East Mississippi Electric Power Association
AUGUST 2013
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M I S S I S S I P P I
Kate Sprabery Meridian
Periodical postage (ISSN 1052 2433)
Andrew Yates Louisville
2 Mississippi students join national
Youth Tour in Washington 4 Book illustrator entertains,
educates young readers 13 Last call for boarding
final Honor Flight
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Mississippi’s participants in the 27th annual Rural Electric Youth Tour meet with Rep. Gregg Harper in the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol.
Fifty-five of Mississippi’s finest high school juniors spent part of past participants serving in leadership roles in our communities, their summer vacation exploring the nation’s capital and making schools and government. They have accepted our challenge and are new friends, courtesy of their electric power association. using their skills to make a difference. Their involvement is a true As participants in the 27th annual Rural Electric Youth Tour, the example of the success this program has experienced in the past 27 students visited many of Washington’s most significant historic and years.” cultural sites during the week-long trip. They also took part in special 2013 Rural Electric Youth Tour delegates and their sponsoring elecevents with more than 1,500 other Youth Tour participants from tric power associations are Alcorn County EPA: Kelsey English, Faith other states. LaFever; Central EPA: Kooper Battle, Zach Williams; Coast EPA: Bailey A highlight was a visit to the U.S. Capitol, where Rep. Gregg Harper Purvis, Courtney Thurtell; Dixie EPA: Emily Bedwell, Dru Elkins, Jesse took the Mississippi students to the floor of the U.S. House of RepreSmith, Ben Spiller; East Mississippi EPA: Kate Sprabery, Andrew sentatives before the Congressmen convened. Each student also had Yates; 4-County EPA: Subrina Oswalt, Caden Teer; Magnolia EPA: “We are strong advocates of the opportunity to meet his or her Congressman. Garrett Smith, Ben Stroud, Carlee Welch-Dick; Natchez Trace EPA: providing resources to educate “The trip was one of the greatest experiences of my life and I will Nicole Baecher, Steele Liles; North East Mississippi EPA: Kaitlyn Bishand encourage our young be forever grateful for it,” said participant Caroline Bradley, of op, Shawnda Pettis, Aaron Watkins; Northcentral EPA: Charles CoopLucedale. er, Claudia Espinosa-Batres, Corteilous Jones, Kaitlyn Kendall, Shamespeople.” Ron Stewart, Caroline was selected during the Youth Leadership Workshop in sia Lee, Kristen Lusby, Dustin Moore, Luke Phillips, Bree Starnes, Senior Vice President of the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi. March to represent Mississippi on the national Youth Leadership Walker Underwood; Pearl River Valley EPA: Cody Letchworth, Mitch Council. The workshop and Youth Tour are components of the Electric Power Associations of Strider; Singing River EPA: Caroline Bradley, Victoria Cason, Anna Del Castillo; Southern Mississippi Youth Leadership Program. Participants are chosen through a competitive process Pine EPA: Leah Bowlin, Xiara Day; Southwest Mississippi EPA: Terry McBeth, Reagan Myers; sponsored by their electric power association. Tallahatchie Valley EPA: Whitney Hudson, Neil Patel, Jesse Pearson, Erin Snider; Tombig“We are strong advocates of providing resources to educate and encourage our young peo- bee EPA: Seth Dickinson, Ryan Gillentine, Sydney Gully, Nataly Loague, Shelby Miller, Jacob ple,” said Ron Stewart, senior vice president of the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi. Pharr, Alivia Roberts; Twin County EPA: Scott Miller Jr., Charlie Yelverton; Yazoo Valley “Our investment in this program has produced outstanding dividends as we see many of our EPA: Chelsea Wright.
August 2013 I Today in Mississippi
Youth leaders emerge when students learn critical skills n this issue of Today in Mississippi, we highlight our youth leaders who went to Washington, D.C., in June. Every year around March, high school juniors come to Jackson to learn about state government, meet with state leaders and compete in team-building exercises. One of the highlights of my job is addressing this talented group of young potential leaders. Because of a family medical emergency I was unable to address this year’s group. If I had been able to speak to these young people, I would have told them that leadership, true leadership, is about self sacrifice, putting the needs of others ahead of your own. Leadership is not something you do for a title or to achieve a rank or some status. True leadership is a burden that’s sometimes heavy. As a leader climbs, his rights diminish and his responsibility for others grows. More people need to understand that just because you have the “right” to do something, doesn’t mean it’s the right thing to do. As Paul Harvey once said, “Freedom without personal restraint will lead this nation to chaos.” I would have told these young people that leaders need three things: attitude, integrity and the ability to prioritize. Life is 10 percent what happens to you and 90 percent how you deal with it. A leader’s attitude as to how he or she approaches things is crucial. I have heard it said that a pessimist complains about the wind, an optimist expects it to change but a leader simply adjusts the sails. Leaders must possess integrity, which means they are complete, unified; their words and deeds match. Leaders cannot sell a message of “do as I say, not as I do.” A leader with integrity is a person who is who he claims to be. Last, a leader must be good at prioritizing.
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My Opinion Michael Callahan Executive Vice President/CEO EPAs of Mississippi
There is simply not enough time to do everything, and for anything that is gained, something must be lost; that is a simple truth. I tell the high school students a simple rule to follow, “It would be hard to overestimate the unimportance of practically everything.” Some people place priorities on things that just aren’t that big a deal, and because they do, it causes so much unnecessary stress in their lives. Unfortunately, some of this nation’s leaders seemed to have veered from the path of true leadership. I think that’s why this country stands where it does today. The nation is $17 trillion is debt, cities and counties are going bankrupt, and poll after poll shows the people losing faith in their governing institutions. So every year, when I speak to these high school students, maybe, just maybe, some will listen and understand and show the next generation what true leadership is really about. ••• Congratulations to Samuel Bragg, Justin Smith, Joey White and Jacob Wigginton, the four Mississippi college students who were recently awarded engineering scholarships sponsored by the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi Foundation. See photo on page 19. JOIN TODAY IN MISSISSIPPI
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On the cover
Today in Mississippi
Fifty-five Mississippi high school juniors joined some 1,500 of their peers from across the nation in June for the annual Rural Electric Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. Mississippi’s student delegation earned the trip in local competitions sponsored by their local electric power association. See story on page 2.
OFFICERS Kevin Doddridge - President Brad Robison - First Vice President Wayne Henson - Second Vice President Randy Wallace - Secretary/Treasurer
EDITORIAL STAFF Michael Callahan - Executive Vice President/CEO Ron Stewart - Sr. Vice President, Communications Mark Bridges - Manager, Support Services Jay Swindle - Manager, Advertising Debbie H. Stringer - Editor Abby Berry - Communications Specialist Rickey McMillan - Graphics Specialist Linda Hutcherson - Administrative Assistant
Vol. 66 No. 8
EDITORIAL OFFICE & ADVERTISING 601-605-8600 Acceptance of advertising by Today in Mississippi does not imply endorsement of the advertised product or services by the publisher or Mississippi’s Electric Power Associations. Product satisfaction and delivery responsibility lie solely with the advertiser. • National advertising representative: National Country Market, 800-626-1181 Circulation of this issue: 433,788 Non-member subscription price: $9.50 per year
The Official Publication of the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi Today in Mississippi (ISSN 1052-2433) is published eleven times a year (Jan.Nov.) by Electric Power Associations of Mississippi, Inc., P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300, or 665 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, MS 39157. Phone 601-605-8600. Periodical postage paid at Ridgeland, MS, and additional office. The publisher (and/or its agent) reserves the right to refuse or edit all advertising. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Today, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300
Visit us online at www.todayinmississippi.com
The Natchez Museum of African Art and Heritage houses exhibits on the Rhythm Nightclub fire, where more than 200 African American citizens perished in 1940; Forks of the Road, the second-largest slave market in the South; author Richard Wright, a native of Natchez; and other historically significant sites, people and events. The museum is located in the old Natchez post office at 301 Main Street.
