The Petal Guide by Hattiesburg Publishing, Inc.

Published by The PETAL NEWS

Petal Chamber of Commerce

DAVID GUSTAFSON Editor/Publisher

BETH BUNCH Managing Editor

FYI City Map

JOSH MLOT Sports Editor

DANA GOWER Staff Writer

Inside Look Ready to serve City Departments

BILL BENGE Art Director

EMILY HALL Graphic Artist

MISSY PICKERING

Education Highlighting Petal Public Schools

Advertising Sales Manager

SHANNON FIELDER Advertising Sales

JESSICA WALLACE Advertising Sales

SONYA JAMES Office Manager On the cover : Raegan Wallace, age 4, waves the American flag during a Petal Football game.

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

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

The Petal Guide 2012-13 is a product of Hattiesburg Publishing, Inc., publishers of The PETAL NEWS, The LAMAR TIMES, Signature Magazine and Camp Shelby Reveille.

Area Churches Houses of worship in the Petal area

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

Playing in the Pine Belt

www.HubCitySPOKES.com

Sports & outdoor recreation

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welcome to petal On behalf of the Board of Aldermen and the City of Petal, I want to welcome you to the Pine Belt of South Mississippi. Specifically, I want to tell you why the City of Petal is a great place to live. Our community is committed to education and a family-friendly environment. Petal is a city built around one of the best school districts in the state of Mississippi. The Petal School District is one of just a few “STAR” districts in the state, and Petal High School is a nationally-recognized Blue Ribbon School. In addition to our great schools, Petalʼs recreation program offers a variety of activities for children of all ages. Petalʼs motto is “The Friendly City” and we take pride in our low crime rate and abundance of churches. Petal is the third-largest city in the Pine Belt and you will find a variety of restaurants, retail stores, and services for you and your family. Yet, as we grow in size, the 10,454 citizens of Petal maintain the small-town tradition of looking after our neighbors and treating friends like family. There are many housing options in the city of Petal. We have several new subdivisions under construction, along with more established neighborhoods where you can find a quality home at an affordable price. Whatever housing choice you are looking for, you can find it in Petal! If you are new to this area, come see us in Petal. We will put out the welcome mat and show you why we are proud to call it home. We think you will be, too. Sincerely,

Hal Marx Mayor City of Petal

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from the chamber elcome and thank you for taking the time to inquire about Petal. On behalf of the Petal Area Chamber of Commerce, I encourage you to enjoy this magazine and learn a little about our wonderful city. Our best kept secret, Petal, is becoming known for our excellent schools, churches, recreation and quality of life. All of us who live in Petal know that this is the “Premier Place to LIVE, WORK, PLAY” and of course, raise a family.

Whether you are a current resident of Petal, business owner or looking to relocate your family or new business here, the Chamber knows we have the advantage of living in a big city with a small town charm. There are many opportunities of living in Petal. A few of the many things that make Petal great are: w A thriving business community with many more on the horizon. You will find that special customer service that is missing in most of your larger cities. We have a city that works with the chamber to instill community pride. We continue to have new interests from businesses looking to locate in Petal. even with a nationwide downturn in the economy. w Petal is known for our education level. Not only do we have the best schools in the state, we also have an early childhood program that works with babies beginning at birth. As a pilot program Excel by Five was brought to Petal and once again we stepped up to the challenge to become the first Excel By Five Certified Community in the U.S. We will get into the home of every newborn and family in our zip code. We offer the very first in the state in specialized Dyslexia school, with our 3-D School. w Our city is dedicated to providing the very best public service and safety. Our police and fire departments are committed to the safety of its residents. Our water, street and sanitation departments work to be proactive, but will react to issues 24 hours a day. w Petal has always been known as a community full of recreational opportunities. Our recreation department has activities continually going on for the kids. A few of the activities beside ballgames include a Citywide Easter Egg Hunt, Spring Break Camp for kids, Night Out Against Crime cookout and Pizza with Santa. A new skateboard park and kids playground became operational in spring 2009. We have a beautiful new baseball complex that should be open by May 2012. Petal is home to the stateʼs first Dog Park and we also now have a beautiful new skate park. There are 2 city walking tracks and 3 within the Petal area. For those who like the indoor exercise experience, Petal is home to the Petal Family YMCA. w A Senior Center offers activities 5 days a week 7 hours per day. Just over the Rainbow Little Theater is housed in our new culture center that is adjacent to the senior center. w Petal is very much a community around family events. The American Cancerʼs annual Relay For Life starts the year off in May, Fourth on the First in July, Christmas Parade and Lighting of Trees follow in December. These are events that are spearheaded by our very active Chamber. The city offers you an excellent event with the Petal Fall Festival. There is no doubt that it is an exciting and progressive time in Petal. We invite you to be a part of that excitement. If you live here now, become involved in the many different areas of life in Petal, learn what goes on, be a part of the different activities. If you are looking to make Petal your home, please visit our web site, www.petalchamber.com or www.cityofpetal.com and stop by the office to say hi and get acquainted. I know you will feel that Petal is a wonderful place to call home.

