What is Monticello Moments?

This blog will be about things happening in Monticello, MS. It will also look at happenings in Southwest MS, as well as my own thoughts on many other subjects.

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Happy New Year

Well, I hope everyone had a Very Merry Christmas. I also hope and pray that at sometime you stopped and thought about the birth of Christ, the real reason we celebrate this time of year. What a great and gracious gift that our Heavenly Father gave to us.

I also hope and pray that 2011 will be a year filled with goodness and happiness for all. Monticello will celebrate it's 200th anniversary and it will be a wonderful year in that regard. No matter what you do please be careful as you celebrate the passing of 2010 and the arrival of 2011.

And always remember "Monticello it just feels like Home.""

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Zoning Followup

Well the public hearing went really well last night. The citizens were very cordial in their concerns and comments. There were some changes that came from the public hearing. That is the system working at it's best. We are elected to represent you the people. However we also need to know your thoughts and ideas on actions we take our we are considering to take. That happened last night and that is a good thing.

we recessed the public hearing to the the 18th of January at 5 PM. At that time we will take questions on the proposed new comprehensive plan and new zoning ordinance. If the Board of Aldermenan is satisfied with the final draft they will adopt it at the meeting immediately following the public hearing. Again thank you to those who showed up and got involved.

Remember, "Monticello it just feels like Home."

Monday, December 20, 2010

Zoning

The Town of Monticello will have a public hearing on it's proposed new zoning tonight at 5 PM. We the Mayor and Board of Alderman will take no action on the zoning tonight. The new maps were late in arriving and you the citizens have not had enough time to vies them. Therefor we will not vote on the new zoning until our first meeting in January. We will do that after another public hearing before the meeting. This concerns you the citizen and you have every right to know whats going on with it. Thank you for being patient as we strive to improve Monticello for everyone.

On a side not sorry I have not posted in the last several days but I was out of town for the last week. I will try to do better.

And remember "Monticello it just feels like Home"

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Movies in the park

Hey don't forget it's movies in the Park at Coopers Ferry Park this Saturday. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and snuggle up and enjoy a double feature of your favorite Christmas movies. The first feature will be The Santa Clause. Make sure you stay through intermission and register for a chance to win a $100.00 Fred's gift card, you must be present to win. Then stick around for the second show Christmas with the Kranks.

Admission is free, but there will be concessions available. It will be a night to remember. I look forward to seeing you at Coopers Ferry park this Saturday night December 11th at 5:00 P.M. for Movies in the park.

Remember, "Monticello it just feels like home."

Monday, December 6, 2010

Why I chose to live in Monticello

This past weekend is a great example of why I CHOSE to live in Monticello.

First off was the Exchange Clubs Texas Chili Feast. As President of the Exchange Club I was quite worried how we would do with this years chili feast. You see with the loss of Billy Davis I did not now how we would do. Mr. Billy just seemed to take care of everything, all we had do to as club members was show up and follow instructions. Mr. Billy would have everything there and ready to go. Well I should not have worried. Miss Louise Davis and the rest stepped up and took care of it all. By all accounts it was one of the best chili feast days ever. Thanks to the Exchange Club for all you do to make Monticello so special.

Then that night how about the Monticello Christmas Parade? It had to be one of the best we have ever had. Gay McElroy, Bob Smira and the Chamber of Commerce did a fantastic job. Then it was on to Christmas in the Park at Cooper Ferry Park. Bethel Baptist choir did a great job singing carols, Amy Corkern had her hands full with Santa and his elves taking pictures in the Gazebo, the hot chocolate and the gathering of friends and family just topped off the day. And what can we say about the Matt and Kim Melzer family. His emceeing of the parade, their decorating of the park and their spirit is out of this world. As I was standing next to Donna and taking it all in I realized this is why I live in Monticello. Is it the most beautifully decorated park, was it the Macy's parade, was it the Mormon Tabernacle Choir? We all know the answer is no. But what it was, was friends and family coming together to have one great weekend. You can't get that anywhere else.

That's why I always say, Remember, "Monticello it just feels like Home."

Friday, December 3, 2010

MEMA Cottage Auction

Many of you have asked me how you can get a FEMA Cottage. Well the public auction is upon us. They can be viewed this Saturday from 8:00 A.M. until 4:30 P.M. and again Thursday the 9th during the same time period. They are located at 347 Beaver Dam Rd., Perkinston, MS 39573. Take Hwy 49 south towards the coast and turn left at McDaniel's General store in McHenry and go about three miles and they will be on your left.

