the WINTERissue - The City of Ridgeland

Transcription

the WINTERissue - The City of Ridgeland
December 2013-February 2014
Ridgeland Christmas Parade
Christmas Decorating Contest
Valentine Banquet
Mississippi’s 2013 eCity
RECRE8
the WINTER issue
RIDGELAND, MS
From the Mayor
We as City officials are continuously seeking more
and better ways to communicate with citizens. As
always, we remain accessible and available to the
public and the media. We seek to be quick and
efficient in our responses to citizen needs and
requests. Here are some of the primary means of
communicating with you that we hope you will
take full advantage:
• Ridgeland Alert, a community message
service for your landline or cellphone, emails
and texts. You must opt in for messages
other than the landline calls through the city’s
website, www.RidgelandMS.org and click on
the Ridgeland Alert box on the home page.
• Ridgeland Life, a quarterly publication of
the City of Ridgeland that includes RECRE8,
a listing of current recreational programs,
upcoming events in the city, news from the
city and the community as well as news and
photos from local schools, the local library
and our local chamber of commerce and
tourism commission.
• RidgelandMS.org, the city’s website, includes
news releases, calendar of events and regular
updates to content. Phone numbers are listed
Gene McGee
for each department. You can easily find out
Mayor of Ridgeland
what services are covered by department on
the website or by calling city hall.
• Monthly eNewsletters arrive to your Inbox as
well as eBlasts about time-sensitive information.
• Utilizing local media helps us to get information to you. News releases, public service
announcements and photos are sent to local newspapers, television stations and radio
stations. Advertisements are run for special events. Local digital billboards are used for
community messages.
• Social Media is used many times per day to convey information and to engage fans
and followers. The city’s Facebook page can be found at City of Ridgeland, Mississippi
Government. The city’s Twitter account is Ridgeland_MS. Please like and follow us to stay
current on Ridgeland news. Please read the article about the city’s new contract with
LEADiFY, a Ridgeland company that assists us with social media.
• The City has a web-based app that you can use by downloading this link http://m.
onetouchapp.com/app/ridgelandms from your cellphone or tablet’s Web browser and
follow the prompts to add it to your Home Screen.
• The City of Ridgeland has recently partnered with the Ridgeland Tourism Commission and
the City of Ridgeland Chamber of Commerce to develop a native app that will have more
features and be available for free on iTunes. Be looking for the new city app in 2014.
Staying current with technology is part of what we do at the City of Ridgeland. Providing
high quality services and efficient government permitting help businesses choose to locate
here and to grow. This keeps your property taxes low and provides more opportunity here
for employment. Please read the article in this issue about Ridgeland’s award from Google.
We were named the Digital Capital of Mississippi or Google 2013 eCity. If you are looking to
relocate your home or business, choose Ridgeland. You’ll be glad you did.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
UPCOMING EVENTS
2013 Ridgeland Christmas Parade . . . . .
Christmas Decorating Contest. . . . . . . . .
Lights Tour at Freedom Ride Park. . . . .
Ridgeland Ballerinas Take Stage. . . . . . .
Wrap It In Ridgeland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sr. Adult Valentine’s Banquet. . . . . . . . . .
SCHOOLS IN RIDGELAND
4
5
5
5
6
6
NEWSWORTHY
Ridgeland Named Finalist for
Fiber to Home Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Solar Powered Recycling Compactors
Boost Recycling Efforts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Healthiest Hometown Grant to be
Used for Fitness Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . 8
LEADiFY Contract to Enhance
City’s Social Media Presence. . . . . . . . . . . 8
From the Desk of The City Clerk. . . . . . . 9
Ridgeland Won Local Government
Recycler of the Year Award. . . . . . . . . . 10
Google Designates Ridgeland as
Mississippi’s 2013 eCity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Protect Your Pets: Holiday Hazards. . . . 11
Boyer Fire Truck Awarded 1st Place
at Mississippi State Fair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Choosing to be Ridgeland Titans. . . . . 12
“Atta Boy” for RPD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
RECRE8
Recreational Facilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Special Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Athletics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-16
Superstar Seniors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-18
Tennis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Ann Smith Elementary. . . . . . . . . . . 20-22
Highland Elementary. . . . . . . . . . . . . 23-25
Olde Towne Middle School. . . . . . . 26-27
Ridgeland High School. . . . . . . . . . . 28-30
St. Andrew’s Episcopal School. . . . . . . 30
Christ Covenant School. . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Veritas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Holmes Community College. . . . . . . . . 30
RIDGELAND PUBLIC LIBRARY
Library News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Artist Corner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Children’s Section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Winter Programs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Police Appreciation Fund Raising
Campaign Tops $5,000. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Chamber Makes Survival Kits
for RPD Officers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Business After Hours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Make a Difference Day. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
MCCEC Hosts 2nd Annual
Business After Hours. . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-37
WHO & WHERE
Ridgeland Departments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
City Meetings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
City Directory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Ridgeland Aldermen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
ON THE COVER: Pictured in the 2012 Ridgeland Christmas Parade are
festively-dressed recumbent bicyclists. The 2013 Ridgeland Christmas Parade
theme is “Christmas Carols for All to Hear.” This year’s Grand Marshal will be
Dr. Hannah Gay. Come out and enjoy the parade in Olde Towne Ridgeland on
Saturday, December 7 at 2 p.m.
Editor and Publisher
Sandra Rives Monohan,
City of Ridgeland
Graphic Design
Jackson Data Products, Inc. and
Service Printers, Inc.
SponsorshipPrinting
Julie Cox,
Jackson Data Products, Inc. and
City of Ridgeland
Service Printers, Inc.
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Julie Cox at Julie.Cox@RidgelandMS.org.
For information about Ridgeland Life, contact Sandra Rives Monohan at Sandra.
Monohan@RidgelandMS.org.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Dr. Hannah Gay to Serve as Grand Marshal
for Ridgeland’s 2013 Christmas Parade
The Ridgeland Recreation and Parks Department and the Ridgeland Beautification Committee are proud to present the 2013
Ridgeland Christmas Parade Saturday, Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. This year’s theme is “Christmas Carols for All to Hear.”
We are excited to announce that Dr. Hannah Gay will serve as this year’s Grand Marshal. Dr. Hannah Gay is associate professor of
pediatrics at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.
A native of Jackson, she is a
graduate of Wingfield High School.
At the University of Mississippi she
received her bachelor’s in biology and
chemistry. She earned her M.D. from
the University of Mississippi School of
Medicine in Jackson in 1980, where
she also completed residency training
in pediatrics.
A certified HIV specialist, Dr. Gay
and her husband, Paul, worked for six
years in Africa in the 1980s. She joined
the UMMC faculty in 1994.
Along with her colleagues Dr.
Deborah Persaud, a virologist at
Johns Hopkins Children’s Center,
and Dr. Katherine Luzuriaga, an
immunologist at the University of
Massachusetts Medical School, she
gained international attention at an
infectious diseases conference in March Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the Ridgeland Christmas Parade rolling by along
Ridgeland Avenue, Maple Street, W. Jackson Street and Sunnybrook Road on
2013 where Persaud presented their
Saturday, December 7, starting at 2 p.m.
case report on the “Mississippi Baby.”
The report detailed how Dr. Gay administered an early and aggressive treatment regimen to a newborn infected with HIV, which
functionally cured the child. TIME magazine named the three physician-researchers to its 2013 list of the 100 Most Influential People in
the World.
In June, UNAIDS, the Joint United Nations Programme on , convened a special symposium in Durban, South Africa, where Dr. Gay
spoke. The meeting’s report, “Twelve Recommendations Following a Discussion about the Mississippi Baby,” was released in September.
Among other roles, Dr. Gay has served as a member of the American Academy of HIV Medicine and the Ryan White Title IV
HIVQUAL Advisory Committee.
She and her husband, whom she met at Ole Miss, have four grown children and are active members in their Baptist church.
Join us in Olde Towne Ridgeland Saturday, Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. for the City of Ridgeland Christmas Parade. The route will begin at the
Holmes Community College Campus in Ridgeland. The parade will begin eastbound on Ridgeland Avenue, turn southbound on Maple
Street, then turn westbound on Jackson Street, then northbound on Sunnybrook Road and finish back at Holmes Community College.
West Jackson Street will be closed from Sunnybrook Road to Maple Street during the parade.
If your business or group would like to be a part of the parade, access the form on the city’s website at www.ridgelandms.org, click on
‘Licenses, Forms and Permits’ and scroll down to ‘Recreation and Parks.’
For more information, contact Wendy Bourdin at 601-853-2011.
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Ridgeland Life
UPCOMING EVENTS
Love to Decorate for
Christmas?
Deck the halls with boughs of holly, Fa la la la la, la la la la…or
in our case, yards and porches!
Ridgeland Recreation & Parks will accept nominations for
the Ridgeland Beautification Committee’s Christmas Decorating
Contest until Dec. 6. Categories for this year are Door and Porch,
Children’s Choice, Business, Judge’s Choice and Overall.
“We would love to see some more nominations this year,” said
Leanne Stacy, Beautification Committee member and contest judge.
“I enjoy seeing the decorations. It’s like saying “” to everyone.”
Judging will take place Monday, Dec. 9 (weather permitting).
Winners will be notified, and signs will be placed in winners’ yards
with their approval.
Stacy added, “I love being able to acknowledge the people who
put a little merriment into the holidays.”
Please call the Recreation & Parks office at 601-853-2011 to
make a nomination.
RIDGELAND BALLERINAS
TAKE STAGE IN
“The Nutcracker”
Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet’s production of “The
Nutcracker” Dec. 7 and 8 at Jackson Academy will feature
11 ballerinas from Ridgeland. They will share the stage with
guest artists Dana Benton and Adam Still of Colorado Ballet,
who will dance the roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and Her
Cavalier.
The ballet, a holiday tradition for families, will be
presented at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday and at 2 p.m.
Sunday. Both matinees will be followed by the newly redesigned Nutcracker Sweet Tea Party.
At the tea party, festive new decorations will welcome
children to the Nutcracker’s Land of Sweets. A delicious
candy buffet will allow our young guests to splurge on their
favorite treats. Strawberry Café will also be providing some of
their delicious pastas for an afternoon that is sure to delight.
Parents will want to have their cameras ready as Clara, the
Mouse King, the Sugar Plum Fairy and others will be visiting
the tables to greet everyone. You never know who may show
up to usher in the holidays.
Performance tickets are $18-$22. Nutcracker Sweet Tea
Party Tickets are $20. For more information or to purchase
tickets visit www.msmetroballet.com or call 601-853-4508.
A 2012 Christmas Decorating Contest winner
Lights Tour at Freedom
Ridge Park
The public is
invited to drive
through Freedom
Ridge Park and enjoy
the City’s special
holiday light tour.
Starting Sunday,
Dec. 1, the park
will be lit every
night until the first of January. It will be full of holiday lights and
Christmas decorations. Add this light tour, provided by the City
of Ridgeland, to your neighborhood touring this Christmas.
Shown are Ridgeland dancers (back row from
left) Mary Kate Shearer, Meredith McClellan, Paige
Westover, (middle row from left) Diya Rogers,
Abigail McCaughan, Payton Hill, (front) Anna Boyles.
Not pictured are Bella Bach, Laura Lee Boyles, Nicole
Rodriguez and Isabella Sandridge. Photo credit: Leah
O. Kackley
Winter 20135
UPCOMING EVENTS
Wrap It In
Ridgeland
“Wrap It” is the holiday phrase the Ridgeland
Tourism Commission wants all to remember
this holiday
season. The
local tourism
entity has
collaborated
with various
hospitality
industry
partners and retailers to bring a unique holiday
flavor to the Ridgeland experience.
“The Ridgeland Tourism Commission is
excited about the upcoming holiday season and
the opportunity to offer visitors a fun-filled
celebration of holiday activities in the metro
area accompanied with great shopping, dining
and lodging in our city,” Mary Beth Wilkerson,
Deputy Director of the Ridgeland Tourism
Commission, said.
Metro area holiday events taking place in
November and December include the Mistletoe
Marketplace, Handworks Holiday Market,
Christmas on Ice, Chimneyville Craft Show,
Wonderland of Lights, and the Victorian
Christmas Festival in Canton.
“We have partnered with several of our
lodging properties to offer “Sleigh and Stay”
overnight holiday packages that include many
extras including a Ridgeland retail savings card
with offerings by local merchants. The packages
will be offered from Oct. 22 – Dec. 23 to allow
for early and last minute shopping excursions
complemented by some excited holiday events
happening in the area,” she added.