Mississippi is ... ... an eternal friend, a familiar spirit that dwells in the hearts of his native sons. He speaks of Tishomingo and Pushmataha, of fightin’ farm boys at Shiloh and Normandy, at Inchon and Saigon. He tells of Holt Collier and the great Delta wilderness, of Archie’s Army, The Nasty Bunch and The Grits Blitz, of Walter Payton and Jerry Rice. He’ll remind you of how beautiful Mississippi women are in a “red dog minute.” How you can actually “hear” the stillness in the predawn woods along the banks of the Pearl, or Big Black or Homochitto. How your arms grow tired reelin’ in red snapper from 80 feet down all day long, and how red the sun is, setting on the western horizon in the Mississippi Sound. How all the kinfolks and friends who are gone are really there with you in those quiet moments. And finally, how thankful to God you should be to be a Mississippian. – David Conn, Rockport My Mississippi is the flat Delta land, With its blue sky and cotton in never-ending span. The smell of the dirt after a summer shower, Honeysuckle vine and bright sweetpea flower. My childhood was spent in innocent bliss Playing in the sunshine—oh, how I miss The sound of tractors in fields of brown, Plowing for crops to be planted underground. Friendly people, the small-town rapport, Fresh vegetables, peaches and fried chicken galore. I no longer live there, but memories play Across my mind in nostalgic array. – Elaine Maynor, Brandon
What’s Mississippi to you? What makes you proud to be a Mississippian? What do you treasure most about life in our state? Send your thoughts to Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158, or email them to news@epaofms.com. Please keep your comments brief. Submissions are subject to editing.
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Art
Storytelling Today in Mississippi
August 2013
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Illustrator Chuck Galey draws from the imagination to bring children’s stories to life
By Debbie Stringer They may look light-hearted, but Chuck Galey’s illustrations work hard to capture and hold the attention of young readers. A successful picture book illustration, Galey explained, is more than a pretty picture. The illustrator must blend technical skill with imagination to “evoke a story or conjure up something in the viewer’s mind.” Not an easy task. But Galey relishes the challenge. “You’ve got to hook them with that first page,” he said with a snap of his fingers. Working in a light-filled home studio in Jackson, Galey produces paintings and digital art for publishers of children’s picture books and magazines, including “Highlights” publications. Between assignments, he travels to libraries, classrooms, seminars and literary festivals throughout the state to instruct all ages in the craft of visual storytelling. His educational programs have been accepted to the Mississippi
Arts Commission Teaching Artist Roster. Galey’s interest in art emerged early while growing up in Greenwood. Flipping through an S&H Green Stamps catalog, his eyes landed on a pair of stylized cat figurines. Rounding up pieces of cardboard and poster paints, Galey painted the cats “because they were so cool looking.” In school, he earned the distinction as “the kid who drew.” For years he took lessons from a local art teacher, Lenny Wacht, a German immigrant who played classical music records while her students worked. Galey studied physical oceanography at Mississippi College, but two summers spent working aboard a marine research vessel in the gulf ended his dream to become a commercial scuba diver. “What I didn’t count on was that I got seasick a lot,” he said with a laugh.
Chuck Galey, owner of Chuck Galey Illustration
“So, I’m thinking that God was grabbing my stomach and saying, ‘Wake up, go do your art.’” After studying graphic design at Mis-
Galey’s goal as an illustrator is to encourage a parent (or grandparent) and child to enjoy a book together. sissippi State University, Galey landed a job as an art director for an ad agency
and took on freelance illustration assignments at home. He became a full-time freelance illustrator in 1985 when he was laid off from the ad agency. “I had wanted to do it for a long time but that made my decision for me,” he said. The urge to create art for children’s picture books came about as Galey and his wife, Forrest, read beautifully illustrated books to their son, Sean. Working in watercolor, acrylics, pen and ink or colored pencils, Galey has illustrated 11 children’s picture books, which typically require 17 paintings per book.
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A leather-clad stray dog, above left, roars up to The Fireplug, a cannine club where The Blues Dogs play, in “Rock ‘N’ Roll Dogs,” by David Davis and featuring illustrations by Chuck Galey. A selection of other children’s picture books illustrated by Galey includes “Jazz Cats” by David Davis, “A Breath of Hope” by Jo Kittinger and “Jay and the Bounty of Books” by Randall Ivey.
Titles featuring his work include “Rock ‘N’ Roll Dogs” and “Jazz Cats” by David Davis, “Jay and the Bounty of Books” by Randall Ivey and “The Cotton Candy Catastrophe at the Texas State Fair” by Dotti Enderle. “Fun Day in Mrs. Walker’s Class” by Robert Little was chosen to represent Mississippi at the 2006 National Book Festival in Washington, D.C. Galey’s award-winning work is lively, colorful, detailed and imaginative. Realistic light and shadow lift the fanciful characters and settings from the printed page. In a Galey illustration, cool cats blow clarinets, dancing dogs wear poodle skirts and big elephants read tiny books. Not all his work is so cheerful. For the new picture book “Helping a Hero” by Jo Kittinger, Galey’s images depict a veteran’s despair following military service overseas, as well as the ray of hope he eventually discovers.
Regardless of subject matter, Galey’s goal as an illustrator is to encourage a parent (or grandparent) and child to enjoy a book together. “That, to me, is a great bonding experience (that leads) the child to become a lifelong reader,” he said. During his classroom visits, Galey draws children into the dual role of the illustrator/author. For a two-day program at a Como school, he helped students with their assignment to write personal stories. “What I did was help them to illustrate their stories. I showed them some techniques in drawing, but mainly we used stick-figure-type things.” In Laurel recently, he led fifth graders in a week-long project to create their own graphic novels. Galey delights in young children’s fearless forays into art. “What I love about kids’ drawings is that they’re free with their drawing. They’re very lively
and very much spontaneous. They are just fun to look at because we’re so used to realism.” He encourages kids to think like an illustrator by associating words with imagined pictures. “I’ll read the words to them and I’ll have them close their eyes to imagine what, as an illustrator, you would do with those words. What do you hear with those words?” Galey shows them the numerous rough sketches he makes before choosing one to develop into a painting. “The point I’m trying to get across is not only the creativity but the planning,” he said. Then he pulls out the finished painting to display alongside the published version. “That’s when they make the connection that there’s a person that actually did the art in the book.” When starting a new book project, the initial page design is the most challenging step in the process for Galey. “I require myself to do 10 thumbnails (small sketches) per two-page spread. By
doing that, I force myself to come up with many varied concepts and compositions. By No. 9, I’m really struggling to come up with a whole new design. That’s the hardest part.” Having built his successful career on his talents as an illustrator for other authors’ books, Galey wants to begin publishing his own stories for children. He is currently seeking an agent to market the book manuscripts he has produced in recent years. Galey said he calls on his inner child as his inspiration for story development. “I often tell people that I’m an 8-yearold boy in an old man’s body. I’m writing for that universal 8-year-old with an imagination.” Children’s picture books illustrated by Chuck Galey are available in bookstores. For more information or to purchase books online, go to www.chuckgaley.com.
