Issuu

News for members of Singing River Electric

THE

BIRTHPLACE OF AMERICA’S MUSIC

Periodical postage (ISSN 1052

2433)

pages 12-15

5 A heart for helping 7 Nature’s treasures

9 Born to buck 17 Southern gardening

Today in Mississippi

May 2019

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Electricity for a modern world How many of us remember dropping into an electric cooperative office with our parents or grandparents to pay the light bill? Whether you do that today in person, by mail or online, paying your monthly bill does a lot more than just keep the lights on. Electricity keeps us connected to our modern world. Consider all the necessities, conveniences and even luxuries we enjoy in part because of the power running to the electric meter outside our homes. Count up your televisions, computers, printers, gaming consoles, music and video players and personal assistant devices. We use electricity to run all these, plus the My Opinion coffee maker, microwave, Michael Callahan heating and air conditionExecutive Vice President/CEO Electric Cooperatives ing and so much more. of Mississippi Here’s an interesting fact about the modern world in relation to our electricity use: the average home today has ten Wi-Fi connected devices. And, that number is expected to reach 50 by the year 2020! Technology and the gateways that keep our devices working use electricity. These devices keep

On the cover The music-themed state image was provided by the Mississippi GRAMMY Museum® in Cleveland.

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us connected to the things that make our lives more streamlined and productive. They also provide us with instant entertainment, such as streaming TV shows, movies and music. Thanks to electronic devices too, as spotlighted in this issue of Today in Mississippi, in the matter of a split second we can learn about and listen to the very music and artists that put Mississippi on the map as the “Birthplace of America’s Music.” Now that is an excellent example of electricity for a modern world, which is pretty incredible if you ask me.

May 2019

Today in Mississippi

OUR HOMEPLACE

Mississippi is

“The average home today has ten Wi-Fi connected devices. And, that number is expected to reach 50 by the year 2020!” There’s no doubt that electricity will become even more important as digital devices and technologies continue to be front and center in our lives. And that’s one important reason why Mississippi’s electric cooperatives are continuously working to provide service that is reliable, valuable and affordable. At the end of the day, we depend on our Mississippi electric cooperatives for more than keeping the lights on. We depend on them for the electricity that fuels the conveniences of our modern world.

Today in Mississippi OFFICERS Randy Smith - President Keith Hayward - First Vice President Kevin Bonds - Second Vice President Eddie Howard - Secretary/Treasurer EDITORIAL STAFF Michael Callahan - CEO Ron Stewart - Sr. VP, Communications Sandra Buckley - Editor Mark Bridges - Manager, Support Services Elissa Fulton - Communications Specialist Rickey McMillan - Graphics Specialist Kevin Wood - Graphics Specialist Chris Alexander - Administrative Assistant

Vol. 72 No. 5 EDITORIAL & 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. The publisher (and/or its agent) reserves the right to refuse or edit all advertising. • National advertising representative: American MainStreet Publications 800-626-1181 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300 Circulation of this issue: 442,202

The Official Publication of the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Today in Mississippi is brought to you by your member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative to inform you about your cooperative and its various services, including wise energy use. If you are not a member of a subscribing cooperative, you can purchase a subscription for $9.50 per year. Today in Mississippi (ISSN 1052-2433) is published 11 times a year (Jan.-Nov.) by Electric Cooperatives 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.

Mississippi and Me The Mississippi I know and where I was born, is full of tradition, some that are new – some that are worn. But the community of hospitality and generosity we share, magnify the meaning of the words, "We care." I enjoy summer breezes in shade of the pines, and fishing on the bayou, while the sun still shines. Oh, dear Mississippi my thanks have no measure, for "God" and what "you" stand for, are what I treasure. Norma Freeman, Saucier Coast Electric Power Association member

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@ecm.coop. Please keep your comments brief. Submissions are subject to editing for length and clarity.

Today in Mississippi

May 2019

The kissing camera

Over the years I have told you, my readers, that I am one of those people that “things” just happen to. That is what many of my columns are about. In my book, “Oh My Gosh, Virginia,” I say people like me are “incident prone.” Mr. Roy agrees, but says in most cases those incidents are caused by my actions or inaction. And he may be right. I have also said in my columns or wherever I have been invited to speak that we are all faced with unwanted changes, unexpected challenges and unpleasant surprises. But that things work out best for those who make the best out of the way things work out. I repeated this to myself several times as we drove back home recently from a weekend trip. Okay, I know you are probably thinking, what has she done this time? First let me give you some background. As you all know, Mr. Roy and I are big Mississippi State fans. We were season ticket holders for football, basketball and baseball for many years and attended most games. We had some great times and made great friends. But, two years ago we sold the RV and gave up our season tickets. In the book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible it says, “To everything there is a season,” and our season for RV travel and season tickets are over. Sad, but true. Our good friends, Julie and Mike Clayborne, live in Tupelo. In fact, we Grin ‘n’ are some sort of in-laws; our grandson, Bare It Hunter Flanagan, is married to Julie by Kay Grafe and Mike’s youngest daughter, Kelsey. Knowing how much Mr. Roy and I love MSU sports, they began inviting us to attend a football weekend in the fall and a basketball weekend in the winter. Several years ago, jumbotrons, or huge screen TVs, were installed at most sports stadiums, coliseums and ballparks. These large screen TVs can be viewed by everyone attending the event. In an effort to get all of the fans involved and entertained during time-outs and at halftime, they began a little game called, “Kissing Camera.” Those who attend college sporting events regularly are familiar with “Kiss Cam.” The camera operator pans the crowd and selects a couple to show on the large screen TV for everyone to see. The couple is then expected to kiss each other. If the couple responds

The jumbotron scoreboard at Mississippi State University’s Humphrey Coliseum in Starkville.

with a long passionate kiss, the crowd cheers. However, if the couple fails to respond, or with only a “little peck,” the crowd boos. Over the years, I have watched many couples perform on the jumbotron and thought, if they ever select Mr. Roy and me, I'll put on a show for them and the crowd will really cheer. On a recent Sunday afternoon at the MSU and Vanderbilt women's basketball game, before a sellout crowd of over 10,000 people, I got my chance. It was halftime and I had just told Mr. Roy to go down and get me something to eat. He put off my request, so I turned to the woman sitting to my left and started talking to her. And at that very moment it happened. The “Kissing Camera” stopped on Mr. Roy and me. He reached over to embrace me, thinking I would gladly respond. I shoved him away and said, “What are you doing?” By the time I realized what was happening, it was too late. My one chance to perform on “Kissing Camera” had come and gone. And not only was my big chance gone, but the crowd, including Mr. Roy, was “booing” me. As we were driving home that Monday morning, Mr. Roy said, “Don't be so sad, there is a bright side to the game yesterday.” Then I said, “What could possibly be bright about what I did?” He responded quickly, “Well you like to be the center of attention. And you certainly were that.” 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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Electric co-ops hit hard during recent storms Mississippi’s electric cooperatives endured two major weather events over the past few weeks featuring tornadoes, severe thunderstorms and flooding. Not only did the weatherrelated events bring down power lines throughout Mississippi, but downed trees and flooding made access difficult in rebuilding lines to serve those who lost their electric service. In many cases, crews were forced to wait until safety concerns were addressed before deploying emergency workers. In some areas, electric cooperatives were able to handle power restoration with their local crews while others quickly requested help from neighboring systems. It’s important to note that electric cooperatives rushed to the aid of stricken systems to assist in restoring power. Once again, these assisting crews proved invaluable in the fast, efficient and safe recovery from the widespread outages. It is ironic that during the month our systems honor Lineworker Appreciation Day, major storm events happened. On April 13, strong storm systems swept across Mississippi killing one person and leaving a path of destruction including damaged homes, downed trees and major power outages. Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi reported a peak outage of more than 22,000 homes served by 11 member systems. These widespread outages were reported in 53 counties and restoration was completed in a few days. On April 18, as this region was recovering from the previous storm, much of the same area was hit again. The National Weather Service confirmed 32 tornadoes touched down on this day and reported three deaths related to this severe weather activity. Our electric cooperatives reported more than 53,000 meters in 60 counties were without power. Our local crews, in addition to emergency crews, spent the next six days, including Easter weekend, restoring electric service. During times like these, we appreciate the patience and understanding our members show us. Throughout our service areas, many acts of kindness where displayed including help feeding our crews. Also, in the cooperative spirit we commend the group of dedicated employees, women and men, who worked tirelessly to restore power in adverse conditions. We offer our prayers and continued support of those who lost loved ones and for the many who are faced with rebuilding their lives and homes.