Deborah Reynolds, President Petal Area Chamber of Commerce

The Petal News

about the chamber: From welcoming new businesses to working with existing businesses and organizations, the Petal Area Chamber of Commerce stays active throughout the year promoting the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business climate and enhancing the overall quality of life of the Friendly City. 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, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Petal Area Chamber of Commerce will promote and support business, government and education through economic development and community involvement.â&#x20AC;? It is through community development, according to the chamber, that a community creates, retains and reinvests wealth During the past year, the chamber participated in 11 ribbon-cutting events and welcomed 13 new members. Highlights during the past year ranged from the reality of Taco Bell opening its doors in Petal to the opening of the new baseball complex and football stadium at Petal High School. More than 11,000 people attended the first football game at the new stadium. The city also saw the expansion and renovation of its Wal-Mart store during the past year, along with a steady growth in sales tax collections. Some of the other highlights during the year include: w Promoting a Tax Free Weekend for businesses w Co-hosting a Teacher Job Fair with the Petal School District, resulting in more than 125 applicants w Meeting with the 158th Army Brigade, which brought 25 families to Petal w Promoting Shop Petal First w An ongoing Mississippi Scholars Program w The annual Christmas Parade, which continues to grow each year w Professional Assistant Day Appreciation Dinner w Senior Health Fair w Miss Hospitality program w Survivors Reception at Relay for Life w Hosting statewide Chamber meeting w Participating with the National Program of Early Childhood Development

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petal at a glance: Petal officials have much to be pleased about – from increased sales tax revenues to a number of new businesses. The opening of national chain businesses such as Loweʼs, Chiliʼs and Taco Bell, have spurred excitement and interest in the area, according to Deborah Reynolds, director of the Petal Area Chamber of Commerce. One factor that has contributed to the area's growth is the completion of the Evelyn Gandy Parkway, which connects Highway 42 in Petal to Interstate 59. Work to extend the Parkway continues eastward out past Petal High School to the Sunrise/Macedonia crossroads. Reynolds pointed out that the continuing trend of sales taxes coming in above the prior year's totals is a positive sign, especially at a time when many cities are struggling. "I think people are seeing how important those sales taxes are to the city," she said. "That's the bulk of the city's budget." Reynolds sees a number of reasons for the increase in sales, ranging from new businesses that provide more variety to a positive shopping atmosphere. "Families come from other communities to shop here," she said, noting that shoppers appreciate the city's easy flow of traffic and safe, friendly environment. The cityʼs annual Shop Petal First promotion held in November each year promotes the Friendly Cityʼs many businesses as the first stop