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Today in Mississippi August 2013
Loss of historic landmark jolted the locals
This shot of the Red Barn was published in the "Oh! That Reminds Me" book. Having driven past it one day, I turned around and went back to snap this shot, thinking I might want to put the barn in the book. Not too long afterward there was nothing left but an empty lot with two silos. Photo: Walt Grayson
he Red Barn sat beside said Mr. Graft trained horses on that Highway 61 just south long run inside the barn. of Rolling Fork in They put hay in the loft above. Sharkey County from Baskin Perry said Mr. Graft’s grandson 1918 until would come to Rolling Fork 2011 when it just “laid every summer, and the two down,” as its collapse was of them would get up in described to me by one of the that hayloft and play many people who came out between the bales. to see it that day. And a lot of That was something he people came to see it. In dishadn’t thought about in a belief, they witnessed the long time until that morndeath of an old companion ing in May 2011 when he that had been a guide and a got a call from his neighbor Mississippi landmark for all of their lives. telling him the barn had Seen It was originally Bernard collapsed. He said as soon by Walt Grayson Graft’s barn. It was 200 feet as he saw it the memories long. On the north side were started washing over him. stalls. The south side was unobstructed Bill Newsom, president of the from one end to the other. Someone Sharkey County board of supervisors,
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Picture your pet in ‘Picture This’ Our next “Picture This” reader photo theme is Funny Pet Photos. Photographers whose photos are selected for publication become eligible for a $200 cash prize drawing in December. Submissions must be emailed or postmarked by Sept. 10. Selected photos will appear in the October 2013 issue of Today in Mississippi. Submission requirements • Photos must relate to the given theme and must be the original work of an amateur photographer. • Prints and digital photos are accepted, but sharp focus is essential. • Digital photos should be high-resolution JPG files.
was probably the first person to discover Sharkey County, said she’s given a thousand people directions using the Red the barn had collapsed. Bill said he was Barn as a reference point. “Turn right at riding back into Rolling Fork from the Red Barn and follow that street all down the road, and as he approached the way downtown to get to the courtthe town from the south he noticed house.” something just Bill said he’s also didn’t look right. “Turn right at the Red told many a traveler When he got to the barn, he stopped the Barn and follow that how to get where they wanted to go by car, got out and said street all the way at that time you directing them from could still hear downtown to get to the the barn. “Someone didn’t know how to boards groaning and courthouse.” get to Cary. I asked nails popping as the them if they knew giant lay down. Murinda Williams It is only after where the Red Barn was, and they said something like the Red Barn is gone that you realize how ‘yes.’ I told them just to go about anothmuch a part of your life it was. Murinda er five miles past it and you’ll be there.” Now all that’s left where the Red Williams, chancery and circuit clerk for
• Photos must be accompanied by identifying information: photographer’s name, address, phone and electric power association (if applicable). Include the name(s) of any recognizable people or places in the picture. • Prints will be returned if accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. We cannot, however, guarantee their safe return through the mail.
How to submit
Mail prints to “Picture This,” Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300. Email digital photos to news@epaofms.com. Or, mail a photo CD to Picture This, Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300. Question? Call Debbie Stringer, editor, at 601-605-8610 or e-mail news@epaofms.com.
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Barn stood are the silos. But Rolling Fork has the barn back once again— well, they have a scale model of it. Ben Lamensdorf commissioned Billy Jones of Jackson, a member of the Craftsman’s Guild of Mississippi who builds replicas of old houses and such, to make a model of the Red Barn. They unveiled it last month in the courthouse at Rolling Fork. There it will remain on display in a glass case, except when court is in session. Then they will roll it out of the way. Mr. Lamensdorf said he wanted to have a replica of the Red Barn made for all of the people who had some kind of attachment to it. That seems to be pretty much everybody in the county in some way or another, whether they played in it as a kid, used it as a rudimentary GPS
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for giving directions or just passed it coming back into town, knowing as they saw it they were home again. Now, the Red Barn is home again.
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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 I August 2013
Africa revisited:
Return to a haunting land of mystique
Kinton stands beside a baobab tree. Photo: Sam Valentine
impopo Province, South Africa. Bushveld. Land of the acacia and baobab and wait-a-bit thorns. A place time has neglected, where bird call serves as alarm clock, where the human intruder can lie awake nights as baboons scold from their koppie and treetop dwellings at a leopard beneath. A place where that same human can brush the Milky Way with feeble fingertips while a campfire performs its ballet, can see vividly the Southern Cross hanging motionless and brilliant in lucid skies. This province derives its name from that river bearing the same: Limpopo. It serves as a boundary between Botswana and South Africa. Zimbabwe and Mozambique are not far away to the north—not far in African terms anyway. It was here, in this land of protracted and monstrously perplexing mystery, I firmly concluded years back that experiences are the finest form of wealth. I had come this time to attempt what some considered impossible. With only an Osage take-down longbow Mike Yancey (www.pinehollowlongbows.com) and I had built and spruce arrows I had fashioned, I would pursue the nyala. Eyebrows rose as I slid the bow from a PVC tube and joined the two pieces together at the metal sleeve. The bushmen of old had done it in similar fashion, but they had the assist of smearing their arrows with a potent drug found in the chandelier tree. I would certainly not
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follow that practice, but I was confident just the same. My host was Louis Steenkamp of Sofala Safaris (www.sofalasafaris.com). Louis has ties in Mississippi; he came to Delta State University on a tennis scholarship. While there he met and married Joy Wiman, daughter of Dorothy and Richard Wiman of Belzoni. Louis, Joy and Louis Jr. now live in Pretoria, where Louis is a Christian marriage and family counselor. He operates his safari business on thousands of acres of hunting concessions, most of which belong to Louis and his three brothers. Louis came to my house three months before the hunt and asked to see the Osage longbow in action; this he filmed for use on his website. You can view it on Youtube from his site. He was more than gracious and understanding regarding my choice of hunting tools and pledged to do all in his power to help. We began talking nyala hunting immediately. Nyala are members of the spiralhorned antelope family found throughout Africa in various persuasions. Eland are the largest, and that grand grey ghost, the kudu, is perhaps the most sought, particularly by first-time safari guests. But the nyala, a big, mature bull weighing perhaps 400 pounds, is likely the most beautiful. From nose tip to tail, they are simply spectacular. One Zulu legend speaks to the matter of these breathtaking good looks. The spiral horns, according to the
many who needed it and Zulu, began arguing which would provide me the opportuamong them was the most nity to admire in full appreciabeautiful. They petitioned tion God’s hand prints for as God to come down and make the decision. God did long as I can see and recall. Mississippi Short minutes later, Louis, so and ordered one speciOutdoors our tracker Petrus and I men from each antelope by Tony Kinton group to form a line, along approached the bull. There had which God walked back been no cause to exercise the and forth in admiration. skills of Petrus. The two of He eventually stopped in front of the them, in good taste and polite courtesy nyala. yet common in rural Africa, stopped God then gently nestled the bull’s head short as I went to the nyala. I stroked and face in His hands and proclaimed, the bull’s rich coat, removed my hat and “You are the most beautiful of all.” The knelt in an extended prayer of thanksplace on the face near the eyes where giving. Not one hint of interruption God’s thumbs overlapped formed that came from my comrades; they allowed white chevron that is now present, and all the time I required for this most significant element of the hunt. These two the white spots along the jaws are where God’s fingertips rested. An accurate tale I understood fully the elation mixed with sobering sadness I was feeling. would say, for only God could make That night, after the meat had been something as striking as a nyala bull. distributed and the cape properly cared It was day four when I found myself in an advantageous position. A bull was for, I lay in my tent and listened to the jackals call and impala rams roar. I gingerly picking leaves from an acacia thought deeply and reverently of what I bush. With the wind in my favor and the bull’s attention on other matters, I had done only a few hours earlier. And crept to within 20 yards. It was time for I, for a second time in my life, felt the the shot. And then came that aching inexplicable lure of Africa tugging at the known only to hunters, and perhaps to very depths of my being. The mystery of only a few of those who place themselves it all was alive, potent. It will likely under that broad designation. prove everlasting. The sensation is one of exultation and wonderment, one of doubt and regret. I Tony Kinton has been an active outdoors writer for 30 years. “Uncertain Horizons,” book could draw and release the arrow or I two in Kinton’s “Wagon Road Trilogy,” is now could turn and walk away. The chalavailable. Order from your local bookstore, lenge had been accomplished. But com- Amazon.com or Kinton’s website: www.tonykinpleting the process would mean meat for ton.com.