Heart

By Sandra M. Buckley The Salvation Army, which dates all the way back to 1865 in London, is a thriving international ministry dedicated to bringing the Bible’s message of hope and faith through salvation to the poor, homeless and hungry. With a heart for everyone, from children to senior citizens, its goal is to help by equipping those willing to work towards a better life with a hand up and not a hand out. From services like disaster relief, emergency shelters and food pantries to school supply drives and youth programs, the organization is making a meaningful impact across Mississippi and the world. The Salvation Army of Greater Jackson covers a six-county region and its volunteer-based Women’s Auxiliary debuted this spring a new cookbook, “Cooking with Grace,” with 100 percent of sales directly benefitting its local work within Mississippi. The cookbook features a collection of 500 recipes, including appetizers, soups, salads, sides, entrees, desserts and even some interesting “helpful hints” for meal preparation. “Cooking with Grace” is available online at www.salvationarmyalm.org/jackson or by sending a check made payable to SAWA, with “Cookbook” in the memo line, for $22 ($15, cookbook plus $7, S&H) to the Salvation Army of Greater Jackson, 570 Beasley Rd., Jackson, MS, 39206. Call 601-982-4881 for more information.

May 2019 I Today in Mississippi

for helping Creamy White Chicken Caprese Lasagna 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (can use rotisserie) 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, chopped and drained 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped and drained 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped 1 ½ packages low-fat cream cheese 1 cup half-and-half 1 teaspoon minced garlic Salt and pepper, to taste 12 lasagna noodles, cooked 12 slices whole milk mozzarella Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, combine chicken, artichokes, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes and half of the basil; set aside. In a separate bowl, using an electric mixer beat cream cheese, half-and-half, garlic, salt and pepper until well combined. Using a spoon, stir in remaining basil. Stir half of the cream cheese mixture in with the chicken mixture. Take half of the remaining cream cheese mixture and spread it into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, covering the bottom, and reserving the rest. Lay 3 noodles on top and then top with 1/3 of the chicken mixture. Repeat the noodles and chicken mixture two more times, ending with a noodle layer. Top with the reserved cream cheese mixture. Place the mozzarella slices on top in rows of three. Sprinkle remaining shredded mozzarella over everything and then top with more basil if desired. Bake 25 minutes or until heated through. Slice and serve.

Helpful Hints Fruit juices, such as pineapple and orange, can be used as salad dressings by adding a little olive oil, nutmeg and honey.

A few drops of lemon juice added to simmering rice will keep the grains separated.

Perk up soggy lettuce by spritzing with a mixture of lemon juice and cold water.

Ice cubes will help sharpen garbage disposal blades.

Slow Cooker Cheese Grits

Caribbean Salad

Lemon Daffodil Dessert

6 cups whipping cream 2 cups chicken broth 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 2 cups uncooked grits 1 (4-ounce) package cream cheese 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated 4 tablespoons butter

1 cup Craisins (dried cranberries) 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped Juice of 1/2 a lemon 1 package dry ramen noodles 1/2 cup almonds, sliced 1 cup black beans, drained 4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 4 tablespoons pimentos

Juice of 4 lemons 1/2 cup sugar 1 (14-ounce) can condensed milk 2 cups whipping cream 1 small prepared angel food cake

Slowly bring whipping cream, broth, salt and pepper to a boil. Stir in the grits. Pour the mixture into a slow cooker. Add remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Check and stir occasionally. Add more broth or water if grits become too thick.

Mix all ingredients together and chill before serving.

Combine juice, sugar and condensed milk. Add whipping cream. Tear cake into small pieces and line the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Pour mixture over the cake and mix together. Chill for 24 hours before serving.

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May 2019

Today in Mississippi

Hills, Hollows, Wetlands:

Nature’s Treasures

Sunrise peeped quietly through emerging leaves and shimmered off placid water. Though spring was birthed and growing, it was yet an infant; the morning chill verified as much. Still, conditions were pleasant, requiring only a light jacket and hat. Jeans, shirt and hiking shoes completed the wardrobe. A late March day was unfolding with perfection and promise. The afternoon before, we had pulled into Choctaw Lake Campground and secured the camper – a basic but functional unit affording all needed accommodations. My sister and brotherin-law were there when we arrived and had already set up. Within the hour, power and water were flowing, the awning was out and wood was stacked in the fire ring. There would be much visiting around that ring the next few evenings. Choctaw Lake rests within a small portion of the Tombigbee National Forest near Ackerman and Louisville, Mississippi. Access is a straightforward proposition from Highway 15 between these two towns. The lake is within Choctaw Wildlife Management Area (WMA), a 24,314-acre tract managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks (DWFP). Hunting is a major attractant on the WMA during open seasons, with squirrels, deer and turkeys drawing the most attention. However, there are a great many other activities of interest around the lake and within the WMA apart from hunting. Simply walking and observing and absorbing are worthy endeavors.

Left: Elevated walkways are common across wet areas on trails at Choctaw Lake. Above: Lakeside Trail is well kept and easily walked. Photos by Tony Kinton.

Hiking, in its various degrees of intensity, is a grand pursuit. It is a healthful endeavor, filled with wonder and intrigue. Once in my distant past a viable hike demanded extensive time afield and perhaps mountaintop treks. I simply had to see what lay beyond that peak at 10,000 feet. But no more. Since that distant past there have been two somewhat major heart issues, one rebuilt shoulder, nagging back and hip pain which necessitate injections and ongoing therapy, a bad knee which worsens daily and that simple and sinister culprit ultimately common to us all – age! High peaks have been replaced by low-ground solemnity. Wild places have been replaced by more sedate familiarity. Still, time outdoors is rich and rewarding, perhaps more appreciated now than ever. Trails in Choctaw WMA near or adjacent to Choctaw Lake fit most needs quite well. A favorite of mine for biking or walking is Lakeside Trail. It, as the name implies, encompasses Choctaw Lake. Approximately 3 miles total, this trail consists of a well-manicured gravel path broken by wooden walkways that span the dam and marshy upper reaches of the lake. For the most part, this trail is flat, twisting through tall pines and decorative hardwoods, these particularly engaging during fall colors. The one hilly portion is brief; there is a covered

bench at the top of the steepest hill. We employ this frequently. One little side path off Lakeside Trail, also gravel covered, leads 100 yards or so into the woods along a small water course on the north end of the lake. A bench is there as well. I sat alone on that bench one midmorning of this last trip and watched two wood ducks circle and splash down, unaware of my presence. They paddled about, squealed softly and eventually eased onto a muddy pad where a nesting box was Outdoors sequestered. I Today admired and dreamed and by Tony Kinton gave thanks. Then there is Cabin Lake Trail, this basically circling Cabin Lake, a much smaller companion of and one that empties into Choctaw Lake. This one is gravel coated and also has elevated wooden walks/bridges that traverse grand little sand ditches and wet areas. Easy walking and beautiful scenery. For the truly adventurous, the Noxubee Hills Bike Trail, which can also be hiked, begins near Choctaw Lake. It is wooded and occasionally rugged and covers 26 miles of spectacular hills-and-hollows viewing. And the very mention of Noxubee brings to the forefront Noxubee National Wildlife

