The Petal Guide 2013 by Hattiesburg Publishing, Inc.

The Petal Guide

The Petal News

Published by The PETAL NEWS

Petal Chamber of Commerce

DAVID GUSTAFSON Editor/Publisher

BETH BUNCH Managing Editor

FYI City Map

DANA GOWER Staff Writer

JOSH MLOT Sports Editor

Inside Look Ready to serve City Departments

EMILY HALL Production Manager

CHARLEY TYNES Graphic Artist

Education Highlighting Petal Public Schools

MISSY AKINS Advertising Sales Manager

SHANNON FIELDER Advertising Sales

JESSICA WALLACE

Excel by 5 Petal provides citizens with a range of recreational outlets and activities

Advertising Sales

SONYA JAMES Office Manager On the cover: Graphic Artist Charley Tynes created a colorful montage of Petal images.

Parks & Recreation Petal provides citizens with a range of recreational outlets and activities

Area Churches

The Petal Guide 2013-14 is a product of Hattiesburg Publishing, Inc., publishers of The PETAL NEWS, The LAMAR TIMES, Signature Magazine and Camp Shelby Reveille.

Houses of worship in the Petal area

For subscription information contact us at 601-268-2331, including change of address or other related services.

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Playing in the Pine Belt Sports & outdoor recreation

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Welcome to Petal The City of Petal has always been a special place to live, earning the nickname “The Friendly City,” because of the hospitality shown to neighbors and visitors alike. Never has this been more true, however, than in the aftermath of the tornado that struck our city on Feb. 10, 2013. Known statewide for our excellent schools and family-friendly neighborhoods, Petal has shown a resilience and determination to recover, restore and rebuild the homes and businesses lost due to Februaryʼs devastating storm. Neighbors have helped one another clear debris, churches have sent volunteers into the affected areas to offer assistance, and governmental agencies have worked together to clear streets and restore order in time of crisis. I am proud to be mayor of our city, but even more proud of the people of Petal, and what they have accomplished in such a short period of time. We face a long-term recovery process, but the healing of our community has already begun. The scars of nature will fade, but our faith has been made stronger. If you are looking for a place to call home, come visit us in Petal. We not only offer great schools, terrific recreational opportunities, and safe neighborhoods, but we offer a hand of friendship to any and all who wish to join us as we build a brighter future together.

Sincerely,

Hal Marx Mayor City of Petal

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From the Chamber... S

everal years ago, the board of directors of the Petal Area Chamber of Commerce deliberated, debated, and considered the reasons why families choose to call Petal home. What draws an individual to move to this city? What makes a business prefer to operate in Petal? Of course, we stated the first thoughts that came to mind. “Itʼs our schools.” We have the highest ranked schools in the state. Petal was the first high school to offer polymer science in the nation. Petal was the first Excel by Five Certified Community in the state. In addition, we have the very first specialized School for Dyslexia in the state. “Itʼs our recreational activities.” After all, how many towns our size can offer a skateboard park, a dog park, several playgrounds, a theater group, a new baseball park, a golf course, a city pavilion, walking tracks, and a YMCA. “Itʼs our business community.” Unlike many areas of the country that are seeing small towns die as businesses succumb to an economic recession, Petal is experiencing unprecedented growth. Retailers are moving to the area and local businesses are expanding to meet greater demands while the infrastructure is continually upgraded. Restaurants, hardware stores, clothing boutiques, salons, specialty shops, and grocery stores allow residents to shop locally for their every need. “Itʼs our city services.” Petal boasts one of the lowest crime rates in the state. The Petal Police Department is sworn to protect its citizens, provide assistance, and preserve the peace and serenity of the community. They maintain a close connection with the people they serve and are dedicated to making a community where people feel secure in their homes and businesses. Our city officials are quick to respond and remain in touch with the community that surrounds them.

“Itʼs our faith and values.” Residents joke about the fact that there is a church on every corner in Petal. Itʼs not such a joke. There really is an abundance of churches ready to fill the needs of their congregations and the needs of the entire community. Grace and generosity are plentiful. “Itʼs our events.” Perhaps this is what makes being a small town especially pleasant. Whether itʼs the Homecoming or Christmas Parade, or Relay for Life, or the Fall Festival, families join to celebrate and connect with friends to support traditions that we hold dear. Finally, we came to the conclusion that a choice to live in Petal is not dictated by demographics, logistics, or statistics. Sure, we have impressive data and can list exceptional accomplishments. But we eventually stumbled upon the phrase that best defined our analysis and it has become our dictum, “When your heart says Petal.” Yes, we could all agree on that point. Welcome to Petal.

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About the Chamber This past summer was a big time for the Petal Area Chamber of Commerce, which saw it kick off a year-long 50th anniversary celebration and move into its new office at 1771 North Main Street. A ribbon-cutting and open house were held Aug. 22. The event also kicked off the chamberʼs anniversary celebration, set to continue into this year. The Petal Chamber traces its roots back to Aug. 22, 1962, when Petal Mayor Ulmer Byrd introduced a resolution to organize the Chamber of Commerce. In its early days, the chamber was located in J.O. Runnelsʼ Petal Mercantile Building, located at the site of the current Walgreenʼs. In 1997, the chamber changed its name to the Petal Area Chamber of Commerce, indicating the chamberʼs desire to include businesses and industries located outside the cityʼs limits. In December, longtime chamber director Deborah Reynolds announced her plans to retire at the end of the year. Valerie Wilson, a former president and three-term member of the Petal Area Chamber of Commerce, was named as the organizationʼs new director the last week in March. She officially began her new position April 1, and was officially introduced at the April chamber board meeting. She resigned her position on the chamber board in order to take the directorʼs position. Wilson said she is thrilled to have been selected as the chamberʼs new director. Wilson was serving on the chamber board when Reynolds was hired to the directorʼs position. “I feel like Iʼve been preparing for this job for 17 years, even though I had no idea I would ever be chamber director,” Wilson said. “Itʼs come full circle.” This is an exciting time for the chamber, said Wilson. “Weʼve been reviewing and reevaluating everything,” she said, adding she expects the chamber to be taking on some new projects in the future. “We will be reaching out to the membership” for input concerning chamber projects, she added. Wilson said the chamber board wants to develop a new, special chamber event, but the type of event has not yet been decided. “Weʼve got our minds open on this,” she said. “Weʼll see where it takes us.” A private, voluntary, not-for-profit organization of business and professional people, the chamber is dedicated to improving the economic environment of the community and fostering the development of business growth. According to its mission statement, “The Petal Area Chamber of Commerce will promote and support business, government and education through economic development and community involvement.”

