps based on SEER ratings. You can show your kids how much it costs to keep the television running or see how much you can save by installing a programmable thermostat.

You can also access information about building your home, or making certain upgrades to your existing home, to meet the high standards of our Comfort Advantage energy efficient home program. Contact information is also provided online for our energy management representatives so you can call them to help you with your home construction or give you tips about how you can save. Whatever your questions are about energy efficiency, coastepa.com is a great place to start. Our website has a wealth of knowledge on energy efficiency from ceiling fans to water pumps. The website can be used in a lot of different ways to improve your experience as a member of Coast Electric. I encourage you visit coastepa.com and enjoy the benefits.

ENERGY efficiency tip Consider using solar lights for outdoor lighting. Solar cells convert sunlight into electricity that can be stored in a battery and tapped at night to make light. Check manufacturers’ instructions to make sure your solar lights are situated to receive sufficient sunlight to recharge each day. Source: Touchstone Energy Cooperatives

Pearl River County Energy Fairs:

We’re looking out for you! Did you know that as a member of Coast Electric, you are an owner of the cooperative? It’s true. If you receive service from Coast Electric, you are a member and owner of the company. And we look out for our members. One of the ways we do this is by providing you access to our residential energy management experts. Their invaluable advice can help you learn how to manage your energy use and make improvements to your home that can help you save on your bill. Of course, you are always welcome to stop by and talk to our experts and call or email them, but we encourage you to come to our energy fairs that will give you access to all of our experts.

What: Second Annual Energy Fair When and Where: Coast Electric’s Poplarville office on Hwy. 53 on Tuesday, July 5, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Coast Electric’s Picayune office on Hwy. 11 on Thursday, July 7, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Why: Because we’re looking out for you. We want to work with you to manage your energy use and save!

Coast Electric Headquarters Ribbon Cutting and Open House The employees and the board of directors of Coast Electric Power Association cordially invite you to a ribbon cutting and open house for the new headquarters facility in Kiln.

Wednesday, July 27, at 10 a.m.

12b ■ Today in Mississippi ■ July 2011

What do the Declaration of Independence and electric cooperatives have in common?

When Benjamin Franklin signed the Declaration of Independence, he is credited with saying, “We must, indeed, all hang together, or most assuredly we shall all hang separately.” That recognition of the need to work together may also be why Franklin, in 1752, founded the first successful cooperative in the United States, the Philadelphia Contributionship for the Insurance of Houses from Loss by Fire, which still operates today. The principles behind the Declara-

tion of Independence that form the basis of American democracy also form the basis of cooperatives. A cooperative is owned and democratically controlled by the people who use its services. Each member has one vote regardless of their stake; that is, some members cannot buy more control than anyone else. This stands in stark contrast to investorowned businesses where only shareholders have a vote in how the business is run; and even among shareholders, some have more votes than others de-

pending on their shares of stock. The Declaration of Independence declared the equality of rights of its citizens and that people had the right to organize to secure their futures when their rights were infringed upon. At the time the Declaration was written, democracy was a pretty untested idea — but the founders of our country were determined to make it work. So when you celebrate the many liberties and rights we enjoy with our families and friends this year, think about

those principles that inspired our Founding Fathers. They also inspired the pioneers who established electric cooperatives — folks who were determined to provide safe, reliable and affordable power to secure the futures of rural communities. Coast Electric has always operated under the principles of democracy, and we are dedicated to fulfilling that promise as we serve members today and in the future.

July 2011 ■ Today in Mississippi

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There are so many fun activities for families in our area all year long, but holidays are extra special with so many awesome opportunities to celebrate! Check out some of these events in our area and plan your long weekend of fun and fireworks! Fireworks from about the Biloxi Shrimping Trip Date(s): 07/04/2011 Times: 8 p.m.-10 p.m. Location: Biloxi Small Craft Harbor, Highway 90, Biloxi Contact: Brandy Moore - Event Coordinator Phone: 228-392-8645 Admission: Reservations Required - Call for tickets! Seating limited. Visit www.biloxishrimpingtrip.com Watch all the festivities aboard the “BEST” seat in town sailing on the Biloxi Shrimping Trip! Bring food and refreshments! Reservations required - reservations will be held with a credit card, cash or check! Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Zing Zang Zoom! Date(s): 06/30/2011 - 07/04/2011 Times: Thursday & Friday 7 p.m., Saturday 3 p.m. & 7 p.m., Sunday & Monday at 2 p.m.! Location: MS Coast Coliseum, 2350 Beach Blvd, Biloxi Phone: (800) 726-2781 or (228) 594-3700 Admission: Call for tickets! Visit www.mscoastcoliseum.com Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, in honor of America's independence, is bringing a special All-American edition of the The Greatest Show On Earth® to the greatest beaches in the world for an awe-inspiring Fourth of July weekend extravaganza! To celebrate families, fun and freedom over the 4th of July weekend, all tickets are $17.76 for every performance for the first time ever to celebrate America's independence! 27th Annual Our Lady of the Gulf Crab Festival Date(s): 07/01/2011 - 07/03/2011 Times: 11 a.m.- 11 p.m. Daily Location: Our Lady of the Gulf Church Grounds, Beach 228 South Beach, Bay St. Louis Contact: Kathleen LeBlanc - Our Lady Gulf Church Phone: 228-467-6509 Visit www.olgchurch.net/crab.html Crab Fest is one of the biggest outdoor festivals on the Coast. Loads of arts and crafts booths, great jewelry deals, amazing candles, great clothes and then, of course, food! This festival features rides and other attractions, as well as cotton candy, live music and plenty of seafood! 63rd Annual Mississippi Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Date(s): 07/01/2011 - 07/04/2011 Times: Gates open at 12 Noon Location: Long Beach Harbor, Hwy. 90, Long Beach Contact: Richie Valdez - Event Coordinator Phone: 228-863-2713 Admission: Admission Charged Visit www.mississippideepseafishingrodeo.com Billed as the largest family friendly fishing rodeo in the world, this successful yearly event includes fun for the entire family. The event features fireworks, fishing, fellowship, vendors, and FUN! Contestants fish the Gulf waters for days,

