Today in Mississippi July 2016 4-County by American MainStreet Publications

News for members of 4-County Electric Power Association

Feathered Friends Picture This:

pages 14-15

4 Mississippi by the book 5 Escape to Ship Island

Periodical postage (ISSN 1052 2433)

9 Fascination with Africa

Today in Mississippi

July 2016

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July 2016

Students’ visits to DC memorials may foster better understanding ixty-four Mississippi high school students have just returned home from one of the most exciting experiences of their young lives. These students, the class of ‘17, spent a week in Washington, D.C., at the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. They visited historic sites and memorials of national significance, toured the U.S. Capitol, and met Congressmen face to face—all courtesy of their local electric power association. I’m a firm believer in the value of personal experience as an educational tool. Books and digital media, as effective as they are, cannot convey the awe and wonder one feels while standing in the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol, inside the Washington National Cathedral or at the gate to the White House. The emotional power of the World War II, Marine Corps, Vietnam and other veterans memorials can be realized only when you stand in their

midst, confronted by the names of those whose military service cost their lives but protected our freedom. The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial further reinforces the idea that Americans are quite prepared to reject social injustice and to fight for freedom anywhere in the world, but especially right here at home.

On the cover Shannon Catoire, a Coast Electric Power Association member in Carriere, made this beautiful photograph of a pelican bathed in golden sunlight and reflected in calm waters. Bird life is the theme of this month’s “Picture This” reader photo feature. See more of our readers’ stunning pictures on pages 14-15.

I hope these 64 Mississippi students will think beyond cookouts and fireworks on Independence Day. Having just visited Mt. Vernon, the home of George Washington, during the Youth Tour, maybe they will be reminded how 13 little British colonies in the New World revolted against the Kingdom of Great Britain, then one of the most powerful nations My Opinion on earth. The colonists Michael Callahan Executive Vice President/CEO knew their Declaration of Electric Power Associations Independence would proof Mississippi voke war with Britain, but they also believed freedom is worth fighting for. With the help of France, those colonies were victorious and the new, independent United States of America emerged from the conflict. After the students return to school in the fall, their Youth Tour memories will take a back seat to sports, band practice, class projects, clubs and many other activities. I suspect, however, that when Veterans Day rolls around on Nov. 11, the holiday might mean more to them. Maybe they will remember seeing all those names on the war memorials in Washington. Maybe some of them will offer a silent prayer of thanks. Because they have stood before those memorials themselves, I think this is a reasonable expectation. We will have more about the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in our August issue.

Today in Mississippi OFFICERS Keith Hurt - President Tim Smith - First Vice President Barry Rowland - Second Vice President Randy Smith - Secretary/Treasurer

EDITORIAL STAFF Michael Callahan - CEO Ron Stewart - Sr. VP, Communications Mark Bridges - Manager, Support Services Debbie H. Stringer - Editor Elissa Fulton - Communications Specialist Trey Piel - Digital Media Manager Rickey McMillan - Graphics Specialist Linda Hutcherson - Administrative Assistant

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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

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Today in Mississippi

Our Homeplace

Rust College, Mississippi’s first private historically black college, is celebrating its 150th anniversary. Located in Holly Springs, the liberal arts college began as a school established in 1866 by the Freedman’s Aid Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church to offer instruction to adults and children. For information on anniversary events, go to rustcollege.edu or call 662-252-8000. Photo courtesy of Rust College

Mississippi is Majestic pines standing so tall, Fragrant magnolias, the wonder of it all. Dogwoods bloom spring of the year; Singing River, some say you can hear. Vicksburg, a lady with a past to hold onto; Azaleas breathtaking, sand beaches too. A state so charitable, no one can beat; Church bells ring, Sunday morns we meet. A God-fearing state, we lay claim to; Pecan pie, turnip greens, the red, white and blue. Indian mounds, petrified forests, all left behind; Museums, literature, blues, even Elvis will be remembered in time. —Shirley Ladner, Petal In my backyard there is one thing And its smell reminds me of the upcoming spring. The sweet smell of the crisp, white flowers of the magnolia tree Has always been a comforting scent to me. No matter where I go, No matter how far I roam, The smell of Mississippi’s state flower will always bring me home. —Elaine Hanson, age 15, Gulfport

What’s Mississippi to you? 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 to news@epaofms.com. Please keep your comments brief. Submissions are subject to editing for length and clarity.

Today in Mississippi

July 2016

Mississippi by the Book By Debbie Stringer Why does Mississippi produce so many fine writers? Maybe it’s because the state’s people, history, natural resources and culture provide a bottomless well of material. Long summer afternoons are made for reading, so consider learning more about your state while enjoying these recent nonfiction titles. Return to Guntown: Classic Trials of the Outlaws and Rogues of Faulkner Country By John Hailman; $29.95, hardcover, 312 pages; University Press of Mississippi; upress.state.ms.us Retired federal prosecutor John Hailman, author of “From Midnight to Guntown: True Crime Stories from a Federal Prosecutor in Mississippi,” continues his highly entertaining memoirs with this second collection of interesting cases he tried during 40 years as a courtroom lawyer. The book opens with Hailman’s personal account of his road to becoming a career prosecutor. From there he launches an assortment of page-turner tales focusing on “drug lords, gun crime, outrageous frauds and courageous victims who fought back against their predators.” This skillful storyteller engages the reader with humor, colorful characters and their astonishing antics. True-crime fans are not the only ones who will enjoy these well-told stories. Deeper Currents: The Sacraments of Hunting and Fishing By Donald C. Jackson; $26, hardcover, 231 pages; University Press of Mississippi; upress.state.ms.us Donald C. Jackson’s latest book guides the reader to a place many Mississippians long to be: at one with nature. In this collection of beautifully written essays, Jackson shares “magic moments” from his hunting (mostly duck) and fishing experiences—from youth through adulthood—with enough authentic detail to enthrall his readers. Whether the subject is caribou or flathead catfish or a springtime morning in the rural South, Jackson writes not with bravado but with wonder and a reverence for the creation that surrounds us. Jackson is the author of two previous books, “Tracks” and “Wilder Ways,” and is the Sharp Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Fisheries at Mississippi State University. Aaron Henry of Mississippi: Inside Agitator By Minion K.C. Morrison; $34.95, hardcover, 363 pages; University of Arkansas Press; uapress.com

