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News for members of Magnolia Electric Power Association

Springtime! page 18

Periodical postage (ISSN 1052 2433)

Food hub connects farmers with consumers

Rials Creek cooks share favorite recipes

Get a taste of the Mississippi Seafood Trail

Today in Mississippi

April 2016

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My appreciation extends to all electric co-op folks merica’s electric cooperatives have designated the second Monday of April as National Lineman Appreciation Day. On April 11, electric power associations throughout Mississippi will salute their own linemen—the hard-working employees who put their lives on the line every day to keep electricity working for you. I am proud to salute all electric utility linemen for the services they perform and for their critical work as first responders during natural disasters. I also want to point out that all electric power association employees, regardless of job title, deserve recognition for keeping your electric service reliable and efficient. I am equally in awe of their dedication, competence and dependability. When you walk into a local electric power association office or pull up to its drive-through window, you are greeted by a cashier whose top priority at that moment is to give you personal attention and service. Cashiers make sure our members’ payments are credited promptly and accurately to their accounts. They make the job look easy, but this is demanding work that often requires handling several tasks and interruptions at once. Working behind the scenes are employees responsible for keeping billing procedures on track. Like the cashiers, billing clerks are a reliable and trustworthy bunch who take great pride in the accuracy of their work. Another employee you may never meet on the job is the warehouse worker. The job title may vary, but every electric power association needs someone to manage a huge inventory of materials, equipment and tools. The warehouse worker’s efforts go a long way toward improving the efficiency and speed of daily operations, and especially disaster recovery work. An electric power association warehouse must be sufficiently stocked with thousands of ready-to-use items, from washers and bolts to transformers and

On the cover Our Picture This feature includes photos by these readers (from top): • Bill Williams, Yazoo City; Yazoo Valley Electric member • Jessica Fornea, Vancleave; Singing River Electric member • Lisa Wilhelm, Vancleave; Singing River Electric member • Michele Smith, New Albany; Pontotoc Electric member See more on pages 18-19.

utility poles. Before heading out to a job site, line crews compile a list of the specific materials and tools they’ll need for the tasks at hand; the warehouse worker makes sure they get it. It’s easy to see how a competent warehouse worker contributes to smooth, efficient and speedy line My Opinion work. Michael Callahan These are just a few of Executive Vice President/CEO the many tasks employees Electric Power Associations carry out on a routine day of Mississippi at your electric power association. But when an ice storm, hurricane or tornado wipes out miles of power lines, all electric power association office employees pitch in to support the emergency power restoration work. In accordance with the electric power association’s emergency plan, employees take on extraordinary duties vital to a safe, efficient and fast power restoration effort. Employees may be called upon to help prepare meals for linemen working day and night to rebuild power lines. They might coordinate accommodations for additional crews, handle communications with the media, assist members on the phone or in the office, manage social media updates and perform countless other tasks. In a long-term crisis like Katrina, employees even take care of the linemen’s laundry. They do whatever it takes to keep the emergency crews safe and well fed—and members informed of their progress. On National Lineman’s Day, please take a moment to thank a lineman for the work he does, and all the other employees who contribute every day to the high quality of your electric service.

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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ON FACEBOOK Vol. 69 No. 4 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: 472,985 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

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Today in Mississippi

Our Homeplace

Three favorite colors of springtime—yellow, purple and green—converge in Melissa Campbell’s photo of a tiger swallowtail butterfly. Campbell lives in Pontotoc, where she is a member of Pontotoc Electric Power Association. Enjoy more colors of spring on pages 18-19.

Mississippi is a place where I will always stay because I had lived here all my life. The reason I love it so much is that all my family lives here and so do all my friends. I live in a place where it is quiet day and night. I love it in Mississippi. It is beautiful. — Orlandria Smith, age 12, Smithville Great memories, growing up with family in a beautiful place. I feel blessed to live here. Never left and never will. Totally dedicated to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Enjoying the breeze blowing in off the water, hearing the waves rushing in to shore, with the seagulls flying above. Sitting outside around a fire, listening to the sounds of the whippoorwill, locust and frogs. Watching the fireflies pass by. Riding down Highway 90 looking at all the beautiful Southern homes overlooking the gulf. The big, beautiful oak trees with moss draping from their limbs. And don’t forget the good food. Wading the waters to throw the mullet net, fishing and shrimping, and oystering. At night, wading the water’s edge with a light to gig flounder and softshell crabs. There’s nothing closer to heaven than being from Mississippi. And what pretty tropical weather, unless, unfortunately, a hurricane rolls in. Oh, the togetherness and the sharing. Everyone pulls together. Family members, friends and acquaintances reaching out to each other physically and emotionally. Together through thick and thin. That’s what we are all about with our Southern hospitality. — Stephanie Penton Hudson, Pass Christian

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

April 2016

Seeds of Change Jackson-based partnership creates innovative food hub to connect Mississippi farmers with consumers

By Debbie Stringer Agriculture is Mississippi’s top industry, generating some $7.5 billion in annual revenue. Yet Mississippi has the worst food-related problems in the country due to high rates of hunger, obesity and diabetes. And although Mississippi has a climate and natural resources suitable for growing more than 50 food crops, an estimated 90 percent of our food comes from other states. Only $120 million of Mississippi’s annual ag production consists of fruits and vegetables—mostly sweet potatoes. “We have a successful agricultural community that does terrific work producing commodities and exports. There’s just not a lot of food in the process. We create a very limited amount of fruits and vegetables,” said David Watkins Jr., a Jackson native and food entrepreneur. “We have obesity and hunger existing at the same time, so there’s a lot of malnourishment, and people who are getting food are not really getting nutritious food,” Watkins said. Mississippi farmers know how to produce nutritious food, but there has been no system in place for building viable businesses centered on food crop production—until now. Watkins is a partner in Jackson-based Soul City Hospitality, the group of restaurant professionals behind the new Up in Farms Food Hub, a processing and distribution system for Mississippi-grown food crops. The food hub is the first business to emerge from the group’s planned Food Innovation Center. “Our goal is to help farmers make a good, sustainable living by growing food in a way that is accessible and affordable for Mississippians,” Watkins said. The Up in Farms Food Hub’s locally grown foods, carrying the Mississippi Farmed label, will be distributed to grocery stores, restaurants, schools, hotels, hospitals and other markets throughout Mississippi, and eventually the region. Benefitting from a $100,000 grant from USDA and a $315,000 construction grant from the Delta Regional Authority, the food hub recently began its pilot phase at the Old Farmers Market building on West Street in Jackson. Abandoned for years, the historic building is being renovated and equipped to house the food hub.