Wilkerson also suggests that residents consider
utilizing the “Sleigh and Stay” overnight packages
for family and friends visiting during the holiday
season. Also, guests can visit the Ridgeland Visitor
Center and mention “Wrap It in Ridgeland” to
receive a holiday shopping tote and to learn more
about the shopping and dining venues in the city.
For more information, visit the Ridgeland
Tourism Commission website at http://www.
visitridgeland.com/wrapit or call 601.605.5252.
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Ridgeland Life
VALENTINE BANQUET BRINGS
ENTERTAINMENT TO YOUR
HEART’S DELIGHT
Join us Monday, Feb. 3, 2014 for a special Valentine’s event for
all area senior adults. Entertainer Johnny Counterfit will headline the
event.
Born in Omaha, Nebraska, raised in Portland, Oregon and living
in Nashville, Tennessee since 1993, comedian/impressionist, Johnny
Counterfit has not only lived from one end of America to another, but
has performed in concert, on television, radio and film, from (nearly)
one end of the world to the other.
Television cartoons, comedians, and actors cultivated Johnny’s talent
of voice impressions, at an early age, along with radio and recordings
of some of the most celebrated singers of the last half-century. Johnny
brings the richness of his experience to the concert stage, presenting
voice impressions of singers, actors and politicians, in clean comedy and
music variety.
The first of many professional opportunities arose when the ABC
Television network called Johnny to appear on the new show, America’s
Funniest People. The ensuing years brought appearances on many
networks, including CBS, TBS, The Disney Channel, SIRIUS/XM
Satellite Radio, as well as cable and satellite television shows.
Currently, you will find Johnny featured on SIRIUS/XM Satellite,
The RFD Television network, concert stages and terrestrial/broadcast
radio stations around the world.
The Senior Adult Valentine’s Banquet will be held at Highlands
Presbyterian Church in Ridgeland Monday, Feb. 3, starting at 5 p.m.
Tickets will be on sale at Ridgeland City Hall and the Ridgeland
Recreational Center. Tickets are $5 per person and must be purchased
before the event.
Valentine Banquet for senior adults brings lively
entertainment in 2014 with Johnny Counterfit.
NEWSWORTHY
Ridgeland Named
Finalist For Fiber To
Home Technology
Ridgeland is now a finalist in the race to become the first C Spire Fiber
Community. According to C Spire, Fiber to Home is a service that includes
an fast 1 Gbps Internet connection, plus home phone and television,
provided over fiber optic connections directly to the home. Internet speeds
of 100 times faster than the service used will enhance Internet use and
its performance radically. Ridgeland city leaders know that getting this
tremendous technology for residences would benefit citizens, schools and
economic development.
The application to get fiber first from C Spire was due Oct. 20.
Extensive community support was sought by city leaders during the
application phase. Photos of neighborhood organizations and school
groups were submitted to show community support for getting fiber first
to Ridgeland. A video was developed featuring local school-aged children
talking about what faster Internet would mean to them. The City of
Ridgeland wishes to thank the individuals, families, school groups and
homeowner associations that participated in the application process whether
it was completing an interest survey on C Spire’s website or allowing us to
take video or photos of you for the application.
At the time of this writing, city leaders have learned that Ridgeland is
one of the nine finalists in Mississippi to have the opportunity to launch
Fiber to Home first. Pre-registration for Ridgeland residents will begin soon
at www.cspire.com/fiberhome/. City leaders are proud to offer residents this
opportunity.
Neighbors in Ridgeland are showing support for fiber optic
technology that can bring 1 Gbps Internet speeds to their
homes.
Solar Powered
Recycling
Compactors Boost
Recycling Efforts
The solar powered recycling
compactor at the multiuse trail facility
is one of several new compactors
making it easy to recycle in Ridgeland.
The City of Ridgeland invites its residents,
businesses and visitors to recycle as much as
possible. You may recycle cans, plastic and
paper in the new solar-powered recycling
compactors located at the Ridgeland Multiuse
Trail pavilion and Freedom Ridge Park
concession stands. Each compactor can hold
up to five times more than regular garbage
cans and an app-based alert system informs
designated city employees when any of the
compactors are full.
The City of Ridgeland wishes to thank
Mike Delamater Studios for contributing
photography for the solar-powered recycling
compactors. For more information about the
City of Ridgeland recycling program, contact
Mike McCollum, Director of Public Works at
601-853-2027 or mike.mccollum@ridgelandms.
org.
Winter 20137
NEWSWORTHY
Healthiest Hometown
Grant to be used for
Fitness Equipment
As Mississippi’s Healthiest Hometown 2013, the City
of Ridgeland has accepted a grant worth $50,000 from the
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi Foundation. Grant
monies are to be used to support ongoing community
health initiatives. Ridgeland’s Healthy Hometown
Committee considered several options for the use of the
grant. A final decision was made to purchase outdoor
fitness equipment for all ages that would be installed at
stations along the Ridgeland Multiuse Trail and at existing
city parks, Friendship and Freedom Ridge.
Equipment pieces installed along the multiuse trail will
help create a fitness circuit where a trail user could add
strength conditioning to their cardio workout. Friendship
Park has an existing fitness area that will be enhanced with
additional equipment. A fitness-based youth playground
will be installed at Freedom Ridge Park, near the softball
pavilion and the walking trail. Fitness equipment for adults
will be added to the Universal Playground at Freedom
Ridge Park, allowing an adult to exercise while children are
playing.
The addition of fitness equipment to our parks and
trails will surely enhance the health of residents who take
advantage of it. Playground users will be able to get in a
workout while their children are playing. Trail users will
be able to add strength and flexibility training to their
walking, running or cycling regimen. The grant will make
it possible for people of all ages and fitness levels able to
exercise together in a more efficient way. Now, that makes
Ridgeland even healthier!
Ridgeland officials accepted the $50,000 grant
from Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi
Foundation at the Healthiest Hometown
Celebration on Oct. 19. Ridgeland officials
want to thank all of the community volunteers
who helped to make the event a successful
celebration.
8
Ridgeland Life
LEADiFY Contract To
Enhance City’s Social
Media Presence
Ridgeland’s approved a contract with a local company,
LEADiFY, to assist the city with its social media platform. “We
know that more and more people use social media to learn about
what is going on in communities, and we wanted to better meet
those individuals in the social media world,” said Alan Hart,
Director of Community Development.
City officials feel that LEADiFY that describes their company
as “the find engine” will enhance the reach of the city’s messages,
increasing web traffic and social visibility. “LEADiFY brings
a depth of understanding and analysis and a team of message
designers that will enhance our social media presence,” said Hart.
This approach is believed to be a big part of marketing now and
into the future.
The City of Ridgeland has been active in Facebook and Twitter
for several years. Currently, the city’s Facebook page has 1,024
likes. Ridgeland Recreation and Parks Department has a Twitter
account that was set up for the primary purpose of sharing lastminute game cancellations due to weather, and it has grown to be
much more. Fully engaging with Twitter followers is something
that LEADiFY will provide for the City of Ridgeland with their
message designers.
LEADiFY sends key messages customized for the various social
media networks on behalf of the city’s leaders. LEADiFY will
help build support for programs and plans under development
by the City through the use of social media. “They will help us
to learn what topics are of greatest interest and help us to address
those topics in the format they are used to using,” said Hart.
City leaders understand that people find information from many
sources and that social media plays a role in driving cultural
change. More engagement on social media will help to bring
visitors to consider Ridgeland as a place to live, do business and to
play.
NEWSWORTHY
FROM THE DESK OF… The City Clerk
The City Clerk takes a few moments to respond to some
frequently asked questions at City Hall. Got a question? You just
might find your easy answer here!
Q: Why is there so much emphasis on shopping local?
Shopping in Ridgeland or “local” generates sales tax revenue
for the city. The more sales tax that is collected by the city, the
more funds for the city to spend on services provided to citizens.
Online shopping is very convenient but does not support the
local businesses, and the city does not receive any of the sales tax.
Q: Why do I pay “Ridgeland Sewer” and “Jackson Sewer”?
The City of Ridgeland does not have a treatment plant;
therefore, the sewer is sent to Jackson for treatment. The city
collects a fee for the maintenance and operation of the sewer
infrastructure and the fee charged for “Jackson Sewer” is the fee
for treatment of the sewer.
Q: Can you shoot fireworks in the city limits?
No. There is a local ordinance that prohibits the shooting or
sale of fireworks in the city limits.
Q: Where can I find my route days for garbage, recycling and
trash?
All of this information can be found on the City of Ridgeland
website, which is www.ridgelandms.org. You will to need click on
“City Departments” then “Public Works.”
Q: Why was a late fee charged to my water bill?
If the payment for your water bill is received after the close
of business on the due date your payment is considered late and
a late fee of 10% will be charged to your account. The Water
Department processes all payments received before charging the
late fee to accounts. To avoid late fees, please use our drop box
located by the front door of City Hall or pay online at www.
ridgelandms.org – click “Online Services” which is on the right
side.
Q: Why was I charged $1.50 when I paid my water bill
online?
Fees are charged to the city by the company that processes
online payments using a debit/credit card. State law prohibits the
city absorbing these fees; therefore, the fee must be passed to the
customer.
Q: How do I apply for employment with the City of
Ridgeland?
You may apply for employment online at www.ridgelandms.
org – click “Job Opportunities” which is on the right side. You
will not be able to submit your application unless there are
positions available; however, you can complete a “Job Interest
Card” and receive an email when jobs are posted in the areas you
select. Paper applications are still accepted and can be obtained at
the Front Desk at City Hall.
Q: Do you have to have a Privilege License if you operate a
business out of your home?
Yes, state law requires that you obtain a Privilege License
from the municipality in which you reside. You can obtain your
Privilege License at City Hall. Legal action can be taken for
failure to obtain a Privilege License.
Q: What should you do if you receive a letter from the Water
Department about a possible leak?
Take action immediately to determine if there is actually a
leak. This complimentary letter is notifying you that water ran
through your meter for 24 consecutive hours. Failure on your
part to determine if there is an actual leak will cause your bill to
increase. The City of Ridgeland will only make adjustments for
the sewer charges. The longer you wait to repair a leak, the less
of an adjustment you may receive. No adjustment will be made
without producing proof of repair (i.e., plumber’s receipt, your
receipt for parts purchased to repair leak etc.)
Q: Has the Animal Control Ordinance changed?
Yes. The complete Animal Control Ordinance can be found
on www.ridgelandms.org. However, below are the major changes:
• Removal of Animal Waste: The caretaker has the
responsibility to remove animal waste when deposited
while walking and must dispose in a sanitary manner.
The caretaker of animals shall eliminate the accumulation
of fecal matter on their property every two (2) days and
cannot allow the property to become unsanitary, unsightly
or odorous due to the keeping, maintaining or harboring
of animals. Fecal matter shall not be disposed of in
stormwater drains.
• Cats: Must wear tags and be leashed and not allowed
to roam. Cats now fall within the domesticated animal
prohibition.
• Feral Cat: Defined as a cat that has escaped from
domestication or has become wild, dangerous untamed.
Feral cats were added to any ordinance that deals with feral
dogs.
• Vaccinations: Dogs or cats must wear a metal tag to show
that vaccinations are current. The metal tag must contain
the serial number of the vaccination and the year of the
vaccination. The caretaker of any dog or cat that is thee (3)
months or older shall have the animal vaccinated against
rabies.
• Impounding: Dogs or cats not tagged can be picked up
and impounded for eight (8) days unless the owner picks
them up. The owner must pay $100 when the animal is
picked up from the Animal Shelter. An impounded dog or
cat will not be released until it is vaccinated and the owner
charged.
continued on page 10
Winter 20139
NEWSWORTHY
Ridgeland Won Local
Government Recycler of
the Year Award
The City of
Ridgeland won
the Mississippi
Recycling
Coalition
Environmental
Hero Award
for Local
Government
Recycler of the
Year 2013. Sarah
Kountouris,
President of
Mississippi
Recycling
Coalition and
Executive
Director of Keep
Mississippi Beautiful, presents the award to Mike
McCollum, City of Ridgeland Director of Public
Works during the 2013 Mississippi Recycling
Conference.
From the Desk of… the City Clerk
continued from page 9
• F
ines: Violation of the Animal Control Ordinance is not
to exceed $100 for the first offense, $500 for the second
offense, and $1,000 for the third offense. The animal will
be impounded if the caretaker is found guilty for “at large”
fourth offense.