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The little white church in the Greene County wildwood few months ago Mr. Roy, Bardwell, D.D. and the first ordinance of baptism was administered to John my husband, and I were Scott McLeod. The church held its servstanding in front of the beautiful, white, gleaming ices under an arbor and then met at a school, The Vernal Male and wood Female Academy, until a Presbyterian church in the church was built. Greene County community By 1897 the manse (pasof Vernal. The bell tower tor’s home) was completed. reached upward to meet the The present church was pure blue canopy of heaven. completed in 1908. As we walked inside it took Just five years ago Vernal our breath away. The Presbyterian Church, now charming interior was remilisted on the National niscence of days gone by. It Grin ‘n’ Register of Historic Places, glowed, however, with an Bare It held a 100th anniversary celelegance that its memberby Kay Grafe ebration. More than 300 ship had bestowed in 1908 attended. and continued to pass on to Come on down and visit the church. generations that were baptized near the altar, or the creek, and returned home to Drive two miles west of Lucedale on US 98 to Highway 63. Turn north on the Lord from the foot of that altar. Highway 63 and travel approximately We visited the church to attend the five miles until you see a sign with direcfuneral of a friend. She had married a McInnis, whose name is in a long list of tions to the church. Turn left onto McInnis Vernal Road and follow the McInnises. This list includes McIntosh, signs. McLeod, Woodard, Pipkins, Brown, There it is! Shinning like a beacon Hillman, Box, Green, Cowart, Williams, McKay and more. Many Scottish people among the tall trees. If you would like to followed family and friends to the beau- go inside, take a ride to Vernal one tiful landscape. Thus, the inspiration for Sunday morning at 11 a.m. You are the community’s nickname, Little Scotland. George McIntosh, our neighbor, grew up across the road from the church and was a member, as were his four sisters. Vernal Presbyterian Church sits in a gorgeous setting of hardwood and pine trees next to the new prayer garden built in memory of the Rev. H.J. Hedgepeth. He pastored the church four years prior to his death in May 2007. When Mr. Roy and I ride our bikes, we like to get away from traffic for the peace that only lush woods and a rural setting can bring. The Vernal area has been on our bike route many times. We had admired the church as we pedaled that old country road. When we saw its interior, I began to call Vernal residents to uncover a parcel of its history. In 1850 the Vernal community, formerly Little Scotland, began developing at the crossroads of the Washington-toNew Orleans and Mobile-to-Natchez trails. Now I want to take you back to Saturday, Feb. 28, 1880, when Vernal Presbyterian Church was officially organized. The following day the Lord’s supper was administered by the Rev. J.
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invited to come to church and afterwards visit a spell. The area is still remote, but can you imagine how it looked in the early 1800s when the Scottish settlers began arriving in their horse and wagons? They were pioneers going west from North and South Carolina, Georgia and Virginia. They wanted to be near water (Vernal isn’t far from the Chickasawhay River, which flows into the Pascagoula River). They were also looking for seclusion and peacefulness that south Mississippi provided. The pioneers needed a way to make a living. They were surrounded by timber, so a sawmill was built. On the cleared fertile soil they grew crops. I told Mr. Roy the area gave me a feeling of reverence. “Could it be that is where a remnant of the 10 lost tribes of Israel lived?” He gave me his “you gotta be kid
Vernal Presbyterian Church
ding” look. Then said, “Don’t go on a tangent and write something in the paper you can’t prove.” I apologize readers. I can’t prove it, but I just felt it in my bones. 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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East Mississippi Electric Power Association Louisville 662.773.5741
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Loyal Connections Cooperatives change lives in the communities they serve Loyalty is a prized virtue—to country, family, even the schools we attend. We keep those ties strong throughout our lives, myself included: I still wear my Mississippi State logo shirts even though I graduated many years ago. We at East Mississippi Electric Power Association also have loyalties, to the members and communities we serve. We have deep connections here because east Mississippi is our home, and you are our neighbor. When you signed up for service with EMEPA, you became a member, not a customer—because each of our more than 37,000 consumer-members owns a portion of the utility. That means we care about improving the quality of life in the areas we serve. From sponsoring local Relay For Life
events to taking a group of students to Washington, D.C. each summer for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Youth Tour, EMEPA
invests in the places where you live and work. EMEPA doesn’t exist to make profits for distant investors on Wall Street. We exist to provide you with safe, reliable
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
and affordable electric service—and doing so in a way that makes things better for future generations. Because electric cooperatives operate on a not-forprofit basis, we have no need to increase revenues above what it takes to operate our business in a financially sound manner. This structure helps keep your electric bills affordable. We take our jobs seriously, but we also take our community roles seriously, too. That’s why we work actively with economic development agencies in all the major counties we serve as they visit with industrial prospects brought into the area. We seek to engage the entire community in the economic development process to place a high emphasis on creating jobs for our area. We don’t participate in these activi-
Wayne Henson, General Manager/ CEO
ties simply because it’s nice to do, or even the right thing to do. We do it because we remain loyal to our members, our neighbors, our home—and a mission to make life better in the areas we serve. Help us make life better in your community. Send your ideas to contactus@emepa.com.