April 2016

Today in Mississippi

“What we’re doing may be unique in the country because we’re building something from the ground up that’s customized to Mississippi.” — David Watkins Jr. “What we’re doing may They appreciate what we are trying to provide.” be unique in the country Farmers tell Sullivan they are looking for a place to because we’re building take their food crops, and they are eager to discuss ways something from the to increase their business volume. ground up that’s cus“The food hub is something they need to have an David Watkins Jr., right, and Terry Sullivan recently launched Up in Farms Food Hub on a trial run. The food hub, set to be tomized to Mississippi, income they can count on,” Sullivan said. fully operational in the fall, is the first phase of a planned Food Innovation Center at the Old Farmers Market in Jackson. and it brings together all Up in Farms is expected employ up to 50 workers these partners,” Watkins when it becomes fully operational in the fall. Employsaid. ment could rise closer to 100 as the project expands Watkins worked four years to lay the groundwork The food hub is the first phase of a Food Innovation with the opening of a processed food facility. for a system that would satisfy the needs of small- to Center to encompass a processed food facility, training medium-size farmers, as well as those who buy their rooms, a product-development kitchen and other relatStimulating job growth in the state with the worst products. ed businesses. jobless rate in the nation is another goal of Soul City’s “We’re taking in the raw product from the field, Farmers can use the center for training and planpartners. Feeding a growing world population in doing the correct cooling of that product, cleaning the ning, and as a forum for interacting with chefs, food decades to come will demand a larger labor force. More product, sorting and grading it, packaging it and getentrepreneurs and the public. workers will be needed for food production and harting it out the door quickly to a retail establishment or “A lot of those conversations aren’t happening now vesting, processing, technology, marketing, entreprean institution,” said Terry Sullivan, food hub manager. because there’s not a centralized location for them to neurship and transportation. Up in Farms organizers The system frees farmers to concentrate on what take place,” Sullivan said. are helping to prepare young Mississippians for these they do best—growing food crops. Up in Farms handles production coordination among farmers, cold storage, documentation, marketing, food safety training and other Want to buy Mississippi-grown foods where you higher, locally grown foods are always a better buy critical aspects of food distribushop? Ask for them! Consumers hold the key to when you consider freshness, flavor and nutrition. tion. ensuring the availability of locally grown foods in • If your grocer does not offer local produce, ask “All of those things compete stores and markets throughout Mississippi. Here’s them to stock it. with farmers’ ability to manage how you can help support food production in Mis- • Shop local farmers markets. Be open to trying and operate their farm, espesissippi: new varieties farmers may offer. cially if you’re a small farmer,” • Buy foods produced by Mississippi farmers when- • Get the kids involved by taking them to farm Watkins said. ever possible. Check labels before you buy to know tours to see where their food comes from and Prior attempts have been where food comes from. Even if the price is a bit meet farmers. Kids are tomorrow’s food buyers. made to develop similar systems in Mississippi, but Watkins believes there was too much emphasis on the “build it and they will come” The University of Mississippi Medical Center, which job opportunities by developing work force training at approach. Up in Farms is more about providing servic- owns the property, is looking to use the center as a the community college level. es customized to the needs Mississippi farmers, based place to help train medical students in patient nutriWith about a quarter of the state’s 5.5 million acres on extensive research and interviews with those farmers. tion. of crop land not in production, Mississippi has plenty “The facility itself is incredibly important but what of room for these additional food crops. we are providing will do things that farmers can’t do on Sullivan brings experience as a regional manager “This is an industry that we could grow for the next their individual farms,” Watkins said, such as access to for a grocery chain in New York, but just as valuable is 30 years and not reach the ceiling on the ability to technology and equipment critical in today’s successful his enthusiasm for the food hub project. Sullivan visits grow food here,” Watkins said. farm operations. farms throughout the state to gain a deeper understandUp in Farms’ potential for making long-term Food hubs exist in various forms across the country, ing of farmers’ needs and earn their trust. Having improvements in the lives of Mississippians motivates but Soul City’s version was designed to be a more uni- grown up on a farm in Winona, Sullivan understands Watkins to work even harder to make it succeed. fied and collaborative system than most. Up in Farms farmers’ passion for farming—and their anxieties. “You realize, yeah, I can get up and do this every works in partnership with a long list of government “I love it. I learn so much every day and that’s moti- day,” he said. agencies, community-development organizations and vation enough, but getting to know the farmers and For more information, visit mississippifarmed.com and other entities to streamline activities and resources, and kicking the dirt with them is fascinating,” he said. upinfarms.com. Farmers can reach Terry Sullivan at 601to identify weak links in the state’s food supply chain. “They are very, very open to what we are doing. 717-2012 or terry@soulcityhospitality.com.

Success depends on consumer demand

Today in Mississippi

April 2016

Today in Mississippi

America’s music deeply rooted in the Mississippi Delta o take a look at your car tag and you will see a guitar in the middle of the row of numbers. On a banner above the guitar, it says “Birthplace of America’s Music.” That is more than just a cute marketing slogan. It’s pretty much the truth. And now we have our very own Grammy Museum to help prove it. The Grammy Award is given for outMississippi standing Seen accomplishby Walt Grayson ment in the music industry. Mississippi is an appropriate place for the museum because there are more Grammy Award winners from Mississippi than from the next five closest states to us

combined, and way more Grammy winners from Mississippi per capita than any other state. The new Grammy Museum Mississippi is the only satellite branch of the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles. It is located in Cleveland adjacent to the Delta State University campus. The location is appropriate for a couple of reasons. For one, Delta State is home of the Delta Music Institute. The institute is a branch of the college in which students can learn every aspect of the music industry, from writing and producing songs and albums to learning all the legal aspects of the industry. The other reason Cleveland is an appropriate place for a Grammy Museum is because it is in the Delta, where pretty much everything we call American music grew from deep roots. It all started from the blues. Now in all honesty, there were blues players everywhere from Savannah to El Paso after the Civil War. But for every single one elsewhere, there were 10 in

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The new Grammy Museum Mississippi, in Cleveland, is now open. Inside are stories of American popular music, born right here in Mississippi. Photo: Walt Grayson

the Delta. Why? There are lots of theories. One of the more logical centers around the relative autonomy plantation workers were given at places like Dockery Plantation, between Cleveland and Ruleville. Saturday night was free time and gatherings ended up in music performances. Over time the blues born in the Delta began to influence other music forms. For instance, Jimmie Rodgers combined blues licks to string band rhythms and invented country music. A little later, musicians combined country with another layer of blues and came up with rock-a-billy and rock-androll. Elvis is the most famous of those performers. Blues went to the city and urbanized into jazz. Big bands emerged from jazz, also a forerunner of rock music. So pretty much anything we hear on the radio today (or the Internet) that is considered American music has roots in blues. And blues was born in the Delta. Perhaps the cradle was Dockery Plantation, east of Cleveland. All that said, there is way more than just blues or just Mississippi music and

musicians featured in the Grammy Museum Mississippi. It is all about the Grammys and all of the people who have won them, all of the types of music they play, who influenced them and whom they have influenced. All of this information is available on touch screens. Plus there are lots of fun interactive activities, from writing a song to playing an instrument to producing a record to hearing what modern music would have sounded like on a Gramophone, an early acoustic record player, from which the Grammy Award derives its name. This is a world-class attraction right in our own backyard. Give yourself a couple of hours to tour it. But allow yourself all day in case you or your kids (who are very welcome and are very much allowed hands-on privileges) get caught up in the music and carried away. 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.