Q: Can you park on the street in Ridgeland?
State law states that the right-hand wheels of the vehicle must
be parallel with and within 12 inches of the right-hand curb. The
adopted ordinance by the City of Ridgeland prohibits parking on
the street except as follows:
1. Guest or visitors of a resident may park for short,
nonrecurring periods of time on the street when there is
no other adequate space at the residence.
2. Residents may park on the street near their home for
short, nonrecurring periods of time to make room on
their premises for guests at a social function.
3. Repair or delivery service vehicles may park on the
street for brief periods of time while actually engaged in
providing repairs, services or making deliveries.
Enforcement of this law and/or ordinance shall occur after
the complaint of a citizen. Law enforcement shall use reasonable
effort to provide a prior warning before issuing a citation.
Google Designates Ridgeland as Mississippi’s 2013 eCity
Innovative tech giant Google has named Ridgeland as the 2013 eCity for the State of Mississippi. The eCity Awards recognize the
strongest online business community in each state – the new digital capitals of America. The businesses in these
communities are embracing the web to find new customers, connect with existing clients and fuel their
local economies. Ridgeland joins the ranks of America’s leading cities in the digital economy.
“Ridgeland’s growth and innovation in e-commerce is an example that other cities across the state
can strive to replicate,” said Scott Levitan, Director of Small Business Engagement at Google. “Google
is proud to recognize this growing entrepreneurial spirit and the role it plays in creating jobs and
sustaining local economies.”
“Given the critical role that technology plays in driving growth and creating jobs, we want
to encourage every business in Ridgeland to embrace the web,” said Gene McGee, Mayor, City of
Ridgeland. “Technology has been a powerful part of our economy, and we expect that trend to continue. I
am so proud of Ridgeland’s small businesses for leading the charge in Mississippi.”
Google and independent research firm, Ipsos, analyzed the online strength of local small businesses across all
50 states. They weighed a variety of factors to determine the leading cities and towns across the U.S., including the likelihood of small
businesses to have a website, use a blog, promote themselves on a social network, sell goods directly from their webpages and whether
they had a mobile-friendly website. The winning cities exhibited strong engagement and potential for growth within the digital economy.
For more information, visit www.google.com/ecities.
10 Ridgeland Life
NEWSWORTHY
Protect your pets from
holiday hazards
By Tom Sagar
Christmas Trees Trees
should be securely anchored.
Treated tree water can be
harmful to a thirsty pet. Watch
out for climbing cats and the
wagging tail of your dog. Broken
ornaments, especially glass, can
be ingested or stepped on.
Ornaments can look
like toys to cats and
dogs; avoid using
edible decorations. Pine
needles, both real
and artificial, can be
sharp. Electrical cords
Christmas and New
Years are times of
are a hazard to
celebration
and joy;
puppies and kittens. Angel hair (spun
however,
they
can
glass), tinsel, spray-on snow and ribbons
pose dangerous
can cause internal trauma if swallowed.
hazards to our pets.
Christmas Plants The following
Read this article to
holiday plants are toxic to your pets:
find out how you can
holly, mistletoe, poinsettias, and lilies
protect your pets
during the holidays.
found in holiday floral arrangements
(i.e., Tiger, Asian, Japanese Show, Easter,
Stargazer and the Casa Blanca.)
Christmas Food Never let your pet eat any of these foods:
fruitcake with raisins, currants, and/or macadamia nuts; chocolate (all
forms); grapes; and candies or other foods sweetened with xylitol.
Christmas Décor Unattended candles can cause burns or a fire, if
knocked over. Liquid potpourri can cause skin or oral damage to your
pet.
New Year’s Eve Balloons (deflated) and confetti, if ingested by your
pet, can cause serious problems. Loud noises, typical of this holiday,
may cause your pet to run off. Keep your pet in a secure area and away
from loud sounds.
The Bottom Line is Prevention Enjoy the spirit of the holidays,
however, be conscientious of the changes made in your home. If you
know your pet is likely to get in trouble, be safe and plan ahead. When
you are not at home, it may be wise to place your pet in a secured room
or a crate.
If you suspect that your pet has ingested something dangerous to
his/her health, seek medical attention immediately. Keep telephone
numbers of your veterinarian and local emergency animal hospitals in a
convenient location.
Boyer Fire Truck
Awarded First Place At
Mississippi State Fair
The 1928 Boyer fire truck, better known as “The
Deuce Eight,” is a special triple combination fire truck
owned by the City of Ridgeland, housed at Fire Station
4, 567 Highland Colony Parkway. It was restored
many years ago by a devoted team of firefighters. More
recently, the Boyer Fire Truck is being maintained
by Steve Dedmon, Firefighter/EMT who enjoys
displaying it at shows and driving it during parades.
The 85-year-old fire truck was recently displayed
at the antique vehicle show held in the Mississippi
Trade Mart during the 2013 Mississippi State Fair.
The Antique Vehicle Club of Mississippi (AVCM)
judged all vehicles at the show based on the following
criteria: paint, body condition, engine, suspension,
exhaust system, wheels and tires, interior, cleanliness
and originality. The City’s truck was awarded first place
in its category. This is the second time that this special
truck has earned first place at the AVCM show.
“The Boyer fire truck has been restored to its
original specifications and it was perfectly done,” said
George Raworth, judge and longtime member of the
AVCM. “The truck was enjoyed by many children
at the show who were able to take a seat behind the
wheel, thanks to club chaplain, John Emory, who must
have lifted 150 into the truck.” Raworth estimates
that more than 60,000 people came to the show this
year and viewed the Boyer fire truck.
You may view the truck in the upcoming Ridgeland
Christmas Parade. For individuals or groups, the truck
may be viewed at Fire Station 4, where it is housed
in its own museum. The history of the vehicle and
its numerous awards are also on display. Call Steve
Dedmon to schedule a tour at 601-853-2035.
The 1928 Boyer fire truck, owned by the
City of Ridgeland will be featured in the
Ridgeland Christmas Parade this year.
Winter 201311
NEWSWORTHY
Choosing to be Ridgeland Titans
The Shearers are pictured at Lava Beds National
Monument In California. The children have attended
Ridgeland area public schools since kindergarten.
Janet Shearer shares some of the reasons they
choose to be Ridgeland Titans.
Vehicle donated to City
of Ridgeland
Barksdale Cadillac recently became a sponsor of the
City of Ridgeland through the donation of a used
vehicle. The 2011 Escalade can seat 9 persons which
will make travel more efficient for conducting city
business. Pictured here is Mayor Gene McGee (right)
accepting the key from Joey Kirkland (left) with
Barksdale Cadillac.
12 Ridgeland Life
Nearly 12 years ago, my husband Dale and I chose Ridgeland
for our hometown. Our children Mary Kate, a ninth-grader at
Ridgeland High, and Sam, a seventh-grader at Olde Towne Middle
School, have attended the Ridgeland area public schools since
entering kindergarten.
From day one at Ann Smith Elementary, our two children
have thrived. The diversity in the Ridgeland schools has provided
an appreciation for other cultures. Respect has been instilled for
special friends, friends who look different from you and friends
who worship differently.
Our children were challenged academically in elementary
school through differentiation, small-group or individual
reading instruction, special projects from classroom teachers
and, beginning in second grade, the Pathways program for gifted
students.
At Olde Towne Middle School, the challenge continues. In my
opinion, the math and science instruction at the school is among
the best in the state. Some proof: the school had the secondhighest score in the state on the 2012 Algebra I assessment.
Students with high math scores are placed in higher-level classes
to challenge them. For example, Sam and some of his classmates
skipped sixth-grade Advanced Math and took pre-Algebra last year.
They will move to high school with Algebra I and Geometry under
their belts.
The OTMS science and technology clubs run the only
middle school space program in the state. They have been
nationally recognized for their near-space balloon launches and
accompanying experiments. The Technology Student Association
produced a national top-10 team in 2012-2013, its first year in
existence.
The arts at OTMS are strong, too. Mary Kate was a member
of the Chamber Choir that participated in a national festival in
Disney World this spring. They rated all superior, won best in class
and were awarded the Golden Mickey for best middle school choir.
The band program, which is a feeder program for the high school,
has received all superior ratings at state competition for 17 years.
We are new to Ridgeland High School. However, its success
since opening in August 2002 is impressive: historically high
academic ratings, nine girls soccer championships, a band
consistently rated among the top three in the state, a state baseball
championship, a national Poetry Out Loud champion, an Olympic
gold medalist/world record holder and the list goes on.
Such positive results occur because the Ridgeland school
community values and strives for excellence. In 2001, the Shearers
chose Ridgeland. In 2013, the Shearers choose to be Ridgeland
Titans.
~ Janet Shearer
NEWSWORTHY
“ATTA BOY” for the Ridgeland
Police Department
I wanted to take a few minutes to offer my sincerest thanks,
support and congratulations for what I believe to be an absolutely
flawless reaction by RPD to what might have been a truly tenuous
situation during the Trunk or Treat event.
I am not a resident of Ridgeland, nor did I attend the event of
which I speak. However, I have friends in the area (who witnessed
it firsthand) who relayed this story to me, and I was compelled to
offer congratulations to your police department. So many good
deeds go unnoticed these days that I believe it is very important to
highlight and bring attention to the things that go right.
As I understand it, near the end of the Trunk or Treat event,
an older young man (around 19) arrived at the event in a
soldier’s uniform, carrying an “airsoft” rifle that looked extremely
realistic. As you may or may not know, airsoft rifles are built to
mimic the firing rate, look, feel and function of a real weapon,
only they fire soft plastic bb’s instead of bullets. They are a very
family friendly way to introduce children to safe weapon habits
and rules, and they are relatively safe alternatives to the real thing
for target shooting.
This young man, however, made an error in judgment
bringing such a realistic weapon analog to a children’s event. I’m
certain that his “costume” would have won first prize for realism,
had he attended an adult costume contest, but in the context of
the Trunk or Treat event, it was clearly inappropriate.
Your officers quietly approached him, calmly asked to speak
with him, rationally explained their reasoning and logic behind
requesting that he leave his “weapon” with them during the
event and did not over react in any way, form or function. They
identified the weapon as an airsoft gun and treated the young
man as a citizen with the RIGHT to do as he pleased, but with a
social responsibility to do the right thing, within the context of his
location.
RPD officers would certainly have been well within their rights
and wherewithal to have conducted a “felony stop” or drawn their
weapons and caused a scene until they confirmed the true nature
of the replica firearm. But they did not. They exercised restraint
and common sense and almost no one at the event even noticed
that there was a situation. He was allowed to continue on at the
event just a few minutes after being detained while RPD held his
gun.
The officers involved used OUTSTANDING judgment and
common sense. They should be commended for their refusal
to take things to an absurd level of anxiety and tension without
provocation. If police departments across this nation were filled
with officers just like these, we would not be reading about
accidental shootings, abuse of power and unconstitutional search
and seizure stories in the news almost daily.
Please pass along my thanks and support of these fine,
outstanding officers.
They are the clear
and obvious standard
by which all other
law enforcement
officers should be
judged. BRAVO!!
~Alexander
Lorenz
Chief Jimmy
Houston commented
Ridgeland Police Department
that Officer Jonathan officers hand out treats at
Wolfe encountered the Ridgeland’s Trunk or Treat held at
young man first and
Freedom Ridge Park, Oct. 30.
that Officer Wolfe,
Officer Andre Minter
and Officer Mike Raffield “disarmed” him. All of Ridgeland’s Police
Officers work hard to keep our city safe. They are very appreciative
when someone takes the time to express gratitude for a job well done.
These decals have been placed at many of
the stormwater drains in Ridgeland to remind
residents that everything that enters the drain
goes directly to a creek and will not undergo
water treatment.
The storm sewer systems in Ridgeland drain into
creeks that feed the Pearl River. Please help keep
our waters clean and visit www.epa.gove/owow/
nps for ways to prevent stormwater pollution.
City officials wish to remind you to keep grass
clippings out of storm drains. If drainage culverts
get clogged with yard debris, flooding may occur.