competing for cash and prizes in 30 categories of both saltwater and freshwater fish. In previous years, records for tuna, shark and flounder have been broken at the Mississippi Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo. The fishing rodeo attracts an average of 50,000 people every year, and even made the cover of Sports Illustrated! *Awarded Southeast Tourism Society (STS) Top 20 Event 2008, 2010 and 2011! 2nd Annual Diamondhead 4th of July Boat Parade Date(s): 07/02/2011 Times: Festivities start at 5:30 p.m. Location: Diamondhead Marina, Exit 16 South I-10 - Behind Hula's Restaurant Contact: Ray Sheehy - Event Coordinator Phone: 228-255-6922 Admission: Spectators Free Lighted and eleborately decorated boats parade in the spirit of Independence Day! Don't miss the spectacular display! Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and enjoy the festivities. 4th Annual Clermont Harbor 4th of July Parade Date(s): 07/02/2011 Times: Parade starts at 2 p.m. Location: Clermont Harbor Phone: 228-466-5884 Admission: Spectators Free Parade, food and live music! Parade route starts at Clermont Blvd. and Railroad Ave. and ends at Forrest Blvd. Ocean Springs 4th of July Festivities Date(s): 07/03/2011 Times: 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Location: Fort Maurepas Park, Front Beach - Ocean Springs Contact: Geri Straight - Parks & Recreation Phone: 228-875-8665 Visit http://ci.ocean-springs.ms.us/parks-leisure/ Lots of family fun including volleyball, live music by Autumn Rising and Jeff Bates, and fireworks to end the evening! 5th Annual July 4th Coast Watchers Convoy Date(s): 07/04/2011 Times: Parade starts at 10 a.m. Location: Begins at Long Beach Harbor, Highway 90 Contact: Kevin Kuehling - Event Coordinator Phone: 228-832-9299 Admission: Free Visit www.coastwatchers.org The Mississippi Coast Watchers group shows its pride for the United States and its military with a convoy of classic and current vehicles. The group is named after the original military and civilian volunteers who watched the shores along the Coast for enemy ships and planes during WWII. This is a moving patriotic event. Come out and show your spirit! Army Band Independence Day Celebration Concert Date(s): 07/04/2011 Times: 10 a.m.–11 a.m.

Location: Mary C. Cultural Center of Arts & Education, 1600 Government Street, Ocean Springs, Contact: Eric Zala - Executive Director Phone: 228-818-2878 Admission: Free Visit www.themaryc.org Come hear the most patriot music performed by the most patriotic group of people. Feel proud and patriotic listening to this wonderful music! Biloxi 4th of July Fireworks Display Date(s): 07/04/2011 Times: 9 p.m. Location: Biloxi Small Craft Harbor, Hwy. 90, Biloxi Contact: Rusty David - Event Coordinator Phone: 228-617-3112 Visit www.biloxi.ms.us/cityatwork/cityatworkdetail. asp?ID=1382 Huge annual Fireworks Display over the Mississippi Sound. Fireworks shot from Deer Island. Hosted by the City of Biloxi. Gulfport 4th of July Fireworks Date(s): 07/04/2011 Times: Fireworks begin at 8:45 p.m. Location: Gulfport Harbor, Hwy. 90, Gulfport Phone: 228-831-0701 Celebrate Independence Day with huge fireworks display. Hosted by the City of Gulfport - Leisure Services Department. Pascagoula 4th of July Celebration Date(s): 07/04/2011 Times: Festivities begin at 7:30 p.m. - Fireworks @ 9 p.m. Location: Beach Park, Pascagoula Contact: Ann Burgo Phone: 228-938-2356 Come celebrate our nation's history with this family event in the park, featuring a gigantic fireworks display orchestrated to music! Hosted by the City of Pascagoula. Chamber Trade Days Date(s): 07/02/2011 Times: 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. Location: Around the Chamber office at 201 Hwy. 11 N in downtown Picayune Contact (for space rental): Toni Byrd Phone: 601-798-3122 The Greater Picayune Area Chamber of Commerce First Saturday "Trade Days" are held on the first Saturday of every month in downtown Picayune. Vendors offer such items as antiques, collectibles, garage sale items, specialty bake goods, arts and crafts, plants, and more. (In case of inclement weather, Trade Days is postponed to the second Saturday of the month.) Come by and shop. You never know what bargains you might find!