8 I Today in Mississippi I April 2016

Uncovering a part of the past E

wonder. Initially built with cotton line, nylon supplanted that fiber before he stopped making nets. And he did this knitting in the house. He would put a nail in one top corner of a door facing and begin this fascinating procedure of knots and knitting. Seems a piece of fishing art in the making was always present in that old house during our growing-up years. I recall it well and can’t help but wonder if that gentle, peaceful, rhythmic swishing of the needle and rustle of countless feet of line by Tony Kinton would hold that same aura of contentment and pleasantness now as it did then. Not only did he make the nets, he made the tools. Needles and blocks were of cedar, if it was available, and the carving left each somewhat pedestrian. But after hundreds of passes with that string’s abrasion on ragged surfaces, these units took on a life of beauty— smooth, shiny, more desirable than before. Not unlike life if we allow it to shape us in a positive fashion rather than negative. Needles held the line; blocks determined the mesh dimensions. Restrictions on mesh size were likely not as stringent then as now. Still, they were legal and built for the purpose of allowing the small perch and such to pass through. It was only the bigger specimens that were targeted. Early on, I remember hoops being made from white oak. Dad would split and strip staves to the proper size, then bend them into a big circle. Later, thin steel rods replaced the white oak. Nets had to be dried before storage. Many were the times that Dad would

Outdoors Today

have the nets staked out in the yard drying and I, as a small boy, would scoot through that Knitting needles and mesh blocks used to make fishing nets. These now reside big throat peacefully on my office desk. Photo: Tony Kinton and imagine myself inside a vehicle designed for still viable. I do know that I regret never instant transport to exotic environs. having learned this wondrous skill he These were grand experiences. practiced so well. That is my loss. One Grand also were those times I went of the last things I encouraged him to do with him to run nets. Seldom was I of as he approached the end was to make any assistance, but I would watch in fas- his great-grandson, my great-nephew, a cination as he wrestled those huge net. Dad declined. He likely needed rest, hoops and seemingly miles of string so I opted to allow the matter to rest as over gunwales of a cypress boat, the well. But without question I can say that heavy load thudding to that boat’s botmy life was enriched because of a utilitom. In actuality these were rather basic tarian product fashioned to perfection by endeavors taking place in familiar surhand with a cedar knitting needle, block roundings, but sentiment places them and string. among those high adventures I have For that I am grateful. been privileged to experience in farTony Kinton has been an active outdoors away locales over the past two decades. writer for 30 years. His newest book, I don’t recall the last net our dad “Rambling Through Pleasant Memories,” is made, nor do I know for certain where now available. Order from Amazon.com or the existent nets now reside—if they are Kinton’s website: www.tonykinton.com.

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ven if bittersweet, the find was serendipitous. We had begun the arduous and somber task of cleaning out our parents’ house. The garage sales had ended, various donations had been accomplished and time had come for that landfill phase. Most of us tend to squirrel away items of little or no value, with that mindset of “I may need that” casting its strange spell. But when dealing with possessions of the Great Depression Generation, that propensity is particularly pronounced. Such was the case with our parents. A second trailer load was ready: decaying lumber, splintered PVC, assorted carpet scraps and dingy rugs, decadesold newspapers, incomplete towel racks, rusted buckets and cracked plastic containers, chairs with no legs. The list was long. Trashing such things was haunting; we recalled when these were a part of the parents’ daily lives. But the harsh truth was that these items held no real value. Just things our folks had put away because “I may need that.” Then my brother-in-law Robert made a discovery. He climbed onto a step stool and scoured a shelf made from a piece of cast-off paneling and set above a thin-metal shower stall our dad had installed. There Robert found a shoe box and recognized the contents. He handed it to my sister Brenda, who then passed it to me. Needles and blocks used to knit fishing nets. From his teen years up until my sister and I left home for college, our dad fished nets. It was not a recreational pursuit so much as a means by which to generate income. Dad had several regular customers, and there were standing orders for Pearl River buffalo and those handsome spotted cats. Dad called the latter appaloosas. One local doctor who stitched our cuts and tended our sore throats was quick to tell anyone who would listen, “I buy my appaloosas from Warren!” The nets our dad made were things of

April 2016

Today in Mississippi

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Building leaders for 30 years

10 I Today in Mississippi I April 2016

Electric cooperatives in Mississippi have been building leaders in the state since 1987. This year marked 30 years for the annual Electric Power Associations of Mississippi Youth Leadership Workshop, held Feb. 24-26 in Jackson. Each year the workshop brings students from schools across the state to the capital city and gives them opportunities to meet with their state legislators, tour the state Capitol, participate in leadership activities and hear words of encouragement from top leaders. “We want these students to leave the workshop knowing that they have the power to make a difference in their school and communities,” said Ron Stewart, coordinator of the statewide

ALCORN COUNTY EPA Hailey Hodum, Corinth Luke Price, Glen * CENTRAL EPA Wallace Bass, Carthage Dylan Carpenter, Carthage * Emily Cloys, Philadelphia Cody Thaggard, Philadelphia

COAST EPA Mercy Belle Baucum, Carriere Grace Bennett, Long Beach Amy Keith, Diamondhead Natalie King, D’Iberville Tyler Necaise, Bay St. Louis Juan Ramon Riojas, Biloxi DIXIE EPA Trael Hinton, Richton Sam Sumrall, Laurel * Lex Anna Thompson, Petal EAST MISS. EPA Harrison Bass, Meridian Braxton Beech, Meridian

Makinsie Clark, Louisville Asia Eichelberger, Louisville Shelby Gast, Meridian Clark Graham, Louisville Daniel Halfacre, Louisville Cody Hunter, Quitman Madison McElroy, Meridian Jamie Shelby, Collinsville Karleigh Shelton, Meridian Jordan White, Philadelphia 4-COUNTY EPA Georgia Sisson, Maben Reid Stevens, Starkville * Jack VanDevender, Shuqualak * MAGNOLIA EPA Missy Clanton, Brookhaven Haven Johnson, Jayess Lizzie Mooney, Brookhaven NATCHEZ TRACE EPA Taylor Liles, Calhoun City * Harley Nabors, Houston

leadership program. “We provide them with resources and training so they may begin their journey to success now.” The workshop offers these young people an opportunity to interact with other students who share their interest in fulfilling leadership positions and serving their others. Stewart emphasized the program is built around the cooperative philosophy: working together to accomplish life goals. “I am extremely proud of our 2016 participants,” Stewart said. “They are prepared and excited to serve as leaders.” The students earned the expense-paid trip to the workshop in a competitive selection process sponsored by their local electric power association.

NORTH EAST MISS. EPA Kayla Arman, Oxford Abby Arrington, Oxford

PONTOTOC EPA Peyton Johnson, Pontotoc J.A. Staten, Pontotoc

NORTHCENTRAL EPA Mandie Berrocal, Olive Branch Cameron Colleta, Olive Branch Jade Dedman, Southaven Shakali Falkner, Byhalia Gabrielle Harris, Byhalia Marianna Harris, Olive Branch Sara Grace Little, Hernando * Alexis Lunsford, Olive Branch Blake Martin, Red Banks Lane Oxner, Hernando Whitt Rodgers, Byhalia Donovan Sharp, Olive Branch Brooke Starnes, Olive Branch

SINGING RIVER EPA Alyssa Britton, Ocean Springs * Samuel Goff, Moss Point Taylor McDonald, Lucedale Cailin Sims, Vancleave *