The auction will take place on Friday the 10th of December beginning at 9:00 A.M. at MM Auction, located at 2236Hwy. 49, Brooklyn MS 39425.

You can visit their website at www.mmaofms.com

Hope this info helps.

Remember, "Monticello it just feels like Home"

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Dream Act

If you have been listening to any of the news lately, than you should know that this act deals with Illegal aliens in the United States of America.

The cliff note version goes something like this. If you were brought here illegally by your parents or others at a young age, than this act would basically put you here legally. The though being that you had no choice in the matter. Never mind you are here illegally, you have already received free benefits, like a public education, health care and more it wasn't your fault. So we the Government will make it ok for you to be here now. And some states like California want to take it further and give you a free college education.

Bottom line is illegal immigrants cost this country billions every year. First step in fixing the budget problem, fix the illegal immigration policy. Why is it we are the only country that coddles Illegal immigrants. Other countries in prison you for years and some do even worse, but we want to give you more for coming here illegally and than ask those that are here legally as immigrants and bonnafide citizens to pick up the tap. I am sorry that is just wrong. Again not to say I am wright or wrong, but that's my opinion. If you agree call your Representative or Senator and let them know.

Remember, " Monticello it just feels like Home"

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

The current state of Congress

First off did you know that the Congress is actually both the house and the senate. We have gotten so used to calling our federally elected officials Congressman and Senator. When in actually they are both Congressman. The House of Representatives and the senate combined make up the Congress. But you already knew that.

But did you know that our Government for several years now is actually running on concurrent resolutions? That we have not had a true budget for a while. So what does all that mean? It means things like a transportation plan, which is adopted for a six year cycle does not get done, it means the FYDEP, (Future Years Defense Plan) does not get done. So what does that mean to you?

It means things like four laning Hwy. 27 can not be funded, it means that Camp Shelby can not be expanded and improved, plus a host of other programs remain at current funding levels. Unless? That's right unless there is a earmark for such projects. Right now earmarks are getting a bad reputation, when for all accounts outside of the ARRA act it is about the only way new things are getting done.

Let me give you an example of how not crafting a new budget affects you here at home. The Farmers Market in the old Malta building had to come thru a very competitive grant process because Rural Development is operating under money appropriated years ago. Now you know that the price of gas, lights and water have gone up over the last several years, but there has been no increase in funding to Rural Development, so they have to take money from the grants for day to day operations, this means less money being put back into the economy that has the chances to create jobs. By being able to get this grant we have helped in the creation of seven jobs. But as more money is spun to day to day operations these grants are harder and harder to come by.  Another example is Head Start. I sit on the board of directors for Five County Child Development. You might say this program is not needed but the numbers say different. Children who attend Head Start are much better prepared when they reach school age. At five County we are operating under the same budget we had five years ago. So how does that effect you? In Lawrence County alone Five County employs over twenty people. Soon we will have to look at staff cuts just to try and keep the doors open. However thru Earmarks we have gotten a little extra money and so far no staff cuts, but that could be changing. Is one of those jobs yours or someone in your family.

Now I am not saying we should or should not have earmarks. What I am saying is that because of them we have jobs here in Lawrence County. Oh and by the way the repaving of the mill road was done through an earmark, so we also drive on safer roads. What I am saying is that until Congress, both houses get their act together and pass a true budget, earmarks are a necessary evil. And what is Congress talking about today? It's the Dream Act. A bill that would give Illegal aliens special protections and rights. We'll talk more about that another day. Maybe just maybe it's time to talk about a realistic budget. 

That's just my thoughts, does not mean they are right or wrong, but just my thoughts on the matter.

Untill next time remember, "Monticello it just feels like Home."

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Random Thoughts

Well, I had a few moments to kill, so thought I would post a few random thoughts.

First off what a great Thanksgiving. Got to spend time with family and friends and that is always good. Also got to do a little Christmas shopping. On that note I would like to say lets try to do as much of our shopping at home as we can. I know that we can not get everything in Monticello but lets get what we can. I know you have heard it before, but when you shop at home it really does help. One thing it does, is help with your local tax base. About one third of the Town of Monticello's budget comes from sales tax and when you take that sales tax out of town it's gone for good. One of the reasons we have only had three tax increases in thirteen years is because we have been able to offset the budget with sales tax dollars. Now for the last two years those numbers are going the other way. Remember it's our friends and family that work at the local stores.