for patrons looking to purchase needed items. The stateʼs Tax Free Holiday, held the last weekend of July each year, also prompts shoppers to buy items from Petal businesses and save paying sales tax. The city's friendly atmosphere is one of the selling tools Reynolds has to offer businesses that are considering locating in Petal. Separated from Hattiesburg by the Leaf River, Petal functions as a trading, educational and medical center for south Mississippi. Many Hattiesburg medical facilities have opened satellite offices in Petal enabling residents to stay at home for many of their medical needs. Whether medical, dental or optometric, such facilities are available in Petal. With the completion of ballfields at the Robert Russell Sports Complex, the city hopes to host state tournaments, which will bring guests into the Friendly City and spend tourism dollars. Its retail trade area is separated from Hattiesburg by the Leaf River on the west and south, and extends north in Jones County and east into Perry County. A recent survey showed that 85 percent of shoppers were from Forrest, Jones and Perry counties. The city also is centrally positioned between Jackson (89 miles), Mobile (95 miles), New Orleans (98 miles) and the Mississippi Gulf Coast (70 miles). Dallas, Atlanta, Memphis, St. Louis and Charlotte are all within a day's drive.

w Elevation: 162 feet above sea level. w Land Area: 9.67 square miles w Population: 10,454 (2010 cenus) 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 girl’s 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 town’s 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 Aldermen’s 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 citizens’ 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, first-serve 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 through the continued education and training of

spotlight on: petal public works

lthough Petal’s street, sanitation and water and sewer departments remain separate, putting them under the supervision of a public works director has saved the city money and increased efficiency. Because the city’s water and sewer operation is required to be fee based; the sanitation department is mostly fee based, with the city assessing one mill toward its operation; and the street department is funded entirely through the city budget, the departments are kept separate for accounting purposes. But being able to crossutilize the workers in those departments under the direction of centralized managers makes them more efficient and, ultimately, saves the city money, city officials say. Larry Carraway, formerly head of the street department, now serves as public works director, while Dale Nutting, formerly head of the sanitation department, now serves as assistant public works director. The two directors take the place of four that existed in the past, including a fuel center director and water department director. Other changes also have increased efficiency and lowered costs, he said. The fuel center, which once had two mechanics and acted as a maintenance facility, now is used strictly for pumping fuel and is open from 6 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Carraway said, noting that the police department has its own key to the fuel center. The most recent change, he said, was moving a city maintenance person from the civic center to public works, allowing the public works office to make more efficient use of his time.

our personnel. The City of Petal Building Department services the public in several areas, including: n Building Inspections & Permits n Code Enforcement n Planning Commission n 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 city’s 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 at 6 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. 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 Women’s 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

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from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. A drop box is located at 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 city’s 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 Director: Deborah Reynolds 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 Chapter of AARP meets at the Civic Center on a regular monthly basis as well as offering other activities throughout the year aimed at seniors. 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: Christy Kelly The Petal Senior Center provides a helpful, support system for area senior citizens offering a variety of services and activities. “We are a recreational day center,” according to Center Director Christy Kelly. In addition to providing immediate needs, the center “provides a place for companionship, fun, self improvement and a gathering hall,” according to the center’s mission statement. “The idea is to get them active in the world,” Kelly said. 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 center’s 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 Kelly hopes 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 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 district is committed to achieving its mission – To empower all students with the attitude, knowledge and lifelong learning skills essential to thrive as responsible citizens in an ever-changing global society. 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 commu-

nity to ensure the schools reflect the local values and quality of life inherent in the citizens of the Petal School District. While retaining its positive small-town atmosphere, Petal has become state and nationally known for its quality schools and award-winning athletic and performing arts programs. 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. Superior academic success has become a long standing expectation in the Petal School District. The Level 5 ratings that the schools continually achieved in the previous state accountability model were an indication that they are one of the best school districts in the state. That tradition of academic success continues on the new accountability rating system. Petal High School achieved the highest status possible, “Star School.” Only 29 schools in Mississippi achieved this prestigious title. This rating indicates that this school compares to top performing schools nationwide. The rating of “High Performing” indicates that Petal Middle School and Petal Upper Elementary that students are performing above the national average. New facilities have been added in recent years. In 2008 a new primary school, softball complex, performing arts building and access road were