Refuge (NWR). This is near Brooksville not far from Choctaw Lake/WMA, and covers 48,000 acres of public ground. Noxubee NWR contains both upland and flatwoods, with a tremendous amount of wetland. Wildlife viewing and bird watching can be most impressive on this huge block of real estate. When to go? Autumn is almost always ideal. Wildlife and the annual color show tend to take the stage during fall. And early spring, with new buds and still-open woodlands, provide enhanced viewing. I especially like this time in the hills and hollows, for the contours are more pronounced. May can also be a productive time to visit any from a tremendous collection of outdoor haunts across the Magnolia State. These are scattered in every direction. The weather is generally agreeable, and summer’s heat is not likely in full swing. But the prevailing message from all this is to go whenever opportunities arise. Participating in the outdoors, whatever your preferred method, is a thing of great worth. I have written before and still maintain the following sentiment: Experiences are the finest form of wealth. So go have some outdoor experiences. You will be richer for it. Tony Kinton has been an active outdoors writer for 30 years. His newest book is “Rambling Through Pleasant Memories.” Order from Amazon.com or his website: www.tonykinton.com.

8 I Today in Mississippi I May 2019

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Bucking horses competing at the Inaugural Sappington Bucking Stock Yearling Futurity. Held in Pontotoc, this is the first and only sanctioned event of its kind in Mississippi where yearlings vye to progress on to the World Champaionships. The 2019 event will be held May 25.

By Sandra M. Buckley In 2018, a new “first” for Mississippi took hold as the United Bucking Horse Association (UBHA) hosted its first-ever event in the state and is set to host its second this May. The event is a Bucking Stock Yearling Futurity competition, which is part of regional contests held throughout the western United States and Canada, with the top horses going on to Las Vegas, Nevada, to compete in the the World Championships, where millions of dollars are awarded each year. “Last year was the first time a sanctioned event of the UBHA was ever produced east of the Mississippi River,” said Jim Sappington, who along with his wife Marilyn, hosts the event on their property in Pontotoc. The 2nd Annual Sappington Bucking Stock Yearling Futurity is scheduled for Saturday, May 25, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. where more than 15 yearlings from Alabama, Arkansas, Mississippi and Texas will be vying for a coveted spot in the World Championships. The young horses that participate must be three years old or younger and buck with a dummy instead of a live rider, as they don’t get a live rider until they are four years old. “The goal that day will be to buck all these colts for the first time, keep all animals and contractors safe and establish point earnings for World Championships,” said Sappington, explaining that points accumulate throughout the year with the top 15 horses in world standings going on to compete in Las Vegas. Because of the high caliber breeding and energy of bucking

Today in Mississippi I 9

horses, many compete in World Championships well into their twenties. Over the years, Sappington is proud to have had horses earn world standings, including one “Horse of the Year” as well as multiple ranking in the “Top 5” and “Top 15.” “My animals have been bred for four and five generations to be the very best at what they do,” he added. “Born to buck!” Sappington, a lifelong resident of Pontotoc County, currently serves as the national vice president of UBHA. He also spent years competing in rodeos and producing rodeo events across the southeast before taking an active role in UBHA competitions, which was a natural fit for him and also his family. “As a husband and wife team, Marilyn and I have made a huge commitment to developing these animals,” he noted. “These horses are so awesome to have around! The Lord has blessed us in a mighty way by allowing us to experience some success. And, all three of our children enjoy the hoopla of the competitions. It’s definitely a family affair.” The May 25 event is open to the public and free to attend. “We provide a noon meal for everyone and donations can be made to the Hayseed Cowboy Church Youth who will be cooking and serving,” he said. “The donations will go to help fund their annual trip to Cowboy Church Camp in Oklahoma this June. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the colt bucking, good food as well as the always awesome Hayseed Cowboy Church Band playing gospel music as we fellowship in God's goodness. Contact Jim Sappington 662-305-5620 or jsappington@maxxsouth.net to RSVP for the catered lunch or for more information.

# AMERICAN PRIDE

Next in “Picture This” I Submission guidelines

• Photos must be in sharp focus. • Photos must be the original work of an amateur photographer. • Photos may be either color or black and white, print or digital. • Digital photos must be high-resolution JPG files of at least 1 MB in size. If emailing a phone photo, select “actual size” before sending. We cannot use compressed photo files. • Please do not use photo-editing software to adjust colors or tones. • Photos with the date stamped on the image cannot be used. • Each entry must be accompanied by the photographer’s name, address, phone number and electric power association (if applicable). Include the name(s) of any recognizable people or places in the picture. Feel free to add any other details you like. • Prints will be returned if accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. We cannot, however, guarantee their safe return through the mail.

I How to enter

• Attach digital photos to your email message and send to news@ecm.coop. • If submitting more than one photo, please attach all photos to only one email message, if possible. Please be sure to include all information requested in the guidelines. • Or, mail prints or a CD to: Picture This, Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300. • Photographers whose photos are published are entered in a random drawing for a $200 cash prize to be awarded in December 2019. Submit your most creative photo(s) of anything that represents American Pride for you or your community. Be sure to identify your subject and tell us why you chose it.

Photos must be emailed or postmarked by June 12 Selected photos will appear in the

July issue of Today in Mississippi.

Marilyn and Jim Sappington are members of Pontotoc Electric Power Association.

10 I Today in Mississippi I May 2019 Pay Bill Report Outages

Brian Hughey, General Manager & CEO Lorri Freeman, APR, Manager of Public Relations Amanda Parker, Public Relations Specialist For more information, call 601-947-4211, 228-497-1313 or visit our website at singingriver.com. SRE is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

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CEOâ€™s Message

Member Participation Matters Within the next two weeks, you will receive a notice of Singing River Electricâ€™s Annual Membership Meeting. Online voting will begin within this time frame as well. I encourage you to return your proxy or vote online in our annual board Brian Hughey General Manager & CEO of directors election. Voting Singing River Electric establishes our cooperativeâ€™s local leadership and is a benefit of your co-op

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membership. Electric co-ops are led by members just like you who understand our local communities. Simply complete, tear off and return the mailed proxy, use the SmartHub app or visit singingriver.com to vote online. Members who return their proxy or vote online are eligible to win one of six $250 prizes or one grand prize of $500. Members will vote for one director candidate in each of the three geographic districts. These Singing River Electric members live

in your community, have been nominated by the membership and have been certified as qualified candidates by the Credentials and Election Committee that is also made up of Singing River Electric members. Candidate biographies are available on the co-opâ€™s election website. Visit singingriver.com and click on the â€œVote Hereâ€? button at the top of the page. Come to your Annual Membership Meeting on Thursday, June 27, at Singing River Electricâ€™s Lucedale office at 6 p.m. If you are not able to attend, participate by returning your proxy or voting online. Your voice matters as a member of Singing River Electric. We appreciate your efforts as we continue to provide safe, reliable and affordable electric service for our members.

Your participation is crucial to the success of our cooperative.