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Petal at a Glance... Long-term projects paid off with big rewards during the past year, from the opening of four new ballfields at the Robert E. Russell Sports Complex last May to the completion of the Highway 42 improvement project just before Christmas. The new ballfields are already drawing attention from regional sports enthusiasts as -- in just a little more than a year from the time they opened -- the sports complex is scheduled to host the Dixie Softball 10-and-Under Angels Division World Series in July. The tournament is scheduled to bring teams from Texas, Louisiana, Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi. A month after the new fields opened last year, Petal officials received a $624,000 grant that will bring lights to the Evelyn Gandy Parkway this year. And by the end of the year, a two-year roadwidening project on Highway 42 was substantially completed. That wasnʼt the only Gandy/Highway 42 news throughout the year, however. One project expected to have a major impact on business development in the city involved the announcement that the long-delayed Byrd Boulevard project is now expected to move ahead. And in January of 2012, city officials announced a housekeeping measure to clear up any confusion concerning business and household addresses along Highway 42. A number of homeowners and businesses with addresses listed as Highway 42 and New Richton Road were notified that the addresses were being changed to Central Avenue, which now includes the road from the railroad tracks, continuing past Moore Funeral Home to the Huddle House, where it intersects with Highway 42 across from Walmart. Hattiesburg Area Habitat for Hu-

manity dedicated two houses and have begun work on a third. A total of five houses are planned for the McInnis Street location. Business and civic news also continued to be positive throughout the past year. Shop Petal First, an annual project of the Petal Area Chamber of Commerce, was expanded to three days this past year, now beginning on Thursday and continuing through Saturday. The chamber also had big news of its own in 2012 as it moved into a permanent home on Main Street. A new chamber director also was scheduled to be named this year after long-time director Deborah Reynolds retired in December. The chamberʼs 50th anniversary celebration, which began in August, is continuing this year. Two ongoing projects not exclusive to Petal – but which Petal residents feel comfortable claiming as their own – also received positive news during the past year. Petal, which became Mississippiʼs first certified Excel By 5 community in 2006, was once again recertified in 2012 for another three years. Petal also was recognized statewide after raising nearly $117,000 during last yearʼs Relay for Life fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. Petal was ranked seventh among the 96 Relays held statewide last year. Michael Thornton, who served as last yearʼs co-chair, said his new goal is to be one of the top five teams in the state this year. Based on last yearʼs top five, that would require raising about $25,000 more this year. Growth also is affecting city government this year. With the increase in population reflected in the 2010 Census, the number of city wards is increasing from four to six. Two additional aldermen will join the city board following this yearʼs elections.

w Elevation: 162 feet above sea level. w Land Area: 9.67 square miles w Population: 10,454 (2010 census) up from 7,900 (2000 census) w Population Density: 852 people per square mile w Education: High school or higher: 79.8% Bachelor’s degree or higher: 17.9% Graduate or professional degree: 5.8%

irst inhabited by the Choctaw Indians, the area where Petal resides today was settled by the Scotch, Irish and English. Spain controlled the territory from the 1500s until 1699. Then the French took control until 1763 when the British Empire took over. They held power over the land until 1793 when the Spanish regained control. Finally, in 1798, the United States took control of the area. The first American settlers came to Petal in the early 1800s, drawn by the logging industry. Farming also proved profitable, and by 1850 the little community, still without a name, had its first church. When nearby Hattiesburg first incorporated in 1882, Petal was still just a settlement in then-Perry County. Other communities sprang up around it, such as Harvey and Dragon, but Petal still lacked its distinctive name. It is unclear exactly when Petal acquired its name, but it happened just after the turn of the century. A post office had been established for the East Forrest County area, and its first postmaster was Irving Polk, who lived on a farm at the site of the present First Baptist Church. Irving and his wife, Lydia, had a young daughter named Gladys Petal Polk, born to them Aug. 29, 1902. The little girlʼs life was short; at the age of 2 she died of diphtheria. A portrait of the baby hangs in the Petal Civic Center, and she is buried in the Hattiesburg city cemetery. The post office needed a name, and the question of naming it is attributed to two different sources. One story says Richard McLemore suggested the name “Petal” during a community picnic. According to a different account, Jesse Pace asked Lydia Polk what she thought the name should be, and Lydia asked that the post office, and thus the town around it, be named after her daughter. Though her life was short, the infant daughter of one of the small townʼs most prominent citizens, its postmaster, gave to her town one of its most unique features; there is no other town named Petal in the United States.

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City Departments PETAL CITY HALL 119 W 8th Ave. P O Box 564, Petal, MS 39465 Phone: 601-545-1776 Office Hours: 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. Monday-Friday Email: administration@cityofpetal.com Online: www.cityofpetal.com The Board of Aldermenʼs regularly scheduled meetings are held at 6 p.m. the first and third Tuesday of each month in the board room at City Hall. SANITATION DEPARTMENT Phone: 601-544-1522 Office hours: 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday The Sanitation Department is the newest addition to the inner working structure for the city. The responsibility of the Sanitation Department is to pick up all residential garbage and household trash. The city picks up garbage and trash one day per week. Their equipment consists of the addition of two garbage trucks and two knuckle booms that will assist with larger limb pick up. They also deliver serialized green garbage cans for citizensʼ use. These cans are registered to the address where delivered and should be left at that address if residency changes. The department consists of 10 highly-qualified personnel including a director to handle all routes within the city limits. Leaves and pinestraw should be bagged and set out by the curb for pick up. All limbs should be stacked by the curb for the knuckle booms to pick up. All trash needs to be separated from the limbs and yard trash for timely pick up. Should you have any questions regarding these matters, please contact the Sanitation Director at 601-544-1522. PETAL MUNICIPAL COURT 127 West 8th Avenue Phone: 601-582-5351 Court Clerk: Michelle Strebeck The Municipal Courtroom is located at the back of the Petal Police Dept., 127 West 8th Ave. Municipal Court is held every Tuesday beginning at 9:30 a.m. on a first-come, firstserve basis. If you are scheduled to appear, you must appear as no continuances are granted. Trials are held every Tuesday afternoon beginning at 1:30 p.m. Methods of payment accepted are cash, check with valid driver's license, money order, Visa/Mastercard. Judge is Sheila Havard Smallwood. Judge Pro Tem is Seth Hunter. City Prosecutor is Michael Reed. Public Defender is Jeff Hall. BUILDING DEPARTMENT 101 W. Eighth Avenue Phone: 601-544-6048 Director: Amy Heath The primary objective of the City of Petal Building Department is to protect the public's life, health, safety and welfare. We endeavor to provide responsive and efficient services to the public by becoming more professional in our inspections