PEARL RIVER VALLEY EPA Taylor Martin, Brooklyn Anna Claire Pecunia, Hattiesburg

SOUTHERN PINE EPA Caleb Harrison, Mize Tanner Rogers, Collins Ward Winstead, Pelahatchie SOUTHWEST MISS. EPA Natalie Remley, McComb Colton Watson, Brookhaven TALLAHATCHIE VALLEY EPA John Tyler Gammill, Pope Margo Haley, Batesville Madalyn Hawthorne, Pope Tatyana Oliver, Batesville

TOMBIGBEE EPA Mackenzie Guin, Marietta Jyanna Ivy, Shannon Kayla McMillen, Fulton Chase Patterson, Tupelo Anna Claire Priest, Saltillo Anna Robinson, Fulton Hailey Wooldridge, Nettleton TWIN COUNTY EPA Nathan Bridges, Louise YAZOO VALLEY EPA Tanner Graves, Benton * Blake Moore, Vaughan EPAs OF MISS. Ethan Piel, Madison

* Leadership Finalists Spirit Award °• Friendship Award

•

VanDevender wins Leadership Award Jack VanDevender, sponsored by 4-County Electric Power Association, accepts the Youth Leadership Award from Ron Stewart, senior vice president of the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi. A junior at Central Academy, Jack has served as the class president and vice president as well as president and vice president of Mississippi Association of Independent Schools (MAIS) Honor Society. He is a member of the football, baseball and basketball teams. Jack is also a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). He lives in Shuqualak with his parents, Tol and Sheila VanDevender. Jack will serve a one-year term as Mississippi’s representative on the national Youth Leadership Council of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. The award includes a $1,000 scholarship. Tanner Graves, of Yazoo Valley Electric, and Reid Stevens, of 4-County, were recognized at the conclusion of the workshop. Both students received leadership awards and a $500 scholarship.

LEADERSHIP CLASS OF 2016

April 2016

Today in Mississippi

Shrimp plants are easily grown, bloom all summer he Garden Extravaganza was held recently in Jackson, and I have to say I’m feeling really inspired. There were literally thousands of brightly colored flowering plants all begging to be taken home. Of course, I bought a few flats of calibrachoas (mainly Holy Moly!) and some new Supertunias. Besides the new varieties on display, there were some old reliable plants that home gardeners sometimes forget about. One plant I think will really impress is the yellow shrimp plant, which was a 2000 Mississippi Medallion winSouthern ner. Known Gardening botanically as Pachystachys by Dr. Gary Bachman lutea, this tropical plant is easy to grow and will bloom all summer long. For another twist, there is a similar plant with red bracts called Mexican shrimp plant (Justicia brandegeana). Yellow shrimp plants have dark-green, oval-shaped leaves. They grow upright up to 36 inches tall, topped with spikes of blooms. The plant starts blooming by

sending up 4- to 5-inch yellow bracts followed by narrow, tubular white flowers between 1 and 2 inches long. It’s for the yellow bracts that we grow this plant, but the flowers provide an additional surprise. Butterflies and hummingbirds find them irresistible. Be sure to plant yellow shrimp plants where they will receive full morning sunlight but get some shade for protection

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against the intense afternoon sun. Flowers develop on new growth and are perfect for cutting and enjoying indoors. They will last and be attractive for many weeks. The more you cut, the more flowers will be produced. Yellow shrimp plants require welldrained landscape beds with a high organic content. Place a couple of tablespoons of 14-14-14 or 18-6-12 controlled-release fertilizer in the planting hole at transplant. To keep the nutrition at optimum levels, use water-soluble fertilizer every couple of weeks during normal irrigation.

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The yellow shrimp plant is easy to grow and will bloom all summer long. Plant and grow the plants where they can receive full morning sun but get some shade for protection from afternoon sunlight. Photo: MSU Extension/Gary Bachman

I think yellow shrimp plants are even more spectacular when grown in containers where they can be enjoyed on the porch and patio. Since it is a tropical species, growing the plant in a container allows you to move it inside during the winter. Another big plus for the yellow shrimp plant is how easy it is to propagate. Just cut an 8- to 10-inch-long stem and strip off the lower set of leaves. Be sure to dust the cut end with rooting hormone, which is readily available at your local garden center. Place the cutting in moist potting soil or sand, keeping one to two sets of leaves above the soil line. Place cuttings in the shade, lightly mist them in the morning and evening, and they should root easily. This process may be useful next fall if you planted yours in the landscape and want to overwinter some for the next spring.

Financial Services

1-800-844-3254 “Serving you for Over 50 Years” Guarantees subject to the claim paying ability of the insurance company. Surrender of the contract may be subject to surrender charge or market value adjustment. Product not available in all states. This is a single premium deferred Annuity. Interest rates are subject to change. Withdrawals prior to age 591/2 may be subject to a 10% IRS penalty.

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.

Today in Mississippi

April 2016

Anderson teaches electrical safety to volunteer firemen Magnolia Electric Power Safety Director Skipper Anderson recently presented his electrical safety program to a group of volunteer fire department representatives at the new Summit Volunteer Fire Department, located on Highway 98. Anderson spoke to the fire department personnel from Summit and Sunnyhill about electrical safety during a fire. The MEP electrical safety program can be adapted to any age group from elementary-age school children to adults; such as volunteer fire departments, schools, church groups and other related organizations. Call Skipper Anderson at 601-684-4011 to schedule him for your event.

Pictured with Anderson (far left) are Summit VFD Fire Chief Stan McMorris, Summit VFD Captain Darrell Boyd (Training Officer) and Sunnyhill VFD Fire Chief Eric Hightower.

Plant a tree on Earth Day Earth Day is on April 22 this year, and it’s the perfect day • Shade trees along driveways and patios will keep you cooler while you’re outside. The shade keeps to plant a tree. the concrete and your yard cooler. Earth Day organizers encourage everyone to plant trees • Protect your outdoor air conditioning unit from weatherwherever they can: in parks, in their neighborhoods or in related wear and tear by planting a shade tree nearby. The their own yards. less direct sunlight that hits the unit, the more efficiently it If you plant a tree in your yard, choose a strategic will run all summer. location that will allow the tree to shade your home from the hot summer sun. As it grows, the tree will help reduce your air conditioning bills and keep No-Planting Zone Tree Planting Chart 15 feet from center of pole outward your home more comRemember to plan for the growth of the tree you plant. for a 30-foot zone fortable.

Some tips from the Arbor Day Foundation: • Trees on the west and northwest sides of your home will shade the building during mid-to-late afternoons. • Keep branches pruned enough that they don’t block your view when you look out of west-facing windows.

Power Line Right of Way

Trees planted at 50 feet Trees planted at 35 feet Trees planted at 25 feet

Area 3 - Large Trees

Area 2 - Medium Trees

Area 1 - Small Trees

40-45 feet from lines

35 feet from lines

25 feet from lines

Oak, Elm, Hickory, Maple, Pine, Sweet Gum, Poplar, Sycamore

Bradford Pear, Magnolia, Ornamental Cherry, Fir, Spruce

Dogwood, Redbud, Crepe Myrtle, Crabapple, Japanese Maple, Holly

WARNING A large tree that reaches into the No-Planting Zone as it matures will have to be trimmed.

April 2016

Today in Mississippi

APRIL is NATIONAL LINEMAN APPRECIATION MONTH.

#thankalineman

12a

12b

Today in Mississippi

April 2016

LeadersHIP 2016 Workshop for tomorrow’s

Lizzie Mooney Home-educated

Haven Johnson Lawrence County High School

Lizzie Mooney, Missy Clanton, Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann and Haven Johnson.