ANNUAL MEETING SET FOR JUNE 27 Watch for proxy/notice in the mail. Singing River Electric (SRE)â€™s annual membership meeting will be held Thursday, June 27, at the SRE office located at 11187 Old 63 South in Lucedale. The Energy Fair will be from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., with annual meeting registration beginning at 4:30 p.m. The business portion of the annual meeting will begin at 6 p.m.

In addition to the pre-meeting Energy Fair, the business session will include the cooperativeâ€™s financial, management and board reports, as well as the annual board of directors election. SRE has a 10-person board of directors elected from the membership in the three geographic districts. Each year, one director post from each district is up for election. Every three years, District Three has two director posts open. Directors are elected for a three-year period. Nominations for election to the board of directors are made by petition. Interested members must acquire signaturesof 25 Singing River Electric members on a form provided by the cooperative. (continued on page 10a)

Dear Member:

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THERE ARE THREE WAYS TO PARTICIPATE:

IN PERSON, BY PROXY AND ONLINE Six members who vote online or return their proxies by the June 19th deadline will be selected to receive a $250 CASH prize. One member who votes online or returns the proxy by the deadline will receive a special grand prize of $500 CASH!

May 2019 Today in Mississippi 10a

Meet your board Members of your community Singing River Electric is led by member-consumers like you who understand and listen to the community. Our board of directors are elected by the membership to serve a three-year term. Our board members are required to take Credentialed Co-op Director courses. This five-part director education program prepares our members who serve as directors to represent the membership and fulfill their duties.

Part three of a four-part series. See page 10c to meet board members with careers in farming, business and large industry.

Singing River Electric board members (left to right): Roy Grafe, Howard Davis and Travis Baxter.

Credentialed Co-op Directors

ANNUAL MEETING Applicants must complete and return a director candidate packet to the Lucedale office and be certified by the Credentials and Election Committee before being placed on the ballot. The deadline for nomination by petition to be placed on the annual meeting notice was March 29, 2019. This deadline was posted in the January and February issues of the 2019 Today in Mississippi member publication. This yearâ€™s candidates include: District One, Post One â€“ Ralph Hicks and Ladd Pulliam; District Two, Post One â€“ Ron Wilson; and District Three, Post One â€“ Howard Davis. The slate of nominees was approved by members of SRE serving on the Credentials and Election Committee. According to cooperative bylaws, the candidatesâ€™ names were placed in nomination for election to a three-year term beginning June 27 at the

cooperativeâ€™s annual meeting. To conduct business at the annual meeting, a quorum of at least 10 percent of the membership is necessary. The quorum is derived by adding the number of members present at the meeting, the valid online votes and the number of valid proxies received. Annual meeting notices and proxies will be mailed on May 15 to all members. SRE members also have the opportunity to vote in director elections online beginning May 15. The deadline for returning proxies and voting online ends on June 19 at close of business. Any member may vote in person at the June 27 meeting, online or by proxy. Each member is entitled to one vote regardless of the number of accounts in the memberâ€™s name. A proxy may be assigned to either a member of the current board of directors or to another SRE

member. A member can vote up to 200 assigned proxies at any membership meeting. The presence of a member at the meeting, or in the case of a joint membership, the presence of a spouse, shall revoke the proxy. All proxies must be received by SREâ€™s Lucedale office by close of business on June 19. Members returning their proxy, voting online, as well as those who attend the meeting, may qualify to win valuable prizes. Those returning their proxy or voting online may qualify to win up to $500 cash. Those attending the annual meeting will receive an attendance prize and are eligible for a door prize drawing.

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:PTWS` JSPJR V U [OL Â¸= =V V[L /LYLÂš PJVU :THY[/\I HWW VU LP[OLY [OL VY ^LIZP[L H[ singi s ngriverr..com ) entering your mem ` bership ID and zip code, you can cand did idate t biogr bi aphie view hi s and d ca astt your vote. t

Six members who vote One member who online or return their prooxies by the June 19th dead votes online or retur line ns thhe proxy by the deadline will will be selected to recceive a $250 receive a special CASH prize. grand prize p of $500 CASH!

Visit www.singingriver.com for more information. SRE bylaws are available online.

10b

Today in Mississippi

May 2019

Energy Tips

Nick DeAngelo Manager of Energy Services deangelo@singingriver.com

CLOTHES DRYING TIPS

May is Electrical Safety Month. Safety Starts with You. #ElectricalSafetyMonth

UPCOMING RIGHT-OF-WAY CLEARING PROJECTS

Singing River Electric clears trees, limbs and underbrush from the area around and below the power lines, called right-of-way. Right-of-way clearing helps decrease the number of outages and reduces the risk of someone coming in contact with the power lines.

Here are the substations and surrounding areas that are either currently being cleared or will be cleared soon:

Sand Hill Substation - Highway 42, Highway 63, Lovewell Road and surrounding areas.

Kittrell Substation - Highway 42, Smithtown Chicora Road, Woolard Bend Road and surrounding areas.

Vancleave Substation - Highway 57, Old River Road, Jim Ramsey Road and surrounding areas.

Helena Substation - Highway 613, Saracennia Road, Wildwood Road and surrounding areas.

One simple way to save money on your electric bill this summer is to avoid running the clothes dryer during the day. By operating the dryer during the hottest parts of the day, it creates additional load on your HVAC system. As your dryer begins to operate, it pulls air that has been conditioned or cooled in your home into the clothes dryer, where it re-heats the air and forces it into the dryer barrel to dry the clothes. During this process, it exhausts that air outside the home. The act of forcing the air outside causes additional unconditioned or hot air to be pulled into the house. This adds to your home’s heating load and causes your HVAC system to work harder to make you comfortable. In our region of the country, most air conditioning systems are designed to operate at around 90-degree outdoor temperatures. Any time temperatures exceed the system’s designed outdoor temperature, your HVAC system will experience extended run times. By removing conditioned air and adding hot, humid air to your home, you are causing your home’s HVAC to run even longer. By drying clothes when the air outside is cooler, early morning and late evening, you save money. This is a low cost, no cost way to save energy and money in the hot months ahead. For more on this and other tips, please visit our website at singingriver.com.

May 2019

Today in Mississippi

Helena Energy Fair Thank you to all who attended our Energy Fair at the Helena Community Center on Saracennia Road in Jackson County on Wednesday, April 10. Members received free LED bulbs, custom advice and expert knowledge.

There were six stations with energy tips, DIY projects, lighting advice, as well as Cooperative Energy's electric vehicle. Here are a few photos from the day. Don’t forget to join us at our next two fairs. They will be:

May 15 District 4 Community Center 10 a.m - 2 p.m. 8232 Old 63 North, Greene County

June 27 SRE Lucedale Office 3 - 6 p.m. 11187 Old 63 South, Lucedale

Meet your board Members of your community Singing River Electric is led by member-consumers like you who understand and listen to the community. Our board of directors are elected by the membership to serve a three-year term. Singing River Electric’s membership elects the board members to represent them. These directors come locally from varying professions, including ship building, farming and owning small businesses.

Part four of a four-part series. For more information on SRE’s board of directors, please visit singingriver.com/my-coop.

Singing River Electric board members (left to right): Ron Wilson, Ralph Hicks and Robert Steele.