Winter 201313
RECRE8
Recreation
and Parks
Directory
Office
601-853-2011
Fax
601-853-2015
E-mail
recre8@ridgelandms.org
Recreational Center
601-856-6876
Freedom Ridge Park
601-853-2023
Rental Information
601-853-2011
Hotline
601-853-2039
Recreational Facilities
Freedom Ridge Park
235 West School Street - Freedom
Ridge Park, a 50-acre athletic facility, is
located on School Street just behind the
Ridgeland Police Department. The park
features four lighted adult regulation
softball fields, four lighted regulation
soccer fields, four picnic pavilions
two playgrounds including a universal
playground for use by individuals with
physical disabilities or limitations, two
concession/restroom buildings, a lighted
walking trail and a maintenance facility.
Each of the four pavilions at Freedom
Ridge Park is available at an hourly
rate of $15 for residents, and $25 for
non-residents. The security deposit, our
“clean-up insurance,” is $100.
Ridgeland Tennis Center
Youth
Organizations
South Madison County
Soccer Organization
SMCSO is a non-profit organization
providing an opportunity for the youth
of our area to participate in soccer. Visit
www.smcso.com or call 601-898-1996
for more information.
Madison-Ridgeland
Youth Club
MRYC is a community organization
providing an opportunity for youth
in our area to participate in baseball,
softball, tackle football, cheerleading and
basketball. Visit www.mryouthclub.com
for more information.
14 Ridgeland Life
201 McClellan Drive - The Ridgeland
Tennis Center, a full-service public
facility operated by tennis pros, is located
at 201 McClellan Drive, off Highway 51.
The center is home to 17 lighted, hard
tennis courts, men’s and women’s locker
rooms, a 2,000-square-foot covered
porch for viewing, and a fully stocked
tennis pro shop.
City Hall
304 Highway 51 - Ridgeland City Hall
is home to four soccer fields during the
soccer season. During baseball season, this
property converts to three T-ball fields.
Ridgeland
Recreational Center
137 Old Trace Park - The Ridgeland
Recreational Center is housed in a twostory rustic lodge overlooking the Ross
Barnett Reservoir. Daily activities for
Superstar Seniors as well as nightly classes
for all ages take place during the week in
this facility.
Friendship Park
475 Lake Harbour Drive - Friendship
Park is a multi-purpose neighborhood
park Facility. With a large lighted pavilion,
a one-mile lighted walking/jogging trail, a
fitness court, playground equipment, and
restroom facilities, the park accommodates
many and varying needs.
The pavilion is available for rental at
an hourly rate of $15 for residents, $25
per hour for non-residents, with a security
deposit of $100. Park hours are 6:30 a.m.
to 10 p.m.
Wolcott Park
349 McClellan Drive - Wolcott
Park, a 40-acre athletic facility, is
located on McClellan Drive, off
Highway 51. It features seven lighted
baseball/softball fields, a playground,
14 batting cages, two bull pens, two
concession/restroom building and a
maintenance facility.
Title VI Policy Statement
The City of Ridgeland, under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and related
statutes, ensures that no persons in the City of Ridgeland shall, on the grounds of
race, color, sex or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the
benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any programs or
activity it administers. Any person who believes he or she has been discriminated
against should contact:
Paula W. Tierce, Title VI Coordinator
City of Ridgeland
304 Highway 51 • P.O. Box 217
Ridgeland, MS 39158
Phone: 601-856-7113 • Fax: 601-856-7819
paula.tierce@ridgelandms.org
RECRE8
SPECIAL EVENTS
Special Events Coordinator, Wendy Bourdin
Phone: 601-853-2011 • Email: wendy.bourdin@ridgelandms.org
Ridgeland Christmas Parade
The Ridgeland Beautification Committee would like to invite
all residents, businesses, and civic organizations to participate in
the Ridgeland Christmas Parade. There is no cost to enter the
parade, and it is a great way to show your holiday spirit as we kick
off the Christmas season. The theme this is year is “Christmas
Carols for All to Hear.” The parade begins and ends at the Holmes
Community College Campus on Ridgeland Avenue. The parade
travels through the historic Olde Towne Subdivision and then
to W. Jackson Street before turning onto Sunnybrook Road and
finishing back at Holmes Community College.
Registration forms are available now. Registration is open until
Dec. 2, 2013.
Start Time:
2 p.m.
Event Date:
Saturday, Dec. 7, 2013
Location:
Olde Towne Ridgeland
Christmas Decorating Contest
The Ridgeland Beautification Committee will be
awarding prizes to the top Ridgeland residences
and businesses that decorate for the
Christmas season. The committee will
judge businesses and award the top two
winners. Residences will be judged in
the following categories: Overall, Door
and Porch, Judges’ Choice and Children’s
Choice.
To ensure the Ridgeland Beautification Committee looks at
your home or business, call 601-853-2011. The judge date will be
Monday Dec. 9, 2013.
PROGRAMS
Phone: 601-853-2011 • Email: wendy.bourdin@ridgelandms.org
Dog Obedience
The Jackson Obedience Training Club (JOTC) will offer
puppy, beginner and advanced dog obedience
classes. The six-week class will teach obedience
commands of heel, sit, down, stay, come and
a few other commands that you will use in
everyday life with your pet. The JOTC is a
nonprofit organization that was established in
1969 and is licensed by the American Kennel
Club.
Two sessions will be offered in the spring.
Registration will be held for Session #1 Feb.
1-28, 2014. Classes for Session #1 will begin
Tuesday, March 4. Registration will be held for
Session #2 March 10-April 21. Classes for Session #2
will begin Tuesday, April 29.
Puppies must be 3-6 months old. Dogs for the beginner class
must be at least 6 months of age or older. In order to be in the
advanced class your dog must have completed the beginner class.
Proof of vaccination by a licensed vet is required.
Program Price:$75
Registration:
Session #1 Feb. 1-28, 2014
Session #2 March 10-April 21, 2014
Start Date:
Session #1 March 4, 2014
Session # 2 April 29, 2014
Start Time:
7 p.m.
Day of Week:Tuesday
Location:
Ridgeland Recreational Center
ATHLETICS
Athletics Coordinator, John Sidney North
Phone: 601-853-2011 • Email: john.north@ridgelandms.org
Youth Baseball & Softball
The Madison Ridgeland Youth Club will be
holding baseball and softball registration for the
spring season. The program is designed for boys
and girls ages 4 to 18. Girls must be 4 years old by
Jan. 1, 2014 and boys must be 4 by May 1, 2014.
This league is designed for all levels of participation and ability.
With your registration fee, the participant will receive a hat, jersey
and socks. You may register online. For registration dates and
additional program information, visit www.mryouthclub.com.
Winter 201315
RECRE8
Challenger League Softball
The City of Ridgeland Recreation and Parks Department
will be offering Challenger League softball for the physically and
mentally challenged. This is a chance to be a professional softball
player for a season. The program also relies on buddies to assist
the players. If you would like to be a part of the program, please
contact Mandy Rodgers at 601.856.3623.There is no charge for
this program.
SMCSO Registration
The South Madison County Soccer Organization will be
holding spring soccer registration in December. This season runs
from February through April. For more information, please call
SMCSO at 601-898-1996 or visit www.smcso.com.
Start Smart Basketball
Start Smart Basketball is a developmentally appropriate
introductory program for children ages 3 to 5 years old that
prepares them for organized basketball in a fun, non-threatening
environment. Start Smart Basketball will meet for six one-hour
sessions. Parent participation is required.
Each child will receive a koosh ball, mondo koosh ball, a
Start Smart participant manual, and a t-shirt. A minimum of 12
participants is required in order for the class to make. A maximum
of 20 participants will be allowed. Child must be 3 years old by
Jan. 1, 2014.
Program Price:$70
Registration:
Jan. 6-17
Program Date:February
Start Time:
6 p.m.
Days of Week:
Monday and Thursday
Location:
Ann Smith Elementary
SUPERSTAR SENIORS
Senior Adult Coordinator, Lynda McMahan Assink
Phone: 601-856-6876 • Email: lynda.assink@ridgelandms.org
SPECIAL EVENTS AND
WORKSHOPS
Ridgeland’s Senior Adult
Christmas Party
Come and join us Dec. 10 at Broadmoor Baptist Church.
Lunch will be served and we will have special entertainment. Rita
Sweat will be performing a monologue based on scripture and
research along with imagination on “Mary, the mother of Jesus.”
16 Ridgeland Life
You will not want to miss this performance!
Tickets will be on sale at Ridgeland Recreational Center and
Ridgeland City Hall. Call Lynda for more information at 601856-6876.
Program Price:$7 (Tickets go on sale Monday,
Nov. 18.)
Event Date:
Thursday, Dec. 10, 2013
Start Time:
11:30 a.m.
Location:
Ridgeland Recreational Center
Travel Show Brunch
Ridgeland Recreation & Parks and BSCI
Tour & Travel-Jackson will be hosting a “travel
show brunch” at the Ridgeland Recreational
Center. Come and hear about wonderful trips
planned for the spring and summer months. Make
your reservation by calling Lynda at 601-856-6876.
Program Price:Free
Event Date:
Thursday, Jan. 16, 2014
Start Time:
9:30 a.m.
Location:
Ridgeland Recreational Center
Senior Adult Valentine’s Banquet
Join us Monday, Feb. 3, 2014 for a special Valentine’s event
for all area senior adults. Johnny Counterfeit, impressionist, singer
and comedian – will be our entertainment. He has performed in
concert, on television, radio and film. Johnny brings the richness
of his experience to the concert stage, presenting voice impressions
of singers, actors and politicians, in clean comedy and music
variety. Tickets will be on sale at Ridgeland City Hall and the
Ridgeland Recreational Center. Tickets must be purchased before
the event.
Program Price:
$5 per person
Event Date:
Monday, Feb. 3, 2014
Time:
5 p.m.
Location:Highlands Presbyterian Church,1160
Highland Colony Parkway
RECRE8
Balance & Fall-Proof Your Life
Bridge
Are you ready to
improve your balance
and be as healthy as
you can be? Whether
you are 65 or 85, a
daily exercise program
involving specific fall
prevention exercises is
very important. Your
muscles may have lost some mass and your joints maybe stiff, but
you can do slow, controlled, low intensity movement to help ease
the discomfort you experience daily. If you have had a history of
falling, then now is the perfect time to exercise and regain your
balance with more control than ever.
Sign up for this class presenting the latest in fall prevention,
balance exercises and total body strengthening that will keep you
ONE STEP AHEAD in improving your life. Always consult your
physician before beginning any exercise program. You may preregister for class by calling or emailing Lynda.
Registration:
Now until Jan. 15, 2013
Event Dates:
Class begins Jan. 15, 2013
Program Price:
$30 for six week course/or $8/class
Time:
11:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Day of Week:Wednesday
Bridge games are held the fourth Thursday of each month at
the Ridgeland Recreational Center overlooking the reservoir. It
provides a beautiful setting for an afternoon game. The player with
the highest score for the month receives a prize. Reservations are
required 4 days in advance.
Please call Lynda at 601-856-6876 or 601-853-2011 to reserve
your chair. Please arrive at 12:45 p.m. to receive your name tag.
Game starts promptly at 1 p.m.
Program Price:
No Charge
Event Dates:Dec. 19 (one week early), Jan. 23
and Feb. 27
Times:
1–4 p.m.
Day of Week:Thursday
Location:
Ridgeland Recreational Center
MONTHLY PROGRAMS
Ridgeland City Garden Club
The Ridgeland City Garden Club meets on the first Tuesday of
each month. Enjoy lunch, informative and exciting programs while
sharing the love of gardening with many friends. Call Nanette
Sullivan at 601-856-6784 for more information. Speakers for the
months of December – February:
Program Price:$20/for the year to join the
Ridgeland Garden Club
ec. 3 – Christmas Party
Event Dates:
D
(Members Only)
Jan. 7 - Julia Allen, owner of “Poor
Julia Scrap Metal Art”
Feb. 4 - Halla Jo Ellis presents “Wild
Flowers of Mississippi”
Time:
11 a.m.
Location:
Ridgeland Recreational Center
Thread, Yarn, Crochet &
Coffee Group
Bring your own needles, yarn, thread, and handmade project
to the Ridgeland Recreational Center on the
second and fourth Mondays. Come and enjoy
a relaxing afternoon of fellowship,
coffee, and work on your handmade
project. It will be a great time of “show
and tell,” as you work on your own
masterpiece. For more information, call Lynda
at 601-856-6876.
Program Price:
No Charge
Event Dates:
Dec. 9, Jan. 13 & 27, Feb. 10 & 24
Time:
1:30–3 p.m.