Aaron Henry was born in 1922 to a family of African-American sharecroppers in the Mississippi Delta. His prospects were bleak, given the times, but Henry beat the odds; he rose to become a pharmacist, a state legislator (from 1979-1996), leader of the state NAACP chapter and an important civil rights leader. Author Minion K.C. Morrison calls Henry “the single most important continuous leader in implementing a civil rights vision that transformed racialized politics and society in Mississippi.” Morrison, a political science and public administration professor at Mississippi State University, chronicles Henry’s life and achievements to present a portrait of one of America’s lesser-known civil rights leaders, and the era in which he lived. Willie: The Life of Willie Morris By Teresa Nicholas; $20, hardcover, 176 pages; University Press of Mississippi; upress.state.ms.us “Willie” is an illustrated biography of one of Mississippi’s most popular writers, a Yazoo City native son who eventually became editor-in-chief of Harper’s magazine in New York City. There Morris wrote his first book, the critically acclaimed memoir “North Toward Home.” His boyhood dog, Skip, inspired “My Dog Skip,” a reprise of his Yazoo City childhood and a successful movie. Morris produced 23 books and hundreds of articles, and served as a writer-in-residence at the University of Mississippi. Nicholas based her biography on interviews with more than 50 of Morris’ personal friends, family members and the archive of his letters and memorabilia at the University of Mississippi. The result is an intimate, concise and often humorous look at the life of an extraordinary Mississippi “good old boy.” Julia Reed’s South: Spirited Entertaining and High-Style Fun All Year Long By Julia Reed, photography by Paul Costello; $50, hardcover, 224 pages; Rizzoli New York; rizzoliusa.com Greenville native Julia Reed is a well-known humorist and author who knows how to throw a great Southern party. Her five books include “Ham Biscuits, Hostess Gowns and Other Southern Specialties,” and she writes for Southern Living and the Wall Street Journal. In her new book, she presents themes and recipes for memorable parties, from a Mississippi River sandbar picnic (marinated shrimp and barbecued pork

shoulder) to the elegant Visiting Dignitary dinner (ribeye roast with scalloped oysters). Menus come spiced with stories told in Reed’s lively prose, with helpful advice, color photographs of dishes and settings, and, in one case, a blues music playlist. This cookbook is as much fun to read as it is useful. The print quality is top-notch, making it a fine gift for anyone who entertains (or wants to learn) Southern style. Confessions of an Undercover Agent: Adventures, Close Calls and the Toll of a Double Life By Charlie Spillers; $35, hardcover, 244 pages; University Press of Mississippi; upress.state.ms.us Ex-Marine Charlie Spillers worked more than 10 years as an undercover agent, first for the Baton Rouge Police Department and later for the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics. Playing different roles and using multiple identities, he infiltrated drug trafficking groups, auto theft rings and drug smuggling operations. This book relates his exploits and adventures among the criminals and corrupt government officials he sought to bring to justice—and the impact these deceptions had on his own character. Some readers may be offended by the coarse language in Spillers’ conversations with bad guys, but it all rings true. Mojo Triangle: Birthplace of Country, Blues, Jazz and Rock ‘n’ Roll By James L. Dickerson; $19.95, softcover, 273 pages; Sartoris Literary Group; sartorisliterary.com Mississippi Delta native and journalist James Dickerson, an authority on Southern music, traces the development of American popular music from early 1800s Natchez to the present day in this illustrated book. Dickerson bases his conclusions on interviews with music legends, songwriters and producers who created and performed the music. The Mojo Triangle, he explains, refers to the geographical triangle formed by a line running from Natchez to Nashville, over to Memphis and back down to New Orleans. How and why America’s music originated in this specific area is the theme of Dickerson’s book.

July 2016

Today in Mississippi

SUMMER DAYTRIP IDEA:

Enjoy an excursion to Ship Island By Nancy Jo Maples Celebrating its 90th year of operation, Ship Island Excursions offers the perfect daytrip for a Mississippi beach scene and historical fort visit. “Soon after we leave the harbor, passengers begin to experience just how special a place they are going to. Looking back to the shore, we leave the city behind and head to a much more peaceful setting,” Kevin Buckle, director of marketing for Ship Island Excursions, said. The 11-mile voyage takes about an hour. When guests reach the island’s sandy beaches surrounded by pristine gulf waters, they find tranquility and unspoiled natural beauty. Along the journey most cell phones stop working and “island time” begins. Guests often catch glimpses of dolphins during the ride. While swimming is the No. 1 attraction on the island, beach lounging, boogie boarding and snorkeling are also popular. Other activities that draw guests include birding, shelling and hiking. Fishing enthusiasts can take two poles onboard the boat and must have a state saltwater fishing license. In addition to outdoor adventures, Fort Massachusetts and the island’s military history draw tourists to the island. The National Park Service, owner of the island and fort, provides history lectures and tours of the fort March through October. The island was named in 1699 by French explorers who appreciated its deep waters for anchoring their ships. The British discovered the same advantage for anchoring ships when it attempted to capture nearby New Orleans during the War of 1812. The U.S. commissioned the building of a fort in 1859 to protect New Orleans; construction ceased, however, during the Civil War and the uncompleted structure was used as a Confederate prisoner of war camp. The fortification was eventually named Fort Massachusetts and was completed in 1868. From 1933 until 1971, American Legion Post 119 of Gulf-

port owned and operated the property as a fishing resort for veterans. Since 1926 Peter “Capt. Pete” Martin Skrmetta and his descendants have ferried guests across the Mississippi Sound for pleasure trips of fun in the sun. Today the company is owned by the founder’s son, Peter Matthew Skrmetta, and the founder’s four

Capt. Pete’s first passenger boat, above, ferried tourists to the Isle of Caprice, and later Ship Island, right. The captain’s son and four grandsons own today’s sleeker version of the ferry, top photo. Photos courtesy of Ship Island Excursions

grandsons; Louis Skrmetta, one of those grandsons, serves as president. The Skrmetta operation began after its founder switched from transporting cargo to transporting people. Capt. Pete, a Croatian who immigrated to Biloxi in 1903, was a master skipper who first worked in the seafood industry. By the early 1920s he owned his own boat; however, advances in fishing technology and refrigeration issues reduced the need for boatmen. Skrmetta found other uses for his schooner such as hauling clam shells for building private driveways and transporting watermelons to the French Market in New Orleans.

After World War I, tourists flocked to Biloxi with its lax enforcement of prohibition laws. Skrmetta first ferried people to a gambling island called Isle of Caprice. After that island sank he began the excursions to Ship Island. Ship Island is titled as a collective entity but actually encompasses two islands, East Ship Island and West Ship Island, which are among the five barrier islands between the Mississippi Sound and the Gulf of Mexico. Hurricane Camille split the island into east and west sections in 1969. East Ship Island is accessible only by private boat. Part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, the property and its facilities are maintained by the National Park Service. The ferry runs March through October. Round trips are offered most weekdays and multiple round trips are offered on weekends. Departures vary depending on the month of the year, but generally leave Gulfport Small Craft Harbor near Jones Park at 9 a.m. and at noon, with return trips leaving the island at 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. The website (www.msshipisland.com) gives details about departure times and general information about the island. Roundtrip ferry fares are $29 for adults, $19 for children ages 3-10 and $27 for active military servicemen and citizens ages 62 and older. Private charters for groups are available year-round. Passengers can take backpacks, beach bags and small coolers. Sunscreen, protective eyewear and shoes are strongly recommended. The excursion crew recommends traveling light for a more enjoyable experience. Beach chair and umbrella rentals are offered on the island as well as food and snacks. Although the island offers little to no shade, there are covered picnic areas, restrooms and shower facilities on the boardwalk, which stretches a third of a mile across the island. Writer Nancy Jo Maples can be reached at 188 Ernest Pipkins Road, Lucedale, MS 39452 or nancyjomaples@aol.com.