Professionals

10c

10d I Today in Mississippi

May 2019

How o your local electric cooperattives are helping communitie es shine. it

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May 2019

MY HOME

MY BUSINESS

MY MEMBERSHIP

MY COMMUNITY

Today in Mississippi

MY CO-OP

www.singingriver.com

Check out SREâ€™s new website

DID YOU KNOW? By downloading the SmartHub app, you can report a power outage, pay your bill, check your energy use or view a live outage map with a tap of a screen - anytime, anywhere. Live Weather Outage Map

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Today in Mississippi

May 2019

MISSISSIPPI

behind the evolution & revolution By Sandra M. Buckley

of America’s music

ississippi is known the world over as the “Birthplace of America’s Music.” After all, Mississippi is credited for producing the “King of Rock and Roll,” the “Father of Country Music,” and the “King of the Blues.” These trailblazers, alongside hundreds of others, have impacted and influenced the music industry like no others in modern history. Mississippi’s music heritage has positioned the state as a true renaissance of musical genres, scaling past, present and even future trends. From rock and roll, country and blues to gospel, opera and everything in between, Mississippi has not only transformed the course of America’s music, it revolutionized it. Musical pioneer Miles Davis stated decades ago, “I’ll play it first and tell you what it is later.” That sentiment essentially describes the creative art forms of so many of Mississippi’s greatest musicians who experimented and developed music styles, shaping history forever in immeasurable ways. The music industry is also a rich source of economic development and brings in thousands of tourists every year to every corner of the state. From the Mississippi’s Blues Trail and Country Music Trail markers honoring iconic musicians and sites … to the Mississippi GRAMMY Museum in Cleveland and the Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience in Meridian … to hundreds of musicthemed festivals, live concerts and venue settings, there is a constant source of music-inspired entertainment for residents and visitors alike. Among numerous recognitions, Mississippi has enjoyed car tag designs and U.S. postage stamps printed in honor of its special music heritage. And in various and creative other ways, Mississippi will forever be celebrated as the innovative catalyst behind the evolution and revolution of America’s music – a legacy we can all proudly share.

bands 3 Doors Down and Blind Melon; David Ruffin of The Temptations; and Tommy Aldridge, drummer for heavy metal band Ozzy Osbourne and 1980s rock band Whitesnake.

Country Music

Here is a snapshot of only a few of the countless groundbreaking talents, genres and influence that have played a noteworthy role in Mississippi taking its rightful place in history as the “Birthplace of America’s Music.”

Elvis Presley The “King of Rock and Roll,” Elvis Presley, once stated, “I happened to come along in the music business when there was no trend,” which landed him the royalty title. Having been born and reared in Tupelo, the city creatively captures and honors his history, with an Elvis Presley Festival every June, tours of his humble childhood home, the Elvis Presley Museum and much more.

Rock & Roll Several famous rock musicians and bands have ties to the Magnolia state, including pop stars Britney Spears and Lance Bass; icons Jimmy Buffett, Steve Forbert, Jerry Lee Lewis and Bobbie Gentry;

With so many pioneers of the country music industry tied to the state, the Mississippi Country Music Trail has erected markers all across the state. One of the greatest claims to fame is Jimmie Rodgers, of Meridian, who is revered as the “Father of Country Music” and the very first inductee into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Another is Charlie Pride, of Sledge, who is honored as the most successful African American country singer and who recorded nearly 25 number one hits. And there is Conway Twitty, of Friars Point, who released more than 50 chart-topping singles. Marty Stuart, whose hometown is Philadelphia, is giving back to his Neshoba County roots with the planning of the Marty Stuart Congress of Country Music. This country music museum and performing arts center, when it opens in a few short years, will showcase Stuart’s vast collection of more than 20,000 artifacts of memorabilia, photography, clothing, vintage instruments and more. In fact, his collection is the largest privately owned country music collection in the world – and includes items from country greats like Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, Hank Williams and Merle Haggard. This $30 million project will house the museum, classrooms, event space, a rooftop venue and will serve as yet another tourist destination paying tribute to Mississippi and America’s music. The list of famous country artists goes on and on, including great talents such as Faith Hill, Mickey Gilley, LeAnn Rimes and Tammy Wynette. Award-winning songwriters Mac McAnally and Paul Overstreet are also acclaimed Mississippi natives. Plus, Governor Phil Bryant named singer songwriter Steve Azar, of Greenville, the Music & Culture Ambassador of Mississippi.

May 2019

The Blues As the “Birthplace of the Blues,” it is only fitting that the largest collection of blues music in the world is housed in Mississippi – at the University of Mississippi Blues Archive in Oxford, which is open to the public. Mississippi blues legends abound throughout the state, including “The King of the Blues,” B.B. King. And as Muddy Waters once said of this all-American music genre, “I was always singing the way I felt.” Museums such as the Blues Heritage Gallery in Greenwood, the Highway 61 Blues Museum in Indianola and the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center also in Indianola are scattered across the state, along with Blues Trail markers and live blues music venues – all of which independently bring in thousands of tourists each year. Clarksdale is a particular hotspot for the blues, as home to bluesmen such as W.C. Handy, John Lee Hooker, Robert Johnson, Charlie Patton, Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf. Clarksdale is also home to the Delta Blues Museum, which holds the title as the United State’s first museum devoted to the blues and Mississippi's oldest music museum. “Clarksdale is the only town in Mississippi that also features 365 nights of live blues music in the clubs, jukes and restaurants,” said resident and blues authority Roger Stolle. “When I used to visit as a tourist in the mid to late 1990s, there was one annual blues festival here and very sporadic blues club/juke joint music.”

Gospel Historically, gospel and blues music share many of the same influences and qualities. Because of that, there is a lot of crossover with numerous Mississippi artists, like B.B. King, Sam Cooke, Otis Clay and Denise LaSalle. There is a dedicated Mississippi Blues Trail marker in Cleveland inscribed “Gospel Music and the Blues” with a historic account of the two.

Jazz / R&B / Hip-Hop Blues also helped pave the way for jazz, then rhythm and blues and hip-hop. Mississippi has a strong representation in these collective genres, from early stars such as Ike Turner, Mary Wilson of the Supremes, Thelma Houston and Bo Diddley to more recent performers like Brandy, Afroman and Soulja Boy.

Big Band Guy Hovis of Tupelo graced the stage of the iconic 1970s Lawrence Welk Show, dazzling television viewers for more than ten years.

Continued on page 15

Today in Mississippi I 13

And the GRAMMY goes to … The GRAMMY Awards® are the most prestigious in the music recording industry as outstanding artists and their achievements are honored by their peers. It is unprecedented that Mississippi serves as the only sister site of the original GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles, California – and the only other one in the world. Why Mississippi? Well, Mississippi claims more GRAMMY winners per capita than any other state in the country. The Mississippi GRAMMY Museum, located in Cleveland on the campus of Delta State University, pays tribute to the fascinating history and culture of music, the legacies of musicians and the many significant contributions made by Mississippians. Encompassing all genres of music, it also showcases the technical production side of recording and the history behind the GRAMMY Awards. Visitors from across the world come to see and experience this state-of-the-art museum. From one-of-a-kind artifacts on display, like a stage outfit Elvis wore at a concert in 1975 at the Mississippi Coliseum, to dozens of entertaining and interactive exhibits, this museum is a meaningful nod to Mississippi’s historic role in America’s music. Executive director of the museum, Emily Havens, was happy to share a few additional thoughts below with Today in Mississippi readers: Q: As visitors explore the Mississippi GRAMMY Museum, what might they learn about the lasting impact Mississippi has made on America’s music industry? A: All music derives from blues and gospel, which stems from Mississippi. Whether you mention Jimmie Rodgers, Elvis Presley, Sam Cooke or Muddy Waters ... all of the legends were born here or influenced by Mississippi artists. Q: About how many visitors have been to the museum? A: Since opening its doors in March 2016, the museum has had more than 92,000 visitors from 50 states and 46 countries. Q: With a 130-seat venue onsite for live performances, who are a few artists who have played there? A: Peter Frampton, Bobby Rush, Cedric Burnside, Lee Ann Womack, Mavis Staples and Mary Wilson … to name a few. Q: As the museum’s mission is to be “engaging, educational, celebratory and inspirational,” how is that put into action? A: Engaging our visitors by promoting music education through inspirational exhibits that celebrate the legacy of music and Mississippians is what we strive to do every day. Q: How would you describe the collective musical heritage Mississippi has had on America’s music? A: Mississippi is the birthplace of American music. From the fields to the churches, Mississippi has a rhythm that is filled with pain and joy so unique and distinct that the songs risen from its soil serve as a capsule to American history. Visit www.grammymuseumms.org for more information.