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The Petal Guide added. In 2010, a new on-campus baseball complex was built on the old football practice field and has served the team well as it has won back-to-back State 6A Championships in 20092010 and 2010-2011. A new $8 million football stadium complex was completed in August 2010. The stadium seats about 6,5000 on the home side with 2,000 seats for visitors. Approximately 3,000 seats are chairbacks and were sold as reserved seating. The complex was designed by Landry and Lewis Architects with Mac’s Construction as the contractor. The field is a synthetic grass surface. Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. John Buchanan, who began his tenure in July 2009, work is progressing to further advance the instructional process by revising curriculum, conducting meaningful professional development and recruiting and retaining the best qualified teachers. These efforts, along with the support of parents and the community, will enable staff to meet the challenges of the advanced standards necessary for students to remain competitive on a state and national level. Recognizing the importance of long-range planning, school district personnel, with the involvement of community members, designed and implemented two cycles of strategic planning to guide the district through the past 11 years. Community members, school district personnel and students meet annually to revise and update the plan to keep it current and applicable. Because of their vision and the combined efforts of the entire Petal community, the Petal School District has been able to achieve remarkable results in recent years. More information 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 elementary

alk down the hallways at Petal Elementary School and you will find the walls decorated with samples of some of the best writing efforts of the school’s roughly 640 students in grades three and four. You will also see classrooms – 26 in all – filled with students and teachers committed to learning. Located at 1179 Highway 42 next to the high school, where Petal Elementary’s students will one day be completing their public school journey, the school is under the direction of Principal Kelli Brown and Assistant Principal Gloria Wyatt. The school includes about 316 third-grade students in 12 classrooms and 320 fourth-graders in 14 classrooms. The 26 classroom teachers are joined by 10 gifted and special education teachers, including one speech and two inclusion teachers, four elective teachers, one each for Spanish reading and intervention, 10 teacher assistants, a counselor, a nurse and three office employees. Academically, the school is continuing its focus on developing reading and fact fluency. Accelerated Reader incentives and recognition continue to motivate students to read independently. Two family nights this year, both very well attended, have featured reading fair projects, science fair projects, book fairs and student art exhibits. The school’s Positive Behavior Committee has focused on developing an awareness of the positive character traits. In December, the school focused specifically on generosity through a school-wide donation project, and in February they “brightened our world” with an emphasis centered on showing kindness to others. The Junior Panther and I Am PES programs for good behavior have continued throughout the year and students look forward to being recognized for making good choices. Behavior referrals are down from last year and attendance has improved.

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24 Petal High School athletic teams have a rich history of success within their programs. 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 has won back-to-back 6A State Championships in 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 with football and soccer programs making it into the playoffs each year.

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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, Excel By 5 Petal 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 district’s 290-plus students. Hattiesburg schools administered the assessment in 2011 and Lamar county completed the assessment in 2012. The assessment identifies strengths and vulnerabilities regarding children’s 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. The experience thus far has been rewarding, she 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. 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. “That’s when we got in the car and drove down to Petal so Barbour could see the work that’s 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 District’s Center for Families and Children is the community “hub” for Excel By 5 Petal. 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 • Kids’ 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 weeks-three years) • Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Medicaid Enrollment Assistance Families with school-age children • Education Resources Check-Out Program • Big Brothers/Big Sisters Mentoring Program • Kids’ Health Fair • Computer Lab • Children’s 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 Excel By 5 Petal Coalition sponsor a children’s 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 2011, Excel By 5 Petal sponsored the city’s first “Born Learning Trail” at Hinton Park. To learn more about Excel By 5 Petal and available resources to support your family, stop by to visit the Petal School District’s Center for Families and Children, 201 West Central Avenue, located on the corner of Central and George Street. Center hours are Mondays & Wednesdays 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Tuesdays & Thursdays 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Fridays, 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