Day of Week:Monday
WEEKLY PROGRAMS
Agape Men’s Coffee Group
Join a group of men that meet every Wednesday morning at
the Ridgeland Recreational Center. Enjoy coffee, good fellowship
and good friends. Call Earl Beck at 601-668-2322 for more
information.
Event Date:On-going
Start Time:
9:30 a.m.
Day of Week:Wednesday
Location:
Ridgeland Recreational Center
Winter 201317
RECRE8
Country Line Dance
Tai-Chi Fusion on the Reservoir
Learn the dance steps that are popular everywhere! In this class
you’ll discover a variety of line dances. It’s great fun, good exercise,
and you don’t need a partner. Classes will be held at the Ridgeland
Recreational Center located at Old Trace Park. Darlene Epple is
the instructor for the class. Call Lynda at 601-856-6876 for more
information.
Program Price:$10/weekly
Start Date:On-going
Start Time:
Beginners Class 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Advanced Class 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Day of Week:Monday
Location:
Ridgeland Recreational Center
Tai-Chi Fusion on the Reservoir is offered every Wednesday
at the Ridgeland Recreational Center. Tai-Chi has become an
increasingly popular form of physical exercise around the world.
A few of the benefits are: increased flexibility and reduced risk
of injury, focused breathing and concentration, improvement
of mind-body connection, greater strength and stamina, better
balance and stability, improved posture, stress reduction and much
more. Pre-registration is required by calling Lynda at 601-8566876.
Registration:
Begins Jan. 2
Event Dates:
Class begins Jan. 15
Program Price:
$20/4 weeks or $8/class
Time:
11-11:30 a.m.
Day of Week:Wednesday
Men’s Bible Study
Men’s Bible Study meets every Tuesday at the Ridgeland
Recreational Center. It is a non-denominational Bible study for
men only. Enjoy an in-depth study of God’s Word. Bob Shirley is
your teacher! Call Earl Beck at 601-856-4252 or 601-668-2322
for more information.
Event Date:On-going
Start Time:
9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Day of Week:Tuesday
Location:
Ridgeland Recreational Center
Painting Pals
Is it hard for you to paint and/
or draw at home? Bring your
own supplies and enjoy painting
at our Ridgeland Recreational
Center, located at Old Trace Park,
overlooking the reservoir. It’s an ideal
setting to paint or draw! Call Lynda
at 601-856-6876 and let her know
you are coming!
Program Price:
No cost
Start Date:On-going
Start time:
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Day of Week:Tuesdays
Location:
Ridgeland Recreational Center
18 Ridgeland Life
Restoration & Relaxation Yoga
This yoga class is suitable for beginners. This is great class for
those who are beginning an exercise program or rehabbing from an
injury. Offered at a slower pace this class will focus on the basics
of yoga, breath work & movement. These gentle movements will
not add stress to the joints. A sense of well-being will come from
breathing and gentle yoga stretches, and it will help you let go of
the everyday stresses of life. Always consult with your physician
before beginning any exercise program. For more information and
to register, call or email Lynda.
Registration:
Begins now until Jan. 13
Program Price:$5/class
Time:
11 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Day of Week:
Mondays and Fridays
Yoga for Flexibility, Fitness and Fun
Join us for this class! Lisa Newman is the instructor, and
she will guide you through gentle stretching and strengthening
exercises for your whole body. This class is for those who have had
some experience with yoga. Standing poses will be introduced as
well as strength poses. Participants may want to join both yoga
classes for only $10. Always consult with your physician before
beginning any exercise program. For more information, call or
email Lynda.
Registration:
Begins now until Jan. 13, 2013
Event Dates:
Class begins Monday, Jan. 13, 2013
Program Price:$5/class
Time:
11:30 a.m.–noon
Days of Weeks:
Mondays and Fridays
RECRE8
TENNIS
Ridgeland Tennis Center
201-A McClellan Drive
Phone: 601-853-1115
Directors: Cheryl Harris and Susan
Toler
The Ridgeland Tennis Center is the largest
public tennis facility in Mississippi.
Junior Tournaments
Feb. 7 -10, 2014USTA Southern Level 1A
Championships Boys and Girls 16s
and 18s
Feb. 15-17, 2014USTA Girls 16s National Selection
Tournament
Private, semi-private and group lessons available year-round. Please
call 601-853-1115 for more information.
Holiday Garbage
and Recycling
Collection
There will be no garbage and
recycling collection on Christmas
Day and New Year’s Day. If your
regular collection day is Wednesday,
garbage and recycling will be
picked up on Thursday, Dec. 26 and
Thursday, Jan. 1.
Winter 201319
SCHOOLS IN RIDGELAND
ANN SMITH ELEMENTARY
Grades K-2 • 306 S. Pear Orchard Road
601-856-6621 • www.madison-schools.com/ase
Ann Smith Elementary is a kindergarten through second-grade school serving
the Ridgeland attendance zone of the Madison County school system.
Making a difference, not just a song
and dance for ASE counselor
When Leona Bishop was a little girl, she loved to sing, dance and act. Perhaps she
should’ve gone into theater, but now, working as the counselor at Ann Smith Elementary,
she incorporates these interests into her job
responsibilities. “I am still a kid at heart! I enjoy using
puppets, role play, and dance during my guidance
lessons to get students motivated to practice pro-social
skills,” Mrs. Bishop explained. “Working with the
students at Ann Smith gives me an excuse to continue
to enjoy the fun stuff.”
Mrs. Bishop grew up in Cleveland, Miss.,
graduated from Tougaloo College, and received her
master’s and specialist degrees in counseling from
Delta State University. This is her first year at Ann
Smith. As the school counselor, Mrs. Bishop said
she works collaboratively with principal Dr. Melissa
Philley and assistant principal Eric Brooks “to create
a safe place for students to reach their highest level of
Leona Bishop, ASE
academic achievement… I especially enjoy helping
Counselor
to implement positive behavior interventions and
support, along with conscious discipline, to create an
environment where teachers love to teach and students ‘volunteer’ to learn.”
Mrs. Bishop is also responsible for safeguarding student records, providing regular
classroom lessons on topics such as skills for learning, empathy, self-management and
problem solving. Additionally, she offers individual and small- group counseling to address
social or behavioral issues and increase the likelihood of success for all students.
Mrs. Bishop is married to Roger Bishop, who is vice president of the Ridgeland
High School Booster Club. Their daughter, Leah, is an eighth-grader at Olde Towne
Middle School. She plays on the varsity softball team and is a member of the band
and cheerleading team. Three years ago, their son Roger II, lost the battle against
osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer. The Ridgeland High School baseball team dedicated the
2010-2011 season to him, playing under his motto, “smile and fight,” and winning the 5A
championship.
“During our most trying time, God blessed us with such an outpouring of
encouragement from our Ridgeland High School and New Hope church families.” Mrs.
Bishop said she became a school counselor because, even more than singing and dancing,
she wanted the opportunity to encourage others challenged by life circumstances and make
a difference in the lives of youth.
When it comes to helping children, she said that the “biggest agent of change in
the life of a child is an appropriate, caring adult who builds and maintains a positive
relationship that instills a sense of value and self-worth. When educators and families work
together to communicate this message of worthiness in children, greatness is possible.”
20 Ridgeland Life
Preschool
open house
Do you have a future Titan living
under your roof? Mark your calendar
then. The preschool open house at
Ann Smith is on Friday, Jan. 31. You’ll
have an opportunity to take a tour
of the school, observe a kindergarten
classroom, meet the principal and other
faculty, talk with Titan parents and have
your questions answered.
Upcoming
events at
ASE
Dec. 3: Mazzio’s Night. A
portion of all sales at the
Ridgeland Mazzio’s will go to
the ASE PTO.
Dec. 21-Jan. 3: Winter break
Jan. 6: Students return
Jan. 7: Mazzio’s Night. A
portion of all sales at the
Ridgeland Mazzio’s will go to
the ASE PTO.
Jan. 7-17: Canned food drive
Jan. 20: MLK service project
Jan. 31: Preschool open house
Feb. 4: Mazzio’s Night. A
portion of all sales at the
Ridgeland Mazzio’s will go to
the ASE PTO.
Feb. 17: Professional
development day
Feb. 24-28: Read Across
America
Feb. 27: Family reading night
March 4: Mazzio’s Night. A
portion of all sales at the
Ridgeland Mazzio’s will go to
the ASE PTO.
SCHOOLS IN RIDGELAND
Let’s go walking, ASE!
More than 300 students, parents, city leaders and community
members joined Ann Smith’s third annual Walk to School Day
parade on Oct. 9. Ann Smith was one of thousands of schools in
more than 40 countries celebrating International Walk to School
Day, promoting pedestrian safety, environmentally friendly forms
of transportation and health and fitness.
“We started participating in Walk to School years ago to
promote the advantages of walking to school,” said Sissy Lynn,
who has organized the event for the last three years. “We consider
our event to be a celebration of sorts, where our community
leaders have the opportunity to walk to school with us—to
inspire our students to lead healthier, more active lives. Walk to
School Day has become quite a tradition at ASE. It’s an awesome
experience to see hundreds of parents, and special guests walking
together along Ridgeland’s use trails.” Last year Ann Smith
was honored with the “Step It Up” award by the Mississippi
Department of Transportation for their participation in Walk to
School Day.
The parade began on Pear Orchard Road in the parking lot
of The Annex. Olde Towne Middle School and Ridgeland High
School cheerleaders were there to get the crowd excited about the
.9 mile walk ahead, and Rochelle Culp, project director for the
Mississippi Tobacco-Free Coalition, led the group in warm-up
exercises. The Tobacco-Free Coalition also provided walkers with
healthy snacks at the end of the parade.
Rochelle Culp, project director for the Mississippi
Tobacco-Free Coalition, and the Olde Towne Middle
School cheerleaders energize the crowd as they get
ready for the parade up Pear Orchard.
Max Smith, Molly Rodgers and Powers Culver lead
the parade carrying the Walk to School Day banner.
“Teaming up with Ann Smith Elementary and International
Walk to School Day is a perfect fit for Terrance the RAT and the
MTFC Coalition,” Ms. Culp explained. “It is an opportunity for
us to spread the word about the ill effects of tobacco use and how
walking can assist with overall good health.” The RAT (Reject All
Tobacco) Program is funded by a grant from the Mississippi State
Department of Health.
As the crowd trekked up Pear Orchard, more parents and
students joined the parade at designated spots along the way.
Once at the school, Mayor Gene McGee signed a proclamation
declaring October Walk to School Month in Ridgeland. Mayor
McGee is an avid cyclist and often bikes to work, clocking in an
average of 150 miles on his bike a week.
“I am so proud of the students, parents and teachers at Ann
Smith Elementary for leading the way in our city in support of a
healthy lifestyle,” Mayor McGee said. Other notable parade participants include Representative
Rita Martinson, Senator Will Longwitz, Alderman-At-Large D.I.
Smith, Alderman Chuck Gautier, WAPT meteorologist David
Hartman, Chief of Police Jimmy Houston, Madison County
Schools Board member Philip Huskey, retired P.E. coach Richard
Blaumuller, or “Coach B,” and several city department heads.
Of course, not all families’ morning schedules allowed them to
participate in the Walk to School Day parade. Knowing this, ASE
principal Dr. Melissa Philley designated a time during the day for
each class to take a walk around the campus, giving all students a
taste of the Walk to School Day fun.
Winter 201321
SCHOOLS IN RIDGELAND
It’s time for Titans to ‘tone up’
A Day Of
Service
What better way to honor the life of Dr.
Martin Luther King, Jr., than to spend the
morning serving your community? Ann Smith
families will gather on Monday, Jan. 20, to
help sort and pack non-perishable food items
for donation to the local food bank. Once that
task is complete, volunteers will participate in a
campus cleanup effort. Last year, approximately
50 people volunteered their time for this event.
Don’t miss this opportunity for fun and service
with fellow Ann Smith families. Information
about the day of service and canned food drive
will be going home in students’ folders.
Did you know that children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity
each day? Is your child getting enough? The Titan Tone Up program at Ann
Smith will begin in February.
Through the Titan Tone
Up, children are motivated
to get enough exercise
through weekly rewards and
a program-ending field trip.
Last year, more than 200
students participated each
week in the program, earning
prizes while getting fit and
having fun.