Today in Mississippi

May 2019

Rabbit Foot Minstrels Spotlighting a Mississippi Blues Trail marker Situated just off of the Natchez Trace Parkway, between Natchez and Jackson, is the quaint town of Port Gibson. While it may be a small town, its significance to Mississippi’s history and music is vast. One interesting piece of Port Gibson history tied to music is that of the Rabbit Foot Minstrels, which is honored with a Mississippi Blues Trail marker. During the early 1900s, African American entertainers took to performing under large canvas tents in rural areas, where shows consisted of comedy routines and skits, song-anddance numbers and even marching bands. Minstrel shows, as they were called, also were largely responsible for the spreading of blues music. The Rabbit Foot Minstrels in Port Gibson was one of the most popular in the entire south, with many famous blues singers and musicians having been a part of it at some point in their careers. “Legendary Mississippi blues singer Bobby Rush shares an amusing story of how he was part of the Rabbit Foot show for at least one season,” said Felicia Harried, president of Mississippi Cultural Crossroads, a Port Gibson organization that promotes education, culture and

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economic development within the community. To honor the rich blues legacy of Port Gibson, Mississippi Cultural Crossroads is hosting an interactive exhibit called The Blues in Claiborne

County: From Rabbit Foot to Blues & Cruise, May 24 through August 30. As part of the experience, visitors will be able to view authentic artifacts and original photographs of the original Rabbit Foot Minstrels. “The exciting part is a huge tent will be erected inside the Crossroads gallery reminiscent of the tent the Rabbit Foot performers might have used at that time,” said Harried. “Inside the tent, visitors can enjoy sights and sounds that might recreate the nostalgic feel of a time gone by.” Port Gibson is also known as the “City of Churches.” “As such, it is worth examining the impact of gospel and sacred music on life and society as well,” added Harried. “That is why Cultural Crossroads will again host the Comfort My Soul Conference in September to celebrate National Gospel Music Heritage Month.” Music is one of the greatest cultural gifts Mississippi has given the world – and it is a proud legacy that represents our past, present and future. “Music, regardless of the genre, has the power to move the soul,” she added, “and we celebrate that power, remembering the past, but also creating the next great thing, right here in small town Mississippi, USA.”

May 2019

BEHIND THE EVOLUTION & REVOLUTION

of America’s Music Continued from page 13

Classical American’s first African American classical music singer, Elizabeth Taylor Greenfield, was born in Natchez in 1809 and is heralded as the “Black Swan.” She even sang for Queen Victoria at Buckingham Palace in 1854.

Opera In 1961, soprano sensation Leontyne Price of Laurel made her debut at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City. Revered as one of the first internationally acclaimed African American vocalists in opera, she endeared audiences far and wide with her magnificent and beautiful vocals. In fact, the Mississippi Opera is touted as the ninth oldest continuously operating opera company in the country. Bringing incredible musical stage productions to thousands of Mississippians and tourists each year, it often hosts internationally celebrated opera singers to its stage. Additionally, it presents an annual Voices of Mississippi Competition, the only nationally advertised music competition in the state that recognizes

exceptional opera and musical theatre of Mississippiconnected singers.

Symphony Orchestra William Grant Still, of Woodville, is credited with the first symphony work composed by an African American and performed in America, which was the Afro-American Symphony in 1930. In fact, Still is regarded worldwide as the “Dean of African American Composers” and achieved several “firsts” in that capacity. According to the website interlude.hk, these include the first to have a “symphony performed by a major symphony orchestra (1935, New York Philharmonic); first to conduct a major orchestra (1936, Los Angeles Philharmonic); first to conduct an orchestra in the Deep South (1955, New Orleans Philharmonic); first to have an opera (Troubled Island) produced by a major company (1949, New York City Opera); and first to have an opera (A Bayou Legend) broadcast on television (1981, PBS).” Today, the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra is the state’s largest professional performing arts organization, presenting more than 120 concerts statewide each year, entertaining approximately 75,000

Today in Mississippi

Mississippians in all. With concerts from its home stage at Thalia Mara Hall in Jackson, it also tours as a full orchestra, chamber orchestra and ensembles around the state, including annual visits to Brookhaven, Canton, Cleveland, Columbus, Greenwood, Greenville, Hattiesburg, McComb, Meridian, Poplarville, Pascagoula and Vicksburg. It also offers the Mississippi Symphony Youth Orchestras’ educational program for hundreds of students on the cello, violin and viola as well as presents Children's Concerts performing as a full orchestra that reaches more than 16,000 elementary school students each year.

Peavey Electronics The most modern music and concert experience would not be what it is today without Peavey Electronics in Meridian. Driven by innovation, and as one of the world’s largest designers, makers and suppliers of professional musical instruments, amplifiers and audio systems, Peavey is responsible for influencing all genres of musicians as well as the way we hear and experience music.

The U.S. Postal Service debuted thid commemorative postage stamp in 2017 for Mississippi’s bicentennial celebration honoring Mississippi’s statehood and music heritage.

World Championship Old-Time Piano Playing Contest & Festival Music fans from around the world will come to Oxford May 23-26 for the 45th Annual World Championship Old-Time Piano Playing Contest & Festival, which takes place at the University of Mississippi and locations around the historic Oxford Square. “This is the only comprehensive competitive event for this style of music anywhere,” said Ian Hominick, professor of piano and assistant chair of the Department of Music at the university. “It is one of a kind.” The competition’s categories include junior, regular and senior divisions as well as a New Rag Contest and Duet Contest – with participants in each vying for cash prizes and trophies. “Contestants come from coast to coast as well as Great Britain and France,” said Hominick. Event guests can also attend workshops by guest artists, silent movies with

live piano accompaniment, an old-time singalong and much more. While traditional jazz, honky-tonk, blues and boogie styles are celebrated at the event, ragtime is the central theme as it is a uniquely American music form that defined an era from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. This oldtime piano music gets its name from the term “ragging” or “ragged time,” which describes its broken-up rhythm style. The upbeat music is considered to have evolved from African American spirituals and European classical music. “It eventually led to traditional jazz,” Hominick explained. One of ragtime’s most famous composers, bluesman W.C. Handy, spent much of his time in the Mississippi Delta and credits the area as his musical inspiration. Visit www.oldtimepianocontest.com for more information.

This Memorial Day weekend, visit Oxford for a toe-tapping, family-friendly time at the World Championship Old-Time Piano Playing Contest & Festival.