Today in Mississippi

July 2016

Summertime is worth suffering in the heat t’s the time of year when people are easily convinced that global warming is a real thing. Could be. I don’t know. I’m not a scientist. However, I remember it getting pretty hot some summers back when I was growing up. We would ride our bicycles down to the corner of Broadway and Washington in Greenville to check the time-temperature sign on the Commercial National Bank building to see if we hit a hundred that day. That sign was about as close as we had to a “weather app” back then, cell phones not having been invented yet. We took a dime with us in case we had to use a pay phone to call home for anything. I can’t recall that I ever had to use that dime to call. But I also don’t recall making it back home with the dime either. All that to say, regardless of whether

the planet is hotter, colder or indifferent, I really think the way we feel outside has to do with a couple of things. For one, air conditioning is a necessity and not a luxury nowadays. We are used to staying relativeMississippi ly comfortable Seen indoors. And by Walt Grayson two, we are older. No matter how old you are, you are older than you used to be. One of my aunts told me several years ago that my grandmother told her that the older you get, the more the heat and the cold hurt. When she said that, it didn’t make a lot of sense to me then.

Jo used to take a bucket and shovel when we would go out of town for a story, to dig up plants to bring home. Now she just takes a charge card and stops to shop at any number of her favorite plant places. Photo: Walt Grayson

But I get it now. No more than I would ride a bike in hundred-degree weather to go see what the temperature is, I wouldn’t particularly like to have to get out in the snow in winter either. That said, Miz Jo has had me out in her flowerbeds a good bit this summer.

Her flowers are a joint effort. She points and I dig and then plant whatever she hands me. She’s gotten a lot of compliments from my gardening this year. Lots of people love to garden, some flowers, some vegetables. Nice folks, too. Jo has a friend in Belzoni who wanted

July 2016

us to stop by on our way through town, but there was no way I could make sense of how she told us to get to her house. So even I stopped for directions. Well, I stopped but Jo went up to the house to ask. After she knocked, the front door opened and she disappeared into the house. After a few minutes she came out the back door with a man and a woman and went through the wooden gate into the backyard. After several minutes I went to see what was going on. They loaded us down with corn and squash and tomatoes and lots of other stuff. And told us how to get to our friends’ house, to boot. When we pulled out of the driveway I suggested we stop at the next house and ask directions again to see what they would give us!

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The heat and cold may be more noticeable nowadays. And it may be because of age or climate. But it sure is satisfying to spend some of your summer making something grow. Even my aunt was in her garden when she was telling her story about the heat. The Fourth of July is upon us, summer’s big outdoor holiday. Cook something out and watch some fireworks. Enjoy the heat. You will wish it was here again if it snows this winter. And if it does, we won’t be as convinced of global warming. 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.” Contact Grayson at walt@waltgrayson.com.

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Today in Mississippi

8 I Today in Mississippi I July 2016

Mississippi gardens excel with hibiscus

ibiscus has to be one of the best groups of plants you can have in your garden and landscape. Here’s several

reasons why. Cajun tropical hibiscuses have exciting colors that are a Technicolor dream with fantastic selections ranging from bright yellows to pink, red and white. Some of the more spectacular selections are blends and those with bright, red eyes. The size of these flowers can be unbelievable, with the diameter of some blooms exceeding 9 inches. The foliage is dark green and glossy, providing a nice background to display the colorSouthern ful blooms. Gardening Cajun hibisby Dr. Gary Bachman cuses are perfect for adding a tropical flair to a porch or patio. Plant them in combination with other tropicals, such as bananas and/or cannas, which require similar care and management. Cajun hibiscus plants need winter

Cajun hibiscuses such as this Hotsy Totsy, above, are tropical plants with exciting colors. Blooms can exceed 9 inches across, and foliage is dark green and glossy. Hardy hibiscuses can withstand Mississippi winters and have massive flowers. Many bright and beautiful colors are available, such as this Summerific Cherry Cheesecake, above right. Photos: MSU Extension/Gary Bachman

protection. Those planted in the ground will have to be dug up for winter. Prune the branches and roots back a bit and repot using a good potting mix. In the spring, transplant back into the landscape. Or make this an easy task by growing them in containers that can be moved ahead of freezing temperatures. Hardy hibiscus is very different from

tropical hibiscus. These plants are winter hardy, and the foliage is not as glossy. But a trait both varieties share is their production of bright, beautiful and even gaudy flowers. Hardy hibiscuses add value to late summer landscapes with their displays of enormous flowers. When I say the flowers of hardy hibiscuses are huge, I mean they are some-

times up to 12 inches across. In fact, they are often called dinner-plate hibiscuses. I love the gaudy colors available with the different varieties of hardy hibiscus. Hardy hibiscuses are bushy plants, ranging from 2 to 5 feet tall. Foliage colors can be light to medium green, with some selections even offering burgundy and dark-purple leaves. The dinner-plate-sized flowers of the hardy hibiscus hybrids always get the most attention. But the home gardener should not forget about the native species of hibiscus that are found in the swamps and ditches along the Gulf Coast from Texas to Florida. Dr. Gary Bachman is an associate Extension and research professor of horticulture at the Mississippi State University Coastal Research and Extension Center in Biloxi. He is also host of “Southern Gardening” radio and TV programs.

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July 2016

Today in Mississippi

Fascination with

Africa

rnest Hemingway and Robert Ruark wrote extensively about Africa. Masterful scribes both, they were unable to fully capture the essence of this mysterious land, for it is much too complex to gather up and corral with words alone. It must be experienced firsthand before even the most miniscule measure of understanding can be grasped. After all, how can words adequately by Tony Kinton describe the Southern Cross and Milky Way on a crisp African night? These must be viewed, perhaps even brushed by trembling fingers. Even then there are no words to express the awe and reverence involved. And on that same evening, the guttural cough of a leopard may be heard in the distance. Chilling may be used as a descriptor, but it, too, fails. Can the majesty of an African sunrise be reduced to words? Certainly not. It is one of those mystical moments when sleep is disturbed not by an alarm clock but by a cacophony of bird call. Morning sun will creep through an open window or around a baobab tree, entreating the nighttime to release its frigid hold and allow daylight to warm and sparkle. Such things, an every-day affair in Africa, are pure marvels. It was 2002 before I determined to make my first trip to Africa. Upon leaving I pledged to do it one more time, but that one more time seems to have turned into one more, and then another and another. All have been to the country of South Africa. This country, I must admit, is not the wildest of wild Africa.

Outdoors Today

Rather, it is a well-developed republic with advanced technology, thriving cities, productive farms, stable economy, solid infrastructure and gracious people. One thing, though, and that is when you get out of town you are fully out of town. The ranch I have hunted on the past three safaris is Sofala (sofalasafaris.com). It lies in bushveld—flat, thickly brushed country—not far from the Limpopo River and is 148 kilometers from the nearest viable medical facility in Mokopane. So I suppose wild is a relative term. Sofala is owned and operated by my friend of 10 years, Louis Steenkamp. Louis is South African by birth, but came to the States to attend Delta State University. While here he married a young lady from Belzoni, and he and his family come back to Mississippi regularly. Afrikaans is the primary language of South Africa, but 11 different languages are common and recognized as official there. If English is not spoken by everyone, it is by the majority. As a result, navigating airports and shops is a Clockwise, from top: The backyard at Sofala. Photo: Sam Valentine • The author inspects an active warthog hole. Photo: Sam Valentine simple proposition. • Ant hills get big in Africa. Photo: Louis Steenkamp On this last safari, from which we returned May 25, I • Trackers William, left, and Peter. It is said that African trackers can come along two days after a bird has flown by and track that bird was hoping to encounter a across the sky. Photo: Tony Kinton photo zebra and waterbuck. I learned • Marinus, a master chef, cooks gemsbok loin on an open fire. Photo: Sam Valentine early on that the animal we refer to as zee-bra is not so zebras or waterbucks or anything else. pronounced in Afrikaans. Rather, it is Another African adventure is behind pronounced more appropriately to its me, and I am richer for it. Will there be spelling: zeb-ra. I also learned that it is another? Before I answer that, allow me exceptionally difficult to hunt. to express my appreciation—in The waterbuck? It is vaterbook. The Afrikaans—to all those who assisted in vaterbook eluded me, but I collected the any way. Fred and Sam, my comrades zebra. And I must remind readers that on the hunt, Louis, Marinus, Christian, every morsel of meat of every animal is Neil, Peter, William and Janet – baie used in Africa. There is no waste, not of dankie. See you in 2017.