Missy Clanton Brookhaven Academy

Missy Clanton, Rep. Sam Mims, Lizzie Mooney, Rep. Angela Cockerham and Haven Johnson.

Skipper Anderson, Mel Anderson, Rep. Bill Pigott, Lizzie Mooney, Haven Johnso Currrie, Missy Clanton, Rep. Vince Mangold and Lucy Shell.

“Magnolia Electric Power sponsors students each year in our service territory and we are proud to offer this opportunity.” Darrell Smith, general manager

Lizzie Mooney, Sen. Tammy Witherspoon, Haven Johnson and Missy Clanton.

April 2016

Today in Mississippi I 12c

Mississippi electric cooperatives invest in their youth for 30 years The Electric Power Associations of Mississippi’s Youth Leadership Program, now in its 30th year, has grown significantly since the first group met in Jackson in 1987.

Electric cooperatives from all areas of Mississippi now participate in the program. Each year they send students from their communities to the capital city for a three-day workshop where the students participate in leadershipbuilding activities and have the opportunity to meet with their legislators and state elected officials. Missy Clanton, Haven Johnson and Lizzie Mooney were selected among the schools in Magnolia Electric Power’s service area to represent the cooperative during this hands-on event. They were joined by other students from across the Gov. Phil Bryant state, who have also demonstrated leadership traits in their schools and communities. “We’re extremely excited about the growth and direction of the program,” said Ron Stewart, senior vice president of communications for the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi. “Our goal is to provide these young people the tools they need to be successful throughout their lives. The proon, Rep. Becky gram would not be possible without the support of the cooperatives’ general managers and board members, as

well as our state legislators who fully support the young people in their communities.” This year was the largest group to attend the workshop with 78 of Mississippi’s brightest high school juniors who came together at the Marriott in downtown Jackson, Feb. 24-26. The event began on Wednesday evening with a “get acquainted” session. The students took part in a Town Hall meeting, which encouraged them to discuss issues they are facing as young people. Together, they developed solutions to these issues, which they could use to make a difference among their peers in their own communities. The students enjoyed a breakfast with their legislators before visiting the Mississippi State Capitol where they were able to see those same men and women at work making laws for our state. They also heard encouraging speeches from motivational speakers, as well as Mississippi’s top leaders, Gov. Phil Bryant and Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves. Gov. Bryant has been a strong supporter of the program since being elected to office, always making it a point to visit with the students each year. During a luncheon at the Old Capitol Inn, the governor encourgaged the students to return to their communities after college and to use their talents toward improving our state. “There are so many opportunities for you in Mississippi to take on leadership roles in this state. Whether you go on to college or choose a technical trade, Mississippi is leading the nation in automobile production and telemedicine. We have nationally recognized hospitals for those planning to go into the medical field and our community colleges are top rated in the nation. There are many advantages to staying right here at home.” Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves also spoke to the group, and reminded them that anyone

can reach their goals with hard work and determination and that no dream is “too big.” He reassured the students that they have the ability to make a difference in their schools and communities. Building leaders is fundamental to building a strong community and through this program, Magnolia Electric Power hopes to prepare these Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves young people for a bright future. The program has proven to encourage students to reach their goals year after year, and the students take away lifelong relationships. “Magnolia Electric Power sponsors students each year in our service territory and we are proud to offer this opportunity,” said Darrell Smith, general manager. “These students have already accomplished a great deal, and we know they are on to bright futures.” Missy, Haven and Lizzie will travel with the group to Washington, D.C., in June where they will have the opportunity to visit with Mississippi’s congressional delegation on Capitol Hill, as well as visit all of the popular sites and monuments of our nation’s capital on the seven-day tour.

Missy Clanton, Haven Johnson, Lizzie Mooney and Rep. Steve Massengill.

Missy Clanton, Haven Johnson and Lizzie Mooney visit with their state representatives during the three-day leadership workshop. Missy Clanton, Sen. Sally Doty, Lizzie Mooney and Haven Johnson.

12d

Today in Mississippi

April 2016

Today in Mississippi

Pilot art program enriches students and shows signs of future growth Calvin Phelps, along with teaching assistants, guides students with their art project.

(Top) Calvin Phelps teaches the students how to draw lines and shapes for their flower garden. (Above) Clay Russell has students to sign in before they go to the art room.

A student reveals her flower garden after she completes the day’s project.

By Elissa Fulton The project of the day was to create a spring garden. With the beautiful weather finally peeking out, the students at Pike School of Art were excited to draw their daisies, daffodils and tulips. This is just one of the many projects that the students have learned at the after-school program during its three-month pilot program that began in January 2016. Summit residents Calvin Phelps and Clay Russell, who recently moved to Mississippi from Los Angeles, founded the program. Earning his F.A. from the Chicago Art Institute, and his M.F.A. from Otis School of Art and Design in Los Angeles, Phelps has been a fixture in the west coast art community for decades. While living in California, he worked with many well-known artists in galleries, until he went to work for the Armory Center for the Arts; a non-profit organization for art education in southern California. It was at Armory that Phelps gained an appreciation for the non-profit sector of the arts. “This is the kind of stuff we did at Armory, so when I moved here, I figured I could try and start doing those things here in rural Mississippi,” said Phelps. His hope is that eventually the Pike School of Art would progress to include more of the programs offered by his former employer, such as community programs, school programs, studio space, exhibition space and professional development; as well as partnerships with schools and other organizations. As new residents, Phelps and Russell may dream big, but they have started a program in their new community that has enriched the lives of the students that attend the after-school art program. “I really like coming here because it

allows me to do my favorite thing,” said The two would really like to see the Jessica Wells, a Pike County art student. program continue throughout the school “I really like to draw.” year, and possibly into a summer program The program has been a trial, which in the future. They plan to assess their was offered from January through March strengths and weaknesses when the threeat the Martin Luther King Community month financing comes to an end at the Center, in McComb. The students attend conclusion of March, but unfortunately art sessions for two hours from 3:30 p.m. limited resources could make their dream - 5:30 p.m., Monday, Wednesday and of providing art education to these comFriday, and they also enjoy a snack time. munity children fall flat. Russell was able to gain the students’ The program has been available to stuattention quickly when he asked, “So who dent’s ages 6-18, but in reality, the age can tell me what grapes and graham group has been from 6-12. However, each crackers have in common?” “They both start “I really like coming here because with G,” said one stuit allows me to do my favorite dent poised over her work. thing. I really like to draw.” Every project that Jessica Wells the duo prepares each Pike County art student. week has an educational element. Even snack time is thought out in a way to enlighten the students, but the project is scalable to the age differences. free-to-students program comes at a cost. The school currently has 46 students The funding for the program originally enrolled, an impressive number in just began with a GoFundMe page on social three short months, and 30 of those stumedia, which a few California friends of dents attend regularly. Phelps and Russell supported. A few The community children are able to wealthy benefactors, including an Oscar come and have a good time, while learnwinning film producer from Los Angeles, ing valuable lessons about art and expresfound interest in cultivating the arts in sion. Some of the projects have included rural Mississippi. self-portraits, still life drawings, portraits Although their distant friends have sig- of U.S. presidents for President’s Day, nificantly encouraged the pair, they quick- Haiku art, super heroes and comic strip ly realized they would have to find outside art – and they have even built robots. The help and approached the McComb school was recently open to the communiSchool District and the City of McComb ty for an open house that highlighted the in late 2015 with their idea. Both groups student’s artwork. were unanimously in support of the pilot For more information about the Pike program. While the two organizations School of Art, its additional programs, or each financially support a third of the ways to contribute, visit www.psa-ms.org program, Phelps and Russell must make or www.facebook.com/PikeSchoolofArt. up the difference.