Monday, September 2 Labor Day Our offices will be closed
in observance of
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Keeping the power flowing for 75 years By Julie Boles We often take electricity for granted. At the flip of a switch, the lights come on. You don’t even think about it. But here, at East Mississippi Electric Power Association, we do think about it. We have existed for the past 75 years to power communities and empower you, our members, to improve your quality of life. Before the 1930s, people living in rural east Mississippi didn’t have access to electricity. In those days, rural farmers and housewives had backbreaking work from dawn to dusk. Things like running water, lights and stored food were not possible. Most of us can’t even imagine such a time existed. That all changed in 1938 when a group of dedicated, forward thinking rural citizens rolled up their sleeves and banded together to form a nonprofit, consumer-owned electric distribution cooperative. EMEPA was dedicated to bringing power to the rural area, to providing the best service possible and doing it without making a profit from the members. For the few of you that may remember our beginnings from your younger days – you know full well the power of neighbors uniting behind a common purpose. Cooperation changed
Ma
r rk you
fo r a d n e cal
the landscape of our communities and new opportunities were plentiful. Today, EMEPA serves more than 37,000 homes, businesses and churches in east Mississippi. Though we’ve evolved into a much larger, more progressive organization making the best use of modern technology and practices, we still hold fast to our founding principles. EMEPA is more than a power provider. We’re proof that when folks with a single focus and a little hard work and dedication come together, we can turn dreams into reality. We exist today because east Mississippians like you believed they could turn darkness into light. We’ve kept the power flowing for 75 years, and we’ll be here to provide you with safe, affordable and reliable electric power for another 75 years. It’s a big job, but we’re up to the challenge. That has never changed and never will.
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EMEPA to hold 75th annual meeting celebration East Mississippi Electric Power Association will conduct its 75th Annual Meeting of the membership Saturday, Oct. 5, 2013 at MSUMeridian’s Kahlmus Auditorium. Notices will be mailed later this month to invite you and all EMEPA members to attend our annual meeting. The Annual Meeting will inform our members of the actions taken during the past year in addition to conducting the Association’s business and the election of three directors. This year’s meeting will also include a special 75th Anniversary celebration with food, entertainment and great prizes. In accordance with the bylaws of East Mississippi Electric Power Association, a
quorum of the membership must be represented in person or by proxy in order to conduct the business meeting and hold the election of the directors. Any member of EMEPA may obtain a complete set of bylaws by contacting their district office in Louisville, DeKalb, Quitman or the main office in Meridian. Mark your calendar for Saturday, Oct. 5 and make plans to attend our 75th Annual Meeting celebration. If you have any questions about the Annual Meeting or just want to know more, please contact EMEPA’s Marketing and Communication Department at 601.581.8624 or visit our website at www.emepa.com.
EMEPA at 601-581-8624 or visit our website at www.emepa.com.
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“This ope man
h u T t o Y Andrew Yates and House from La Kate Sprabery represented EMEPA during fayette Park. the 2013 Yo
uth Tour. Here,
they view the W
hite
TWENTY THIRTEEN
and Tracey Yates of Louisville. The week-long trip featured visits to the major monuments and memorials, including the World War II Memorial, FDR Memorial, Lincoln Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. “This experience has opened my eyes to many new - Franklin Delano Roosevelt things,” said Kate. “I would like to thank EMEPA for this amazing opportunity!” Fifty-five of Mississippi’s brightest high school stuA trip to the Kennedy Center was one of the first dents recently participated in the annual stops on the tour. While there, the students enjoyed a Rural Electric Youth Tour, spending breathtaking view of the Potomac River from the balseven days touring our nation’s capi- cony level, followed by the theatrical production “Shear tal. Madness,” one of the longest running non-musicals of Kate Sprabery and Andrew Yates all time. represented East Mississippi The students were taken on a guided tour of the Electric Power Association on the Washington National Cathedral, the second largest Youth Tour. Kate, daughter of cathedral in the U.S. The cathedral has played a vital Dr. Pat and Donna role in our nation’s history, serving as a grand spiritual Sprabery of Meridian, will center where Americans can unite to worship, pray and be a senior at Southeast mourn. Another highlight of the tour was a visit to Lauderdale High School Arlington Cemetery, where the students reverently this fall. Andrew will be watched the changing of the guard and also viewed a a senior at Grace burial ceremony. Approximately 30 burials take place Christian School and at Arlington Cemetery each day. The students also visis the son of Hubert ited the gravesites of President John F. Kennedy and
“We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future.”
Medgar Evers, and toured the Arlington House (Robert E. Lee Memorial). The students spent a day touring four of the Smithsonian Museums, including the museums of Air and Space, American History, Natural History and American Art. Two popular events of the tour were a stop by Madame Tussauds Wax Museum and an evening cruise down the Potomac River. “Youth Tour has been such a great experience,” said Andrew. “I have a newfound appreciation for our country.” In addition, the students attended a Youth Day event with more than 1,500 students representing electric cooperatives from 43 states across the nation. The students spent a day on Capitol Hill, which began with a special tour of the Congressional House Floor, graciously hosted by Rep. Gregg Harper. After a tour of the Capitol, Kate and Andrew visited Rep. Harper’s D.C. office. Rep. Harper spoke to the students about the importance of making good decisions. He encouraged them to always strive for their best and set high goals. While visiting on Capitol Hill, students also had the opportunity to meet with Sen. Roger Wicker. The Youth Tour is part of an extensive Youth
Leadership Program su “Our youth leadership unique opportunity to see the political proces more about thinking a cooperative manner,” s al manager of EMEPA enhance their leadersh lenge them to return t and schools to make a EMEPA congratula dents on their accomp
August 2013 Today in Mississippi
s experience has ened my eyes to ny new things.”
Kate and Andrew visit with Rep. Gregg Harper in his D.C. office.
- Kate Sprabery
Marine Corps Memoria
upported by EMEPA. p program gives young leaders the o visit their nation’s capital and s in action while also learning and problem solving in a said Wayne Henson, generA. “It is our goal to ip abilities and chalo their communities difference.” ates these stuplishments.
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Washington National Cathedral
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Rural utilities service:
Still a great bargain for the nation As of year-end 2012, electric cooperatives had invested more than $150 billion to build critical infrastructure spanning 75 percent of the United States. This network includes 66,500 miles of bulk transmission lines and 2.5 million miles of distribution lines―42 percent of the nation’s total. Cooperatives also own all or part of 200 power plants with a combined installed capacity of more than 50,000 MW. These generate roughly 5 percent of U.S. electricity capacity, distribute 10 percent of all kilowatthours sold, employ more than 70,000 and pay more than $1.4 billion annually in state and local taxes. The linchpin behind these numbers, and the key to helping electric cooperatives “keep the lights on” in some of the most sparsely populated and rugged regions of America for more than seven decades, has been a small amount of support through the federal Rural Utilities Service (RUS). Of course, federal assistance for electric utilities is not unique. For-profit, investor-owned utilities (IOUs), receive tax breaks, while city-owned municipal electric systems
GR
are able to issue tax-exempt bonds. A comparison of electric utilities shows: • Privately owned electric cooperatives serve an average of 7.4 consumers and receive annual revenue of $15,000 per mile of line. Based on current interest rates, RUS loans (with an average interest rate of 4.57 percent, compared to the government’s cost of borrowing at 3.91 percent) actually make money for the U.S. Treasury― $163 million combined from 2009 to 2011, more
N I A G R A B T EA
than $274 million during fiscal year 2012, and a projected $369 million in 2013. • Stockholder-driven IOUs average 34 customers and collect $75,000 in revenue per mile of line. In virtually every case, IOUs charge electric rates that include amounts for presumed federal tax liabilities. However, available tax breaks (investment tax credits and accelerated depreciation) allow IOUs to retain most of the taxes collected, roughly $124 billion to date. At a cost to the government of $4.8 billion in 2011 (the last year available), this federal subsidy to IOUs works out to about $47 per customer.