Spotlight on: Petal Police Department

aw enforcement agencies are being mandated to switch over to a new digital radio system by 2014, but the Petal Police Department expects to be ready for that switch this year. And when it does, the dispatch office will be ready. “Weʼre getting ready to refurbish the dispatch office,” Police Chief Leonard Fuller said. The office literally is being redone from floors to ceiling, he said, noting that, once that work is done, new modular furniture will be installed. After that work is completed, the dispatch office will be ready to switch out to the new radio system, he added. Updating the dispatch office is only a part of a continuing plan to update and improve the police station, Fuller said. “This past year, we installed bulletproof windows at the front desk and in the court clerkʼs office,” he said. “We also installed remote door locks to make it safer.” The kitchen and break room also were renovated during the past year, he said. This October, Fuller said, the department plans to look into purchasing additional patrol cars. “We do a lease-purchase system,” he said, noting that, in the past, the department has purchased about eight cars every four years. Some of the older cars are sold at auction when new cars are purchased, but, “Weʼre able to keep some.” The department currently has about 28 cars. “We have 25 full-time officers and 10 part-time, who work as needed,” Fuller said.

through the continued education and training of our personnel. The City of Petal Building Department services the public in several areas, including: Building Inspections & Permits, Code Enforcement, Planning Commission, and Electrical & Plumbing Boards. The city building department official performs all building, electrical, plumbing and heating and air inspections to ensure that development is in accordance with the cityʼs building codes. Inspections are scheduled through the Building Department office, as well as consultations on particular projects. The building official also issues building permits, approves all building site plans (commercial and residential), signs permits, tree permits, dumpster permits and other miscellaneous permits. Permit applications may be obtained and submitted at the Building Department office.

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CODE ENFORCEMENT Phone: 601-544-5062 Community appearance is a vitally important aspect of civic pride, as is health and safety, which contributes to the preservation and enhancement of the environmental quality of our city, as well as stimulation of our economy. City of Petal residents have expressed their desire, through the Board of Aldermen, that the city assign a high priority to beautifying the community through vigorous code enforcement measures. The Code Enforcement Officers continuously inspect properties for a range of violations including abandoned vehicles and buildings, dilapidated buildings, overgrown lots and trash, litter and debris. PLANNING COMMISSION The Planning Commission provides consultation to citizens on zoning matters, as well as makes recommendations to the Board of Aldermen with regard to land use and development. The Commission is comprised of nine members who are appointed by the mayor and board of aldermen. The Planning Commission meets as needed. ELECTRICAL/MECHANICAL AND PLUMBING BOARDS Electrical/Mechanical and Plumbing Boards The Electrical/Mechanical and Plumbing Boards exist to ensure that contractors working within the city are qualified tradesmen. The boards grade exams and review transfer applications for licenses. The Electrical/Mechanical Board meets on the last Monday of each month at 5 p.m. The Plumbing Board meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 5 p.m. POLICE DEPARTMENT 127 West 8th Avenue Phone: 601-544-5331 Police Chief: Leonard Fuller The Petal Police Department is committed to the betterment of all the citizens who live and travel through the city of Petal. They take pride in being a proactive police department, making the city a safer place for the citizens of Petal. The department is made up of several divisions which include patrol, warrants, investigations, and vice/narcotics. They also have a strong support system in their civilian staff, which includes dispatch, an animal warden and an administrative assistant. The Petal Police Department is currently operating with a new administration. Leonard Fuller is now chief of police with

Matthew Hiatt as assistant chief. The department is implementing a new community policing program. This program is something Chief Fuller feels strongly about. This will bring the community and the Police Department closer together as well as make the community a safer place with more police involvement. This will also give the officers and the citizens an opportunity to get to know one another, with everyone working towards a common goal. The men and women of the Petal Police Department are committed to excellence in partnership with the community by upholding the Constitution of the United States, the laws of the State of Mississippi and the City of Petal. Members of the Police Dept. acknowledge their responsibility to be role models by promoting diversity, building trust, reducing crime and providing a safe environment, thus enhancing the quality of integrity, professionalism, fairness, compassion and respect. FIRE DEPARTMENT Phone: 601-582-7270 Fire Chief: Joe Hendry The mission of the Petal Fire Dept. is the protection of life and property of the citizens and business workforce of the City of Petal from effects of fires, medical emergencies, natural and man-made disasters. The mission is accomplished by fire suppression, emergency medical care, hazardous mitigation, incident investigation, fire prevention education, plans review and contingency planning. The Petal Fire Department provides both emergency and non-emergency services to the public from three fire stations, utilizing four pumper trucks, a rescue truck, command trailer and three support vehicles. There are a total of 27 employees. Petal has a Class 6 rating. The wives and girlfriends of the Petal firemen have formed their own local chapter of the Womenʼs Auxiliary. They are only five chapters in the state. WATER DEPARTMENT 119 West 8th Avenue Phone: 601-544-6981 After Hours Emergency: 601-325-4832 The City of Petal Water Department is located at 119 W. 8th Avenue at the back of City Hall. The Water Dept issues billing for Water, Sewer and Sanitation services within the city limits. Office hours are Mon. - Fri., 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., closing for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. A drop box is located at

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the drive-thru for after-hours payments. Payments can also be made through automatic draft. Go to the printable forms section of their Web site, print the draft authorization and return to the Water Department along with a voided check. If you have any questions for the Water Department, call 601-544-6981. The Water & Sewer Maintenance Department is located at 144 West Central Avenue. After-hours emergency number is 601-325-4832. If no answer, please call the Police Department at 601-544-5331. If you need assistance paying your water or sewer bill or would like to donate to those who need assistance, please access the required forms from the cityʼs website. Forms are also available at the front desk of City Hall. If you have questions regarding the Petal Water & Sewer Assistance Program, call 601-466-3065. STREET DEPARTMENT Phone: 601-544-1522 Director: Larry Carraway The Street Department is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of city streets as well as drainage and other projects throughout the city. The director may be contacted at streetdept@cityofpetal.com or you may call the City Barn at 601-544-1522. There is an answering machine which is checked daily. Messages for the Street Department may also be left at City Hall. The Street Department has equipment operators that operate all the heavy CAT equipment for drainage issues. They have a Durapatcher Asphalt Machine that is used for potholes. Please feel free to report potholes and drainage issues to the above addresses. Any street lights that are out can be reported to City Hall, as well as traffic lights. If possible, please include the pole number for the light that is not working. They will be handled as soon as possible. CIVIC CENTER 712 South Main Street Phone: 601-582-2672 The Petal Civic Center was built in 1994 and serves as a building for citizens to utilize. While the building is used in many ways, it also serves as a community club and organization-friendly facility. The facility is available for rent 7 days a week. A few of the types of events held are weddings, receptions, proms, concerts, balls, Christmas parties, meetings, health screening events, theater productions and pageants, as well as many others. The Civic Center also has an intercom system with microphones and a CD player. They have an LCD projector, an overhead projector and a TV with VHS player and a DVD player. They offer for rent tablecloths and place settings. Check the fee schedule for prices. The Petal Area Chamber of Commerce sponsors two Senior Health Fairs per year which offers free screenings and flu shots. There are three different sized rooms available for renting. The Auditorium will seat 300-350 people for banquets, up to 650 people capacity for other events. The Magnolia Room will seat 60 for meals and up to 80 for other events and the Common Room has a capacity of 35 people. They also offer a full commercial kitchen which is available for rent. They offer complete setup or you may set up yourself. The Civic Center is “tobacco free” and no alcoholic beverages are allowed.