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. Willie Hinton Park, formerly known as Relay Park and 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 firstcome 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 AldermanAt-Large Willie Hinton, who died unexpectedly. To reserve the pavilion, please call City Hall at (601) 545-1776. 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 (City Park) located on Hillcrest Loop is currently undergoing major construction. This complex currently offers three ball fields with concession stand and restroom facilities, a walking track, two tennis courts, a playground and a skate park. Improvements being made include the addition of four new ball fields, which are expected to be ready this summer, new concession stand and press box. Pets are not allowed at the park or on the walking track. 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. PETAL SKATEBOARD PARK 605 Hillcrest Loop A 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, owned and maintained by the city, features a Pro Shop and concessions.

spotlight on: emma hill park he Emma Hill Park on McInnis Street is the latest of Petal’s parks scheduled to get a face lift later this year. Petal Parks and Recreation Director Tom Hardges said getting the Robert E. Russell Sr. Sports Complex ready for summer ball tournaments has been the recreation department’s priority, but that the Emma Hill Park is next on the list. “Once somebody yells, ‘Play ball,’ we’ll be ready to start” on the park project, he said. “A lot of people aren’t real familiar with Emma Hill Park,” which is a smaller park in the city, Hardges said. The park is just down the street from where five new Habitat for Humanity homes are being planned, with construction of the first home already underway. “It’s a nice neighborhood,” Valeria Wilbert, who will be living in one of the homes, said of McInnis Street. The park was a factor in Petal being designated as a “Playful City USA” earlier this year by the non-profit organization KaBoom! “KaBoom! also selected Petal for its outstanding dedication to play,” the organization stated.

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. Although the Petal Dog Park was built primarily for local dogs and their owners, the news and popularity of the dog park is growing and today attracts a growing number of neighboring patrons from across the bridge in Hattiesburg. 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. This helps keep the peace and accidents down from big dogs trampling little 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.

The Petal Guide

clubs/ organizations BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA 1318 Hardy St Hattiesburg, MS 39401

PETAL CIVIC CENTER 712 S Main Street Petal, MS 39465

GULF PINES GIRL SCOUTS 500 Hutchinson Avenue Hattiesburg, MS 39403

PETAL EUPHUIA CLUB 7 Red Maple Trail Petal, MS 39465

HERITAGE CLUB OF PETAL 219 Macedonia Road Petal, MS 39465

PETAL FAMILY YMCA 547 Hillcrest Loop Petal, MS 39465 601.583.9399

LEBONTE CLUB P O Box 204 Petal, MS 39465

GIRLS SOFTBALL ASSN petalgirlssoftballassociation

PETAL AARP 137 W. 4th Ave Petal, MS 39465

PETAL KIWANIS CLUB P.O. Box 642 Petal, MS 39465

PETAL AMERICAN LEGION 791 S. Main Street Petal, MS 39465

PETAL MASONIC LODGE 120 Campbell Street Petal, MS 39465

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 712-B South Main Street Petal, MS 39465 601-583-3306

PETAL OPTIMIST CLUB 100 Radke Drive Petal, MS 39465

PETAL ROTARY CLUB PETAL ASSN FOR FAMILIES P.O. Box 815 787 S Main Street Petal, MS 39465 Petal, MS 39465 PETAL YOUTH SPORTS CHILDREN'S TASK FORCE P.O. Box 1172 201 W. Central Avenue Petal, MS 39465 Petal, MS 39465 www.petalyouthsports.com