Tony Kinton has been an active outdoors writer for 30 years. His newest book, “Rambling Through Pleasant Memories,” is now available. Order from Amazon.com or Kinton’s website: www.tonykinton.com.

Today in Mississippi

July 2016

Board of Directors

www.4county.org • 1-800-431-1544

YOUR COOPERATIVE

Marty Crowder, President John E. “Jay” Gilliland Jr., Vice President Johnny Johnson, Secretary/Treasurer Mike Banks Bill Bell Kenneth Seitz Ernest H. “Bud” Tumlinson

4-County Fast Facts

By Joe Cade CEO/General Manager

You are a member, not a customer. That’s the co-op difference! Many businesses use the word “member” to describe their customers. Some large retail stores and credit card companies like to refer to their customers as members. You pay a fee to buy their goods and services, but that is really all you get for the “membership.” No right to vote for the board of directors or to participate in any meaningful way in the organization. In cooperatives like 4-County Electric Power Association, membership really does mean something more than just the right to buy electricity. Co-ops of all types are founded on seven cooperative principles that give us guidance and strategic direction. Membership also gives you rights as an owner of this co-op. Brett Fairbairn is the director of the Center for the Study of Co-operatives at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada. He makes the case that member relations is not just part of what co-ops should be doing, but in fact is the fundamental core business of the cooperative. He further lays out the three strategic concepts that any co-op must get right in order to survive and thrive:

Economic linkage 4-County is connected to you. There is a business relationship that serves you (the member) and the co-op. Since co-ops are solely owned by people in the community, they have a mutual interest to ensure that both the co-op and the member do well and prosper.

Transparency As an owner of the co-op, you have a right to know how it operates and how decisions are made that directly impact you. If the co-op is transparent and combines this trait with integrity and fairness, it will build trust with the members.

Macon office officially closing 4-County has been providing affordable, reliable power for nearly 80 years, and during that time we have always looked for ways to do our jobs better, cheaper and more efficiently. Recently, part of that effort has included centralizing our operations. As reported in the last several months, the Macon office officially closes July 1. Service will not change. Our lineman will continue to live and work in the Macon area. There just won’t be a physical office there. Members with questions about day-to-day operations can call our Call Center at 1-800-431-1544. Those wanting to make payments can do so over the phone, online, through bank draft or by using one of our payment kiosks. Kiosks located in the Macon area include: • Tem’s Food Market – 179 N. Oliver St. in Brooksville • Tem’s Food Market – 101 W. Pearl St. in Macon • Tenn Tom One Stop – 14636 Hwy. 388 in Bigbee Valley For more information on payment options, call 1-800-431-1544.

New 4-County construction contractor 4-County has recently entered into an agreement with a new construction contractor. B&B will replace MDR later this summer. Please take note of the change as you may see this new contractor doing work in the 4-County service area.

Cognition In this case, cognition is best defined as how your co-op thinks. It includes the current and historical identity, the mission and the sense of shared values with co-op members. Research, education and training are critical functions that 4-County must conduct on an ongoing basis to ensure that we always have the best information to make decisions. The cooperative business model is the best one on earth, but like any enterprise, it is up to the human beings who work at the co-op, who serve on the board and the members like you to ensure that the principles and values do not fade over time. First and foremost, 4-County strives to be thought of as a member-owned cooperative that gives you the best value of any utility. If we succeed, our community thrives and you will always value being a member—not a customer.

Co-op Connections Card saves Since the Co-op Connections Card was unveiled in September 2011, 4-County members have saved over $542,416 on prescription drugs through May.

Look here each month to see the savings total!

July 2016

Today in Mississippi

10a

4-County student trio tour Washington, D.C. Jack VanDevender of Shuqualak, Reid Stevens of Starkville and Georgia Sisson of Maben were among more than 1,500 high school students from across the country who participated in the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour held June 11-17 in Washington, D.C. The 4-County trio travelled to Washington with a group of 79 high school juniors from across Mississippi. The Youth Tour is designed to offer students from across the nation the opportunity to meet their elected officials, watch government in action and tour historically significant sites, memorials and museums. Highlights of the event included meeting with their elected representatives in the U.S. House and Senate to discuss the process of government and issues of the day, and learning more about electric cooperatives and American history. The Youth Tour is a joint effort of local cooperatives (like 4-County), their statewide cooperative associations (such as Electric Power Associations of Mississippi) and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. Look for more details and photos in next month’s issue of Today in Mississippi. 4-County Youth Tour delegates, from left, Jack VanDevender, Georgia Sisson and Reid Stevens recently returned from a visit to Washington, D.C.

New substation online 4-County’s Lone Oak Substation is energized and complete. The substation will serve south West Point, north to northeast West Point, Hwy. 50 to Ivy Village and the Hwy. 47 areas. 4-County officials said the new substation will provide even better reliability for members in these 4-County service areas. The co-op’s Mark Thompson, left, conducts an inspection of the substation.

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Today in Mississippi

July 2016

June 2 annual meeting a day of fellowship and fun

Johnny Johnson

Marty Crowder

Some 700 members of 4-County Electric Power Association attended the cooperative’s annual membership meeting Thursday, June 2, at the East Mississippi Community College auditorium in Mayhew. Those attending the event enjoyed a day of good food, good fun, good fellowship and even better information. Registration and a health fair for members began at 9 a.m. A catfish lunch with all the fixings for members began at 10:15 a.m. The business portion of the meeting began at noon. Members viewed a variety of displays featuring 4-County programs, services and equipment. 4-County CEO Joe Cade said there was something for everyone at the meeting. “We provided our members with some good information, elected two directors and, of course, gave away some great door prizes—including a truck,” he said. Held in conjunction with the annual meeting, the health fair provided members the opportunity to receive a variety of healthcare screenings. In addition to the pre-meeting health fair, the business session included financial and management reports along with the election of two directors to the Association’s board of directors. Two incumbent directors were re-elected to 4-County’s board of directors. The Association’s nominating committee met March 15 and submitted the names of Johnny Johnson for District 1 (Lowndes

County) and Marty Crowder of Ackerman for District 5 (Choctaw and Winston counties). Johnson and Crowder will serve threeyear terms on the Association’s board of directors. Their terms began June 2, at the annual meeting. Proxy/ballots were mailed by May 2 to all 4-County members. Members returning their proxy/ballots, as well as those who attended the meeting, qualified to win valuable prizes. Bessie Sanders was the win-

ner of the grand prize, a retired 4-County fleet truck. Those returning their proxy/ballots (by mail, proxy or online voting) qualified to win one of three $1,000 credits for electricity. The winners were Roosevelt Clay of West Point, Michael Hodges of Columbus and Charles Tolliver of West Point. There were a variety of other attendee prizes. Employees were also on hand to instruct members on how to participate in a variety of 4-County programs.

