Greenwood City Hall

Marketing Workshop to Seek Input from Citizens

2012-01-12T10:44:00.000-06:00

The City of Greenwood, in conjunction with the Economic Development Foundation, Chamber of Commerce, Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, Main Street Greenwood, and Leflore County, are all combining efforts to better market the Greenwood community

Community Design Solutions of Columbia, S.C., in association with Arnett Muldrow and Associates of Greenville, S.C.will host a public workshop to seek input from Greenwood and Leflore County citizens on Tuesday, January 12, 2012 at 6 p.m. at the Greenwood Youth Center on West Henry Street.

The workshop will help the design team create a uniform, strategic marketing plan with graphic design material for a professional, consistent, uniform look throughout the partnering organizations, and to convey the partners’ message to the target audiences and markets identified by the team during the public workshop.

City to Unveil Howard-Johnson Street Project in Conjunction with Main Street's Greenwood's Art Alfresco

2011-09-30T16:52:00.004-05:00

GREENWOOD - The City of Greenwood is teaming up with Main Street Greenwood to unveil its Howard Street-Johnson Street Streetscape Improvement Project on Thursday, October 6 at 5 p.m. near the Senior Citizens Building at the intersection of Howard and Johnson Streets.

The unveiling will include remarks from Mayor Carolyn McAdams, Council President Ronnie Stevenson, former Mayor Harry Smith, Melissa Tribble of Main Street Greenwood, a ribbon cutting across Howard Street, and a jazz procession up Howard Street to the intersection of Howard and Church, near several of the retail stores where Main Street Greenwood's Art Alfresco event will be taking place.

The Howard-Johnson Street project, which was funded by a $1.3 million Transportation Enhancement grant from the Mississippi Department of Transportation, included the construction of new brick sidewalks and crosswalks along Howard Street and period street lighting on both Howard and Johnson Streets. The project was finalized with an asphalt street sealant on September 25.

Greenwood's mayor Carolyn McAdams said she was excited to finally unveil the project. "I am thrilled that this project is now complete and that people will be able to enjoy the beauty of the street, including the brick sidewalks and historic lighting," said McAdams. "While it was at times a difficult process, I'd do it all over again in a heartbeat to get the same results. With our new lights, sidewalks, and well-preserved commercial architecture, I'd wager to say that Howard Street is now the most beautiful street in Mississippi."

Art Alfresco is an annual event of Main Street Greenwood, where downtown merchants extend their shopping hours, display artwork by Delta artists, and showcase the retail opportunities in Greenwood. This year, fifteen downtown locations will play host to some 32 artists' work. In addition, Howard Street will be abuzz with live music from 5 to 8 p.m. during Thursday's event.

Main Street's executive director Melissa Tribble could hardly contain her excitement about this year's Art Alfresco. "This year's event promises to be the best yet, with a great group of artists showcasing their work," said Tribble." We've worked hard to create a fun atmosphere following the Howard-Johnson Streetscape Project unveiling and our downtown retails have really stepped up to the plate to deliver that this year."

For a full list of the participating retail stores and artists, please visit the Main Street website at www.mainstreetgreenwood.com.

Willye B. White Memorial Highway Dedicated

2011-07-07T15:58:00.001-05:00

City and community leaders take a photograph with a young citizen beneath the new Willye B. White Memorial Highway sign on Highway 49 at Martin Luther King Blvd in Greenwood.

GREENWOOD - The first of two highway signs honoring the late Willye B. White, five time Olympian and Greenwood native, was unveiled at a ceremony Thursday morning. Senator David Jordan, Chamber of Commerce officials, and other city and community leaders spoke of White's dedication, motivation, and accomplishments at the 10 a.m. ceremony. A reception honoring White was held at the Greenwood-Leflore Chamber of Commerce immediately following the dedication. The second sign was placed on the northbound lane of Highway 49 at Sidon.

Greenwood Farmer's Market Back for Fourth Season

2011-05-13T15:09:00.002-05:00

Hal Fiore sells fresh vegetables at the Downtown Greenwood Farmer's Market.

GREENWOOD - It's back! This Saturday, the Downtown Greenwood Farmer's Market returns for Greenwood-area residents who value freshness and quality at their kitchen table. Now in its fourth year, the farmer's market, which was spearheaded by Main Street Greenwood, Inc., will continue to be held every Saturday from 8 a.m. until noon through harvest's end. The market takes place near the Senior Citizen's Building (the old C&G Depot) at the intersection of Howard and Johnson Streets.