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spotlight on: petal kiwanis

he Petal Kiwanis Club, which was founded on April 15, 1952, will be celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. Joe Hendry, president of the club, said the organization is planning to hold an anniversary celebration, and hopes to invite all former members to attend. Hendry is a relatively new member of the organization, but said he became interested in joining because of the good work that it does. “Itʼs a worthy organization,” he said, adding, “I wanted to be a part of something I could make an impact with.” Not only that, he said, but, “I enjoy it.” Bob Lee, the clubʼs treasurer, said the Petal Kiwanis Club has always been an important part of his life. “My father (Archie R. Lee) was one of the founding members,” Lee said. There were 43 charter members in the organization, which was started by the Kiwanis Club of Hattiesburg. Walter H. Clinton, who was the presiding officer of the Hattiesburg Kiwanis Club, was the founder of the Petal Club, Lee said. Originally, the club was known as the Petal-Harvey Kiwanis Club, but the name eventually was changed. In the early days, the club met at the Kiwanis Hut on Ford Drive, which is now called the Clinton House, Lee said. “It burned down at some point,” he said. “Itʼs a block building now.” Wendell Rimer, who served as secretary of the club for about 25 years, wasnʼt a charter member, but came close. “I joined, Iʼd say, within the first year,” he said. “They came and hounded me, so I joined. I never missed a meeting.” The Kiwanis Club now meets at noon on Tuesdays at the Petal Civic Center.

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our community: Jim Smith Lifetime Petal resident Jim Smith, who said Ray Perkins once told him all awards are team awards, said he was especially proud to receive this year’s Bobby Runnels Leadership Award – Petal’s top award -- because it represents so many great people. “If you surround yourself with good people, you can’t help but look good,” Smith said when he received the award during this year’s Petal Area Chamber of Commerce annual banquet. “Petal is the Garden of Eden,” he said. “We’ve got the best school system in the world. I promise you that.” Smith said he still remembers the time, when he was five years old, that a neighbor’s father took him to a Petal Panther’s football game. “That was 57 years ago and I’m still amazed and enthralled with the Petal Panthers,” he said. “I guess if I live to be 102, I’ll feel the same way.” A 1967 graduate of Petal High School, Smith was named the school’s Alumnus of the Year in 2003. He also received the William Carey College Outstanding Alumni Award and was in the school’s Sport Hall of Fame’s inaugural class. Smith served on the committee to form the Petal Separate School District and was charter president of the Petal Touchdown Club and Petal Dugout Club and served as president of the Petal Booster Club on six separate occasions. He is also a charter member of the Petal Education Foundation. Meet Jim Smith.... Smith, 62, is a lifetime resident of Petal and is married to the former Wanda and has one son, Adam Dobbins. He currently serves as president of the Petal division of Grand Bank for Savings, FSB. A 1967 graduate of Petal High School, Smith also attended Petal Elementary and Jr. High. He is a

1971 graduate of William Carey College where he served as president of the 1971 senior class. During that same year he was named a member of Who’s Who of Colleges and Universities. At WCC he was a member of both the men’s basketball and baseball teams and was a member of the 1969 National Championship baseball team. Smith is an inaugural class member of WCC’s Sports Hall of Fame, where he also received the Outstanding Alumni Award. His other awards include Hattiesburg Outstanding Sales and Marketing Award, University of Mississippi School of Banking and Consumer, Commercial Lending Schools, at Vanderbilt University. From 1971 through the present he has been a dedicated fundraiser for the Petal School District, whether in athletics, academics or the arts. He has also served on various committee in the formation of the Petal Separate School District. He also served on committees for various PSD school bonds and developmental and planning committees. Smith has served as a Petal Booster Club president on six separate occasions. His other involvement includes charter president for both the Petal Touchdown and Petal Dugout clubs. He also is a charger board member for the Petal Education Foundation. Smith has also served as: Past Chairman of the Board – American Cancer Society Past member, board of directors – United Way, American Heart Assoc., Salvation Army. Past president – William Carey Crusader Club and Southern Miss Hardwood Club Past member – board of director, Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame He has served on the Board of Directors for the Southern Miss

Dugout Club, Twin Pines Country Club, Hattiesburg Country Club, Petal Water, Sewer Assistance, First Tee program, Hattiesburg Quarterback Club, Christian Services and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for High Schools and Colleges He is a charter Member –of Asbury United Methodist Church where is was a former board chairman.