Bessie Sanders of Macon was the lucky winner of a retired 4-County fleet truck. 4-County CEO Joe Cade hands her the keys.

July 2016

Today in Mississippi

10c

About 700 people, above, attend the June 2 annual meeting. Charles and Jean Maness of Ackerman, far left, discuss the coop with 4-County’s Wyatt Pumphrey. 4-County’s Chris Moore, near left, talks equipment with Luther Bush and Luke Wesley of Columbus.

Sylvester Davis registers with the co-op’s Betty Sue Davis, above, while Stephanie Carroll of West Point checks out the energy efficiency display, right.

10d

Today in Mississippi

July 2016

Two join the 4-County team

4-County visits Camp Rising Sun 4-County Electric Power Association employees had a blast June 12 at Camp Rising Sun 2016. The cooperative provided lunch to the campers at the YMCA campgrounds in Lowndes County. Employees enjoyed visiting with the kids and watching them engage in camp activities. Also, they were able to prepare and help serve campers their lunch. Camp Rising Sun is a camp for children living in Mississippi, Alabama and southwestern Tennessee, ages 6-16, who have been or are currently being treated for cancer. The goal of Camp Rising Sun is to provide these children with a traditional camp experience while recognizing and meeting their health needs.

“It’s always a wonderful opportunity to interact with the kids. They’re great. We enjoy it and they enjoy it too,” said Jon Turner, 4-County manager of marketing and public relations.

Watts Happening

Drew Kirkwood and Rowdy Rigdon have joined the 4-County Electric Power Association team. Kirkwood began May 16 as an electrical engineer. He is originally from Lucedale but now lives in Starkville. He is a recent Drew Kirkwood graduate of Mississippi State University. Drew is not new to the 4County family; he began interning with the cooperative in September 2014. Rigdon Rowdy Rigdon began May 17 as an apprentice lineman 4. He is originally from Wahalak but now lives in Macon. He is a graduate of East Mississippi Community College’s industrial electrician and lineman programs. Prior to 4-County, he worked at East Mississippi Electric Power Association.

This listing of area events is compiled from information provided by area chambers of commerce and visitors’ bureaus. The events listed are subject to change. Please call to confirm dates, times and additional details.

Main St.; continues through July 15; details, (662) Fireworks on the Water Independence Day Cel- 328-2787. ebration; Columbus Lock and Dam; 5 to 10 p.m.; Oktibbeha County Hospital Summer Camp for details, (662) 329-1191. Kids; OCH HealthPlex Wellness Connection; 8 a.m. to noon; continues through Thursday, July 14; $60 SATURDAY, JULY 2 per camper for members, $70 per camper for nonStarkville Community Market Opening Day; members; details, (662) 323-3322. Fire Station Park, intersection of Lampkin and Rus-

Starkville Business After Hours; Mississippi State University Gridiron; 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.; details, (662) 323-3322.

sell streets; 7:30 to 10:30 a.m.; details, (662) 3233322.

MONDAY, JULY 25

FRIDAY, JULY 1

THURSDAY, JULY 7

Starkville Public Library Book Sale; 326 University Drive; noon to 6 p.m.; details, (662) 323-3322.

MONDAY, JULY 18

Crawford Cotton Boll Festival; continues through Summer Arts Camp; Columbus Arts Council, 501 Saturday, July 9; details, (662) 272-5164. Main St.; continues through July 22; details, (662) MONDAY, JULY 11 328-2787. Summer Arts Camp; Columbus Arts Council, 501

THURSDAY, JULY 21 Sounds of Summer: The Bouncing Betty; downtown Columbus Riverwalk; 7 to 9 p.m.; details, (662) 329-1191.

Oktibbeha County Hospital Summer Camp for Kids; OCH HealthPlex Wellness Connection; 8 a.m. to noon; continues through Thursday, July 14; $60 per camper for members, $70 per camper for nonmembers; details, (662) 323-3322.

NEWS July 2016

The 4-County Foundation made awards to 13 area organizations during the Association’s Annual Meeting June 2 at East Mississippi Community College’s Mayhew campus. Awards included: Ackerman Police Department $2,569 for body cameras

Afro-American Cultural Society $400 for learning tools Girl Scouts Hearts of the South $500 to assist with travel Meals on Wheels $1,500 to assist feeding those in need

Last House on the Block $4,000 to replace HVAC unit

Loaves & Fishes $1,500 to assist feeding the needy

Mrs. Smith’s Educational Service $1,000 to assist with after-school programs Relay for Life Chickasaw County $250 to purchase T-shirts

Relay for Life Clay County $500 to purchase T-shirts

R.I.D.E.S. $1,000 to purchase equipment for disabled riders The Father’s Child Ministry $1,500 to assist with sending local children to camp West Central Clay VFD $4,200 to purchase equipment

West Point/Clay County Arts Council $2,000 to assist in the purchase of a marquee

Today in Mississippi

12 I Today in Mississippi I July 2016

Creole Tomatoes Stuffed with Shrimp Salad 1 lb. cooked Mississippi Gulf shrimp, peeled ½ bunch green onions, minced 3 Tbsp. capers 1⁄3 cup spicy mayonnaise

1 Tbsp. lemon juice Fresh ground pepper 4 large ripe tomatoes, tops cut off and all pulp removed

Combine all ingredients, except tomatoes, folding together thoroughly. Chill for at least 1 hour to marry flavors. Stuff each tomato with equal amounts of shrimp salad.

RECIPES FROM:

‘Mississippi Seafood Recipes’ In the late 19th century, catches by local fishermen, shrimpers and oystermen were so abundant that Biloxi rose to fame as the “Seafood Capital of the World.” Since then Mississippi Gulf Coast seafood has proved itself again and again to be fresh, flavorful, affordable and abundant—and a major contributor to the area’s economy and culture. Mississippi’s commercial fishing industry provides employment not only for fishermen but also processors, wholesalers, distributors, seafood marFOOD A E S keters and others. RECIPES Dining on Mississippi seafood is a highlight of any visit to the Gulf Coast. With the help of a new seafood e-cookbook, you can enjoy a wider variety of seafood meals at home. “Mississippi Seafood Recipes” is a free 40-page e-cookbook available through the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources Seafood Marketing program. The cookbook features recipes contributed by wellknown Mississippi chefs as well as favorite traditional seafood dishes using shrimp, oysters, crab and fish. To download a free copy, go to dmr.ms.gov. Click on Communications on the menu bar and then Publications to find the Cookbooks & Recipes page.

I P P I S S I S S MI

Shrimp Stuffed Peppers 16 oz. small Mississippi Gulf shrimp, boiled and chopped 6 Tbsp. butter, divided 1 large onion, chopped 4 bell peppers, tops removed and cored

2 cups cooked brown rice 8 oz. pimiento olives, chopped Salt and pepper to taste 8 oz. reduced-fat Cheddar cheese, shredded

Preheat oven to 300 F. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat; add 3 tablespoons butter and onion. Saute until golden brown. Remove from heat. For softer peppers, parboil for 2 minutes. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, rice, onion, olives and remaining butter. Season with salt and pepper. Divide mixture among peppers and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Place in baking dish and bake until cheese is melted, about 10 minutes. Serve with Caesar salad.