“February is an opportune After last year’s Titan Tone Up kickoff
time for the Titan Tone Up,
assembly put on by the Mississippi
as the weather can discourage Tobacco-Free Coalition, students
received green bracelets with the
physical activity,” said
reminder, “health rules.” Pierce
program organizer, Marci
Williams. “It’s also about the Nelson (from the left), James Woody,
Giselle Bennette, Presley Durham and
time that most people start
Avery Warrington show off their new
sliding on their New Year’s
bracelets.
resolutions. The Titan Tone
Up comes along just when families need the motivation the most, because we
need to be physically active year-round, not just when it’s nice outside.”
Chocolate fundraiser a sweet success
Stephanie Edwards and her daughter,
Savanna, help pick up trash around the
playground at last years’ service day.
Thank you to all those who supported Ann Smith’s fall
fundraiser either by selling World’s Finest Chocolate or by
saying “yes, I’ll have a bar,” when one of those cute Ann Smith
kids came by selling. This year, Ann Smith exceeded its goal
of raising $17,000. These funds support teacher improvement,
playground updates, student enrichment programs, and other
PTO programs and activities enjoyed by the students and
faculty at Ann Smith. Congratulations to Kennedy Brown, Ann
Smith’s top seller for the second year in a row. For her efforts,
Kennedy was awarded a new tablet computer.
2013–2014 PTO Board
Jenny Culver, president
jenny-culver@hotmail.com
Erin Rodgers, secretary
Stephanie Edwards,
parental relations
Shirley Johnson, fundraising
Marci Williams, ex. vice president
williams.marci@gmail.com
Semantha Grogan, treasurer
Tom Grogan, treasurer
Kelly Ann Wells, public relations
Tammra Cascio, academic affairs
Merry Lunsford, academic affairs
Andrew Rainey, parental relations
22 Ridgeland Life
Aarin Schnackenberg,
public relations
SCHOOLS IN RIDGELAND
CASE21 Challenges
Students to Reach
and Exceed Goals
This year, Highland has begun
implementing CASE21 Assessments,
which are benchmark tests designed to help
teachers evaluate individual student needs
and improve academic achievement. Several
other schools within our district used this
resource last year with great success.
CASE21 gives reliable, predictive
results. The assessments, created specifically
for Madison County Schools, are tightly
aligned to the Mississippi Curriculum
Frameworks and College and Career
Readiness Standards. Following each test,
highly detailed reports are provided to
teachers and administrators within 48
hours so teachers can work with individual
students as needed to reinforce or reteach
skills.
“CASE21 is a program that supports
student learning using data, common
formative assessments and professional
development,” said Marilyn Naron, HES
principal. “CASE21 Assessments help us
ensure that students have mastered the
curriculum and are prepared for the next
level of learning.”
CASE21 will help the school reach its
goal of moving all students to the next
level – helping them not only meet but
also exceed expectations. “As you can
imagine, we’re thrilled to be able to offer
this resource to our students,” continued
Naron. “CASE21 is a powerful solution for
21st-century learning.”
HIGHLAND ELEMENTARY
Grades 3–5 • 330 Brame Road
601-853-8103 • www.madison-schools.com/hes
Laptop Donations Provide
Additional Technology
Opportunities
This year, Madison County Schools has provided HES with 52 new laptops.
Teachers are encouraged to check out the laptops to use technology to complement
other types of learning in the classroom. Additionally, Atmos Energy, as part of their
philosophy of giving back to the community, donated eight refurbished laptops to
Highland. We’d like to thank Madison County Schools and Atmos for investing in this
technology to provide additional learning opportunities for our students!
Pictured are (from left, back) third-grade teacher Holly Treadway
and her father Andy Treadway, operations manager at Atmos Energy;
(front) Evan Piel, Chelsie Fleming, Rhyan Pickens and Alanna Wall.
Highland Students Walk At School
HES students participated in Walk at School Day, Oct. 10, the day after International Walk to School Day. All students and teachers
gathered in front of the school, walking together to celebrate the benefits of physical activity. Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann sent
a letter to Mrs. Naron thanking the school for its efforts to promote physical fitness, saying “This is a great event that your teachers and
students are participating in at Highland Elementary. It is so important to keep our children healthy and lead a healthy lifestyle. Exercise
and safety play such an important role. This reminds students and teachers the health benefit of regular daily activity as well as the need for
our students to be able to have a safe environment to walk and bike.”
Winter 201323
SCHOOLS IN RIDGELAND
Ridgeland Walmart
Rewards HES Teachers
The Ridgeland Walmart honored 20 Highland
teachers by giving them each $50 Walmart teacher
rewards cards to use for supplies, snacks or other items
for their classrooms. Wendy Isbell, Walmart store
manager, spoke to a room full of Highland teachers
thanking them for their dedication and sacrifice as
they shape students into tomorrow’s leaders. Walmart’s
Teacher Rewards Celebration is designed to help offset
money that teachers spend out of their own pockets for
classroom supplies during the back-to-school season.
Pictured are (seated, from left) Frances
LaPlant, Kristy Wagner, Sommer Welgos,
Brenda Price, Mena Burnett; (standing)
Walmart shift manager Ramondo James,
Walmart shift manager Danny Tharp, Walmart
store manager Wendy Isbell, Diane Anthony,
Brenda Hill, Annette Reiter, Craig Whitfield,
Cindy Goodwin, Karen Humphreys, Cherie
Crane, Jennifer Britt, Ellen Litton, Michelle
Cheatham, Teresa Logan, Dottie Abrams, Lori
Flood and Tim Bermond.
Titan Tone Up
Motivates Students to
Become More Active
Beginning in February, HES will participate in
Titan Tone Up, a fitness rewards program designed
to encourage students to get the recommended
60 minutes of physical activity each day. Titan
Tone Up was launched last year as a joint initiative
between the PTOs at Ann Smith and Highland,
and was a huge success. The efforts at both schools
through Titan Tone Up and other health-related
events played a big role in Ridgeland being named
“Mississippi’s Healthiest Hometown.”
24 Ridgeland Life
Highland Student’s
Poem Featured on
National TV
“Green Screen Adventures,” an
educational show on the MeTV
network, featured a poem by
Highland student Ariyana Jones.
Jones submitted the poem through
the show’s website, and her piece
was selected to be brought to life
by cast members. The episode
featuring Jones’ poem, “I Love
Horses,” aired this summer.
Ariyana and her mother credit
fourth-grade teacher, Latoya
Lewis, who motivated Ariyana to
read using the school’s accelerated
reading program, and librarian
Pictured are Ariyana Jones
Karen Humphreys, who led the
(front); Marilyn Naron,
school’s creative writing club last
fall, for helping Ariyana develop her principal (back, from left);
and Latoya Lewis, fourthwriting skills.
grade teacher.
“I like the way Mrs. Lewis
pushed her students to meet their goals,” said Ariyana’s mother Arcadia
Smith. “And through Ms. Humphrey’s creative arts club, Ariyana
discovered she likes to write and illustrate her own work.”
When Jones moved to Ridgeland a little more than three years ago,
she was behind in reading according to Madison County Schools’ guided
reading levels. With some hard work at home and the help of dedicated
teachers at Ann Smith and Highland, Jones quickly caught up and is now
excelling.
“When we first moved here, Ariyana was a little below grade level in
reading, but we worked really hard at home to help her catch up,” said
Smith. “And now look. She’s on the honor roll and has discovered her gift
for writing. While Ariyana’s always been a good student, her potential and
abilities have extended further than what we knew she was capable. That’s
what Ridgeland’s high standards and expectations brought out in her.”
Principal Marilyn Naron couldn’t be prouder of Ariyana’s
accomplishments. “It just goes to show what a hard-working student, like
Ariyana, can achieve,” said Naron. “It also proves what an impact our
teachers have on our students’ success.”
“Green Screen Adventures” is a national award-winning children’s
television show that brings stories and illustrations to life on the screen
using story theater, game shows and puppetry. You can view the episode
that featured Jones’ piece by going to this link: http://greenscreenadventures.
tv/i-love-horses.
SCHOOLS IN RIDGELAND
New Specials Engage Students in Hands-On Learning
Highland is pleased to be offering new special
classes on Tuesday mornings to rotate with music, P.E.,
computer and library. Several of these classes actively
encourage student learning through discovery and
hands-on lessons. One such class uses LEGOs to engage
students. After reading a book, students will break into
small groups to build a LEGO world to connect to the
story. Students then research additional information on
Kindle Fires, do math calculations using LEGOs, write
and illustrate a story about their LEGO world, and
present the final product to the other students. These
new special classes give every student an opportunity to
expand in areas such as STEM, the arts and humanities.
At right: Using LEGOs helps motivate
students, while incorporating STEM learning
into the classroom. Pictured building their
LEGO world are third-graders (from left)
Quantrell Brown, Dorothy Boswell, Jaleigha
Samuel and Maranie Phann.
Winter 201325
SCHOOLS IN RIDGELAND
OLDE TOWNE
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Grades 6–8 • 210 Sunnybrook Rd.
601-898-8730 • www.madison-schools.com/otm
STEM teacher Mr. Bill Richardson (left) and Olde
Towne Middle School students Liliam Camacho and
Kobe Grant exhibit an emblem created on the new
3D printer in their classroom. OTMS is one of the
few middle schools in the state that has a 3D printer;
it was purchased with a Nissan grant awarded to Mr.
Richardson.
Homecoming
Parade
Winners
OTMS sixth-graders won first-place
in the community division of Ridgeland
High’s homecoming parade. Family
Game Night was the homecoming
theme; their float, “Operation,” brought
the game to life while promoting our
city’s emphasis on health.
At right: Olde Towne sixthgraders present their winning
float.
26 Ridgeland Life
New 3D Printer opens more
Technology Doors
Olde Towne Middle School STEM (Science, Technology,
Engineering, Math) teacher Bill Richardson was awarded a Nissan
Grant to purchase a 3D printer and supplies. He applied for the
Nissan grant last spring with the hope of offering his students
advanced Computer Aided Design (CAD) in conjunction with 3D
printer output. Richardson explains, “3D printers are changing the
way people create prototypes and design parts and objects. This 3D
printer uses ABS plastic to create three-dimensional objects based
on computer designs.
As students learn CAD they also unlock ways to look at business
applications of 3D printers. Anything from house plans to medical
devices can now be built to prototype, tested used in everyday life. Students’ show keen interest in 3D printer applications,
proposing the production of unique phone cases and sports
equipment, from pads to mouth guards. From an economics
standpoint, students learn this technology could create items they
use every day, often at a price well-below retail cost.
Mr. Bill Richardson continues to expand the technology
opportunities for Olde Towne Middle School students as he chalks
up more “firsts” at the county, state and national level, including
the Near-Space balloon program, numerous first-place awards at the
Mississippi Technology Student Association competition last year,
the first year of the club’s existence at OTMS, as well as a finish
at the National TSA competition. Olde Towne is one of a very few
middle schools in the state to enjoy access to a 3D printer and the
only middle school in Madison County. At the high school level,
there are 3D printers at the Madison County Career and Technical
Center.
SCHOOLS IN RIDGELAND
OTMS Creative Writing Club hosts Ramsey
Editorial cartoonist and author Marshall
Ramsey was the guest speaker for the Olde
Towne Middle School Creative Writing Club
meeting in October. He encouraged the
students to exercise their creativity frequently,
as it will strengthen with use.
The drawings from Ramsey’s newest
book, “Banjo’s Dream,” were featured in the
presentation as were two of his short stories.
Ramsey shared the origins of some of his story
ideas telling the students that the best stories
often come from unlikely places.
Ramsey related the story of how he became
a writer and cartoonist. As with most writers,
he experienced rejection along the way. He
stressed the importance of persistence in writing
and enjoyment of the creative process.
The Creative Writing Club meets monthly,
encouraging students to write and share their
work with fellow students and the community.
The club’s sponsor is language arts instructor
Lisa Shaw.
Club members (back row left to right): Olga Goupalova, Gebria Allen,
Marshall Ramsey, James Chatmon, Skylor Craft, (front row left to right)
Anthony Banks, Olivia Perkins, Lauren Oeth, Julia Jia, Bailey Buegel.
VEX ROBOT TEAM
OTMS is now a
Technology Student
Association (TSA)
VEX Robotics Team
participant. The
VEX robotics team
will participate in
several tournaments
and the TSA state
championship. If the
team qualifies, they
will go to Nationals
in Washington DC in
June 2014.
Students will use the VEX robotics design
system to compete in matches and skill
competitions this year.