Today in Mississippi

April 2016

Incredible Fudge Brownies mississippi

1 pkg. fudge brownie mix Ingredients specified on package

3 (6-oz.) Hershey’s Symphony bars

Prepare brownie mix according to package directions. Pour half of batter into a greased 9-by-13-inch pan. Arrange chocolate bars on top of batter. Pour remaining batter to cover chocolate bars. Bake according to package directions.

RECIPES FROM RIALS CREEK

‘Heavenly Recipes’ Rials Creek United Methodist Women (UMW) members have pleased generations of their family members with good home cooking. Now their recipes are helping to serve up some good works. Proceeds from sales of the organization’s new cookbook, “Heavenly Recipes,” will be used for their mission work, from assisting individuals in times of crisis to helping support the Methodist Children’s Home, Operation Christmas Child and other more charitable causes. The cookbook also serves as a tribute to the memory of past members. “We have honored our members who have passed away by sharing their recipes first in each section of the cookbook. Without these people, our church

would not be here today,” said member Barbara Gauthier. Rials Creek United Methodist Church, located in Mendenhall, was founded in 1860 as Pleasant Hill Methodist Church. The church was rebuilt after a tornado destroyed the original building. Its UMW unit dates to 1954, when it was called the Women’s Society of Christian Services. “Heavenly Recipes” focuses on long-time favorite recipes using readily available ingredients and easy cooking techniques. These are the dishes that fill the tables at family gatherings and church suppers, as well as daily mealtime. To order, send a money order for $18 (includes shipping) to Rials Creek UMW, 685 Airport Road, Mendenhall, MS 39114.

1 clove garlic, minced 1 pt. (2 cups) mayonnaise 5 Tbsp. ketchup 2 dashes Tabasco sauce

1 ½ tsp. Worcestershire sauce 2 ½ Tbsp. curry powder ¾ Tbsp. salt

Mix garlic, mayonnaise, ketchup, Tabasco and Worcestershire. Stir in curry powder and salt to taste. Chill 1 hour. Delicious with a fresh vegetable tray.

Coleslaw Dressing ¼ cup milk ¼ cup buttermilk ½ cup mayonnaise 1⁄3 cup sugar

2 Tbsp. lemon juice 1 Tbsp. white vinegar Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients and pour over coleslaw. Refrigerate.

Carrot-Raisin Salad 1 cup chopped raw carrots ½ cup seedless raisins 1 apple, diced ½ cup finely chopped celery

½ cup chopped nuts ¼ tsp. salt ¼ cup mayonnaise

Combine all ingredients. Chill and serve on lettuce.

Watergate Cake 1 box white cake mix 1 box instant pistachio pudding mix 1 cup chopped nuts

1 cup vegetable oil 3 eggs 1 cup club soda

Mix all ingredients and beat 4 minutes. Bake in a tube pan 40 to 50 minutes at 350 F. Frosting: 2 envelopes Dream Whip whipped topping mix 1 ¼ cups milk

1 box instant pistachio pudding mix ½ cup chopped nuts Coconut

Mix Dream Whip and milk until stiff. Add pudding mix and nuts. Spread on cake and sprinkle with coconut. Keep cake in refrigerator.

Slow Cooker Lasagna

Lime Grilled Chicken ¼ cup fresh-squeezed lime juice (approx. 2 to 3 small limes; do not use lime juice concentrate) 2 tsp. corn oil 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro leaves 1 clove garlic, minced, or 1 tsp.

Curry Dip

½ tsp. chili powder 2 (4-oz.) boneless chicken breast cutlets (pound to ¼-inch thickness) 2 tsp. grated lime peel

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, oil, cilantro, garlic and chili powder. Pour into a large resealable plastic bag. Add chicken cutlets and shake to coat well. Marinate in the refrigerator 6 to 8 hours, or overnight, gently shaking bag 2 to 3 times during marinating. Heat grill to medium-high heat. Place chicken on grill rack and grill until juices run clear when meat is pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes. Discard remaining marinade. Sprinkle cooked chicken with lime peel. Serve topped with salsa over rice, wrapped in warm flour tortillas or sliced over salad greens.

1 lb. ground beef 1 (24-oz.) jar spaghetti sauce 1 cup water 1 (15-oz.) carton ricotta cheese 1 (7-oz.) pkg. mozzarella cheese, divided

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 egg 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley 6 lasagna noodles, uncooked

Brown meat in skillet; drain. Stir in spaghetti sauce and water. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta, 1 ½ cups mozzarella, 2 tablespoons Parmesan, egg and parsley. Spoon 1 cup meat sauce into slow cooker; top with layers of ½ each of the noodles (broken to fit) and cheese mixture. Cover with 2 cups meat sauce. Top with remaining noodles (broken to fit), cheese mixture and meat sauce. Cover with lid. Cook on low 4 to 6 hours or until liquid is absorbed. Sprinkle with remaining cheeses. Let stand, covered, 10 minutes or until cheese is melted.

April 2016

Today in Mississippi

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Today in Mississippi

April 2016

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VACATION RENTALS

Use your generator only outdoors,

away from open windows, vents and doors. Do not use it in an attached garage. Never plug your generator directly into your home outlet. Connecting a generator to your homeâ€™s wiring requires the professional installation of a power transfer switch. Read and heed the manufacturerâ€™s instructions and safety warnings.

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Today in Mississippi

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Today in Mississippi

April 2016

Picture this...

pring S Colors

4 1. Japanese magnolia blossoms brighten an early spring day. Cecil Cowley, Southaven. 2. Welcome back, butterflies! Becky Syfrett, Macon; 4-County Electric member. 3. Purple petals reach for the sun. Janice Wallace, Mize; Southern Pine Electric member. 4. Greenery sets off showy gladiolus. Ashley Renfrow, age 16, Harrisville; Southern Pine Electric member. 5. Bold red lilies command attention. Beverley Miller, Olive Branch; Northcentral Electric member. 6. Daffodil heralds spring. Cherie Foster, Hamilton; Monroe County Electric member. 7. Pretty in pink. Kristen Breland, Wiggins. 8. Nature’s pest control. Carolyn Petro, Hattiesburg; Pearl River Valley Electric member. 9. Elegant iris. Sandy Warren, Benton; Yazoo Valley Electric member. 10. Daisies, a timeless springtime icon. Phyllis Smith, Yazoo City; Yazoo Valley Electric member. 11. Sadie Stringer explores dandeloins at grandma’s house. Melissa Stringer, Foxworth; Pearl River Valley Electric member. 12. A stunning display of feeding butterflies. Norma Bowlin, Summit; Magnolia Electric member.

Our next “Picture This” theme: Birds Selections will appear in our July issue. Deadline for submissions is June 10. Details at www.todayinmississippi.com.