Greek-Style Red Snapper 2 lbs. Mississippi Gulf red snapper filets 1 large red onion, thinly sliced 2 tsp. dried oregano 4 Tbsp. lemon juice

¼ bunch parsley, chopped 1 large tomato, cored and chopped 4 oz. feta or blue cheese, crumbled

Preheat oven to 350 F. Place fish filets in a lighly oiled baking dish. Lay onions over fish and sprinkle with oregano and lemon juice. Mix parsley and tomato, and toss over fish. Top fish with cheese and cover tightly with foil. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork. Serve with a Greek salad.

Bloody Mary Oyster Shooters 1 cup tomato juice 2 oz. lemon juice 1 oz. lime juice 2 oz. Worcestershire sauce 1 Tbsp. fresh grated horseradish 1 tsp. kosher salt

2 tsp. pepper sauce ½ tsp. celery salt ½ tsp. black pepper 8 fresh-shucked Mississippi Gulf oysters Celery top leaves for garnish

In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients, except for the oysters, and let refrigerate for 1 hour. Place one oyster each into a 2-ounce shot glass. Top with bloody mary mix and garnish with celery leaves.

Southern Seafood Dip ½ cup mayonnaise 1 ½ tsp. whole-grain mustard ½ tsp. garlic powder ¼ tsp. lemon-pepper seasoning ½ lb. lump crabmeat

½ cup (about ¼ lb.) chopped, cooked Mississippi Gulf shrimp 1⁄3 cup shredded cheese of choice, plus extra for top 1⁄3 cup sliced almonds, toasted

Combine mayonnaise, mustard, garlic powder and lemon-pepper in a small bowl. Stir in crabmeat, shrimp and cheese. Spoon mixture into a 3-cup baking dish. Sprinkle with additional cheese. Bake at 375 F for 15 to 20 minutes or until bubbly.

Baked Lemon-Garlic Herb Shrimp 1 lb. Mississippi Gulf shrimp, peeled and deveined Olive oil 1 lemon, zested, then half cut into thin slices 1 lemon, wedged

1 Tbsp. fresh thyme 5 cloves garlic, minced Kosher salt and fresh black pepper Pasta of choice 2 Tbsp. butter

Preheat oven to 400 F. In an 8-by-8-inch glass baking pan, combine olive oil, lemon zest and thyme. Olive oil should coat the bottom of the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, checking every few minutes that it doesn’t brown. Cook pasta, drain and toss with a little olive oil. Remove pan from oven, add butter and swirl it around to melt. Add shrimp, garlic and thin lemon slices (don’t squeeze them). Toss to coat with oil mixture. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until shrimp turn pink and just start to curl; check often. Serve over pasta, with additional extra-virgin olive oil and fresh-squeezed lemon wedges.

July 2016

Today in Mississippi

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Today in Mississippi

July 2016

Picture This...

A Bounty of

Birds

2 5

4 These are only a few of the stunning images of birds our readers submitted to Picture This: 1. A majestic bald eagle in flight. Charles T. Hunter, Magnolia; Magnolia Electric member. 2. A prothonotary warbler rivals the sun in brightness. Rose Marie Redmann, Carriere; Coast Electric member. 3. An inquisitive Eastern screech owl. Malina Mangrum, age 15, Philadelphia; Central Electric member. 4. Eastern bluebird mom delivers food to her nestling. Lisa Johnson, Irvington, Ala. 5. An indigo bunting knows he’s look6 ing good. Jan Dykes, Laurel. 6. Mockingbird yoga. Kristina Graham, Olive Branch; Northcentral Electric member. 7. Life is good for these two male pelicans. Leslie Hunter, Magnolia; Magnolia Electric member. 8. Dad’s turn to serve dinner. Loni Fields, Starkville; 4-County Electric member. 9. A roseate spoonbill feeds in shallow water. Barry Lee Roberts, Liberty; Magnolia Electric member. 10. Portrait of a grey goose. Melissa Campbell, Pontotoc; Pontotoc Electric member. 11. Who will be the “lucky” one to swallow this hairy caterpillar? Jeff Johnson, Quitman; East Mississippi Electric member.

July 2016

Today in Mississippi

8 9

10 13

15 12. A striking (literally) pileated woodpecker. Beth Matthews, Diamondhead. 13. WAAA! Karon Netherland Wilcher, Carthage; Central Electric member. 14. Eastern bluebird at work on home improvement. Norma Bowlin, Summit; Magnolia Electric member. 15. Water reflects stillness of a great blue heron. Charles Lee, Pascagoula; Singing River Electric. 16. Canada geese cruise with their obedient goslings. Tammy Jones, Terry.

Our photo theme for October: Silhouettes

Deadline for submissions Sept. 9. Details at www.todayinmississippi.com.

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Today in Mississippi

July 2016

Type or print your ad clearly. Be sure to include your telephone number. Deadline is the 10th of each month for the next monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issue. Rate is $2.50 per word, 10-word minimum. Mail payment with your ad to Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300. Have any questions? Phone 601-605-8600 or email advertising@epaofms.com.

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Political correctness? How about common sense he late afternoons are Mr. Roy’s and my favorite time of the day. Every morning we get up, get our exercise finished and get busy on routine chores, or projects we are working on. Retirement is great! But around 5:00 we meet in what we call our “boardroom.” The location changes depending on the time of year; in the spring and fall it’s normally the patio. Winter or hot summer afternoons call us to the den or TV room. We thoroughly enjoy these times when we discuss what each of us accomplished or didn’t accomplish that day. We discuss news items and the latest on Trump and Hillary’s presidential campaigns. Maybe an old friend we visited on a trip into town. And a good cup of coffee sure hits the spot. The nights we have scheduled plans, we miss these “board” meetings. The only down side to the late afternoon discussions is that we sometime get so caught up in the topic of the day we put off our night meal until 8:00 or later. Yesterday when we convened our meeting on the patio, Mr. Roy said, “Sometimes I think the whole world has gone crazy except you and me, and on occasion I wonder about you.” “Well, now ... what provoked that comment?” “Yesterday I was reading an article on ‘political correctness’ and it caused me to think about how much America has changed during my lifetime and especially during the past 20 years.”