Marketplace

Today in Mississippi

May 2019

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May 2019

Today in Mississippi

Meet the Mississippian named national president of The Garden Clubs of America

By Sandra M. Buckley Gay Austin of McComb is stepping into the prestigious role of president of The Garden Clubs of America, a volunteer-based nonprofit promoting horticulture, conservation and community service that represents nearly 20,000 individuals across the country. Installed as president May 2, 2019, Austin will serve on the national level in this capacity through May 2021. In the club’s 106-year history, she is the second named president from Mississippi, with the first being Geraldine Dean of Leland in 1968. Austin appreciates all that growing up and living in southwest Mississippi has afforded her – and in this new position, she hopes to reflect not only her love of gardening but also her love of Mississippi. “It’s my goal, as I travel throughout our nation and internationally, that I share positive things about our state,” she said. Looking back, Austin recognizes that membership in her local and statewide garden clubs provided her with valuable opportunities, experiences and knowl-

edge that have ultimately prepared her for this leadership role. “I joined The McComb Garden Club in 1986,” she said. “Several years after that, I was asked to serve on The Garden Clubs of Mississippi state board. From that point forward, I continued to serve in various chairmanships and elected positions, finally serving as state president from 2009 until 2011.” Over the years, what she is grateful for and enjoys most about being

“It’s my goal, as I travel throughout our nation and internationally, that I share positive things about our state.” — Gay Austin, president, The Garden Clubs of America

involved in these garden clubs are “the educational opportunities, service to my community and state and lasting friendships with people who have similar interests,” she noted. “The McComb Garden Club has consistently supported

Southern garding: While visiting my parents in Tennessee recently, my dad asked why one of their Annabelle hydrangeas was blooming while another – growing just 5 feet away – was not. He asked if I had some special fertilizer or bloom juice that could be applied. I didn't, because the shrubs didn't need any special fertilizer help. It all had to do with light. To the casual observer, the shrubs were getting the same amount of light. But a couple of years ago, my dad had to remove a tree Southern damaged in an Gardening ice storm. This by Dr. Gary Bachman resulted in one of the Annabelles getting about five hours of morning sun and the other sitting in the shade the whole time. A common flowering requirement among many varieties of landscape plants is that they need a minimum amount of light. Horticulturists receive frequent

civic responsibility through beautification projects, environmental responsibility and youth involvement. And, our state organization includes over 100 clubs throughout Mississippi, with each composed of dedicated volunteers whose love of their communities has inspired them to offer worthwhile programs to help their areas.” As springtime is now upon us, Austin shares that she especially loves Mississippi in May, as it is a vibrant,

colorful and fragrant time of year. While most flower and vegetable gardens have already been planted by early May, the month certainly puts on a spectacular, springtime garden show – from fresh blooms of amaryllis and irises to ginger

and gardenia shrubs and delicate annuals like begonias, impatiens, marigolds, verbena and zinnia. As the seasons change, and no matter your level of gardening expertise, Austin encourages everyone to “just keep planting!” She added, “Not only will anyone who walks through your garden enjoy the beauty, but also you’ll be promoting food and protection for all of nature’s creatures – such as birds who are nesting during this time as well as many insects and amphibians.” In addition to caring for plants, she extends her nurturing character into her passion for people as a registered nurse and for pets as a volunteer and board member for the local animal shelter. Austin is honored to bring her lifelong love for gardening to the national stage. “I’m humbled to serve as a national officer for The Garden Clubs of America,” she noted. “It’s my hope that I can inspire and strengthen those who I meet to continue our legacy of education and protection of our earth.” Gay Austin is a member of Magnolia Electric Power.

plants, sun and shade

questions about light. Consumers read the labels on the plants they buy and get confused about light requirements. These generally don’t give absolute values, only “full sun,” “partial sun,” “partial shade” or “shade.” No wonder there is confusion. Full sun is often defined as receiving more than six hours of direct sun a day. But, some areas receive more than 12 hours a day. These locations are often very hot in the afternoon, a condition I call “afternoon heat load.” Some fullsun plants love this heat, but others don’t, and they need some afternoon shade. Experience and experimentation help to determine which type of “full sun” a particular plant needs. Partial sun or partial shade can be really confusing. Which is it? The terms actually are interchangeable, and both mean a plant requires four to six hours of sunshine a day. But when those hours occur is important. Some plants want morning sun and afternoon shade, while others thrive with morning shade and afternoon sun. Maybe the best way to follow these label directions is to make sure partial-sun

plants receive at least four hours of sun a day and partial-shade plants do not get more than six hours of sun a day. Shade plants typically require less than four hours of sun a day – preferably morning sun. Many gardeners – and I am in this group – have brought plants home in the spring and placed them in the appropriate sun/shade location. But as the season progressed, the angle ofthe sun changed and all of a sudden, that full-sun plant is in the shade. I did this a couple of years ago with shade impatiens I planted on the north side of my house in the shade. They looked great for six weeks, but then the sun angle shifted enough that these shade-loving plants were getting seven hours of full sun a day. Neither the plants nor I were very happy. So how can you avoid a similar occurrence? You have to chart where sun and shade occur in your yard throughout the seasons. Start with a diagram of your

garden and landscape. Then pick a consistent day each month and note your sun/shade conditions at various places in the landscape at 9 a.m., noon and 3 p.m. This data will allow you to chart the changing light conditions in your landscape and allow you to plan your best garden landscape yet.

Gary Bachman, Ph.D., 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 I May 2019

Events MISSISSIPPI

Want more than 442,200 readers to know about your special event? Events open to the public will be published free of charge as space allows. Submit details at least two months prior to the event date. Submissions must include a phone number with area code for publication. Send to Mississippi Events, Today in Mississippi,P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300; fax to 601-605-8601; or email to news@ecm.coop. Events are subject to change. We recommend calling to confirm details before traveling.

Barn Sale - Antiques & Collectibles, May 3-4, Purvis. More than 65 vendors with trailer loads of antiques and collectibles. 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. 4799 Old Hwy. 11. Free admission; $2 parking. Details: 601-818-5886. Springfest, May 4, Monticello. Presented by Divide Memorial Methodist Church. Lots of food, children’s activities, bake sale, vendor booths, door prizes, concert and more. 8 a.m. 3 p.m. Free admission. Details: 601-431-9317. 2nd Annual Trinity Plant Sale and Quilt Show, May 4, Starkville. Numerous plants and gardening items plus art and quilt displays. All sales benefit charities. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Trinity Presbyterian Church; 607 Hospital Rd. Free admission. Details: 662-323-9340. Rummage and Bake Sale, May 4, Brandon. Featuring clothing, furniture, household goods, baked goods and more. All sales benefit charities. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Nativity Lutheran Church. Details: 601-825-5125. Farm to Market and Touch a Truck of Our Hometown Heroes, May 4, Mount Olive. Vendors, food and music. Farm to Market: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Touch a Truck of Our Hometown Heroes: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Free admission. Details: 601-797-3496. Bay Oaks Quilt Guild Show, May 9-10, Bay St. Louis. Featuring displays of more than 100 quilts, vendors, a plant sale, door prizes and quilting demonstrations. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. St. Rose de Lima Catholic Church Holy Spirit Center; 301 South Necaise Ave. Details: bayoaksquiltguild.ms@gmail.com or www.bayoaksquiltguild.com. The Gulf Coast Military Collectors & Antique Arms Show, May 10-11, Biloxi. Friday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Joppa Shriners Center; 13280 Shriners Blvd. Details: 228-224-1120; www.gulfcoastmilitaryshow.com. French Camp Frontier Day, May 11, French Camp. War of 1812 monument dedication, arts and crafts, food vendors, live music, car show, children’s activities and more. 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. Details: 601-278-5415; FrenchCampDowntown@gmail.com. Train Day at the McComb Depot, May 11, McComb. Bring the whole family for a fun day of railroad activities, including museum and car tours, model trains, kids’ riding train, Chuggington, telegraph and hand car demonstrations. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Details: 601-395-6456.