• Publicly owned municipal electric systems average 48 consumers and collect $113,000 in revenue per mile of line. The federal government loses revenue when municipals issue tax-exempt bonds because interest paid to bond owners is not taxed. The cost of this subsidy in 2003 (the last year available) was $909 million, or $55 per consumer. “In short, RUS electric loans do not cost taxpayers a single penny,” indicates Mike Ganley, director of strategic planning & analysis for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade organization for America’s electric cooperatives. “Coupled with strong and innovative management and local, consumer governance, electric cooperatives have used RUS financing to build and maintain electrical networks capable of serving consumers across even the most remote terrain. More importantly, RUS loans have allowed electric cooperatives to keep rates affordable―a significant consideration because household incomes in cooperative service territories are 11 percent lower than the national
average, and one person in six served by cooperatives lives in poverty.” With electric cooperatives anticipating about $6 billion in capital needs
annually over the next five years to upgrade aging infrastructure, connect new consumers and ensure reliable supplies of wholesale power, Ganley points out that RUS loans will continue to assist cooperatives. “The unique, longstanding relationship between electric cooperatives and RUS helps ensure that all Americans, no matter where they may live, have access to a vibrant electric grid able to meet twenty-first century demands.” Source: NRECA
ENERGY efficiency tip It may be time to replace your refrigerator. A fridge made before 1993 could cost more than $100 each year to operate. A new ENERGY STAR qualified model could cut your related energy costs in half. In addition, newer models keep food fresher longer. Source: Touchstone Energy Cooperatives
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Co-op Connections Business Spotlight Every month, EMEPA will be spotlighting local businesses that participate in the Co-op Connections Program. This month’s featured businesses are A&A Glass in Meridian and Fran’s Florist in Louisville.
A&A Glass 601-693-4527 2704 8th St. in Meridian • Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. 15 percent off auto glass replacement, Rock peck fix for $25 www.facebook.com/aaglass2704
Fran’s Florist 662-773-5252 505 North Church Avenue in Louisville Monday - Wednesday, and Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Thursday and Saturday, 8 a.m. until noon 10 percent off cash and carry, excluding holidays.
Now is the time to take advantage of a business building tool, a FREE entrepreneur’s workshop! The workshop will be held on
Wednesday, August 28 from 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the EMCC Student Center (Scooba campus) in the Presidents Dining Room For more information, contact Cindy Cumberland at the Kemper County Economic Development Authority at 601-743-2754, or cindylcumberland@bellsouth.net Registration deadline is
August 26 at 5 p.m.
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Tomato Beef Pie
mississippi
ooks C RECIPES FROM OUR FEATURED COOKBOOK:
‘Food for Thought’ The Friends of the Columbia Marion County Public Library published “Food for Thought: A Century’s Worth of Food Knowledge” to celebrate the library’s 100th anniversary in January 2012. As its title implies, the cookbook presents recipes notable for their downhome flavor and ease of preparation. These are the recipes generations of Marion County-area homemakers have depended upon for daily meals and Sunday dinners: pot roast, cornbread dressing, candied sweet potatoes, vegetable casseroles and buttermilk biscuits. Also included are Cajun-inspired seafood dishes and other ethnic specialties, desserts, candies and even an “anti-flea” cookie for cats. Proceeds from cookbook sales help fund the library’s programs for children and adults throughout the year. The Columbia Marion County Public Library is the headquarters and main branch of the South Mississippi Regional Library System, which includes branch libraries in Prentiss and Bassfield. “Food for Thought” may be ordered while supplies last. Send $10 plus $3 S&H to Friends of the Columbia Marion County Public Library, 900 Broad St., Columbia, MS 39429. For information, call 601-736-5516.
Elvis Cake 1 Duncan Hines Butter Golden cake mix 1/2 cup water 3 large eggs
7 Tbsp. softened butter 1 (20-oz.) can crushed pineapple, with juice 1 1/2 cups sugar
Following package directions, combine cake mix, water, eggs and butter, and bake cake. With a fork, punch holes in cake while hot. Boil undrained pineapple and sugar on low heat for 6 minutes. Pour over cake. Topping: 1 (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese 1 stick margarine
1 box powdered sugar 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Mix all ingredients well and pour over cake. Cover and store in refrigerator. The longer it sets the better. Freezes well. Serves 10 to 12.
1 refrigerated pie crust 4 ripe, but firm, medium-size tomatoes Herbs and seasonings to taste* 1 lb. ground beef
1 pkg. dry taco seasoning mix 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup sour cream 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Bake pie crust 5 minutes at 400 F. Peel tomatoes and slice about 1/2 inch thick. Place tomato slices into pie shell in a single layer. Sprinkle with desired seasonings. In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef. Stir in taco seasoning mix. Spread beef mixture over tomatoes in pie shell. Combine mayonnaise, sour cream and cheese. Add seasonings, if desired. Spread mayonnaise mixture evenly over ground beef, sealing edges. Bake at 350 F for about 35 minutes. Allow to cool 10 minutes before serving. * The recipe author uses salt, oregano, basil, garlic pepper and chives. May also add chives to mayonnaise mixture.
Vidalia Onion Dip 3 large Vidalia or Texas Sweet onions, chopped 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter 1 cup mayonnaise
8 oz. sharp Cheddar cheese 1/2 tsp. Tabasco sauce 1 clove garlic, minced
Preheat oven to 375 F. Saute onions in butter. Blend mayonnaise, cheese, Tabasco and garlic. Stir in onions. Pour in a baking dish prepared with cooking spray. Bake 25 minutes. Serve with tortilla chips.
Chocolate Almond Pie 20 large marshmallows 1/2 cup milk 5 Hershey’s milk chocolate bars with almonds
2 cups whipped cream Graham cracker crust, cooled 1 Hershey’s milk chocolate bar (for garnish)
In a glass mixing bowl, microwave until melted the marshmallows, milk and candy bars. Stir well and refrigerate until set. Fold in whipping cream and pour into crust. Grate remaining candy bar on top of pie. Refrigerate until set.
Creamy Tacos 1 1/2 lbs. ground beef 1 (16-oz.) can chili beans 2 cans pinto beans, drained 1 lb. Velveeta cheese, cubed 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes 1/2 pint whipping cream
1 large bag Doritos tortilla chips Lettuce, shredded or chopped Tomatoes, chopped Optional garnish: chopped green onions, sour cream
Brown beef and drain. Stir in beans, cheese, canned tomatoes and whipping cream. Slow cook until cheese melts. Serve over chips and top with lettuce and tomatoes. Garnish, if desired, with chopped green onions and sour cream. May also be used as a dip.