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12d ■ Today in Mississippi ■ July 2011

Meet Coast Electric’s HR Department:

What do they do? When most people think of electric utility employees, they think of the men and women who climb the poles and maintain and repair the lines. Of course, the linemen and service men who take on those challenging jobs are the backbone of operations for a co-op, but did you know that there are hundreds of other employees who work hard to ensure Coast Electric members receive exceptional service too? It takes a whole network of people with different areas of expertise and knowledge to bring power to your homes. This year, we want to introduce you to some of the men and women who have the privilege of serving you, our members. This month, our focus is on the Human Resources department. You might think that an HR department only affects internal customers – employees – but they actually play a big role in keeping Coast Electric members satisfied. It all starts with recruitment. The HR department is responsible for recruiting new employees when a position is available. This is a very important process, as the HR team works to ensure that new employees will be a good fit for the company and that new hires have the skills needed to perform the available job. When an applicant is hired, you might think the job of an HR employee is complete; actually, it is just beginning. Each year, Coast Electric’s HR department uses data from member satisfaction surveys and from employee reviews to determine the cooperative’s education

and training needs. If members say they want a particular improvement in member service, HR employees work to train employees to make that improvement. If a supervisor believes an employee may benefit from technical Donnie Bond, Learning and PerCindy Burnett, Benefits Coordinatraining, HR works to provide the training. In formance Specialist. tor. Employee since 2003. Employee since 2007. fact, a member service standards committee has been put in place to continually measure the effectiveness of programs and processes. So, what does this mean for the members of Coast Electric? • It means the employees working for you are highly skilled and trained to do their jobs. • It means that we listen to your voice if you think an improvement is needed. • It means that employees are happy and that turn-over is low. (Less than 2 percent a year, and usually much lower.) Turn-over is very expensive so this helps keep costs down. Coast Electric was once again honored as one of The Kim Phillips, Human Resources Rep- Marilyn Sefton, Vice President of Human Resources. Employee resentative. Full time employee Best Places to Work in Mississippi by the Missince 1988. since 2007. sissippi Business Journal. The award is designated to employers after employees are surveyed about their satisfaction with all aspects of em- partment at Coast Electric plays an essential role in making sure employees and members are satisfied. ployment. The bottom line? Happy, well trained employees mean better service and happier members. The HR de-

Give your home’s energy use a vacation when you’re on vacation Going on vacation? Even if you plan to be away just a few days, you can save energy in your home when you travel. Here’s a tip from Coast Electric that can give your utility bill a break when you take a break. • Water heater. Turn down the temperature so it doesn’t keep the water warm while you are away, or talk to an energy expert at Coast Electric about turning off the water heater. • Thermostat. During hot weather, turn up the thermostat on your air conditioning system. That way, you’ll save energy while ensuring that your home doesn’t get too warm. • Refrigerator. Depending on the food stored in your fridge, you may be able to turn the thermostat as high as 38 degrees without risking spoilage. Storing water-filled bottles in your refrigerator can prevent temperature fluctuations, which will save

energy. Food in the freezer compartment will stay frozen if the temperature remains at minus 5 degrees. • Lights. Turn off all lights in your home. You may want to install timers on one or two lights for security. • Electronics. Unless you’re recording something while away, unplug all of your electronic devices — computer, monitor and printer, TV and cable boxes, DVD player, microwave, and digital clocks. Any electronics with digital displays, instant-on features, or remote controls will consume energy even if they’re not in use. For other tips on how to save energy — and money — visit www.TogetherWeSave.com or call the efficiency experts at Coast Electric at 877-7692372.

July 2011 ■ Today in Mississippi

Because we have a Co-op Connections® membership card, we save on everyday purchases and services. Our family even saves 10 to 60 percent off prescriptions at our participating local pharmacy. It’s just one more way we benefit from being members of a Touchstone Energy® cooperative. Coast Electric’s member-owners have saved over 1.5 million dollars on more than 111,700 prescriptions. It saves you money and costs you nothing. Flash your card to save on everyday purchases and prescriptions. To learn more, visit www.coastepa.com .

Pharmacy discounts are not insurance and are not intended as a substitute for insurance

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July 2011

Italian New Potatoes

Mississippi

Cooks

Any Body Can Cook in a Crock-Pot FEATURED COOKBOOK:

e slow cooker is an ideal way to cook in hot weather. It doesn’t heat up the kitchen or the cook, it uses little energy and it simmers supper while you do something more important, like napping in the

hammock. If these beneﬁts alone can’t convince you to pull out the slow cooker, a new cookbook from Debbie ornton will. e Flowood resident is known for her

“blonde” series of cookbooks featuring easy-to-make recipes presented with blonde humor in a step-by-step format and large print “because I am at that age,” she writes. e recipes in ornton’s latest cookbook, “Any Body Can Cook in a Crock-Pot: Slow Cooking Your Way to Heaven,” are accompanied by scripture in place of her usual self-deprecating blonde jokes. orton shares her faith and her journey to that faith, as well as her own blonde interpretations of scripture. ornton’s slow cooker recipes are simple and call for common pantry items—just the thing for busy cooks. Recipe instructions are easy enough for the beginning cook to understand. Her previous cookbooks include “Any Blondette Can Do It! Cooking From A to Z with A.D.D.” and “Any Blonde Can Cook: Two Hundred 69 Ways to a Man’s Heart.” All are available in stores. For information, visit www.anotherblondemoment.com.