The objective of the farmer's market is to create a community meeting place where every can come together to promote healthy lifestyles, provide farmers and back yard gardeners with a profitable location to sell their produce, plants, and other food items, and to build community pride in the downtown area. In those terms, the market has met its objective, but still seeks to expand their scope. The market averaged ten vendors per week the first year, and increased in scope to host as many as thirteen vendors each week in their second and third years. The market hopes to build on that number again this year.

Some of the vendors are regulars, including Hallie Streater, who brings peas, tomatoes, squash, and fresh eggs each week, and Bubba Fraiser, who sells fresh Gulf shrimp by the ounce or by the pound. Donald Bender supplies the market with his signature Mockingbird Bakery artisan breads and the Lay Sisters with their canned jellies and pickles. 3 Guys consisting of Mike McClellan, Jamie Kornegay, and Hal Fiore, regularly ply the market with heirloom vegetables and fresh lettuce and Benny Blaylock is known for his great melons. Others offer products and services such as gardening tips, free range chicken to order, and homemade dog biscuits, all with an emphasis on sustainability.

Although your senses of smell and taste are the ones most likely to be stimulated at the Downtown Greenwood Farmer's Market, you might find something pleasing to the ears if you decide to visit one Saturday morning. A few weeks each season, the farmer's market plays host to some of the Delta's best local musicians as entertainment for the selective shopper. Musicians such as Cecil Ables, the Dillionaires, and bits and pieces of Curb Service, have all played on the makeshift stage in the parking lot behind Goldberg Shoes. Musicians at the market offer up a different style of music, from blues and jazz, to rock and roll and acoustic guitar.

The market was formed in the winter of 2007 by a small group of Greenwood citizens who liked the idea of a local market where area farmers could sell the fruits of their labor. Assisted by grants from Blue Cross, Mississippi Arts Commission, and USDA, the market was able to open for business in Summer 2008. Tents and tables were purchased and the event was advertised across the Delta with these funds. In addition, there have been several fundraisers that have benefited the Greenwood Farmer's Market over the years, including the Alluvian Harvest Ball in October 2008, and a Viking Farm to Table dinner held in the fall of 2009.

The Downtown Greenwood Farmer's Market would not have been the success that it is without the support of the community. "Greenwood is lucky to be home to many people who are passionate about the local food movement that is sweeping the nation," Greenwood mayor Carolyn McAdams said. She continued, "With Mississippi's high incidence of diabetes, obesity, and other health issues, our project offers a unique solution that not only encourages people to eat healthier, but supports local growers. It really is a win-win situation for the entire community."

With all that is going on at the farmer's market, there are constantly opportunities for improvement. In the short run, the market hopes to increase the number of regular growers that sell their wares at the market and reach more shoppers and entice them to spend their grocery money locally. Long term planning has focused on building a permanent structure for the market and to increase access to underprivileged segments of the population by expanding the Mississippi Farmer's Market Nutrition Program, which provides vouchers for people enrolled in the Senior Nutrition Program. The program provides a means for a healthy lifestyle, as well as additional sales for vendors.

With all that is occurring at the Downtown Greenwood Farmer's Market each week, it is no wonder that Main Street Greenwood takes pride in the project. "We are encouraged by what we have seen thus far and are looking forward to continued success for the market," Main Street Executive Director Melissa Tribble stated. "We are well on our way to ensuring that the Downtown Greenwood Farmer's Market becomes a fixture in downtown Greenwood, providing healthy options for Greenwood families for years to come."

For more information or to volunteer, call Main Street Greenwood at 662-453-7625 or online at www.mainstreetgreenwood.com.

Robert Johnson's 100th Birthday Party to be Held This Weekend in Greenwood's Whittington Park

2011-05-04T10:47:00.003-05:00

Bluesman Robert Johnson lived for twenty-seven years and recorded twenty-nine songs that changed music forever. May 8, 2011 marks what would have been his 100th birthday.

This weekend in Greenwood, a series of events will commemorate Robert Johnson through art and music to ensure that his legacy lasts for another century for music lovers.

"The whole weekend is dedicated to the Blues," said Paige Hunt, Executive Director of the Greenwood Convention and Visitors Bureau, who is producing the events.

The event has the support of Robert Johnson's living grandson, Steven Johnson, who will be the opening act on Saturday night. Johnson along with the Robert Johnson Blues Foundation will be attending events throughout the weekend.