Country Pound Cake 1/3 cup vegetable oil 3 cups sugar 3 eggs, beaten 1 cup crushed pineapple, with juice 2 cups mashed banana 1 cup chopped pecans
3 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. cinnamon 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract 1 cup red cherries
Mix vegetable oil, sugar and eggs. Add pineapple, banana and pecans. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking soda and salt. Add to sugar mixture. Add cinnamon, vanilla and cherries. Pour into a tube pan and bake at 325 to 350 F for 1 1/2 hours. Serves 10 to 12.
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Honor Flight Last call for
WWII veterans to board
By Nancy Jo Maples One by one, America’s “Greatest Generation” is leaving us. Therefore, one more monumental journey, a military pilgrimage, is being planned in their honor. Honor Flight VI, the last trip to the nation’s capital to be sponsored by the Mississippi Gulf Coast Honor Flight nonprofit program, will depart Oct. 1. Any World War II veteran from Mississippi who has not flown on one of the previous five excursions is welcome and encouraged to apply for this free one-day trip. Wayne Lennep, a board member of the MGCHF program, said in late July a few seats are still available. The final voyage will transport approximately 80 veterans to Washington, D.C., on a direct flight using a chartered plane fully staffed with medical professionals and equipment to meet the needs of the veterans. “We’re capable of accommodating veterans in a variety of physical conditions. People should not be afraid that their health is too weak for this trip,” he said. In addition to the volunteer health professionals, veterans are paired with personal guardians to assist them along every step of the trip. Guardians are sometimes family members. Guardians pay $550 for the trip. Veterans, however, make the trip and see the sights free. Among the sights are the National World War II Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial and U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial. “An emotionally moving visit to Arlington National Cemetery and The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier concludes the tour with a viewing of the Changing of the Guard and a wreath-laying by Mississippi veterans,” Lennep said. Statistics from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs in 2011 revealed that 670 World War II veterans die each day. “In another five to seven years almost all of our World War II veterans will be gone. This trip may be their last hurrah, perhaps the last time they will be publicly recognized as the conquering victors that collectively and literally saved the world,”
Past Honor Flight participants, top, lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery and visit the World War II Memorial, left. A bagpipe procession, above, leads the veterans into the World War II Memorial. Photos: Mississippi Gulf Coast Honor Flight
Lennep said. Orientation for the trip will be Saturday, Aug. 24, from 8 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at the Joppa Shrine Temple in Biloxi. The local Kiwanis Club will serve pancakes. Information is available online at www.mgchonorflight.org or by postal mail at P.O. Box 1912, Gautier, MS 39553. The Honor Flight group also has a Facebook page. MGCHF’s original goal was to send six missions and at least 500 veterans on this trip. After the final expedition, a reunion will be set for all who travelled on a flight. That reunion will probably be in November. Fundraising is underway and donations are welcome. Each trip costs approximately $90,000. Those funds cover the flight, rental of four buses, tour guides, meals, supplies and souvenirs for the veterans such as T-shirts and hats. Veterans will leave Gulfport/Biloxi International Airport at 7 a.m. on Oct. 1 and will return at 7:45 p.m. Past Honor Flights have attracted crowds in excess of 3,000 at the airport to cheer for the group upon its evening return. “They come home personally knowing how much their country loves and respects them,” Lennep said. Writer Nancy Jo Maples can be reached at 188 Ernest Pipkins Road, Lucedale, MS 39452 or nancyjomaples@aol.com or via Twitter @nancyjomaples.
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Mississippi Marketplace Type or print your ad clearly. Be sure to include your telephone number. Deadline is the 10th of each month for the next month’s issue. Rate is $2.50 per word, ten word minimum. Mail payment with your ad to Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300. Have any questions? Phone 601-605-8604 or email swindle@epaofms.com.
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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.
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Gaillardia is a strong summer flower maker There are about 30 different annual nation can depend on the local environt is during the midsummer and perennial species of Gaillardia. Most ment. months in Mississippi that I of the ones we see in the garden center The Mesa Yellow is for those gardenmost appreciate gaillardia in are selections of Gaillardia grandiflora. ers who love to have sunny yellow flowgardens and landscapes. This is an appropriate name as the flow- ers. The flowers are large, measuring up This plant makes a fantastic addition ers, which are up to 4 inches across, can to 3 inches in diameter. The entire to the summer garden. Gaillardia is a really put on a show. flower is a cheery, bright yellow that native plant with few pests and a palette The centers of these flowers seems to radiate color. The center cone is of bright, warm colors that typically are rosy red to purple knobby with profuse, slender yellow really liven up the landscape. with petals ranging from yellow petals. Adding to its usefulness is and orange to coppery crimson. As the flowers fade, each begins to the fact that gaillardia is There are many selections to resemble a fluffy pincushion. This plant ideal for the entire state of choose from. has a sturdy, uniform branching habit Mississippi. Gaillardia often The flowers of Gallo Dark that displays the gorgeous flowers in grows wild in the most negBicolor have rust-colored cen- either landscape or container plantings. lected and harshest conditer cones surrounded by Plant gaillardia in the full sun. Once tions. Southern established, it is drought tolerant. Almost petals, each with a dab or two Many gardeners refer to Gardening of red and finishing with a yel- any type of soil is fine as long as it is well gaillardia by its common by Dr. Gary Bachman low band. The bright flower drained; Gaillardia does not like wet feet. name, blanket flower. Early Deadheading helps promote more flowcolors do not fade in the settlers moving west comintense heat and sunlight of Mississippi ering, but I recommend leaving some of pared the flower colors to those of the the fading flowers. The seed heads are summers. blankets of Native Americans, and the lollipop-shaped and add color and texAnother bicolor favorite is the Scarlet name has stuck ever since. Plant taxonoture throughout the growing season. Halo. This flower has colors similar to mists commonly name plants to honor the Gallo Dark Bicolor, but the petals are early plant experts, and gaillardia is Dr. Gary Bachman is MSU horticula more rosy scarlet. Like many bicolor named for French botanist Gaillard de turist at the Coastal Research and plants, the intensity of the color combiCharentonneau. Extension Center in Biloxi.
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Gaillardia Mesa Yellow are large, sunny yellow flowers that seem to radiate color. As the flowers fade, each begins to resemble a fluffy pincushion. Photo: MSU Extension Service/Gary Bachman
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August 2013
Mississippi
Events Want more than 400,000 readers to know about your event? Send it to us at least two months prior to the event date. Submissions must include a phone number with area code for publication. Mail to Mississippi Events, Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300; fax to 601-605-8601; or email to news@epaofms.com. Events of statewide interest will be published free of charge as space allows. Event details are subject to change, so we strongly recommend calling to confirm dates and times before traveling. For more events, go to www.visitmississippi.org.