For answers to all your questions concerning the Petal Civic Center, call 601-582-2672 or come by for a visit at 712 South Main Street in Petal. PETAL SENIOR CENTER 120 South George Ave Phone: 601-705-0836 Director: Lynn Knight The Petal Senior Center provides a helpful, support system for area senior citizens offering a variety of services and activities. In addition to providing immediate needs, the center “provides a place for companionship, fun, self improvement and a gathering hall,” according to the centerʼs mission statement. The center opened in January of 2009, but the facility itself is rather new, though the building is not. Once an insurance company, what is now the senior center was purchased by the city from foreclosure. The centerʼs bus provides transportation for seniors within the city of Petal. While the bus only caters to Petal citizens, the center is not restricted to Petal residents. Being the only center of its type in Petal and the surrounding area, seniors from anywhere are welcome to come and enjoy daily activities such as watching television, playing cards and games, exercise and even arts and crafts. The center also houses a library with books that have been donated and a computer room that they hope to use in order to teach seniors to become more familiar and comfortable with technology. On Thursdays, in addition to the regularly-scheduled lunch at noon, breakfast is served at 9 a.m. There is also Bingo where participants can win door prizes. Anyone 55 years of age and older is welcome to come by Monday-Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., and anyone 60 years of age and older is eligible to receive the daily free meals. In addition to regularly scheduled activities, the center hosts and participates in a variety of special events.

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Petal Schools Petal Schools...established specifically to enhance the educational advancement of the children of the community The Petal School District has a longstanding reputation for high quality schools in Mississippi and throughout the nation. Because of the cooperation and support of the Petal community and the team spirit that exists among students, staff and parents, the school district is able to achieve academic and extra-curricular success. The Petal School District officially began in 1976 after community members decided they wanted to create a school district separate from the county school system. The city of Petal was incorporated specifically to form the new school district – a step signifying how important excellent education opportunities were to the citizens of this community. Since that time school employees have worked hand in hand with the community to ensure the schools reflect the local values and quality of life inherent in the citizens of

the Petal School District. Five schools make up the Petal School District: Petal Primary School (K-2), Petal Elementary (3,4), Petal Upper Elementary (5,6), Petal Middle School (7,8) and Petal High School (912). Each school offers superior academic instruction as well as enrichment classes. Students at Petal Middle School and Petal High School have numerous academic courses and electives available to enhance their educational experience. In addition to the five schools, the Petal School District also operates the Petal Education Center which functions as the alternative school and the Petal Center for Families and Children which offers educational resources and support services in coordination with other area agencies for the families of the Petal community. Petal Schools...students consistently achieving above average Superior academic success has become a long standing expectation in the Petal School District. For the fourth

consecutive year, the Petal School District is one of the top performing districts in Mississippi. Petal High School, Petal Middle School, and Petal Elementary School received an “A” rating on Mississippiʼs school accountability system and Petal Upper Elementary School received a “C” rating. This high level of achievement is due to the commitment of teachers and administrators to academic excellence and the communityʼs continued support of high academic values. The Petal School District strives forits students to be the best in the state, and these latest accountability results indicate these students and teachers are committed to making that happen. The district continues to advance the instructional process by revising curriculum, conducting meaningful professional development and recruiting and retaining the best qualified teachers. Petal Schools…state of the art facilities to enhance learning New facilities continue to be added to the district to enhance learning in the

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academic arena and in extra-curricular activities. Within the past five years a new primary school, softball complex, performing arts building, baseball complex, and 8,500 seat football stadium were added. Currently a new Construction Technology Building is being constructed to advance the career/technical opportunities available to students. Petal Schools…meeting the academic challenges of the future As Mississippi along with 47 other states have begun implementation of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), the Petal School District has embraced this initiative and is providing the best possible professional development to teachers so they can fully implement higher standards of learning in the classroom. CCSS provides common standards for proficiency in English language arts and mathematics in grades K-12, helps students prepare to compete globally and will ensure that all students, no matter where they live, have internationally benchmarked standards and assessments that are clear, understandable and consistent. Once CCSS have been fully implemented, students will be receiving high-level instruction consistent with the great majority of classes throughout the United States. Exceptional instruction in a great community – the essence of our schools! Petal Schools…Hometown Values – Global Vision. More information is available at www.petalschools.com or by calling 601-545-3002. PETAL PRIMARY (Grades K-2) 60 Herrington Loop - 601-554-7244 PETAL LOWER ELEMENTARY (Grades 3-4) 1179 Hwy 42 - 601-582-7454 PETAL UPPER ELEMENTARY (Grades 5-6) 400 Hillcrest Loop - 601-584-7660 PETAL MIDDLE SCHOOL (Grades 7-8) 203 Hwy. 42 - 601-584-6301 PETAL HIGH SCHOOL (Grades 9-12) 1145 Hwy 42 - 601-583-3538 CENTER FOR FAMILIES AND CHILDREN 201 W. Central Ave. - 601- 584-4704

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Spotlight on: Petal High School or Petal High School Principal Steve Simmons, there are many reasons to be proud of his school, which has an enrollment that hovers around 1,150 students in grades 9-12. Simmons, who was named the Petal School District Administrator of the Year in 2012, said his list of accomplishments always begins with academics. “Our test scores consistently rank at or near the top in state testing,” Simmons said. “We’ve been a Star or Class A school all six years I’ve been here.” While Petal High School consistently performs well in all areas, this has been a good year for the school, he said. “We’re excited about the addition of a new Army JROTC program,” which was started this school year, Simmons said. “The district fully funded it to get it started and expected to fund it for the first two years. It’s done so well, the government has offered to help fund it.” Also this school year, “Our marching band won the state championship this past fall. We also have an award-winning forensics program and choral music program,” he said. “We feel we have a well-rounded school that challenges students academically,” Simmons said. Career technology classes include a wide range of subjects, he said, from polymer science and computer systems technology to health sciences and culinary classes. “We have two new state-of-the-art science labs that we put in during the last two years,” he added. The school also has a strong sports program. Petal’s baseball program has won six state championships and has played for the state title in five of the last eight years. In football, the school has been in the Final Four the past two years.