He has held membership on the USM Athletic Advisory Committee, USM Attack Club, USM Hardwood Club, USM Eagle Club and served as an affiliate member of Hattiesburg Board of Realtors and Hattiesburg Homebuilders Assoc. Smith’s philosophy “A lot of people have their Alabamas, Notre Dames, and even Ole Miss or Mississippi State, but my favorite place on earth in Petal, Miss.,and the Petal Panthers. Petal IS my University of Alabama, and this community and our simply unbelievable school system, is my love and my passion.”

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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

7 Pop Runnels Road (601) 583-4225 Petal-Harvey Baptist 600 S. Main Street (601) 583-1743 Piney Grove Missionary 153 Sheeplo Loop

Calvary Baptist 1123 Hwy. 42 (601) 583-8309

Runnelstown First Baptist 9211 Hwy. 42 (601) 583-3733

Carterville Baptist 1115 Carterville Road (601) 584-9457

Sunrise Baptist 299 Sunrise Road Petal, (601) 583-1850

Crestview Baptist 479 Old Corinth Road (601) 582-1559

Trinity Baptist 53 Corinth Road (601) 584-7432

Crossroad Baptist 1053 Old River Road (601) 582-9880

Turning Pointe Baptist 1145 Hwy 42 East (601) 270-1899

Eastabuchie Baptist Hwy. 11 North of Petal (601) 582-7030

Vision Baptist 1056 Morriston Road (601) 584-8222

Crossroad Baptist 1522 Hwy. 42 (601) 584-6888

CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ 1530 Hwy. 42 (601) 583-2525

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

CHURCH OF GOD Petal Church of God 319 Old Richton Road (601) 583-0943 JEHOVAHʼS WITNESS Jehovahʼs Witness 27 Barrontown Road (601) 582-4952

Lynn Ray Road Baptist 197 Lynn Ray Road (601) 545-7635

METHODIST Asbury United Methodist 1331 Hwy. 42 (601) 545-3006

Macedonia Baptist 609 Macedonia Road (601) 545-3110

East Pine African Methodist 923 Hwy. 42 (601) 544-9709

Mars Hill Baptist 66 Mars Hill Road (601) 544-7111

Moselle United Methodist Moselle Rd. (601) 325-1098

Mt. Bethel Baptist 402 McInnis Street (601) 545-1226

Petal United Methodist 418 S. Main St. (601) 582-0440

Mt. Olive Baptist 39 Eastabuchie Road (601) 544-0540

PENTECOSTAL First United Pentecostal 714 Old Richton Road, (601) 545-3407

Mt. Vernon Baptist 883 Hwy. 42 (601) 545-3361 Petal Independent Baptist

PRESBYTERIAN Petal Presbyterian 305 S. Main St. (601) 582-477

spotlight on: green’s creek baptist

etal is just a toddler compared to one of her resident ancestors. Green’s Creek Baptist Church on Old Richton Road is the grandfather or great-grandfather at 162 years old. The church, one of the oldest in the area, was founded in 1850 out of necessity. Parishioners, such as Daniel Grantham and others attended Providence Baptist Church on the west side of the Leaf River, but the inconvenience of swimming the river to attend services became too much and they organized Green’s Creek on the east side of the river. The newly-formed church met in a variety of places, including Grantham’s home and a small log building before being forced to move once the Southern Railroad came through. The congregation remained in a facility nearby until about 1900 when the church was given approximately seven acres of land on a hilltop east of Green’s Creek. This is where the church finally had a permanent home. Even though the church’s location moved several times, it is the church which was established in 1850 that continues to grow today. Since the structure was built on its present location, there have been additions, deletions and renovations. Part of the original white clapboard siding can be found tucked away in an attic space. The church celebrated its 150th anniversary in October 2000. The church hosts regular Sunday school classes, both Sunday morning and evening worship services, as well as Wednesday night services. The cemetery located behind the church is part of the church property. The land in the oldest part of the cemetery was given in 1900 by A.O. Chappel. The road that borders one side of the cemetery is named in his memory. Other acreage has been purchased since then to allow for growth. Servicemen buried there date back to the Civil War. While the cemetery may not be the oldest in the county, its age is attested to by the number of people buried there who attended other churches before those churches had cemeteries of their own. There are members of the Macedonia and Petal-Harvey churches buried in Green’s Creek Cemetery, which even drew people from Richton. A number of pastors are buried there, some also from other churches. The first two people known to be buried in the cemetery are two brothers, Irvin Wesley Lee, 1900-1903, and Paul Lee, 1903-1903.