April 2016

5 6

8 11

10 7

Today in Mississippi

April 2016

Pistol-packing mama t is probably not a good idea to talk about carrying a gun, though if you take a course on how to safely handle and shoot the weapon, and it is legally registered in your name, why not causally mention that you are a gun carrier? Word might get around to potential criminals and you will get more respect. When I first heard about folks getting permits to carry a concealed weapon (pistol), I thought that sounded like a redneck thing to do. (Though, just living in Mississippi might give us that reputation.) I changed my mind about carrying a gun when our church sponsored a gun safety course, and then Mr. Roy decided that we both needed to get our permits ... especially me. I have always been afraid of the dark. He convinced me that taking a gun safety course would give me more confidence and possibly eliminate my fear of the dark. Mr. Roy was exempted from the course. He applied and received a permit since he is an Army veteran. Jimmy Grafe, Mr. Roy’s cousin, and his wife have gun carry permits. His youngest daughter had signed up last November for the Mississippi Enhanced

Music

27th Annual

OKATOMA FESTIVAL Collins, MS May 7, 2016

Featuring:

Hannah Roberts

Miss Mississippi

S p e c i a l E ve n t s : 5 - k R u n /Wa l k 8 : 0 0 am & ch i l dr e n’s f u n r u n A r t s & C r a f t s , Q u i l t E x h i b i t , Fo o d B o o t h s , Fa ir R i de s, H e al t h Fa i r & Li v e E n te r t ai n m e n t For More Info: www.covingtonchamber.com Covington County Chamber of Commerce

Phone: (601) 765-6012 Fax: (601) 765-1740 Download the Covington Chamber App

Carry Permit course, so we went together—women only. Prior to this, Jimmy supplied several pistols for me to use in target practice at his house, plus instructions on loading and unloading. I picked the one I could handle best. The course was taught by a retired policeman. Afterwards, I was a sharp shooter and I felt inclined to go to a police academy. I reconsidered when I learned that I would be on call at night. I have confidence with a gun, but they didn’t teach me not to fear the dark. We have the latest technology in home security systems and now I go to the kitchen in the dark without holding Mr. Roy’s hand. I still may hold my gun. My sweet grandmother was responsible for my fear. When I was a child, Big Mama wouldn’t let me sleep by a window; she was afraid someone might break in her big old house and kidnap me. I slept in a middle bedroom, but I saw her walking around at midnight with her flashlight, checking all the rooms. I was taught never to walk into a dark room because a burglar or kidnapper could be hiding behind a piece of furniture. Therefore, when I went to the kitchen she walked with me; the lights had strings hanging down in the middle of each room. I couldn’t reach them.

Taking a course on how to safely use a weapon is at the top of my list of “good things” to do. I hope you, my readers, will consider getting a permit. Yet, I was shocked to find out many women are already “pistolpacking mamas.” You may have your permit too. While new Mississippi law Grin ‘n’ states that any Bare It Mississippi citizen can carry a by Kay Grafe weapon in a purse or briefcase, when you take a course and obtain a permit you are granted other associated privileges. I strongly recommend the Enhanced Carry Permit course even for the experi-

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enced pistol owner. It teaches gun safety, how to properly hold a pistol, firing positions and how to recognize potential threats. Mr. Roy was not surprised when I asked for a gun last Christmas. I picked out a Ruger .22 Magnum hammerless revolver. With magnum ammunition it is quite a gun, and easy for me to shoot. One change has occurred at my house. When Mr. Roy comes home from a meeting after dark, he always calls out, “Don't shoot, it’s me!” My grandmother would be proud. 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.

April 2016

Today in Mississippi

Mississippi Seafood Trail covers the state with great catches

By Nancy Jo Maples Looking for local seafood? Look toward the trail that meanders through Mississippi featuring diners serving delicious dishes prepared with Gulf Coast catches. The Mississippi Seafood Trail promotes a variety of restaurant choices from one end of the state to the other. The waters of the Gulf Coast have it all: crab, finfish, shrimp and oysters. The eateries along the trail can put those delicacies on your plate. The seafood trail was established in 2014 with grant money from BP Oil, owner of Deepwater Horizon, whose oil rig exploded in 2010. The explosion engulfed the Gulf with millions of gallons of crude oil, which drove away consumers of Gulf Coast-caught seafood. The grant money for the promotional project waned; however, the Mississippi Hospitality and Restaurant Association (MHRA) recognized the value in promoting the state’s seafood. The trail spotlights restaurants that offer Coastcaught fish. “The first year of the program was specific to the Coast. There had been a lot of bad publicity about Gulf seafood. We wanted people to know that the quality has not been compromised and that safety is not an issue,” Mike Cashion, MHRA executive director, said.

Photo: William Colgin

Cashion said coast residents are experienced at eating Gulf seafood and know what to expect. He said when the program went statewide

last year, it saw a more significant response from consumers and proved to be even more successful. Inspired by the Mississippi Blues

Trail and the Mississippi Country Music Trail, the MHRA organized the Mississippi Seafood Trail. Many states have food trails that feature burgers, barbecue, cheese, wine and other eats. The Mississippi Seafood Trail made such a splash that it hooked the No. 2 spot last year in USA Today’s Top 10 Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Food Trail. New Mexico nabbed the top spot with its Green Chile Cheeseburger Trail. Mississippi’s trail features more than 40 restaurants across 360 miles from the Coast to the Tennessee state line. These restaurants must offer at least five menu items featuring wild-caught seafood from the Gulf to be considered for trail membership. Participating restaurants are required to exhibit marketing material about the trail and to educate their staff on the program in an effort to enhance the guest experience. Training is provided by MHRA upon request. Product and

menu prices are the sole decisions of the restaurant; securing an approved product is also the responsibility of the restaurant. Promotions for the Mississippi Seafood Trail target the tourist season— May through August. Cashion said the trail is not necessarily a tourist’s purpose for visiting Mississippi, but he does believe it has a positive impact on a tourist’s experience in the state. “I don’t think it attracts tourists, but once they get here it gives them the vehicle to find a location for good Gulf food,” Cashion said. Promotions for the trail appear in publications distributed outside the state and are posted on social media. An app for electronic devices is being made available this year so that foodies can easily locate restaurants on the trail. The website, mississippiseafoodtrail.com, is updated regularly and full of details. Writer Nancy Jo Maples can be reached at 188 Ernest Pipkins Road, Lucedale, MS 39452 or nancyjomaples@aol.com.

Today in Mississippi

April 2016

Events MISSISSIPPI

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.