Ok off of that soapbox. Have you been by Coopers Ferry Park. It is lit up beautifully. Thanks to the Melzer family for all the hard work. The Christmas parade is now less than one week away. It should be great. The Firemen will be selling hot chocolate along the route, and after the Parade follow Santa to coopers Ferry Park. There will be a multi church choir singing Christmas music, several drawings, hot chocolate for sale and pictures with Santa and his elf's in the Gazebo. It will be a great time. I look forward to seeing you there.
Also don't forget from 10 to 2 to stop by the high school cafeteria for some of the Exchange Clubs famous Texas Chili.

Well until next time, remember, "Monticello it just feels like Home"

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Holiday Tips and Traveling

Here are a few holiday tips to keep the extra pounds off. I know I need to follow these myself. Basically I have two tips for you. The first one is take a smaller portion of the side items like the potatoes, green bean casserole, sweet potatoes, stuffing, corn and such. That way when you do have the pie it won't be quite so bad. I know this is easier said than done. The second tip is after you eat instead of taking a nap or kicking back in the recliner and watching that football game take a brisk 45 minute walk, you will burn off several of those calories you just took in. Now that will be easier than cutting back on the sides.

Also if you are traveling this holiday, please be careful. Also with the price of gas slow down 5 mph, you will be amazed at how much gas you save, also make sure that your tires are properly inflated. Leave in plenty of time, don't hurry and arrive alive.

I truly hope that all of you have a Happy Thanksgiving. May God bless you and your family.

Monday, November 22, 2010

Some sports ramblings

First off lets talk about our LCHS Cougars. Mike Davis and his gridiron giants had a successful season, especially when you consider how much the injury bug hit the cats this year. A first round playoff game as the second seed was a pretty big thing for this bunch. They could have quit early in the season when they began loosing quarterback's, running backs and the such, but this group never quit and went on to finish second in a district that now has a team playing for the South State Championship ( North Pike). Good job men.

The Lady Cougars and cougars of the Hardwood are off to a good start. Good luck on your basketball season as the year progresses. Also Soccer is underway and the Lady Cougars and Cougars already seem to be better than last year, good luck to you as well, And it won't be long that play ball will be heard at Jimmie Davis field and the Lady Cougar Fast pitch field. We always expect big things from these two programs.

Now on to college. It was pretty good to a fan of the big three this week. Ole Miss gave #5LSU all they wanted and then some. Don't give up on Houston Nutt just yet. And MSU continues to make strides as they to gave the Arkansas Razorback all they wanted and some. What a gutsy comeback by the Bulldogs. I was there and I'm still not sure if the better team won. No matter it was a great college game to watch. And last but certainly not least It's Great to be an Eagle. After the tragic shooting of three of there teammates it was good to see the Golden Eagles play some inspired football. And our own Hardy put on a show, rushing for over two hundred yards and two scores. Hardy continues to improve each game and is a big reason the Golden Eagles now stand at 8 and  3. I know it's not going to happen but would love to see the dogs and Eagles in a bowl game against each other. Two young coaches going head to head, you would have to love that.

Well with a break or two here or there and the rebels would also be in the Bowl picture. i have said it before and I will say it again. Mississippi has the best high school football in America. So you ask what does that have to do with the Rebels? This Mississippi with it's small population can not support three major college football programs. You drop Florida or California's population into Mississippi and let those young men get a taste of Mississippi football and the National Championship would run through Mississippi just about every year.

Anyway good luck to the Bulldogs in your bowl game and always remember Southern Miss to the Top.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Up coming Holidays

Well it won't be long till thanksgiving day. And you know even in this bad economy we have much to be thankful for. We still have the right to elect our officials with no interference from the government. We still are the highest wage earners in the world. We still can worship when and where we want. Yes we have much to be thankful for.

I am thankful that I have the opportunity to serve you the fine people of Monticello. I truly love this Town and work hard to improve the quality of life for everyone. In fact we will soon be starting a neighbor hood watch program throughout town. We will start the first one in Ward One and than move onto each ward thereafter.

We just finished pee wee football and youth soccer. we had well over 125 youth participating. I would like to take the time here to thank all of the coaches and parents that worked in the concession stand. we could not do it without you.