“That’s true,” I agreed. “And I’m sick of that term. I know what it means, but give me your definition and keep it simple.” “Well, it goes something like this: People should not use language or behave in a way that could offend a particular group of people that are different from them.” Grin ‘n’ “Sounds good to me.” Bare It Mr. Roy said, by Kay Grafe “The problem is that idea has been taken way too far. For example, remember last Christmas season we saw on television where non-religious groups were complaining about sales clerks still wishing customers ‘merry Christmas.’ One store had changed ‘merry Christmas’ to ‘happy non-religious celebration of the winter solace holiday.’ That’s a little ridiculous, but you get the point. It may have started out with good intentions, but now political correctness has become something entirely different. “To me the definition now is something like this: Never, ever, say anything about a person or group of people that are

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different from you, or could possibly be construed to offend that person or group.” “How can we stop this snow-balling trend of political correctness,” I asked. “I don’t know.” Mr. Roy said, “But there’s one thing for sure, the whole country needs to get a big heapin’ helpin’ of common sense. My dad, Uncle Ralph and my grandfather did not have a lot of formal education, but they sure had common sense. They had to develop a base of common sense to survive and be successful, and they did. But today the press has everyone terrified to say what their common sense tells them to say. I read where Jay Leno said during an interview that he didn’t like Mexican food. The next day he was accused of being a racist bigot.” “I’m beginning to wish I had not asked for your definition of political correctness. This is depressing me.” “OK,” he said, “I’ll end this on the

positive note. Follow what your common sense and Christian principles tell you is proper. It’s alright to say ‘merry Christmas’ and to express your religious beliefs and even to not like Mexican food.” “Great, we settled that. Let’s talk about what I expect you to do before the book club meeting tomorrow afternoon: Blow leaves off the patio, cut the grass, fix the door bell and keep Sugar from barking when the girls get here.” Mr. Roy rolled his eyes. “I take offense to you treating me like I’m your hired help.” I put my hands on my hips and said, “You’d better get used to it because I’m using common sense. A husband should freely help a wife when she is perfect.” 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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Today in Mississippi

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Events Want more than 400,000 readers to know about your special event? Submit it 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 send to news@epaofms.com. Events open to the public will be published free of charge as space allows. Please note that events are subject to change; we recommend calling to confirm details before traveling.

“America the Beautiful: The Monumental Landscapes of Clyde Butcher,” through Sept. 4, Laurel. Exhibit of 56 large-format black-and-white photographs by Clyde Butcher. Free. Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. Details: 601-649-6374; lrma.org. “Pride & Joy: The Texas Blues of Stevie Ray Vaughan,” through Oct. 16, Cleveland. Exhibit featuring Vaughan’s guitars, personal photos, stage outfits, tour ephemera, more. Admission. Grammy Museum Mississippi.

Details: 662-441-0100; grammymuseumms.org. Shape Note Singing Workshop, July 13, Florence. Learn to sing American folk hymns from Sacred Harp hymnals; 6-8 p.m. Continues on second Wednesday of each month. Free. Details: 601-953-1094. 38th Annual Mississippi Watermelon Festival, July 15-16, Mize. Games, car and truck show, 5K run, arts and crafts, food, concerts featuring Exile and Darryl Worley, more. Opens 4 p.m. Friday. Mize City Park.

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July 15-16 (877) 790-9722 www.mswatermelonfestival.com

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$10.00 per day (Includes concert each day and all activities) Gates open to the public on: • Friday at 3:30 pm • Saturday 8:30 am

Concerts: Friday night in concert at 8 p.m.

127th NESHOBA COUNTY FAIR

Mississippi’s Giant House Party since 1889. Philadelphia, Miss. (Neshoba Co.)

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. Harper, Morgan & Smith PRCA Rodeo. Harness and running horse races, pony pull. Antique car show. Local & statewide political speaking. Nightly variety & Nashville entertainment. 37th Annual Heart O’ Dixie Triathlon. Thacker Mountain Radio Show. Fireworks. Midway amusement & rides by Mitchell Bros. Amusements. 8 huge days of family fun and hospitality. For more information,

Fri., July 22 thru Fri., July 29

Admission. Details: 877-790-9722; mswatermelonfestival.com. Issachar Summons Ministries Prayer and Prophetic Conference, July 15-16, West Point. Speakers include Rev. Belinda Rice, Pastor Donald Major. Northside Christian Church. Details: 662-295-4688; issacharsummons.com. Magnolia State Bluegrass Association Summer Show, July 16, Ackerman. Bands include Tyler Carroll & Pine Ridge Bluegrass, Russell Burton Family, Ellis Family, Alan Sibley & Magnolia Ramblers; 1-9 p.m. Admission. Choctaw County Community Center. Details: 662-258-2334. Bluegrass, Country and Gospel Singing, July 16, Black Hawk. Black Hawk Old School; 6 p.m. Details: 662-453-0072. Summer Mid-South Wedding Show and Bridal School, July 17, Olive Branch. Fashion show, bridal seminars, games, prizes, more; 15 p.m. Admission. Whispering Woods Hotel and Conference Center. Details: 901-368-6782; midsouthweddingshow.com. Kids’ Day, July 20, McComb. Scooter Mouse, museum tours, miniature riding train, model trains, inflatable jumpers, book giveaways, face painting, more; 9 a.m. - noon. Free. McComb Railroad Depot Museum. Details: trainmaster@mcrrmuseum.

visit www.neshobacountyfair.org or call 601-656-8480

EXILE Saturday night in concert at 8 p.m.

DARRYL WORLEY Car & Truck show “Hosted by the Smith County Cruisers” • Arts, Crafts, & Food Vendors • Chain Saw Artist • The Mississippi Watermelon Festival 5K Run • Live Music • Watermelon Eating, Seed Spitting, & Biggest Watermelon Contest Fireworks show sponsored by BigPopFireworks Hosted by the Town of Mize Volunteer Fire Department Sponsored in part by PriorityOne Bank

127th Neshoba County Fair, July 22-29, Philadelphia. Exhibits, carnival, concerts, rodeo, horse racing, petting zoo, livestock shows, more. Neshoba County Fairgrounds. Details: 601-656-8480; neshobacountyfair.org. Rose Hill Review Stage Production, July 23-24, Meridian. Stories of Rose Hill Cemetery, a Romani Gypsy royalty burial site. Admission. Temple Theatre. Details: 601-681-8525. “A Quilt Journey,” July 23-29, Gulfport. Exhibition and sale of 50 quilts created by J. Marcus Weekley in past 13 years. Opening reception 5-9 p.m. July 22; gallery talk 6 p.m. Free admission. 12090 New Orleans Ave. N. Details: 228-213-3781; whynottryitagain@hotmail.com; whynottryitagain.blogspot.com. Mark Trammell Quartet in Concert, July 25, Osyka. Love offering; 7 p.m. Gillsburg Baptist Church. Details: 601-248-7387; normshop48@gmail.com. “Beauty and the Beast,” July 28-31 and Aug. 5-7, Laurel. Full-length production of the Disney musical. Laurel Little Theatre. Details: 601-428-0140; laurellittletheatre.com. Hamasa Shriners Shrimp Boil, July 30, Marion. Boiled shrimp by the plate or the pound; 10 a.m. until sold out. Hamasa P-Nut Shed, 5516 Dale Dr. Details: 601-693-1361. City-wide Rummage Sale, Aug. 13, Laurel. Indoor sale with more than 100 families participating; 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Free admission. Benefits Good Samaritan Center of Laurel. Magnolia Center, fairgrounds. Details: 601319-6086; myrummagesales@gmail.com. Twice As Nice Kids Resale, Aug. 14-20, D’Iberville. Consignment sale. D’Iberville Civic Center. Details: 850-341-1676; 2asnicekidsresale.com.

July 2016

FREE 20% OFF 7

We have invested millions of dollars in our own state-of-the-art quality test labs and millions more in our factories, so our tools will go toe-to-toe with the top professional brands. And we can sell them for a fraction of the price because we cut out the middle man and pass the savings on to you. It’s just that simple! Come visit one of our 650+ Stores Nationwide.