Olde Towne
Middle School
Concerts
The community is invited to
OTMS winter concerts. Audience
members can be assured of a lovely
cultural event. Concerts are held in the
Ridgeland High School Auditorium
and admission is free. Join us and
enjoy our award winning young
musicians.
Dec. 3: 7 p.m. OTMS Band
Concert
Dec. 5: 6 :30 p.m. OTMS Choir
Holiday Revue
Winter 201327
SCHOOLS IN RIDGELAND
RIDGELAND HIGH SCHOOL
Grades 9-12 586 Sunnybrook Road
601.898.5023
www.madison-schools.com/rhs
Fundraising underway
for “Do Right” scholarship
honoring Lee Boozer
The Ridgeland High School PTO has established the “Do Right” scholarship
in honor of the school’s first principal, Lee Boozer. Two $1500 scholarships are
awarded to selected seniors on an annual basis. The scholarships are funded by
the PTO, band boosters, Mr. Boozer and individual contributions.
Boozer led the school from its opening in 2002 until his retirement in
November 2012. He regularly encouraged students to “do right,” thus, the name
of the scholarship.
Scholarship winners are selected based on criteria such as high moral
character, leadership qualities, civic and community service involvement,
exemplary attendance and discipline records, and GPA of at least 2.5.
Contributions to the scholarship fund are tax deductible and are being
accepted now at the school. Forward your donation to: Ridgeland High School
PTO, 586 Sunnybrook Road, Ridgeland, MS 39157. Please include your
mailing address or an email address so that a confirmation of your tax-deductible
donation may be sent to you.
Ridgeland High School senior
Justin Ryan was named National
Merit Semi-Finalist.
Board of Aldermen hears
presentation from RHS Ambassadors
Ridgeland High School Ambassadors made a presentation about the school
to Mayor Gene McGee and the Board of Aldermen at City Hall recently.
Ambassador activities include acting as tour guides for new and prospective
students, volunteering in the community at events like KidFest, and sharing
information about the school with civic and business organizations.
28 Ridgeland Life
The 2013 Ridgeland High
School homecoming queen
is Miss Brittany Weathersby.
Congratulations!
SCHOOLS IN RIDGELAND
RHS Yearbook Staff
Upcoming Events
December-February
School Calendar
Dec. 10:7 p.m. RHS Holiday Band
Concert
Dec. 12:7 p.m. RHS Choir
Festival of Carols
Dec. 12-13, 16: Case 21 Assessments
Dec. 17-20:
Semester Exams
Day, Holidays begin
Dec. 20:
Jan. 6:Students return to
school
Jan. 20:
MLK Holiday
Feb. 15:6 p.m. Beauty and Beau
Pageant
Feb. 17:Professional
Development
Pictured from left to right is the Ridgeland High School
TITAN yearbook financial staff: Shaylon Arnold, Alexis Moore,
Tamaria Taliaferro, Andrea Fields, editors Michelle Nguyen
and Avery Huff, Clara Beth Herrmann Raven Manuel. The staff
is responsible for raising funds for the yearbook publication
as well as producing the school's talent show and Beauty and
Beau.
RHS Soccer Schedule
Home games are listed.
Dec. 10:
Jan. 7:
Jan. 10:
Jan. 11:
Jan. 17:
Vicksburg – 5:30/7 p.m.
Richland – 5:30/7 p.m.
Lanier – 5:30/7 p.m.
West Jones – 5:30/7 p.m.
Calloway – 5:30/7 p.m.
9th Grade Basketball
Schedule
Home games are listed.
Dec. 2:
Jan. 6:
Jan. 13:
Magee, 5 p.m.
Yazoo City, 5 p.m.
Magee, 5 p.m.
RHS Varsity Basketball
Schedule
Home and local area games are listed.
Pictured is the Ridgeland High School TITAN yearbook
production staff. Front row left to right are: Olivia Jones,
Deniesha Waters, Katie McMurtry, Daija Bostic Ashanti Hughes. Back row left to right are: editor Gillian Goodloe, I'Dena
Allen, Sydney Griffith, Ellen Springer, Ally Hickey editor Alex
Medellin. The staff is responsible for the production of the
yearbook.
Dec. 2-7:Madison County
Tournament at
Germantown, TBA
Dec. 20:
Titan Shootout, 1 p.m.
Dec. 21:
Titan Shootout, 10 a.m.
Jan. 3:
J.Z.George, 4 p.m.
Jan. 14:
Neshoba Central, 5 p.m.
Jan. 21:
Canton, 5 p.m.
Jan. 28:
Germantown, 5 p.m.
Jan. 31:
Warren Central, 4 p.m.
Feb. 4:
Brookhaven, 5 p.m.
Feb. 11:
Jim Hill, 5 p.m.
Feb. 14:
NW Rankin, 4 p.m.
Feb. 17-20:Division Tournament at
Germantown, TBA
Winter 201329
SCHOOLS IN RIDGELAND
RHS Newspaper Staff
HOLMES COMMUNITY
COLLEGE
412 W. Ridgeland Avenue
601-856-5400
www.holmescc.edu
Pictured is the Ridgeland High School TITAN TALK newspaper
staff. Left to right are: Heather Van Horn, Bree Daniels, Alicia Berry, editors Irina Tran and Holli Gill, Kristen Simmons, Dean Morgan
and Jacob Logan. The staff is responsible for the production of
the campus newspaper that is printed seven times a year.
Holmes
Community
College
offers
workforce
training
at the
McGowan
Center located at the Ridgeland campus.
Courses include human resource
management, supervisory/leadership,
communication, writing, customer service
and a wide variety of computer classes.
For a listing of current classes, go to
http://www.holmescc.edu/workforce/
classes/index.aspx.
CHRIST
COVENANT
SCHOOL
752 Pear Orchard Road
601-978-2272
www.christcovenantschool.net
ST. ANDREW’S
EPISCOPAL
SCHOOL
THE VERITAS SCHOOL
A Christ-Centered and Classical Education
1200 Highland Colony Parkway • 601-713-1555 •
ww w.theveritasschool.org
30 Ridgeland Life
North Campus–Grades 5–12
370 Old Agency Road
601-853-6000
www.gosaints.org
RIDGELAND PUBLIC LIBRARY
RIDGELAND PUBLIC LIBRARY
Madison County Library System
397 Highway 51 • Ridgeland, MS 39157
Telephone: 601-856-4536
Web address: www.mcls.ms
Hours:
Mon. – Thurs. 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Fri – Sat. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Closed on Sunday
WHAT’S NEW AT THE RIDGELAND LIBRARY?
A New Teen Center!
Thanks to a generous donation from the Friends of the Library,
the Teens now have their own designated area to study, use their
laptops, meet friends, read and hang out. Proceeds from annual
Friends memberships and library book sales promote literacy for
children, teen, and adults and supplement purchases of furniture
and equipment for the branch. In addition to the new Teen Center,
the Friends of the Library made the following contributions this
year:
• Purchased new meeting room tables
• Donated funds in support of the Summer Reading
Program,
“Dig Into Reading”
• Sponsored three community programs and two
community book sales
• Donated funds to support “1000 Books Before
Kindergarten,” a children’s reading program
• P
urchased Library magnets with branch information for
new patrons
• Contributed funds to MCLS for DVD locking
replacement cases
Your support is greatly appreciated.
New Teen Center is available at the Ridgeland Public
Library.
Winter 201331
RIDGELAND PUBLIC LIBRARY
AARP INCOME TAX
ASSISTANCE
Lexie Alexander of Ridgeland receives
free income tax assistance from Tax
Consultant Charles McCall.
During the 2013 Income Tax Season, our
professional AARP Income Tax Assistants
prepared 224 tax returns at the Ridgeland
Library. Of the 224 returns, 215 were filed
electronically and 9 were paper returns. In
addition, the team assisted an additional 14
taxpayers who only had tax questions. Free
AARP Tax Assistance will be available at the
Ridgeland Branch only on Mondays, 9 a.m. – 2
p.m., beginning Feb. 3 and ending April 14. If
your tax return is complex, you will be advised
to seek professional tax assistance. Tax assistants
volunteer their time to aid residents.
CHILDREN’S SECTION
ARTIST CORNER
Constance Murray grew up in New Mexico at the foot of the Sacramento
Mountain range. Her small town upbringing was a visual wonder of mountains,
desert and beautiful sunsets. Her interests in the arts include music and visual
design.
Ms. Murray
spent more
than 20 years
as a graphic
designer, working
in a variety
of industries
from corporate
giants like Dr.
Pepper/7UP to
local nonprofits.
In her work,
Artist Constance Murray will display a sampling
she directed
of her work at the Ridgeland Library starting
photo shoots
and worked with December 7 through January.
photographers
such as the legendary Tru Red. While working with a nonprofit organization in
Birmingham, AL, she decided to take photography classes. Ms. Murray loves
design not only through photography but graphic design, textile design, jewelry
design, singing and writing music. Stop by and see her artistic creations.
By Cindy Graves, Children’s Specialist
It’s Never too Early to Start Reading
The Madison County Library System launched its “1,000 Books Before
Kindergarten” program last February at each of its five branches. Its goal is
to encourage parents to read with their babies, toddlers, and preschoolers as
a way to stregthen early literacy skills. To join, pick up a reading log at any
of the Madison County libraries. After reading 100 stories, a family can log
their progress on a bulletin board at their library. This is repeated until the
1,000 book goal is completed. After six months, the program has had over 100
families complete reading logs. Additionally, the Ridgeland Library has already
had one child, August Irving, to complete the program. This program could not
have been possible without the generous support of the Ridgeland and Madison
Friends of the Library groups. For more information, please stop by any of the
Madison County libraries. Remember – it’s never too early to love reading!
August and Kathy Irving - first to read 1000
books in 6 months at the Ridgeland Branch!
32 Ridgeland Life
RIDGELAND PUBLIC LIBRARY
WINTER PROGRAMS
Ridgeland
Readers
This is a fun story-time
program for 3-7-year-olds. We
meet on Tuesdays at 4 p.m. The
program includes stories, songs,
flannel board activities, movement
and occasionally a craft. Each
program focuses on a different
letter in the alphabet.
Dec. 3, 10
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28
Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25
FamFun Family Programs:
A’lelia Rideau, 3
years old, enjoys the
Ridgeland Readers
program.
*Please note: There will be no programs Dec. 17, 24, or 31 in
observance of the holidays.
Baby Bookends
This story-time program is for 0-2-year-olds. We meet on
Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.. Mother Goose on the Loose is an
interactive program for children and their caregivers. We sing
rhymes, play musical instruments, read stories, and do flannel
board and movement activities. Each program focuses on a
different letter in the alphabet.
Dec. 4, 11
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29
Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26
**Please note: There will be no programs Dec. 18, 25 or Jan. 1
in observance of the holidays.
These programs
are for the whole
family.
• “ I Spy
Scavenger
Hunt,”
Thursday, Jan.
30 from
4:30-5:30 p.m.
Check our online
calendar for more
details!
TEEN TIME:
This program is for
6th – 12th graders.
We meet on the
first Thursday each
Doin’ the readers rap!
month from 4 p.m.5 p.m. unless noted. This program has volunteer opportunities
and features games, comic swaps, snacks & more.
Dec. 5 - Make your own “Frushi” (fruit sushi)
Feb. 6 – Book Jacket Bingo
**Please note: Program in January (To be announced)
ART JUNCTION: This program is for 1st -5th graders.
Unless noted, we meet on the third Thursday each month from 4
p.m. to 5 p.m. and will focus on a new project at each meeting as
well as have a book talk.
Jan. 16 - Room Decor Projects
Feb. 20 – Upcycled Jewelry
**Please note: Program in December TBA.
Making music at Baby Bookends.
Winter 201333
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Ridgeland Chamber’s Police
Appreciation Fund Raising Campaign
Tops $5,000
CITY OF RIDGELAND
CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE
754 S. Pear Orchard Rd.
Phone: 601-991-9996
www.ridgelandchamber.com
Police
Appreciation
Campaign
Donors
Account Services Group
Ann E. Smith Elementary Students
BankPlus
Barnett’s Body Shop
Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano
Capital Bolt & Screw Company
CoatTails, LLC
Fat Tuesday’s
Interstate Batteries
MEA Medical Systems
Members Exchange Credit Union
Office Products Plus, Inc.
People Lease, Inc.