Also don't forget the Christmas parade is coming up December 4th. Also that day is the Exchange Clubs annual Texas Chili Feast at the High School Cafeteria. You can get an all you can eat ticket from any Exchange Club member or from me here at city hall. And be keeping your eyes and here's open for several activities in Coopers Ferry Park throughout December.

One final note. The drafts of Monticello Comprehensive plan and new zoning are now available for viewing at city hall. There will be a public hearing on December 6th at 5.05 pm at city hall. Following the public hearing the Board of Alderman will consider the passage of these new and important documents. Please Come by and look them over.

Friday, November 12, 2010

Comments

Please feel free to comment on any of these posts. All you have to do is click on the word Comments at the end of the post and it will take you to a page to post your comments.

Thanks hope all is well.

Veterans Day

Yesterday, Monticello and Lawrence County held their annual Veterans Day ceremony. I was honored to be the master of Ceremonies. It was complete with the high school band, the entire 5th grade class of Topeka, Rod Paige and New Hebron sang a patriotic song. Our keynote speaker was Lieutenant Colonel Michael J. Rushing. Lt. Colonel Rushing is currently the commander of the 209th Civil Engineer Squadron, Mississippi Air National Guard in Gulfport, MS. Hie remarks were well received by all. We also had a laying of the wreath while taps were played by one of the high school band members. All in all it was a beautiful ceremony.

I am proud of our school system for allowing our youth to participate. I am proud of Mickey Robbins and the local VFW for making sure we have the program. But more importantly I am proud of our community for showing up to honor the men and women who have served this great country as part of our Armed forces. The deserve nothing less.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

More President Bush

Again got to see some of Matt Lauer interview with former President George Bush this morning. Today Matt asked him about the Kayne West remarks calling him a racist after Katrina. President Bush responded and said that was the worst moment of his presidency. Now that is pretty strong considering he was president during 911, two wars and Katrina.

To Matt's credit he then had Kayne on and to Kayne's credit he did seem to feel bad by the remarks he made. However after he left the show he tweeted some expletives that might make one wonder if he was sorry or not. But that is not for you or I to decide. That is between him, President Bush and God.

Today at 11.00 Monticello and Lawrence County will once again have a Veterans day ceremony at the courthouse, complete with a laying of the wreath. I am so proud of our VFW, Town and County officials for making sure this happens every year. I do think it is sad that our Commander in Chief is abroad today and will not be involved in the laying of the wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Oh that was one other thing that President Bush offered when asked what is favorite thing about being president was. He said it was being Commander in Chief, and being able to interact with men and women who volunteered to serve their country. He said being able to lead these fine men and women was the greatest honor he ever had.

I also would like to add my thank you to all the men and women who make up our armed services. Thank you for what you do to keep us safe.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

President Bush

Got to see some of former President George Bush interview on the Today Show this morning. I wish I had been able to see the whole interview.

President Bush did a good job of not answering Matt's questions about things happening in today's political world. President Bush said that he did not want to be a third wheel in affecting the current leaders decisions. Actually I doubt that would happen anyway. But I do respect him for staying out of the way and letting Obama lead. Even though I am not enthralled with his leadership, he should not be looking over his shoulder at what other Presidents think about what he is doing. Something George did not have, as Bill Clinton was always out there jumping in with his two cents worth.

Another thing that President Bush brought up, after being asked was his thoughts about his spending. He brought up the fact that he had vetoed a farm bill and another I can't remember which one and that the Democrat controlled Congress overrode the veto's. So maybe all the run a way spending was not his fault.
Oh and one more thing. Have you noticed the price of gas? Where is the outcry now. When it was this high during the Bush administration there was a national outcry. But somehow now nothing is being said about it.

I am looking forward to reading his new book. It sure is interesting times we are living in.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

First Blog

Well to say the least I am new at this. This is my first blog. I hope to make this a site that you will want to visit again and again.

Monticello is rich in history and a beautiful place to live work and play. We will be celebrating our Bicentennial in 2011. We will be having a year long celebration and I hope you get the chance to come visit us during that time.

December promises to be a big month with the Monticello Christmas parade on the 4th. Also don't forget the Monticello Exchange Club Texas Chili feast that day at the high school cafeteria. Following the parade there will be a community singing at Coopers Ferry Park. The following Saturday the 11th come back to Coopers Ferry Park for Movies in the park, this will be a free event.

My hope and prayer for each of you is that you will have a Happy Thanksgiving and a blessed Christmas.