Brownie Pudding Cake 1/2 cup brown sugar 3/4 cup water 2 Tbsp. cocoa 2 1/2 cups brownie mix (half a box) 1 egg, beaten

1/4 cup peanut butter 1 Tbsp. margarine, softened 1/4 cup water 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Boil ﬁrst 3 ingredients in a pot. Combine remaining ingredients in a bowl. Mix well. Pour brownie mixture into a slow cooker prepared with cooking spray. Pour boiled mixture over brownie mixture. Cover. Cook on high for 2 hours. Turn heat oﬀ. Let stand.

4 Tbsp. olive oil 24 small new red potatoes, unpeeled 2 envelopes zesty Italian dressing mix

Pour oil into a plastic bag. Add potatoes. Coat. Add dressing mix. Shake until coated. Pour potatoes into slow cooker. Cover. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.

Pineapple Pork Chops 6 center-cut pork chops 1 (20-oz.) can pineapple chunks, with juice

1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup soy sauce

Combine all ingredients in a large zipper bag. Marinate in refrigerator overnight. Pour all ingredients into slow cooker. Cover. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Serve over rice.

Peach Dessert 2 cups frozen sliced peaches 1 Tbsp. cornstarch 1/2 tsp. vanilla 1/4 cup brown sugar

1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1 (9-oz.) box white cake mix 4 Tbsp. margarine, melted

Spray slow cooker with cooking spray. Layer all ingredients in the slow cooker in the order given. Cover. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.

Jalapeno Mexican Corn 2 eggs, beaten 1 cup sour cream 1/4 cup margarine, melted 1/2 onion, chopped

1 (11-oz.) can Mexi-corn, drained 1 (14-oz.) can cream-style corn 3 Tbsp. diced jalapenos 1 (8-oz.) box corn bread mix

Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Pour into a slow cooker prepared with cooking spray. Mix well. Cover. Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.

Vegetarian Chili 2 Tbsp. olive oil 1 onion, chopped 1 garlic clove, crushed 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces 2 Tbsp. cumin

1 tsp. cayenne pepper 3 (14-oz.) cans crushed tomatoes 1 (10-oz.) bag frozen whole kernel corn 4 (10-oz.) cans black beans, rinsed, drained 2 cups picante sauce

Sauté ﬁrst 7 ingredients in a skillet for 5 minutes. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Mix well. Cover. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.

Today’special S Looking for your favorite recipe from a past issue? Visit us online:

www.todayinmississippi.com

July 2011 ■ Today in Mississippi

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Micro-irrigation helps home gardens thrive o combat the dry conditions creating problems for home gardens and landscapes, many Mississippi gardeners need to water their plants a lot more than usual. Generally, applying 1 to 1 1/2 inches of water per week using overhead sprinklers will leave the root zones of your plants moist enough to encourage optimum growth. This method of watering works for annuals and groundcovers, as well as perennials, shrubs, trees and lawns. We generally water garden plants based on soil moisture; when the soil feels dry, we water thoroughly. But this drench-and-dry method can subject

plants to unseen stresses that have very visual results. Poor watering practices can lead to flowering delays and poor vegetable performance. Southern A much better Gardening approach is to by Dr. Gary Bachman maintain soil moisture with slow and steady watering. Micro-irrigation, also called drip or trickle irrigation, is an easy option to reach this goal. When you keep the root zone moist, plants are not stressed and can use up to 70 percent less water compared with using overhead sprinklers. This makes a

What’s fresh at the

FARMERS MARKET? Micro-irrigation systems, such as this sprinkler watering Telstar dianthus, supply water directly to the soil around the plants. Photo: Gary Bachman

You can enjoy the freshest, most flavorful produce when you buy from Mississippi producers at your local farmers market. Here are some of the offerings available this month:

• Apples • Bell, hot peppers • Blueberries • Butterbeans

• Cantaloupes • Cucumbers • Eggplants • Honey

• Okra • Peaches • Peas • Plums

• Squash • Tomatoes • Watermelons • Zucchini

Fresh ideas: • For a quick and cool Independence Day dessert, fill individual serving bowls with watermelon cubes. Add a dollop of whipped topping and some fresh blueberries. • Toss leftover cooked vegetables with chopped tomatoes, cooked whole-wheat pasta shells and your favorite vinaigrette salad dressing. Sprinkle with feta or Parmesan cheese, if desired, and serve at room temperature. • Combine peeled, chopped cucumbers with halved or quartered cherry tomatoes. Add shelled edamame, cooked and cooled. Add a little salt and toss with Italian, balsamic vinaigrette or other salad dressing. (Note: Look for edamame, or green soybeans, alongside the frozen vegetables at well-stocked grocery stores.) • Buy plain low-fat yogurt and flavor it yourself with fresh berries and other fruit. Top with granola for a tasty, healthful breakfast.