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RELAY FOR LIFE... The annual American Cancer Society fundraiser – Relay for Life – is held in May each year at Hinton Park, formerly known as Relay Park. Prior to the all-night Friday and Saturday activities, a number of fundraisers are held – from Bunco and Disney Character parties to yard sales and catfish dinners. The night of Relay is one big party with special entertainment from the high school jazz band, dance groups, and even the Friendly Cityʼs own Elvis. A Survivorsʼ Reception is held in the park pavillion prior to the official kickoff. The Survivorsʼ Lap followed by a Kiddle Lap officially get the nightʼs Relay festivities underway.

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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 nature 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 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

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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 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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,

The Petal Guide 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, 601794-2957, 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 ski-

ing, hiking and boating. Primitive camping, RV camping and cabins are also available. Highway 29, Wiggins, 601-928-3051, www.waterparkin.com n Kamper Park â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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, 601-5454576.

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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 County 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 tenth anniversary. In the 11 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 the FCMPC opened 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 GREENING OF SPORTS COMPLEX.... The greening of the four new ballfields at the Robert E. Russell Sports Complex began in early April after months of dirt work. The fields required 5,000 cubic yards of sod for each field. The new fields will be used for the first time during action the first weekend of June.

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The Petal Guide

Index of Advertisers A1 Graphics ................................ 18 ADP ............................................ 31 Animal Medical .......................... 21 Anytime Fitness .......................... 23 AWSC ........................................ 18 BancorpSouth ............................ 26 Carterville Baptist Church .......... 23 Catfish Wagon ............................ 35 Cheryl Cranford .......................... 13 Columbia Block & Brick .............. 32 ENT ................ Inside Back Cover Excel by 5 ................................... 24 Fairley Construction .................. 14 Family Dentistry .......................... 14 First Southern Bank ......................8 Forrest General Hospital .............. 4 Green Eye Institute .................... 26 Hancock Bank ............................ 31 Hattiesburg Clinic ...................... 37 Hearing Solutions ...................... 32 Heart South ................................ 38 Hulett-Winstead ............................. 8 Jo Carlisle & Blake Nagy’s Performing Arts Center .......... 39 King-King Realty ........................ 18 Leaf River Sports ...................... 33

Lovie’s ............................................1 Mack Grubbs Hyundai .................................. Back Cover Missy Anna’s .............................. 23 Moore Funeral Home ................ 39 Petal Animal Clinic ...................... 22 Petal Chamber of Commerce ...... 2 Petal Drugs ................................ 22 Petal Family Y ............................ 35 Petal Florist .................................. 8 Premier Orthopaedics ................ 39 Raanes Financial Advisors ........ 38 Race Ready ................................ 28 Reynolds Family Dental .............. 23 Rodgers Pharmacy .................... 14 Southern Bone & Joint .............. 38 The Petal News .......................... 40 The Sweet Olive ........................ 28 The Yarn Basket ........................ 33 Thomas Tax ...... Inside Front Cover T.L. Curry Accountant ................ 33 Tropical Glamour ........................ 33 Wagon Wheel Steakhouse ........ 35 Ward’s of Petal .......................... 33 Wesley Medical Center .............. 16