Southaven Farmers Market, Mon., Wed., Fri., Sat. through Aug. 31, Southaven. Northwest corner of Stateline and Hwy. 51; 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Details: 662-280-2489; www.southaven.org. Pearl River Market, Thurs., Sat. mornings through fall, Columbia. Farmer, artist and craftsmen’s market; 229 Second St. Produce vendors wanted. Details: 601-736-1170; facebook.com/PearlRiverMarket. “Mississippi Hill Country Blues: Photographs by George Mitchell,” through Sept. 8, Jackson. Exhibition of 75 photographs depicting blues artists in 1967 in the hill country of Mississippi. Also, Mitchell to sign copies of his upcoming book “Mississippi Hill Country Blues 1967” and lead gallery tour Aug. 20, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Mississippi Museum of Art. Details: 601-9601515; www.msmuseumart.org. Tunica Balloon Bash, Aug. 9-11, Tunica. Tethered balloon rides, balloon glow, competitive race with more than 50 pilots from five states. Various locations. Details: 8884TUNICA; tunicatravel.com. 37th Annual Gospel Singing Jubilee, Aug. 10, Magee. Performers: Ernie Dawson, Tim Frith and the Gospel Echoes, Carolyn Norris and Terry Terrell; 6:30 p.m. Magee High School. Details: 601-906-0677, 601-825-3937. Keise Laymon Book Signings, Aug. 10, 13, 15, various cities. Mississippi native to read from debut novel “Long Division” and essay collection. Barnes & Noble, Gulfport, Aug. 10; Square Books, Oxford, Aug. 13; Lemuria Books, Jackson, Aug. 15. 11th Annual Memphis Tri-State Blues Festival, Aug. 17, Southaven. Featuring Bobby Rush; 6:30 p.m. Admission. Landers Center. Details: 662-470-2131. Seventh Annual HealthTrust Scrub Run, Aug. 17, Magee. 5K run/walk 7 a.m.; fun run 8 a.m. Registration 6 a.m. Admission. Magee Sportsplex. Details: 601-849-7309. Covington County Family Fair, Aug. 17, Collins. Meet Covington County family researchers from across country; 9 a.m. -
noon. Hosted by Covington County Genealogical and Historical Society. Collins Civic Center. Details: 601-947-4610; ponder97@bellsouth.net. Intro to Birding and Binoculars, Aug. 17, Picayune. Hummingbird bander James Bell to discuss birds and bird-watching resources. Admission. Register by Aug. 16. Crosby Arboretum. Details: 601-799-2311. Lower Delta Talks: “Greenfield Cemetery: From Tomb Travel to Celebrity Spirits,” Aug. 20, Rolling Fork. Presentation by Dr. Nancy Coleman; 6:30 p.m. Free. SharkeyIssaquena County Library Fine Arts Room. Details: 662-873-6261. Balloons Over Grenada, Aug. 23-24, Grenada. Music, carnival, balloon glow, more. Grenada Lake. Details: 662-226-2060. 86th Vicksburg Coin Show, Aug. 24-25, Vicksburg. Vicksburg Coin Club event with free verbal appraisals; buy, sell and trade. Free admission. Battlefield Inn. Details: 601-6368336. Cruisin’ the River, Aug. 24, Columbus. Southern Cruisers Car Club event with cash
awards, poker walk, cake walk, silent auction, hot rod grill raffle and food. Registration 8-12 p.m. Free admission. Lock and Dam, East Bank. Details: 662-324-1251. Sounds of Summer Music and Arts Fest, Aug. 24, Byhalia. Live music, Kids’ Zone, parade, cornhole tournament, putting contest, arts/crafts, Wellness Zone, blood drive, more. Mississippi Walking Track. Details: 662-8388127; baccmembership@centurytel.net. Mississippi Sacred Harp State Convention, Aug. 24-25, Forest. All-day singing from “The Sacred Harp” and other tunebooks; 10 a.m. Antioch Primitive Baptist Church. Details: 601-940-1612; mdavis@scott.k12.ms.us; www.fasola.org. 27th Catholic Cursillo Benefit Golf Tournament, Aug. 24, Ocean Springs. Cash prizes, free pre-tournament party. Gulf Hills Country Club. Details: 228-547-6562; scarroll@wm.com. Cattlemen’s College, Aug. 28, Pickens; Aug. 29, Seminary. Low-stress cattle handling and grazing management seminars, hosted by Mississippi Cattlemen’s Association. Lunch provided. Registration begins 8 a.m. Details: 601-354-8951. Boggy Creek Vineyard Harvest Celebration Day, Aug. 31, Vancleave. Hay rides, bounce house, grape pressing, more. Boggy Creek Vineyard. Details: 228-283-0669; www.boggycreekvineyard.com. 12th Annual Tennessee Williams Tribute and Tour of Victorian Homes, Sept. 3-8, Columbus. Performances, seminars, guided tours, other special events. Details: 662-3280222, 800-327-2686; www.muw.edu/ tennesseewilliams. Fall Wildflower Field Walk, Sept. 6, Picayune. Ecologist Dr. Sue Wilder to lead
Today in Mississippi
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walk; 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Admission. Register by Sept. 5. Crosby Arboretum. Details: 601-799-2311; www.crosbyarboretum.msstate.edu. Strawberry Plains Annual Hummingbird Migration Celebration, Sept. 6-8, Holly Springs. Hummingbird viewing and banding, nature walks, live animal shows, speakers, native plant sale, art, more. Admission. Strawberry Plains Audubon Center. Details: 662-252-1155; dmurphy@audubon.org; strawberryplains.audubon.org. Fiber-to-Fabric Craftsmen Festival, Sept. 7, Hernando. Demonstrations of fiber processing, dyeing, spinning, felting, knitting, weaving. DeSoto Arts Council Gallery and Gardens. Details: 662-404-3361; www.desotoarts.com. Bogue Creek Festival, Sept. 7, Duck Hill. Live music, arts and crafts, food, homemade ice cream. Sponsored by Duck Hill Lions Club. Lancaster Pecan Grove. Details: 662-5652563, 662-565-2331. Mississippi Coast Jazz Society Dance and Jam Session, Sept. 8, Biloxi. Hard Rock Casino; 2-5 p.m. Details: 228-392-4177. Grenada Lake Fox Hunters, Sept. 11-20, Grenada. Fox hunting competition. Grenada Lake, East End. Details: 662-226-2060. Jag Day, Sept. 14, Southaven. Family fun day with inflatables, games, food, silent auction, percussion playground, vendors, more; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Rain date Sept. 28. Desoto Central High School. Details: arlisha@dcspride.com. Home Landscape Design and Renovation, Sept. 14, Picayune. Program on landscape design basics; 10-11 a.m. Admission. Register by Sept. 13. Crosby Arboretum. Details: 601-799-2311; www.crosbyarboretum.msstate.edu.
Electric co-op foundation awards scholarships Michael Callahan, center, CEO of the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi, congratulates winners of $2,500 engineering scholarships, sponsored by the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi Foundation. Winners and their fields of study are, from left, Jacob Wigginton of Tishomingo, electrical engineering, Mississippi State University; Justin Smith of Abbeville, engineering, University of Mississippi; Samuel Bragg of Rienzi, civil engineering, Mississippi State University; and Joey White of Wiggins, electrical engineering, Mississippi State University. The scholarships are awarded each year to full-time engineering students in their junior or senior year of college.