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24 Petal High School athletic teams have a rich history of success. At PHS, there are 20 teams eligible for Mississippi High School Athletic Association participation with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or better. Fourteen varsity athletic teams at PHS have qualified to be recognized by MHSAA as Scholar Athlete Teams. The PHSâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;baseball program won back-toback 6A State Championships in 2009-2010 and 2010-2011, and the football team was state runner up in 2011 and played for South State in 2012. Fastpitch softball was state runner-up in 2010-11.

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Excel by 5 In 2006, Petal became the first Excel By 5 community in the state. Parents and educators, as well as city and business leaders joined together to achieve this designation as an “Early Childhood” community. “We believe that investing in our youngest citizens will mean a brighter future for our city,” said Julie Fondren, Petal Excel By 5 Chair. In 2010, the United Way of Southeast MS was selected by UCLA and United Way Worldwide as a pilot site to administer the Early Development Instrument (EDI). That year, Petal kindergarten teachers completed a kindergarten readiness assessment on the districtʼs 290-plus students. Hattiesburg schools administered the assessment in 2011 and Lamar County completed the assessment in 2012. Petal completed the assessment for a second time in 2012. The assessment identifies strengths and vulnerabilities regarding childrenʼs overall readiness for kindergarten. Specific areas assessed are Communication Skills and General Knowledge, Physical Health and Well-being, Emotional Maturity, Social Competence, and Language and Cognitive Development. The analysis is being used in all communities to guide their work to support young children, to develop early learning interventions in the areas targeted as vulnerable, and as a tool to measure progress. Petal was one of four pilot programs in the state to originally participate in the Chevron sponsored Excel By 5 initiative, which is designed to emphasize the important role that parents and early childhood educators play in educating children during the most formative years - from birth to five years old. Currently, 8 Mississippi communities are certified, with 23 additional communities working toward certification. The program encourages and assists communities to become actively involved in supporting their young children by creating a network of useful community assets. Fondren said that she and the Excel By 5 coalition have been lucky in that the Petal community already had plenty of established community assets with which to work. “Weʼve had a focus on early childhood development in Petal for a long time, so we were in a little better shape than some other places.” Fondren said. The experience thus far has been rewarding, Fondren said, but also pointed out that Excel By 5 certification does not mean that the work of making Petal a premier community in which to raise a family will end. “It has been great to mobilize the community and get people on board,” Fondren said. “It has allowed us to bring community leaders together and to support the critical early years of childrenʼs development.” Excel By 5 was started more than eight years ago by Chevron as part of an effort to implement an early childhood education program. The company donated $650,000 to get Excel By 5 off the ground and continues to provide support. Steve Renfroe, a former media official with Chevron, said that when the company first approached state officials about the program, Mississippi First lady Marsha Barbour was skeptical. “Thatʼs when we got in the car and drove down to Petal so Barbour could see the work thatʼs been done there, “ Renfroe said. “After a few hours of talking with staff about the work of what is now called the Center for Families and Children,” Renfroe said, “Barbour was on board.”

Once Excel By 5 was given the green light, Petal and three other Mississippi communities - Cleveland, West Point and Pascagoula - were selected to serve as pilot locations for the program under the auspices of grants from both Chevron and the Phil Hardin Foundation of Meridian. The Petal School Districtʼs Center for Families and Children is the community “hub” for Petal Excel By 5. The center is an accessible “one-stop” family support center offering a coordinated cluster of community resources and services. Their resources and services include: Families with pre-school age children • New-Born Packets • Home Visit Parenting Program • Parent Workshops • Developmental Screenings (speech/language/hearing/vision) • Developmental “Playshops” • Early Interventionist • Family Support Agency Referral • Education Toy Lending Library • Itty Bitty Bookworm Store • Dolly Parton Imagination Library • Kidsʼ Health Fair • Resources for Child Care Providers • C.H. Johnson Head Start Program (three and four year olds) • C.H. Johnson Early Head Start Program (8 wks-three years) • Childrenʼs Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Medicaid Enrollment Assistance Families with school-age children • Education Resources Check-Out Program • Big Brothers/Big Sisters Mentoring Program • Kidsʼ Health Fair • Computer Lab • Childrenʼs Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Medicaid Enrollment Assistance Adults in the family • Parenting Resources (available for families to check out) • Directory of and Referral to Family Support Agencies • Parent Workshops • Computer Lab • GED Preparation Courses • A Community Workroom (provides access to an Ellison die cutter and laminator for special projects) The Center and the Petal Excel By 5 coalition sponsor a childrenʼs health fair before the start of school to get students ready to return to the classroom. They also sponsor weekly playshops centered around healthy development. In 2012, Petal Excel By 5 sponsored the cityʼs second “Born Learning Trail” at Friendly Park. The first was installed at Hinton Park in 2011. Both provide great opportunities for families to engage their young children and turn an outdoor trip into a fun, learning experience. To learn more about Petal Excel By 5 and available resources to support your family, stop by to visit the Petal School Districtʼs Center for Families and Children, 201 West Central Avenue.

The Petal Guide

The Petal News

The Petal Guide

Parks & Rec Recreation Director Tom Hardges leads the department charged with providing Petal citizens with a range of recreational activities and with upkeep of the city's recreational facilities. The City of Petal also has an Advisory Parks and Recreation Commission to aid in developing recreational programs and to offer advice to the Mayor and Board of Aldermen regarding the use of city parks and facilities. HINTON PARK (formerly Relay Park) Willie Hinton Park, located behind the Civic Center on S. Main St., offers a playground, walking track, covered picnic tables, a pavilion and restroom facilities. The picnic areas are available on a first-come first-serve basis. The pavilion is available first-come first-serve unless previously reserved. The park was renamed in July 2010 in memory of former Petal Alderman-At-Large Willie Hinton, who died unexpectedly. To reserve the pavilion, please call City Hall at (601) 5451776. Pets are not allowed at the park or on the walking track. Pavilion Fees: Deposit: $20 - refundable if clean. Rental: $10 per hour with a two hour minimum and a maximum of 4 hours. Tables & Chairs Set Up Fee: Additional $30 Lights Fee: Additional $10 (flat rate) ROBERT E. RUSSELL SPORTS COMPLEX The complex is the home to four new ball fields, a concession stand and press box. This complex also offers three other ball fields, along with restroom facilities, a walking track, two tennis courts, a playground, known as Friendly Park, which offers swings, a large colorful slide and climbing equipment, and a skate park. Pets are not allowed at the park or on the walking track. PETAL SKATEBOARD PARK Located at 605 Hillcrest Loop, the 14,000-square-foot $300,000 skateboard facility, designed by California Skate Parks, is located at the Robert E. Russell Sports Complex and opened in 2009.The free skateboard park is owned and maintained by the city. EMMA HILL PARK Located on McInnis Street, this park is in close proximity to Petalʼs Habitat for Humanity homes. The park was a factor in Petal being designated as a “Playful City USA” earlier by the non-profit organization KaBoom! The park features playground and a basketball pad.