big difference in the monthly water bill. Micro-irrigation systems supply water directly to the soil around the plants through the use of emitters. Emitters regulate the amount of water being applied, usually measured in gallons per hour (gph). Emitter rates vary from 1/2 gph to 10 gph based on the water needs of a particular plant. Micro-irrigation is a very effective method of watering plants in containers. These systems are easy to install. The best way to get started is to buy a starter kit that contains tubing, emitters, timers and tools. Kits are available at most home improvement stores and garden centers, and you can easily add additional tubing and emitters to expand the system. If you have an existing irrigation system using pop-up sprinklers, conversion kits are available to convert these to micro-irrigation. Soaker hoses are another effective method of micro-irrigation. Soaker hoses “sweat” along their entire length, delivering from 1/2 to 3/4 gallon of water per minute for each 100-foot section. Let the soil conditions in your garden or landscape dictate how you water your

plants. Sandy soils drain faster and may require more irrigation. Soils with high clay content will not drain as quickly and need less frequent irrigation. Amend your landscape beds with 3 to 4 inches of good composted organic matter to improve drainage. Adding organic matter slows drainage in sandy soils and increases it in clay soils. Generally, the best time to water is in the early-morning hours when temperatures are cooler and the soil can absorb the water before the heat of the day. Watering during the middle of the day is inefficient as some of the water evaporates before it can do any good. Plants, like people, have preferences, especially concerning water. All gardeners should know when their plants need water and how much to give them. Too much water encourages root rot problems; too little water leaves plants wilted and lifeless. The easiest way to know how much water a plant needs is to read the label that came from the nursery.

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

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Today in Mississippi ■ July 2011

Oh My Gosh, Virginia! a collection of columns from the past 15 years from the popular Today in Mississippi columnist and author of “Grin ‘n’ Bare It” Humorist Kay Grafe of Lucedale shares the fun and follies of everyday life in this collection of columns spanning 15 years. Kay is well known to Today in Mississippi readers for her wit, sentiment and honesty. Kay’s “incident-prone” life serves up lots of laughs—and experiences we all can relate to!

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Send check and order form to: 2142 Fig Farm Road, Lucedale, MS 39452

Join Walt and many other Mississippians as they open their life albums and share their memories in words and photographs. This collection from the readers of Today in Mississippi prompted Walt to pull related tales from his vault of experience, collected while living in and traveling throughout his home state. “Oh! That Reminds Me: More Mississippi Homegrown Stories with Walt Grayson” is sure to become a collector’s item.

ONLY

46.95

EASY ORDERING ONLINE www.todayinmississippi.com Visa • MasterCard Discover accepted

Please send _____ copy (or copies) of “Oh! That Reminds Me: More Mississippi Homegrown Stories” at $46.95 per book (includes sales tax, shipping and handling).

CAUTION Name _____________________________________________________ MEN Mailing Address______________________________________________ City______________________________ State______ AT Zip___________ WORK Make check or money order payable to Today in Mississippi and send to: Mississippi Homegrown Stories ■ P.O. Box 3300 ■ Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300

Signs on poles can be a problem for linemen. Nails or staples attaching signs to poles can cause a lineman to slip or fall when climbing.

CAUTION MEN AT WORK

So please don’t hang signs on utility poles.

Think Safety First!

July 2011

Events Mississippi

We gladly list events of statewide interest, as space allows. Submissions should reach us at least two months prior to the event date and must include a phone number with area code. Mail submissions to Mississippi Events, Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300; fax to (601) 605-8601; or e-mail to news@epaofms.com. All events are subject to change. We recommend calling to confirm dates and times before traveling. For more events and statewide tourism information, go to www.visitmississippi.org.

Olive Branch Farmers Market, Saturdays, July 3-24, Olive Branch. Merchants, live music; 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. Across from DeSoto Co-op. Details: (662) 895-2600; olivebranchms.com. Mississippi Watermelon Festival, July 15-16, Mize. Gospel show, performances by Andy Griggs and Katie Armiger, car show, camel rides, crafts, watermelon-eating contest and more. Admission. Details: (601) 733-2221; www.mswatermelonfestival.com. Ida B. Wells Arts and Crafts Festival and Birthday Celebration, July 15-17, Holly Springs. Arts, crafts, creative dance, music, soul food and history. Eddie L. Smith Multipurpose Center. Banquet 7 p.m. July 16, Hudsonville Life Center. Details: (662) 252-3232; idabwells@bellsouth.net. Mississippi Opry, July 16, Pearl. Bluegrass and gospel music with The Jason Boone Band; 6 p.m. Admission. Pearl Community Room. Details: (601) 331-6672. Magnolia Arts Market, July 16, Magnolia. Local and Louisiana artists with fine art, baskets, clothing, soaps, baked goods and more; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Downtown. Details: (601) 783-5072; lorifelix@att.net. Greater Shelby Kennel Club Dog Show, July 16-17, Southaven. AKC-licensed conformation dog shows, obedience trials and rally obedience trials. Free. The Arena. Details: (901) 4769199; www.greatershelbykc.org. Leukemia Cup Regatta, July 16-17, Pass Christian. Sailing and gala with live and silent auctions. Benefits Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Admission. Pass Christian Yacht Club. Details: www.mslaleukemiacup.org. Dizzy Dean Girls Softball World Series, July 20-25, Southaven. Greenbrook Softball Facilities. Details: (662) 8907275 ext. 222; greenbrooksoftball.com.