WITH ANY PURCHASE

6 PIECE SCREWDRIVER SET

SAVE 77%

CLAW

RIP

LOT 69006 60715/60714

LOT 47873shown 69005/61262

Customer Rating

R PE ON SU UP CO

1650 PSI PRESSURE WASHER

SAVE $70

LOT 69488

Customer Rating

$ 99

comp at

Customer Rating

SAVE 33%

1-1/4 GALLON HOME AND GARDEN SPRAYER

LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. 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 11/5/16. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

Customer Rating

comp at

99 $14.97

R PE ON SU UP CO

SAVE $78

LOT 69626 63100 shown

SAVE 71%

$ 99

R PE ON SU UP CO

SAVE

comp at

Customer Rating

SAVE 55%

LOT 62635

SAVE 49%

$ 99 compat

$9.97 LIMIT 8 - Good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. 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 11/5/16. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

• 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed • Over 30 Million Satisfied Customers

LOT 69512 61858/69445 shown • Includes Ram, Hook and Chain

2299

LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. 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 11/5/16. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

2199

comp at

$269

1.5 HP ELECTRIC ER N POLE SAW SUPUPO CO

R PE ON SU UP CO

RETRACTABLE AIR HOSE REEL WITH 3/8" x 50 FT. HOSE LOT 93897 shown 69265/62344

Customer Rating

SAVE $106

LOT 63190 68862/62896 shown

Customer Rating

• Extends from 6 ft. to 8 ft. 10"

$49.97

SAVE $29 $

• 5 mil thickness Item 68498 shown

Customer Rating

POWDER-FREE NITRILE GLOVES PACK OF 100 LOT SIZE 68496/61363 MED LG 68497/61360/97582 68498/61359 X-LG

Customer Rating

SAVE 99 59%

• 300 lb. capacity

comp at

YOUR CHOICE

$166

WOW SUPER COUPON

26", 4 DRAWER TOOL CART

SAVE $230 • 580 lb. capacity

LOT 95659 shown 61634/61952

Customer Rating

5 $11999 $15999

$ 99

comp at

$349.99

comp at

$199.99

5999

$99

LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. 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 11/5/16. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

HIGH LIFT RIDING ER N LAWN MOWER / ATV LIFT SUPUPO CO

6999 comp at

SAVE $110

9999

LOT 62314/63066 66383 shown

• 250 lb. capacity

Customer Rating

$58.55

$17.97

LIMIT 7 - Good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. 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 11/5/16. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

1 TON CAPACITY FOLDABLE SHOP CRANE

SAVE $169

comp at

LOT 61523 shown 60395/62325/62493

$209.99

$952.99

SAVE 60%

$ 99

13" x 31-1/4" ER N COOLING TOWEL SUPUPO Customer Rating CO

• 300 lb. capacity • 23 Configurations

11999

comp at

LOT 62515 66911 shown

LOT 66537 shown 69505/62418

LOT 62514/62656/67646 shown

350 lb. capacity

Customer Rating

$34.95

Customer Rating

32999

$ LOT 61609 67831 shown

STEP STOOL/ ER N WORKING PLATFORM SUPUPO CO

comp at

$69.99 LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. 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 11/5/16. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

SAVE $90

72" x 80" ER N MOVING BLANKET SUPUPO • CO

12 VOLT ER N MAGNETIC SUPUPO FOLDABLE ALUMINUM TOWING CO SPORTS CHAIR LIGHT KIT

17 FT. TYPE 1A MULTI-TASK LADDER

• 1060 lb. capacity • 14,600 cu. in. of storage

comp at

Customer Rating

LOT 61894 60725/69465 shown

159$19999 comp at

99$169comp.99at

$168.97

ER N

Customer Rating

$9999

Customer Rating

99 66%

NON-CONTACT INFRARED SUPUPO THERMOMETER CO WITH LASER TARGETING

SAVE 64%

SAVE $99

SAVE SAVE 40% $623

comp at

calling rFreight.com or by or prior n at our stores, Harbo LIMIT 8 - Good t be used with other discount or coupo al receipt. 800-423-2567. Cannodays from original purchase with originn must be Original coupo able. purchases after 30 ansfer Non-tr es last. er per day. Offer good while supplih 11/5/16. Limit one coupon per custom presented. Valid throug

LOT 60728/69034 shown 63054/62858

t 800-423-2567. Canno ht.com or by calling 30 days from original after our stores, HarborFreig LIMIT 4 - Good at discount or coupon or prior purchaseslast. Non-transferable. Original be used with other al receipt. Offer good while supplies coupon per customer per day. one origin 6. Limit purchase with ted. Valid through 11/5/1 coupon must be presen

20"

LOT 60338/69381 shown

LE 10 FT. x 20 FT. PORTAB CAR CANOPY

Customer Rating

95578/69645

900 PEAK/ ER N 700 RUNNING WATTS SUPUPO 2 HP (63 CC) 2 CYCLE CO GAS RECREATIONAL GENERATOR

LOT 61280/63124 63145/95692 shown

™

WOW SUPER COUPON

$20.26

R PE ON SU UP CO

WOW SUPER COUPON

$89

R R 4-1/2" ANGLE GRINDER PE ON PE ON SU UP SU UP 26", 16 DRAWER Customer Rating LOT 60625 shown CO CO ROLLER CABINET

SAVE $85

$17.99

LIMIT 6 - Good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. 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 11/5/16. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

comp at

LIMIT 1 - Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or prior purchase. Coupon good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. 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 11/5/16. Limit one FREE GIFT Coupon per customer per day.

LOT 61282 shown • Weighs 61253/62326 73 lbs.

99$149comp.99at

4999

VALUE

RAPID PUMP® 3 TON LOW PROFILE HEAVY DUTY STEEL FLOOR JACK

• 1.3 GPM

YOUR CHOICE

Customer Rating

$ 98

ANY SINGLE ITEM

16 OZ. HAMMERS ER N WITH FIBERGLASS SUPUPO HANDLE CO

R PE ON SU UP CO

LOT 95275 shown 60637/61615

SAVE 43%

LOT 61313/62728 62583/47770/62570 shown

Limit 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, extended service plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day parking lot sale item, compressors, floor jacks, saw mills, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, trenchers, welders, Admiral, Badland, CoverPro, Daytona, Diablo, Earthquake, Franklin, Grant’s, Holt, Jupiter, Maddox, Portland, Predator, Stik-Tek, StormCat, Union, Vanguard, Viking. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/5/16.

3 GALLON, 100 PSI OILLESS PANCAKE AIR COMPRESSOR

SUPER COUPON

Today in Mississippi

R PE ON SU UP CO

650+ Stores Nationwide

How Does Harbor Freight Sell GREAT QUALITY Tools at the LOWEST Prices?

$14.97

LIMIT 9 - Good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. 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 11/5/16. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

• No Hassle Return Policy • Lifetime Warranty On All Hand Tools

calling rFreight.com or by or prior n at our stores, Harbo LIMIT 3 - Good t be used with other discount or coupo al receipt. 800-423-2567. Cannodays from original purchase with originn must be al coupo Origin able. purchases after 30 ansfer es last. Non-tr er per day. Offer good while supplih 11/5/16. Limit one coupon per custom presented. Valid throug

• 650+ Stores Nationwide • HarborFreight.com 800-423-2567