PETAL DOG PARK The Petal Dog Park is located on Dawson Cut Off, just off South Main Street, behind A & B Cycles. Built by the City of Petal with the support and funding of local businesses and patrons of the park, the Petal Dog Park officially opened on Nov. 17, 2007.

Spotlight on: Hinton (Relay) Park

lthough it is now officially known as Willie Hinton Park, for many Petal residents it will always be thought of as Relay Park – a park that literally grew from Petalʼs first Relay for Life in 1999. When Petal held its first Relay event behind City Hall on April 30 of that year, “It was just an open field,” Shannon Coleman Decker said. Forrest General Hospital, which, at that time, was a sponsor of Forrest Countyʼs Relay for Life, was so impressed with Petalʼs efforts during its first year that, in April of 2000, it joined with the city in putting up a walking track and lights on the site, she said. In 2001, the site was named Relay Park, Decker said, and sometime after that a pavilion was constructed there. Decker said she believes it was around 2006 or 2007 that the playground itself was constructed. Friendly Park, located at 577 Hillcrest, was already established by that time, but, “It was very small,” Decker said. As Relay Park began to grow, the city went back and added improvements to Friendly Park as well, she said. Relay Park was renamed in July 2010 in memory of former Petal Alderman Willie Hinton. The Petal Dog Park is open every day and has no set hours and ample lighting at night, so you will usually find someone there along with their canine companions enjoying the park when you arrive (or usually within a short time after if you happen to arrive and find yourself alone at the park). The Petal Dog Park features two separate fenced enclosures, one for smaller dogs and one for the larger dogs. Those visiting the park are asked to follow the rules and practice basic dog park etiquette. The park is free, but can be rented out for special events. Call Petal City Hall, 601-545-1776. Petal's Recreation Dept. hosts many events throughout the year, including: Dixie Youth Baseball sponsored by the Optimist Club, Optimist Park; Girls' Slowpitch Softball sponsored by the Petal Girls Softball Association, Sunrise Community Center Fields; Youth Basketball - Petal Youth Sports Association, Middle School Gym; PeeWee Football and Cheerleading - Petal Youth Sports Association, Barrontown Community Center Field; Petal Select Baseball - Petal Youth Sports Association, Robert E. Russell Sports Complex; Youth 8 and under Soccer - Petal Family YMCA and Hinton Park.

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The Petal News

Clubs/Organizations BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA 1318 Hardy Street Hattiesburg, MS 39401 601-582-2326 GIRL SCOUTS OF AMERICA 500 North Hutchinson Ave. Hattiesburg, MS 39403 601-582-1455 PETAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 1771 North Main Street 601-583-3306 CHILDRENʼS TASK FORCE 314 S. George Ave. 601-255-5578 CENTER FOR FAMILIES AND CHILDREN 201 W. Central Ave. 601-584-4704 HERITAGE CLUB OF PETAL Meets second Thursday of each month, Sept.-May Meets in membersʼ homes

PETAL EUPHUIA CLUB Meets 4th Thursday at noon Meet in membersʼ homes COSMOPOLITAN CLUB Meets 2nd Thursday each month Sept.–May at the Clinton House, corner of Ford and Sixth Street PETAL KIWANIS CLUB Meets Tuesdays, 11 a.m. Petal Civic Center PETAL ROTARY CLUB Meets Mondays, 11 a.m. Petal Civic Center PETAL LIONS CLUB Meets fourth Tuesday night or each month, 6 p.m. at Petal Presbyterian Church PETAL OPTIMIST CLUB Meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at the Optimist Clubhouse PETAL YOUTH SPORTS www.petalyouthsports.com

Spotlight on: Petal Rotary Club

r. Barbara Mauldin describes taking on the title of Rotary Clubʼs District Governor as “four years of preparation, but itʼs actually a lifetime commitment.” After serving in several positions leading up to that of District Governor, Mauldin will be named to the office during the District Conference in Bay St. Louis in April 2013, but she doesnʼt officially start in the position until July 1. “My first official visit will be at the Petal club that Wednesday,” Mauldin said. The district, which stretches from southeast Louisiana across southern Mississippi, includes 54 Rotary Clubs, and Mauldin plans to speak at each of them during her first several months as District Governor. “Thatʼs my initiation” to the office, she said of the whirlwind tour, during which she will meet with virtually all of the members in the district. “Itʼs interesting how each cub has its on personality,” she said. Even after she completes her term as District Governor, Mauldin said, “The past district governors continue to be actively involved as a source of great innovating thinking.” Rotary Club has six areas of focus, Mauldin said: Disease prevention, maternal and child health, water and sanitation, economic and community growth, peace and conflict resolution and basic education and literacy. One major emphasis of the club internationally has been the goal of ending polio, a goal that is in sight. “There have only been five cases reported worldwide so far this year, in Pakistan and Nigeria,” Mauldin said. “It used to be thousands a day. Now itʼs five this year.” Closer to home, Petalʼs Rotary Club actively participating in Dolly Partonʼs Imagination Library, a project to provide new books every month to children up to the age of 5 years. “Weʼve been doing that for seven years now,” Mauldin said of the clubʼs participation in that program, noting that the club currently sponsors more than 350 children.

The Petal News

The Petal Guide

Our community: Tom King Southern District Transportation Commissioner Tom King is no stranger to receiving awards and recognition, but being named this year’s recipient of the Bobby Runnels Leadership Award “is very much an honor,” King said. “To be honored by your hometown folks makes it that much better.” Jim Smith, last year’s recipient and the presenter of this year’s award, said the honor was the other way around. “I have known this person…for my entire life,” Smith said, adding, “He has the respect and honor of everyone he knows.” Among his numerous professional awards and honors, King was named the 2011 Mississippi Municipal League Legislator of the Year and 2010 Hattiesburg Veteran of the Year and received the Ameri-

can Legion Meritorious Service Award in 2007. Although King was born in Hattiesburg, Smith said, Petal has a strong claim to being his hometown. King graduated from Petal High School and the University of Southern Mississippi, where he received a bachelor of science degree. He lives in Petal with his wife, the former Susan Lynn Patterson, and they have two children. They are members of Petal-Harvey Baptist Church, where he serves as a deacon. King is affiliated with the University of Southern Mississippi Alumni Association, the Petal Area Chamber of Commerce, Rotary International, the American Legion and the VFW. He is a veteran of the Vietnam War, having served as an Air

Policeman in the Air Force. After serving as a state lawmaker from 1993-1999 in the state House of Representatives, he was elected to the state Senate, beginning his tenure there in 2000. As chairman of the Senate Highways and Transportation Committee, he authored legislation that directly benefitted transportation, infrastructure and economic development throughout the state. He currently is serving his first term and Southern District Transportation Commissioner. While receiving this year’s Bobby Runnels Leadership Award, King said he was pleased to be in his current position, since it allows him to help support the Petal Area. “Transportation equals economic development. Economic development equals jobs,” he said.