Lamar County Bluegrass Festival, July 22-23, Purvis. Katie Penn Williams Band, Appalachian Trail, Flatline and others. RV sites. 99 Central Industrial Row. Details: (601) 543-9590. 122nd Annual Neshoba County Fair, July 22-29, Philadelphia. Performances by Steel Magnolia, Rodney Atkins, Neal McCoy, John Michael Montgomery. Horse races, crafts, exhibits, youth talent contest and more. Admission. Details: (601) 656-8480; www.neshobacountyfair.org. Mississippi ARTeast Festival, July 23, Hattiesburg. Woodworking, pottery, painting, photography and more by Mississippi artists; favorite foods of famous Mississippians; 10 a.m. - 2

p.m. Simply TeaVine at Meador Homestead Cabin. Details: (601) 268-3236; dean@simplyteavine.com. Special Square Dance, July 23, Brandon. Caller Mac Letson, cuer William Boykin; 6:30 p.m. Admission. Brandon Senior Center. Details: (601) 825-1230. Kids and Clay Art Camp, July 25-28, Hernando. Ages 7 and up create clay and ceramic projects; 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Admission. DeSoto Arts Council. Details: (662) 429-7665; bethany@desotoartwerx.com. 27th Annual Catfish Run, July 29-31, Batesville, Sardis Lake. Pre-1949 car and truck show. Barbecue dinner Friday night, catfish dinner Saturday evening. Benefits Baptist Children’s Village. Details: (662) 413-5834, (662) 561-5163. Osyka Civic Club Garage Sale, July 30, Osyka. Fundraiser for club projects, including scholarships and meals for needy families; 6 a.m. Wall Timber. Details: (601) 542-3652. Tuxedo Reunion, July 30, Meridian. Bring covered dish; 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. The Church of the Mediator. Details: (601) 483-6802. Citywide Rummage Sale, Aug. 6, Laurel. Indoor sale; 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Booths available. Magnolia Center, fairgrounds. Details: (601) 319-6086; www.myrummagesales.com. Meridian Area Coin Club 47th Annual Coin and Currency Show, Aug. 6-7, Meridian. Buy, sell, trade; free appraisals. Admission. Best Western. Details: (601) 527-9340; rulobe@comcast.net. Horn Lake Farmers Market, Aug. 6, 13, 20,

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Today in Mississippi

■

27, Horn Lake. Local growers; 2-7 p.m. Horn Lake City Hall. Details: (662) 393-6178. Hernando Farmers Market, Aug. 6, 13, 20, 27, Hernando. Food and ag products, crafts and more; 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Hernando Courthouse Square. Details: www.hernandoms-farmersmarket.com. 64th Annual Session of the National Singing Quartet Convention of America, Aug. 7-12, Olive Branch. Quartet singing, training on performing and fellowship. Whispering Woods Hotel and Convention Center. Details: www.natsqc.com. 32nd Annual Harrison County Gem, Jewelry and Mineral Show, Aug. 12-14, Pass Christian. Admission. West Harrison County Civic Center. Details: (228) 586-5279; tomsey@cableone.net. Memphis Tri-State Blues Festival, Aug. 13, Southaven. DeSoto Civic Center. Details: (662) 470-2131; www.desotociviccenter.com. Mississippi Coast Jazz Society Dance, Aug. 14, Biloxi. Admission; 2-5 p.m. Hard Rock Casino. Details: (228) 392-4177.

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Today in Mississippi ■ July 2011

Picture This... Mississippi Growing Our readers capture the beauty and wonders of the lush Mississippi landscape in their photography. Today in Mississippi’s next reader photo theme is “Through the Eyes of a Child.” We invite kids up to age 18 to submit their best photos. Deadline for submissions is Sept. 19. Selected photos will appear in our October issue. For submission guidelines, see page 22.

Above: Hibiscus, by Debra Sullivan, Gulfport; Coast Electric Power Association Above right: Tiger swallowtail butterfly and sunflower at Okatibbee Wildlife Management Area, by Susan Myers, Bailey; East Mississippi Electric Power Association Right: Profile of a bloom, by Zarina Meeker, Byhalia; Northcentral Electric Power Association

July 2011

■

Today in Mississippi

Left: Tomato hornworm munches on tomatoes, by Victoria Grantham, Hattiesburg; Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association Below: Starfish-like new growth on a Sago palm, by Leila Whitney, Vancleave; Singing River Electric Power Association

Above left: Beads of moisture on a magnolia blossom, by Alex Fender, D’Iberville; Coast Electric Power Association Heavenly Blue morning glories glow in the shade, by Joan Clarke, Vicksburg; Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association Pink Gerber daisy, by Becky Hollis, Brandon; Central Electric Power Association

Top: Monster azalea bush with Linda Ryals, by Donald Ryals, Hattiesburg; Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association Above: Sunlit poppy, by T.J. Ray, Oxford; North East Mississippi Electric Power Association

■

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Mississippi Marketplace

STOP AGING NOW!!! Watch historic 9 minute ABC PrimeTime News video at smallyellowpill.com.