Premier Publishing
Professional Eyecare Associates/
Optical 2000
Renaissance at Colony Park
Ridgeland Chamber of Commerce
Ridgeland Resident Debbie Hardy
Ridgeland Residents Marvin and
Marjorie Sebe
Southern Ag Credit, ACA
Speed Commercial Real Estate, LLC
State Farm Ins. - John Dorsa
Susan Burton Real Estate, LLC
Terracon Consultants, Inc.
The Church Triumphant
Wal-Mart SuperCenter #875
34 Ridgeland Life
The Ridgeland Chamber celebrated Police Appreciation month by launching a
fundraising campaign which has raised $5,000.00 for the Ridgeland Police Department.
“We wish to thank all our Chamber members and residents of our City who donated
so generously to the Chamber’s Police Appreciation Fund Raising Campaign,” said 2013
Ridgeland Chamber President Carla Palmer Allen, CPA Realty. “Because of so many
generous contributions, $5,000 has been raised for the Ridgeland Police Department,” she
added.
A check for the total amount raised was presented to Ridgeland Police Chief Jimmy
Houston at the Tuesday, Nov. 5 Mayor and meeting.
“In these uncertain economic times, with rising costs and ever-changing technology,
it is very important that our officers have access to the most advanced, state-of-the-art
equipment to help them do their jobs and carry out their daily motto: To Protect and
Serve,” said Ridgeland Chamber Executive Director Linda Bynum.
“These donations will go a long way to helping the department purchase necessary
equipment, and even possibly save an officer’s life who would lay down his or her own to
save ours,” Bynum added“Our Chamber and City have sent a loud and clear message ~
we admire and respect our police officers and the Ridgeland Police Department is the very
best in our State.”
THANK YOU, Chamber members and Ridgeland residents for your generous
contributions and donations.
Chamber volunteers presented Ridgeland Police Chief Jimmy Houston
and officers with a large sheet cake inscribed “For A Job Well Done!”
From left, Officer Andre Minter; Kristy Daniels, Regions Bank and Police
Appreciation Week chair; 2013 Ridgeland Chamber President Carla
Palmer Allen, CPA Realty; Chief Houston and Corporal Kelly Chapin.
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Chamber Makes Survival Kits
for Ridgeland Police Officers
As part of Police Appreciation Week, Ridgeland Chamber volunteers assembled survival
kits for Ridgeland’s 65 sworn officers. The kits contained the following items:
BUSINESS
AFTER HOURS
and EVENTS
December 12
Cool Water
Catering & Events
1011 Lake Harbour Drive
5 - 7 p.m.
~
January 12, 2014
Annual Awards Banquet
Hilton Jackson
1001 County Line Road
6:30 p.m. - Reception
7 p.m. - Dinner
~
February 3, 2014
Madison River Oaks
Medical Center
161 River Oaks Drive
5 - 7 p.m.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY
The Ridgeland Chamber Singers visited retirement and
nursing facilities in Ridgeland singing favorite songs from the ,
40’s and 50’s.
Papa John’s Pizza, located in the School Street Shopping
Center, donated 160 cheese pizzas which were delivered to all
the facilities.
Thank you, General Manager Charles Breunig,V for your
most generous donation! The pizzas were enjoyed by all the
senior residents.
Retirement and nursing facilities included The Waterford,
Highland Home, The Blake at Township, Ridgeland Pointe,
Chateau Ridgeland, The Orchard, The Rose Garden and The
Arbor.
China Donnell, Activities Director at The Waterford,
chaired this year’s Make A Difference Day. The Ridgeland
Singers included: China Donnell, The Waterford; Ridgeland
Alderman Scott Jones; Lynda Alman, Ridgeland; Carla Palmer
Allen, CPA Realty; Lynda Jungkind, Premier Bride & the
Premier Bridal Shows; Bobby Cumberland, Madison River
Oaks Medical Center; Linda Bynum, Ridgeland Chamber of
Commerce; and Ridgeland Chamber Junior Diplomats Heather
Van Horn, Michelle Nguyen and Cailin Herring, all of Ridgeland
High School.
Papa John’s General Manager Charles Breunig stands
beside boxes of pizzas to be delivered to Ridgeland
retirement homes and nursing facilities. Breunig
donated 160 pizzas to residents living in the homes
as part of the Chamber’s Make A Difference Day
project.
Winter 201335
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Madison County Creative Economy Council Hosts
Second Annual Business After Hours
Madison County’s creative people, companies and institutions, past and present, are a vital part of what described our county. Their
collective achievements and talents contribute to Madison County’s unique environment. It’s these same creative people, companies and
institutions that also add significant wealth to the County’s economy, in ways that until now, have been recognized.
Inspired by the Mississippi Creative Economy study put together by the Mississippi Development Authority and the Mississippi
Arts Commission, the Madison County Creative Economy Council was formed to help others understand Madison County’s creative
economy as it exists , helping us to be better positioned to support and further develop this key sector.
The Madison County Creative Economy Council is a convergence of organizations with a strong interest in seeking out and
promoting all that is good in our County. The effort began in 2012 with a Creative Economy Showcase held at the Madison Square
Center for the Arts.
The people and organizations that make up the Madison County Creative Economy Council include:
Chamber of Commerce Main Street Association
Convention and Visitors Bureau & Film Office
Flora Area Chamber of Commerce
Madison the City Chamber of Commerce
Madison County Business League
Madison County Chamber of Commerce
Madison County Economic Development Authority
Madison County Foundation
Ridgeland Chamber of Commerce
Ridgeland Tourism Commission
Susan Marquez Consulting
Please visit www.madisoncountycreativeeconomy.com to learn how Madison County’s creative economy is a direct source of economic
growth, jobs and wealth.
Our website serves as a collective gathering space and bridge to connect our county’s rich history, events, attractions and creative
assets.
You’ll find a centralized calendar of all county events, and you’ll learn about the many exciting attractions that make Madison County
such a special place.
From left, Susan Marquez, Susan Marquez Consulting; Jordan Hillman, Chamber of Commerce Main Street
Association; Mina Thorgeson, Ridgeland Tourism Commission; Jana Padgett, Convention & Visitors Bureau
& Film Office; Abby Lane, Flora Area Chamber of Commerce; Lenita Knight, Madison County Economic
Development Authority; Gray Marchetti, Madison County Foundation; Mary Beth Wilkerson, Ridgeland Tourism
Commission; JoAnn Gordon, Convention & Visitors Bureau & Film Office; Jodi Maughon and Paige Peterson,
Madison County Chamber of Commerce; Lisa Bonds, Flora Area Chamber of Commerce; Pam Mahoney,
Madison the City Chamber of Commerce; Linda Bynum, Ridgeland Chamber of Commerce and Jan Collins,
Madison County Business League.
36 Ridgeland Life
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Ridgeland Mayor Gene McGee
serves as Master of Ceremonies
for the Madison County Creative
Economy Council’s Second Annual
Business After Hours held at the
Mississippi Crafts Center on Rice
Road.
From left, Canton residents
Louise and Dr. Gil Spivey; Barbara
Varner, Regions Bank and Bobby
Cumberland, Madison River Oaks
Medical Center.
From left, State Representative
Rita Martinson; Tina Lakey,
CenterPoint Energy; Becky
Morgan, Brown Bottling Group and
Gray Marchetti, Madison County
Foundation.
From left, Mary Beth Wilkerson,
Ridgeland Tourism Commission
and State Senator Will Longwitz.
From left, State Representative Bill Denney and State Representative
Rita Martinson; Jan Collins, Madison County Business League and Linda
Bynum, Ridgeland Chamber of Commerce.
2013 Ridgeland Chamber President
Carla Palmer Allen, CPA Realty.
Madison County Tax Collector Kay
Pace and Ridgeland Alderman-atLarge D. I. Smith.
Cotton Kitchen, located at 870 Avery Blvd. in Ridgeland, catered the
Madison County Creative Council’s Business After Hours.
Winter 201337
WHO AND WHERE
R idgeland D epartments
Public Works
Community
Development
Fire Department
ALAN HART
MATT BAILEY
JOHN M.
MCCOLLUM
Director
alan.hart@
ridgelandms.org
Fire Chief
matt.bailey@
ridgelandms.org
Director
mike.mccollum@
ridgelandms.org
PAULA TIERCE
Police Department
Recreation &
Parks Department
City Clerk /Human
Resources Director
paula.tierce@
ridgelandms.org
JIMMY HOUSTON
CHRISTOPHER CHANCE
Chief of Police
jimmy.houston@
ridgelandms.org
Director
chris.chance@
ridgelandms.org
Finance and
Administration
City Meetings
Mayor and Board of Aldermen Meeting
1st & 3rd Tuesday - 6 p.m.
Work session is held on Mondays prior to Board Meeting - 6 p.m.
Architectural Review Board
2nd & 4th Tuesday - 6 p.m.
City of Ridgeland
City Hall, 304 Highway 51, Ridgeland, Mississippi 39157
601-856-7113, www,ridgelandms.org
Aldermen
D.I. Smith, Alderman-at-Large. . . . . . . . . . . 601-707-8845
Bill Dicken - Chairman
Phil Ayers, Karen Bishop, Ron Blaylock, Donald Pendergrast,
Glenn Ray, Alex Ross, Connie Suber
Ken Heard, Mayor Pro Tempore, Ward 1. . 601-856-7727
Beautification Committee
First Monday - 5:30 p.m.
Brian Ramsey, Ward 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 601-506-1979
Jamie Freeman, Peggy Gauthe, Peggy Horne, Phyllis Parker,
Lea Anne Stacy
Community Awareness Committee
Fourth Monday - 5:30 p.m.
Drew Malone - Chairperson
Janie Boyd, Peggy Gauthe, Shirley Gill, Dawn Hall,
Scott Higginbotham, Lee Hutchings,
Mike Smith, Darlene Turner
Contractors Board of
Adjustment and Appeals
Lantz Kuykendall - Chairman
Terry Evans, Ronnie Hales, David Pursell, Steve Rimmer,
Ricky Skeen, Clay Sutherland, Leroy Tubbs, Keith West
Recreation & Parks Advisory Committee
3rd Tuesday - 6:30 p.m.
Larry Anderson, John Evans, Jay Harris, Wayne Jimenez,
James Freeman, Jerry Neill, Gabe Coker
Zoning and Planning Board
Thursdays, the week of Mayor and Board of Aldermen
meeting - 6 p.m.
Bernie Giessner - Chairman
Michelle Caballero, Philip Huskey, Mark Irby,
Walter Cox, Larry Miller, Julius Murray
38 Ridgeland Life
Chuck Gautier, Ward 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 601-856-1291
Kevin Holder, Ward 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 601-856-1950
Scott Jones, Ward 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 601-856-6861
Wesley Hamlin, Ward 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 601-454-0353
City Directory
Animal Control
animalcontrol@ridgelandms.org............................................... 601-856-2121
Anonymous Tip Line
(criminal investigations division)................................................ 601-853-2006
City Hall/Mayor’s Office................................................ 601-856-7113
Community Development Department
(development, property maintenance, zoning, signs, permits)............. 601-856-3877
Community Police Officers
(residential/neighborhood concerns and service)..... 601-502-6040 & 601-940-9030
Court Clerk
(traffic violations, misdemeanors and fines).................................. 601-853-2001
Emergency (police and fire dispatch center).......................................... 9-1-1
Finance and Administration
(business licenses, elections, meeting minutes, budget, public records).. 601-856-7113
Fire Department
(non-emergency calls, safety education programs)..........................601-856-7004
Police Department
(non-emergency calls, public safety concerns)................................ 601-856-2121
Public Works Depatment
(road, garbage, recycling, water, storm water)............................. 601-853-2027
Recreation and Parks
(special events, athletics and program registration, park information).....601-853-2011
Utility Billing Department (water, sewer, garbage, and recycling billing)
utilitybilling@ridgelandms.org.................................................. 601-856-3938
WHO AND WHERE
R idgeland A ldermen
To learn more about your elected representatives, go to
www.ridgelandms.org/electedofficials/.
D.I. Smith
Alderman At-Large
601-707-8845
Ken Heard
Ward 1
Mayor Pro Tempore
601-856-7727
Brian Ramsey
Ward 4
601-506-1979
Scott Jones
Ward 5
601-206-5416
Chuck Gautier
Ward 2
601-856-1291
Kevin Holder
Ward 3
601-238-5361
Wesley Hamlin
Ward 6
601-454-0353
Winter 201339
Post Office Box 217
Ridgeland, Mississippi 39158
www.ridgelandms.org
Presorted Standard
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 80
Jackson, MS