The Petal Guide

The Petal News

Area Churches ASSEMBLY OF GOD Bethel Assembly of God 213 McKinnon Street (601) 544-2249 BAPTIST Bible Baptist 728 South Main Street (601) 582-5653 Calvary Baptist 1123 Hwy. 42 (601) 583-8309 Carterville Baptist 1115 Carterville Road (601) 584-9457 Crestview Baptist 479 Old Corinth Road (601) 582-1559 Crossroad Baptist 1053 Old River Road (601) 582-9880 Eastabuchie Baptist Hwy. 11 North of Petal (601) 582-7030 Crossroad Baptist 1522 Hwy. 42 (601) 584-6888 First Baptist Church 992 Hwy 42 (601) 545-3198 Greenʼs Creek Baptist 711 Old Richton Road (601) 582-2450 Indian Springs Baptist 185 Walter Myers Road (601) 584-8970 Lynn Ray Road Baptist 197 Lynn Ray Road (601) 545-7635 Macedonia Baptist 609 Macedonia Road (601) 545-3110 Mars Hill Baptist 66 Mars Hill Road (601) 544-7111 Mt. Bethel Baptist 402 McInnis Street (601) 545-1226 Mt. Olive Baptist 39 Eastabuchie Road (601) 544-0540 Mt. Vernon Baptist 883 Hwy. 42 (601) 545-3361

Petal Independent Baptist 7 Pop Runnels Road (601) 583-4225 Petal-Harvey Baptist 600 S. Main Street (601) 583-1743 Runnelstown First Baptist 9211 Hwy. 42 (601) 583-3733 Sunrise Baptist 299 Sunrise Road, Petal (601) 583-1850 Trinity Baptist 53 Corinth Road (601) 584-7432 Turning Pointe Baptist 1145 Hwy 42 East (601) 270-1899 Vision Baptist 1056 Morriston Road (601) 584-8222 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ 1530 Hwy. 42 (601) 583-2525 CHURCH OF GOD Petal Church of God 319 Old Richton Road (601) 583-0943 JEHOVAHʼS WITNESS Jehovahʼs Witness 27 Barrontown Road (601) 582-4952 METHODIST Asbury United Methodist 1331 Hwy. 42 (601) 545-3006 East Pine African Methodist 923 Hwy. 42 (601) 544-9709 Moselle United Methodist Moselle Rd. (601) 325-1098 Petal United Methodist 418 S. Main St. (601) 582-0440 PENTECOSTAL First United Pentecostal 714 Old Richton Road, (601) 545-3407 PRESBYTERIAN Petal Presbyterian 305 S. Main St. (601) 582-477

Spotlight on: Petal United Methodist

etal United Methodist Church has been a downtown presence in Petal since the early 1900s. Its pastor, the Rev. Jonathan Wallace, who has been there since June, describes Petal United Methodist as a traditional, family-oriented church. Worship service begins at 10 a.m. Sunday, with Sunday School beginning at 9 a.m. A Wednesday night meal begins about 5:45 p.m., followed by Bible study at about 6:15-6:20 p.m. About 125-130 people attend worship service each week. Wallace said the church has long been a supporter of the community. A Relay for Life team raises funds year-round, he said, noting that the churchʼs congregation was instrumental in bringing Relay for Life to Petal. In addition, he said, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts meet weekly at the church, which also hosts Vacation Bible School in the summer. “We are moving more toward an outreach focus. Weʼre trying to reach the poor and hungry in our community,” Wallace said, noting that a meal truck provides free meals beginning at 11:45 a.m. Monday through Friday in partnership with Christian Services. About 10 people get meals each day, he said. The church also is partnering to do long-term recovery from the Feb. 10 tornado, Wallace said. “We will be hosting groups who come in with special skills, such as roofing, plumbing and electrical,” he said. “Weʼll bring them in and house them. Weʼre renovating a house wo own next door to eventually house them.”

The Petal News

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DESTRUCTION AND DEVASTATION.....The tornado of Feb. 10, 2013, that struck the Pine Belt caused heavy damage throughout Petal – from businesses and churches to residential neighborhoods. But the community and its residents, along with a multitude from across the country, turned out to lend helping hands – fixing meals, cutting up trees, patching roofs and dragging debris to the roadside. Petal is slowly coming back with the help of many.

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Playing in the Pine Belt Several opportunities await the outdoors enthusiast in the Pine Belt – from waterparks to canoeing expeditions to hiking trails and more. n Pepʼs Point is a spring-fed lake facility and includes a waterslide, swimming and picnic areas and waterfront camping sites. Miniature golf, basketball, volleyball courts, paddleboats, a game room with video games, ping pong and pool tables are just a few of the things you might enjoy. 382 Pepʼs Point Road, Hattiesburg, 601-582-8461. n Grand Paradise Waterpark in Collins, is a 7-acre blast of water excitement. An 850-foot lazy river winds along and there are four major slides. Food court. 50 Grandview Drive in Collins. Grand Paradise is located approx. 30 minutes north of Hattiesburg and 60 min. south of Jackson, on Hwy. 49 at the intersection of Hwy 84. Grand Paradise is located behind the Best Western

Collins Inns & Suites For the RVʼer, sites and tent sites, laundry facilities, a fishing point, propane and pool pavilion welcome those who like to travel the open roads at the Shady Cove RV Park. Many of the opportunities below also offer sites for campers. n Longleaf Trace – A rails-to-trails conservancy project spanning three counties with 42 miles of paved trailway for biking, walking, outdoor photography, bird watching and many other outdoor recreational activities. A 23-mile equestrian trail parallels the paved trail. Hattiesburg to Prentiss, 800- 638-6877, www.longleaftrace.com n Paul B. Johnson State Park – This 744-acre park provides fishing and water sports in the 296-acre spring-fed Geiger Lake, a visitors' center with game room, 16 cabin units, 108 RV sites, 25 tent sites, and a self-guided na-

ture trail. 319 Geiger Lake Road, Hattiesburg, MS 39401, 601-582-7721 n Soggy Bottom Canoe & Kayak – Located in the Black Creek Wilderness Area of the Desoto National Forest, Soggy Bottom offers canoe and kayak rentals, cabins, RV sites, camping, hiking, and river trips. 1651 Hwy 29, Brooklyn, 601-598-2745, www.soggybottomcanoe. com n South Mississippi Canoe Rental – The Floating Canoe Rental offers a variety of trips on the Leaf River, Bowie River and Red Creek. There is something to suit the experienced, as well as novice paddlers. Day trips or overnight trips are available and all are within 50 miles of Hattiesburg, 23 Old Hwy 49 West, Brooklyn 39425, 601-544-4207, www.southmscanoe.com n Black Creek Canoe Rental – Designated a National Wild and Scenic River, adventure lovers can enjoy hiking