47th Annual Gospel Singing Jubilee, May 11, McGee. McGee High School; 501 Choctaw St. 6:30 p.m. Details: 601-906-0677. 20th Annual Bridges “Bluegrass Picking on the Porch”, May 18, Crystal Springs. Featuring Woody Clark and The Bluegrass Cartel Band. 1 - 9 p.m. Admission. Details: 214-288-2241. 29th Annual Cruisin’ the River Pride & Joy Car Show, May 18, Columbus. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free admission. Details: 662-574-2678; carlulmer63@gmail.com. 3rd Annual St. Jude Gospel Singing for a Cure, May 18, Southaven. Live music from Greg Loggins and Revival and others. Plus vendors, a silent auction and more. 11 a.m. 9 p.m. Landers Desoto Theater Southaven. $5 admission. Details: 901-488-4766. Gun Show, May 18-19, Pascagoula. Jackson County Fairgrounds; 29102 Shortcut Rd. Details: 601-319-5248; www.bigpopgunshows.com. Harrison County Gem, Mineral and Jewelry Show, May 18-19, Biloxi. Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Joppa Shriners Center; 13280 Shriners Blvd. Details: www.gulfportgems.org. Mississippi Community Symphonic Band Concert, May 19, Pearl. This patriotic concert will feature both renowned Mezzo-Soprano Viola Dacus singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” and our own “Mississippi Swing.” 3 p.m. Pearl High School. Free admission. Details: 601-594-0055.

Lower Delta Talks Series, May 21, Rolling Fork. A presentation on the Winterville Mounds by Lynn Cox. 6:30 p.m. SharkeyIssaquena County Library; 116 Robert Morganfield Way. Free admission. Details: 662-873-6261; www.lowerdelta.org. From Rabbit Foot to Blues & Cruise Exhibit, May 24-Aug. 30, Port Gibson. Learn more of the story behind the first Mississippi Blues Trail marker. A series of five live events, hosted by Mississippi Cultural Crossroads. Details: 601-437-8905; www.MSCulturalCrossroads.org. Annual Daylily Garden Tour, May 27, Hattiesburg. Pine Belt area daylily gardens will be open to the public. Presented by the Hattiesburg Area Daylily Society. 9 a.m. 5 p.m. Free admission. Details and directions: www.hattiesburgdaylily.com. FestivalSouth World Championship Golf Classic, May 31, Hattiesburg. The inaugural two-person scramble/shamble handicap competition features four divisions, including a Community Division, where four places per division will be awarded and the top four teams from each division will advance to the World Championship Shoot Out. All proceeds benefit charities. Details: www.FestivalSouth.org. Hattiesburg Annual Daylily Show and Sale, June 1, Hattiesburg. Forrest County MultiPurpose Building; Hwy. 49 S. 1 - 4 p.m. Admission. Details: 601-296-1149. 24th Annual Daylily Show, June 1, Hattiesburg. Presented by the Hattiesburg Area Daylily Society and includes design and plant sale. 11 a.m. Lake Terrace Convention Center. Free admission. Details: www.hattiesburgdaylily.com.

Choctaw Cruisers Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show, June 1, Ackerman. Trophies, t-shirts, door prizes, food and more. To benefit local charities. 8 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Choctaw Regional Medical Center. Details: 662-285-7720. Eight Mile Garage Sale, June 1, Black Hawk. 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. Takes place from the intersection of Hwy. 17 and Hwy. 430 to the intersection of Hwy. 430 and Hwy. 23. Details: 662-453-5298 or 662-458-1692. Movie at the Magnolias, June 6, Aberdeen. Outdoor movie on the front lawn of The Magnolias Antebellum mansion. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a familyfriendly movie. Details: 662-369-9440. Sounds of Summer Festival, June 7-8, Byhalia. Music, food vendors, children’s activities and more. 120 College St. Admission. Details: 662-544-1148; byhaliamembership@gmail.com. The Iron Horse Music & Heritage Festival, June 8, McComb. 5K, kids parade and activities, arts and crafts, food vendors, car show, live music, fireworks and more. 8 a.m. Railroad Ave. Details: www.ironhorsemusicfestival.com. Raleigh Ringers Concert, June 8, Meridian. Internationally acclaimed concert handbell choir based in Raleigh, NC. MSU Riley Center. Admission. Details: 601-595-0472; rrmeridianconcert@gmail.com. Brandon’s 8th Interactive Civil War Relic Show, June 8-9, Brandon. Vendors, living history, antiques, reenactors, prints, weapons, WWI & II militaria, Native American artifacts, artists and musicians. Brandon City Hall. Details: 769-234-2966; timcupit@comcast.net.

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May 2019

Today in Mississippi

Elvis Presley

Mississippi’s music legacy Our car tags that are retiring this year proclaim Mississippi to be the “Birthplace of America’s Music.” That line is more than an advertising catch phrase or an idle boast. As a matter of fact baseball legend and adopted Mississippian, Dizzy Dean said, “It ain’t bragin’ if you can do it.” So Mississippi being the Birthplace of America’s Music “ain’t braggin.’” It’s just a statement of fact. Think of it like this. Blues was born in the Delta. Now, to be honest there were blues players all the way from San Antonio to Savanna. But for every single bluesman elsewhere, there were ten of them here. And the ones we had here were the forerunners of the art form. Charlie Patton influenced Robert Johnson who influenced everybody else in blues and even rock music, Mississippi for example. Then Seen the blues went to by Walt Grayson the city and became jazz. But blues isn’t the only kind of music from Mississippi. Jimmie Rodgers of Meridian took blues themes and played them to string band rhythms and invented country music. He was the first inductee into the Country Music Hall of Fame. They said he was, “The man who started it all.” By the way, Jimmie

Rodgers was also the first person inducted into the Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience Hall of Fame in Meridian. That’s another museum you need to go see. Soon. Then folks like Elvis Presley from Tupelo added another layer of country to blues or blues to country and when they did the result was rock and roll. And the rest of America’s music (as well as most of the music of Western Culture) is based on derivatives of one, or a combination, of those art forms – blues, country or rock. But Mississippi has produced way more than Elvis and Faith Hill and Charlie Pride. Dr. James Brewer has complied over a thousand entries in his book, “Legendary Musicians Whose Art Changed the World,” about Mississippi music and musicians. Along with editing the book, he also curates the Mississippi Music Museum in Hazlehurst where the lesser-known names in Mississippi music are given recognition. The Hazlehurst Museum isn’t polished like the Grammy Museum in Cleveland but is sort of like a busy man cave with posters and records and instruments and pieces of art in display cases or hanging on the walls or stored in cardboard boxes to make it easy to shuffle through. People you’ve never heard of have a place here like the person who got James Brewer (let me call him Jim, that’s what I know him by) interested in researching Mississippi music to begin with.

Jim was at a concert and heard a song composed by Dee Barton from Starkville. Not a household name. But come to find out, Barton played with Stan Kenton and Maynard Ferguson and composed music for five Clint Eastwood movies. Not bad for an “unknown.” Jim told me about Winfred Palmer from McComb who composed over 600 piano pieces as well as inventing a bombsite in World War II. (He also invented turn signals for cars. Too bad many drivers are unaware of them.) If you are at all interested in Mississippi’s music legacy, find a copy of Jim’s book and then actually visit the museum in Hazlehurst. It’s in the old railroad depot downtown. Hopefully you will come away with a better understanding of how Mississippians have made significant contributions to not only rock, country and blues but classical music and jazz and opera and pretty much all the other types of music I can’t even think of off the top of my head. Walt Grayson is the host of “Mississippi Roads” on Mississippi Public Broadcasting television, and he is the author of two “Looking Around Mississippi” books and “Oh! That Reminds Me: More Mississippi Homegrown Stories.” Contact him at walt@waltgrayson.com.

Faith Hill

Robert Johnson

Jimmie Rodgers

Charlie Pride