13th Annual Walk for Wishes, April 2, Meridian. 5K walk with prizes, wish kids, photos with Gary Dawkins’ slingshot car; 9:30 a.m. Held in conjunction with Threefoot Festival. Dumont Plaza. Details: 601-483-8144. Choctaw County Flea Market, April 2, Ackerman. Main Street parking lot; 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Details: 662-285-6337; j.hughes@msstate.edu. Art in the Pass, April 2-3, Pass Christian. Fine arts, music, food, seafood cooking demos. Free admission. War Memorial Park. Details: 650-7430870; artinthepass.com. Also, Celebrate the Gulf Marine Education Festival on Saturday. Details: 228-475-7047. Two Rivers Bluegrass Festival, Heritage & Forestry Expo, April 2-9, Leakesville. Greene County Rural Events Center. Details: 601-4085965. Midsouth Stargaze and Astronomy Conference, April 6-9, French Camp. Observing, presentations by professional research astronomers, exhibits, camping. Admission; registration required. Rainwater Observatory. Details: 662-547-7230; rainwaterobservatory.org. Third Annual Touch a Truck, April 9, Laurel. Kids get to explore all types of trucks; 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Admission. Laurel-Jones County Library parking lot. Details: 601-433-3255; laurelmainstreet.com/events. 12th Annual Whistle Stop Arts & Crafts Festival, April 9, Waynesboro. Arts/crafts, mechanical bull, 5K run, pony rides, classic car/motorcycle show, carnival rides, kids’ train rides, more. Downtown. Details: 866-735-2268; Facebook: Waynesboro Whistle Stop Festival. Mississippi Senior Olympics, April 9 - May 21, Gulf Coast. Competition in 25 sports for anyone 50 and over. Details: msseniorolym.org. 36th Alcorn State University Jazz Festival, April 16, Vicksburg. Special guest artist Branford Marsalis. Performances by student jazz ensembles from across country. Concerts, workshop. Free. Vicksburg Convention Center. Details: 601877-6602, 866-822-6338; alcorn.edu/jazzfest. Spring Wildflower Field Walk, April 16,

Picayune. Led by arboretum director Pat Drackett; 1-2 p.m. Admission for non-members; register by April 15. Crosby Arboretum. Details: 601-7992311. 13th Annual Juke Joint Festival, April 16, Clarksdale. Blues, history tours, 5K run/walk, juke joints, racing pigs. Related events Thurs.-Sun. Downtown. Details: 662-624-5992; jukejointfestival.com. Bluegrass, Country and Gospel Singing, April 16, Black Hawk. Concessions. Black Hawk Old School; 6 p.m. Details: 662-453-0072; bobbykayalford@gmail.com. Lower Delta Talks: Volcanoes of the Mississippi Delta, April 19, Rolling Fork. Speaker: Paul Parrish, Miss. Dept. of Environmental Quality; 6:30 p.m. SharkeyIssaquena County Library. Coast Chorale Spring Concert: “Feeling the Spirit,” April 22, Pass Christian. Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church; 6:30 p.m. Also, May 1, 2 p.m. at Christ Episcopal Church, Bay St. Louis; and May 15, 2 p.m. at Pass Christian Senior Citizens Center, Pass Christian. Details: 504-319-3530. Spring Plant Sale, April 22-23, Picayune. Native trees, shrubs, perennials; plant professionals on hand; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free admission. Crosby Arboretum. Details: 601-799-2311. 15th Starkville Farm Toy Show, April 22-23, Starkville. Sales, trades, toy talk. Mississippi Horse Park. Details: 601-562-8859, 662-769-3107. Magnolia State Bluegrass Association Spring Show, April 22-23, Polkville. Live music; 1 p.m. daily. Bring lawn chairs. Also, Camp & Jam, April 17-21. Music Barn. Details: 601-408-5965, 985507-1790. Sixth Annual Cruise for St. Jude, April 23, Lucedale. Motorcycle ride, car show, arts/crafts vendors, Kids Zone, music. Free admission. George County Fairgrounds. Details: 601-508-2202, 601508-8551. Rankin County Master Gardeners Annual Plant Sale, April 23, Brandon. Hundreds of plants for sale; 8 a.m.-noon. Free admission. Rankin County Extension/911 Building. Spring Variety Sale, April 23-24, Meridian.

Clothing, home dec, kitchen items, toys, boutique area, more. Meridian Little Theatre. Details: 601482-6371 or 601-679-7671. Tedeschi Trucks Band in Concert, April 24, Cleveland. Outdoor concert; 7 p.m. Dockery Farms. Details: 662-846-4626; dockeryfarms.org. Library Book Sale, April 25-30, Picyaune. Bargains in all categories of books, also magazines; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free admission. Picayune Library. Details: 601-798-5081. Shape-note Singing School, April 27, Jackson. Learn to sing Early American hymns in four-part harmony; 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Mississippi Ag and Forestry Museum. Details: 601-953-1094. Gautier Garden Club Annual Plant Sale, April 29-30, Gautier. St. Pierres Episcopal Church; 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. Details: 228-522-6268. 15th Annual 8-Mile Yard Sale, April 30, Greenwood Springs, Monroe County. Food, clothes, tools, antique furniture, more; 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Local vendors only. Details: 662-315-6955. Star Spring Festival, April 30, Star. Crafts, 5K run, car show, games, food, more. Benefits St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, American Cancer Society. Details: starspringfestival.com. Deanash Children’s Village Open Car Show, April 30, Hattiesburg. Music by Calm Assurance, country storyteller James Pearson, vendors; 8 a.m.- 1 p.m. Free admission. Pineview Baptist Church. Details: 601-467-1138; anderson1549@bellsouth.net. Wister Gardens Workshop, April 30, Belzoni. Featuring Felder Rushing, landscape design; Lynette McDougald, floral design; Evelyn Roughton, culinary artist. Wister Gardens. Details: 662-836-7073, 662-836-7996; wistergardens.org. The ARK 10K, April 30, Hernando. Trail race benefitting Desoto Greenways; 8-11 a.m. Coldwater River Nature Trails, Arkabutla Dam. Details: 901288-6295; amanda@startinggunevents.com.

The Whisnants in Concert, April 30, Newton. Southern gospel music; 7 p.m. Love offering. Ebenezer Baptist Church. Details: 601-896-2249. Barn Sale, May 6-7, Purvis. More than 30 collectors with antiques, collectibles, railroad, signs, primitives, cast iron, tools, more; 7 a.m. until. Free admission; 4799 Old Hwy. 11. Purvis (Oak Grove). Details: 601-818-5886, 601-794-7462. Holcomb Doodlebug Festival, May 7, Holcomb. Country and gospel singing, arts/crafts, train rides and other kids’ activities, food. Main Street. Details: 662-307-0709. 27th Annual Okatoma Music Festival, May 7, Collins. Featuring Miss Mississippi Hannah Roberts, 5K run/walk, arts/crafts, quilt show, fair rides, health fair, live entertainment, more. Details: 601-765-6012; covingtonchamber.com. Day in the Park, May 7, Morton. Arts/crafts, food, antique tractors, kids’ activities, entertainment. Meet the Press performs 5:30 p.m.; fireworks at dark. Farris Municipal Park. Details: 601732-8609. George County Firefighters Association Annual BBQ Challenge, May 7, Lucedale. KCBSsanctioned event; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. George County Fairgrounds. Details: 601-508-8131; gcffabbqchallenge.org. 18th Annual Deep Delta Blues Heritage Festival, May 7, Rolling Fork. Vendors, music, BBQ contest, classic/antique car show, more. Details: 662-873-2755, 662-873-3814. 19th US 11 Antique Alley Yard Sale, May 1215, Meridian. Yard sales extending 502 miles to Bristol, Va. U.S. Highway 11. Details: 601-9173727. Mississippi Gulf Coast Emergency Preparedness Fair & Expo, May 14, Gulfport. Booths, children’s activities, door prizes; 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Lyman Community Center. Details: 228243-8710; Facebook.