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and day and overnight canoe trips on the Black Creek, Off Highway 49 Brooklyn, 601-582-8817 , www.blackcreekcanoe.com n Okatoma Outdoor Post – Okatoma Outdoor Post offers canoe and kayak rentals for day and overnight trips on Mississippi's only Class 1 whitewater river. If you love the outdoors, don't miss the primitive camping and cabins offered along the Okatoma, off Highway 49, Sanford, 601- 722-4297 or 888Okatoma, www.okatoma.com n Seminary Canoe Rental – Day and overnight canoe trips along Mississippi's only whitewater river are available at this popular spot, also offering a Trading Post and picnic areas. Hwy 49 North Seminary, 601-722-4301 n Little Black Creek Water Park, Pat Harrison Waterway District Waterparks. This water park offers 600 acres for swimming, fishing, hiking and boating. Scenic campsites, cabins, bungalows, a convenience store and picnic areas are available to make the most of your trip to Little Black Creek. Located between Purvis and Lumberton, 601-794-2957, www.waterparkin.com n Flint Creek Water Park, Pat Harrison Waterway District Waterparks. This waterpark features four giant waterslides, as well as 600 additional acres for fishing, swimming, water skiing, hiking and boating. Primitive camping, RV camping and cabins are also available. Highway 29, Wiggins, 601-928-3051, www.waterparkin.com n Kamper Park – Home of the Hattiesburg Zoo, David Anthony Tennis Complex, Exchange Club baseball fields and a walking and exercise area, this park features a covered pavilion, playgrounds and picnic areas. Open dawn to dusk. Free admission. Corner of Hardy Street and 17th Ave, 601-545-4576.

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The Petal News

Area Golf Courses Year-round golf is one of the reasons retirees move south. Low fees and available tee times are the norm at the area golf courses Other top-rated courses are located within 30 miles of Hattiesburg in Laurel, Wiggins, Collins, Prentiss, and Columbia. Hattiesburg Country Club ......................18 holes Private course - For more info, call(602) 264-5078 Timberton Golf Club................................27 holes Semi-Private - For more info, call (601) 584-4653 Twin Pines Country Club ..........................9 holes Semi-Private - For more info, call (601) 544-8318 Dixie Golf Club........................................ 18 holes Private - For more info, call (601) 649-3384 Canebrake Golf Club ..............................18 holes Semi-Private - For more info, call (601) 271-2010 Hillsdale Golf Course ..............................18 holes Public course - For more info, call (601) 796-9005 Pine Belt National Golf Club ..................18 holes Semi-Private- For more info, call (601) 584-6531 Pine Burr Country Club ..........................18 holes Public course - For more info, call (601) 928-4911 Pine Creek Golf Club ..............................18 holes Public course - For more info, call (601) 794-6427 Shadow Ridge Golf Club ........................18 holes Semi-Private - For more info, call (601) 296-0286 Tennis is also a favorite sport of area citizens. Matches and tournaments are held year-round on more than 50 public/private tennis courts around the Pine Belt.

Forrest County Multipurpose Center The old saying, "time flies when you're having fun," rings true for the J. L. Cartlidge Forrest County Multipurpose Center (FCMPC). This year, the event center celebrates its 14th anniversary. In the 14 short years the facility has been in operation, it has proven to be one of the best entertainment and recreational facilities in the Southeast. The 160-acre complex is responsible for bringing a significant amount of new

faces and new dollars to Hattiesburg, Forrest County and the surrounding Pine Belt area. Since its opening in 1999, the facility has hosted more than 2,000 events and has seen more than 1.5 million visitors walk through its gates. The facility has also added a 147-site RV Park and now boasts a total of 11 buildings. The FCMPC truly does have something for everyone. From horse and livestock shows to gun shows, carnivals

and fairs, the entire family can enjoy an event at the center. One of the biggest events at the Forrest County center is the annual MayFest, which draws an average of 12,000 people to the complex. Live music concerts, mixed martial arts, an outdoor rock band contest with thousands in cash and prizes, rides, games and various fundraising efforts are some of the attractions scheduled for the annual celebration.

The Petal News

The Petal Guide

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The Petal Guide

Index of Advertisers A1 Graphics..................................39 BancorpSouth...............................14 Blaine Bozeman............................26 Carter’s...........................................8 Carterville Baptist Church.............13 Catfish Wagon..............................14 Computer Concepts......................23 Dolores Fairley...............................31 Economy Supply............Back Cover El Mariachi Loco............................38 Excel by 5.....................................32 Family Dentistry.............................31 Forrest Funeral Home.....................8 Forrest General Hospital.................4 Fox’s Pizza.........Inside Back Cover Furniture World..............................26 Green Eye Institute........................37 Hancock Bank................................40 Hattiesburg Clinic...........................21 Hattiesburg Oral Surgery...............40 Hulett-Winstead.............................31 Leaf River Sports...........................38 Lovie’s.............................................1 Macedonia Baptist Church.............14 Missy Anna’s.................................37 Moore Funeral Home....................26 Panther Pet Hospital......................18

Park Place Pharmacy.....................26 Petal Animal Clinic.........................37 Petal Chamber of Commerce.........2 Petal Drugs......................................8 Petal Family Y................................38 Premier Orthopaedics....................38 Race Ready..................................32 Reynolds Family Dental................23 Rodgers Pharmacy.......................23 Salon Associates...........................26 Smokey’s Tobacco.........................21 Snap Fitness..................................31 Southern Bone & Joint..................18 Southern Lanes..............................26 Studio 7..........................................31 The Fireplace & Stone Center.......21 The Petal News.............................32 The Sweet Olive............................18 The Yarn Basket...........................38 Thomas Tax.......Inside Front Cover T.L. Curry Accountant...................37 Tony Ducker Insurance..................31 Vineyard Church...........................39 Wagon Wheel Steakhouse...........37 Walnut Circle Grill..........................32 Ward’s of Petal..............................38 Wesley Medical Center..................16

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