Type or print your ad clearly. Be sure to include your telephone number. Cost is $2.50 per word, $25 minimum. Deadline is the 10th of each month for the next month’s issue. Mail payment with your ad to Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300. Have any questions? Phone (601) 605-8600.

FOR SALE REDUCED PRICE • 47 ACRES • HINDS COUNTY 4 miles south of Bolton, MS. On Houston Road off Raymond-Bolton Road. Two ponds, timber and open with pines planted last spring. Good deer hunting near Jackson, Clinton and Vicksburg area. $3100 per acre. Call 601-941-3726. USED PORTABLE SAWMILLS! Buy/Sell. Call Sawmill Exchange 800-459-2148, 205-969-0007, USA & Canada, www.sawmillexchange.com. LOW MILEAGE ENGINES. BIG SAVINGS! Price includes delivery & 1 year part warranty. Mileage verified. Call Today! 901-266-9996. LowMileageEngines.com. COMMERCIAL DEEP FRYER, Commercial stainless steel 3 compartment sink, Commercial mop sink, mop handle, bucket, new “open” sign for inside, flashes, hangs. Menu sign with letters. Call 601-613-2142. TWO PARCELS OF LAND 601-483-5578 or 601616-3817 1. Sixty-three acres, thirteen year old pines, creek runs through, great hunting. $1,989 an acre. One mile south of Collinsville off Hwy 19 in Lauderdale County. 2. Eighty-three acres, thirteen year old pines. Cabin, deep well, two ponds, great deer hunting and fishing. Eighteen miles west of Meridian, I-20 Chunky Duffee Road, 2 miles N, Newton County. $300,000.

COOK STORAGE BUILDINGS, “BEST BUY”. Lifetime Warranty, free Delivery, Rent-to-Own, No Credit Check! The South’s largest supplier of Carports, R.V. Covers, Barns and Metal Buildings. Century Sales, 111 Beaver Creek Rd, Lucedale, MS Call 601-947-0115. THE WONDER OF TWO LIVES, book about an abusive relationship. Read how God can bring you out of any type relationship with faith. Order at amazon.com.

VACATION RENTALS

CASH FOR JUNK CARS, TRUCKS AND ALL SCRAP METALS Call 901-598-7065.

MISCELLANEOUS BECOME AN ORDAINED MINISTER, by Correspondence study. The harvest truly is great, the laborours are few, Luke 10:2. Free info. MCO, 7549 West Cactus #104-207, Peoria, AZ 85351. http://www.ordination.org. DIVORCE MADE EASY, In Pro Se Uncontested, in prison, alien, lost - $179.95, Call 10am-10pm. 28 years experience. 417-443-6511.

PEACEFUL SIDE OF THE SMOKIES, TOWNSEND, TN 2 bedroom, 2 bath log home, Jacuzzi, Fireplace, wrap around porch, Charcoal grill, Picnic table. 228832-7661 or 866-448-6203.

PLAY GOSPEL SONGS BY EAR! $12.95. “Learn Gospel Music” - chording, runs, fills - $12.95, Both $24. Davidsons, 6727MS Metcalf, Shawnee Mission, Kansas 66204. Call: 913-262-4982.

CABINS IN THE SMOKIES, PIGEON FORGE, Convenient and peaceful setting, Call: 251-649-3344 or 251-649-4049. www.hideawayprop.com. SMOKY MOUNTAIN CABINS IN PIGEON FORGE. $85 Nightly 1-800-382-4393 www.pantherknob.com.

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THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS ARE CALLING, Wears Valley near Pigeon Forge, 3/2, all Amenities. Brochure Available (251) 649-9818. ASSUME OWNERSHIP FOR CLOSING COST. Hickory Hills Timeshare Furnished Condo, sleeps 6. Enjoy local golf, casinos, beaches, fishing. 228-7691706.

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FARM BARNS

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30 x 50 x 10 = $7995.00

All persons preparing to dig must call Mississippi 811 or utilize our online E-locate system, www.ms1call.org, two days prior to the beginning of any work. Underground facilities will be marked using the color code system and then work may proceed.

Log Sides

July 2011

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Minis 30x100 with 20 10Ęźx15Ęź units - $11,000

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Generators ensure electricity during power failures but can create tragic consequences if not wired properly through a transfer switch. If you are using a generator during a power outage, a double-throw switch is required between your generator and the electrical system to prevent current from feeding back into the power line. Current feeding back into the line can result in serious â&#x20AC;&#x201D; even fatal â&#x20AC;&#x201D; injuries to crewmen who are already working tireless hours to restore power.

Please install generators safely. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t put a utility workerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life on the line.

â&#x2013;

Today in Mississippi â&#x2013; July 2011

Picture This: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your turn, kids Photographs by our youngest readers will be showcased in Today in Mississippiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next Picture This theme, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Through the Eyes of a Child.â&#x20AC;? Photographers age 18 and under are invited to submit one or more favorite photos. We will publish some of the most eye-catching in our October issue. Photographers whose photos are selected for publication are eligible for a $200 cash prize, to be awarded in a random drawing in December. This is not a contest, as photos will not be judged. Photos are selected for publication based on their overall quality, relevance to the given theme and visual impact. Submissions must be postmarked or emailed to us by Sept. 19. Selected photos will appear in the October 2011 issue of Today in Mississippi.

Submission requirements â&#x20AC;˘ Photos must relate to the given theme. â&#x20AC;˘ Photos must be the original work of an amateur photographer. â&#x20AC;˘ Photos may be either color or black and white, print or digital. â&#x20AC;˘ Photos must be in sharp focus. â&#x20AC;˘ Digital photos should be high-resolution JPG files. The images may be cropped but please do not use photoediting software to enhance colors or tones.

TODAY PLACE YOUR AD WITH US

â&#x20AC;˘ Please do not submit a photo with a date appearing on the image. â&#x20AC;˘ Photos must be accompanied by the photographerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name, age, address, phone and electric power association. Include the name(s) of any recognizable people in the picture. â&#x20AC;˘ Submit as many photos as you like, but select only your best work. â&#x20AC;˘ Prints will be returned if accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. We cannot, however, guarantee their safe return through the mail.

3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300. Or, e-mail your digital photo (as an attachment to your e-mail message) to news@epaofms.com. If submitting more than one photo, please attach all photos

How to submit Send prints or a photo CD to Picture This, Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTORS

to only one e-mail message, if possible. Question? Call Debbie Stringer, editor, at 601-605-8600 or e-mail news@epaofms.com.

Scan code to find out how to work with a CEP distributor READ CODE WITH SMARTPHONE QR CODE READER (SEARCH FOR A FREE APP CALLED â&#x20AC;&#x153;SCANLIFEâ&#x20AC;?)

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HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 1 Use this coupon to save 20% on any one single item purchased when you shop at a Harbor Freight Tools store. *Cannot be used with any other discount or coupon. Coupon not valid on any of the following: gift cards, Inside Track Club membership, extended service plans, Compressors, Generators, Tool Cabinets, Welders, Floor Jacks, Campbell Hausfeld products, open box items, Parking Lot Sale items, Blowout Sale items, Day After Thanksgiving Sale items, Tent Sale items, 800 number orders or online orders. Coupon not valid on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase date with original receipt. Coupon cannot be bought, sold, or transferred. Original coupon must be presented in-store to receive the offer. Valid through 11/5/11. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R ! PE ON SU UP CO

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HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 6 This valuable coupon is good anywhere you shop Harbor Freight Tools (retail stores, online, or 800 number). Cannot be used with any other discount or coupon. Coupon not valid on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase date with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Coupon cannot be bought, sold, or transferred. Original coupon must be presented instore, or with your order form, or entered online in order to receive the coupon discount. Valid through 11/5/11. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

20%

OFF

R ! PE ON SU UP CO

Today in Mississippi

R ! PE ON U P S U CO

5999

R ! PE ON SU UP CO

LOT NO. 90428

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 3 This valuable coupon is good anywhere you shop Harbor Freight Tools (retail stores, online, or 800 number). Cannot be used with any other discount or coupon. Coupon not valid on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase date with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Coupon cannot be bought, sold, or transferred. Original coupon must be presented in-store, or with your order form, or entered online in order to receive the coupon discount. Valid through 11/5/11. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

SALE START S TODAY !

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99 $59REG. .99

SAVE 58%

Item 68303 shown

ACCESSORIES SOLD SEPARATELY!

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 5 This valuable coupon is good anywhere you shop Harbor Freight Tools (retail stores, online, or 800 number). Cannot be used with any other discount or coupon. Coupon not valid on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase date with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Coupon cannot be bought, sold, or transferred. Original coupon must be presented in-store, or with your order form, or entered online in order to receive the coupon discount. Valid through 11/5/11. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

Item 67501 shown

SAVE $60

6999

REG. PRICE $129.99

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 4 This valuable coupon is good anywhere you shop Harbor Freight Tools (retail stores, online, or 800 number). Cannot be used with any other discount or coupon. Coupon not valid on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase date with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Coupon cannot be bought, sold, or transferred. Original coupon must be presented in-store, or with your order form, or entered online in order to receive the coupon discount. Valid through 11/5/11. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

9999

REG. PRICE $139.99 HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS - LIMIT 3 This valuable coupon is good anywhere you shop Harbor Freight Tools (retail stores, online, or 800 number). Cannot be used with any other discount or coupon. Coupon not valid on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase date with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Coupon cannot be bought, sold, or transferred. Original coupon must be presented instore, or with your order form, or entered online in order to receive the coupon discount. Valid through 11/5/11. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

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