A Robert Johnson Exposed art exhibit will open the weekend of events on Thursday night and will include historical background on Robert Johnson for the new fan and never before seen family pictures for the avid blues historian.

"Robert Johnson Exposed will be an exhibition of artwork celebrating this renowned blues artist from the collection of Steve LaVere" said Cheryl Taylor, Executive Director of Cottonlandia Museum. "We love the balance of art and education that will be in this exhibit. Robert Johnson has a fascinating global legacy and we are excited to explore his life with this exhibit." The exhibit will remain open at Cottonlandia throughout the summer.

The cornerstone of the celebration will be live music in Greenwood on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Beginning on Thursday night, The Alluvian Hotel Happy Hour will feature a blues musician.

Friday night will launch two nights of free music in Whittington Park.

"It was really important for us to create an opportunity for people to come out and enjoy free live music. What a great way to commemorate and celebrate one of Mississippi’s most famous musicians, Robert Johnson,” said Hunt.

Friday night's lineup includes Scott Ainslie, Jay Lang and the Devils Due and Bobby Rush. Saturday's music includes the Robert Johnson Grandson Band, Lightin' Malcolm, the Cedric Burnside Project, Kenny Brown Band, Alvin Youngblood Hart, Keb' Mo' and the Warren Haynes Band.

"We are thrilled that all of these great musicians will be playing in Greenwood!" said Hunt.

Warren Haynes is also in the band Gov’t Mule that played at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony for Robert Johnson. Haynes was also a member of the Allman Brothers Band.

During the day on Saturday there are a number of events currently scheduled. For the blues enthusiasts, there will be an expert panel on Robert Johnson's Life and Legacy moderated by Jim O'Neal, Research Director of the Mississippi Blues Trail.

Guided tours with Delta Blues Legends will be given of historic blues locations around Greenwood and Leflore County. For the food lover, The Viking Cooking School will offer a Delta Dinner cooking class featuring the best of Delta cuisine.

Finally, on Robert Johnson’s actual birthday, Sunday, May 8, an open church service will be held to commemorate Robert Johnson and his legacy with Steven Johnson as guest preacher.

For more information, please contact the Greenwood Convention & Visitors Bureau at 662-453-9197 or visit www.greenwoodms.org.

Making Progress in Greenwood on a Shoestring Budget

2011-04-05T16:50:00.011-05:00

Mayor Carolyn McAdams

By Carolyn McAdams
Mayor, City of Greenwood

If you’ve stepped foot outside your house in the last few months, you have undoubtedly seen that the City of Greenwood has been busy making improvements in all corners of our town—north, south, east, and west.

From the new municipal parking lot on Fulton Street, to the construction of new sidewalks on Howard and Johnson Streets, to the planting of new trees on Grand and South boulevards, and the proposed renovations to the Russell Building, Greenwood is moving forward, all on a shoestring budget.

All of these improvements haven’t come without some questions and concerns from Greenwood residents, though, and I hope this column will help set the record straight on some of the questions that have been raised over the past few weeks.

Some of the projects, such as the downtown parking lot and the Howard-Johnson Street project, were initiated before my time as mayor of Greenwood, and it has been my pleasure to see them through to completion. Other projects, such as the recent tree planting and the acquisition of the Russell Building, have been done at little cost to the city, and both without raising taxes one bit.

I’ll address each one of these projects in an attempt to quell any rumors that might exist.

First, our beautiful new downtown parking lot was paid for with bond money that was set aside in August 2005 for the purpose of improving public parking facilities.

When I took office, over 20% of the parking lot was unusable due to inefficient traffic flow and substandard surface conditions. Although funds had been designated for reconstructing the parking lot, no one had taken the steps to make it a reality.

Now that the reconstruction is complete, downtown businesses and residents enjoy 60 safe, well-lit parking spots in a central location. Plus, the landscaping and historic lighting make the lot a beautiful public space on a prominent corner in our downtown. It is a model for what parking lots in other parts of our town will look like.

Second, $1.3 million in MDOT grant funding to improve the sidewalks and lighting along Howard and Johnson Streets was first sought in 2006 at the request of business and civic leaders who realized the economic benefit Greenwood would reap from the proposed improvements.

Now, more than 5 years later, the City of Greenwood is following through on its promise to see the project through to completion. Although the construction process has been a temporary inconvenience to some of our merchants and downtown shoppers, I am confident the end result will be worth the wait.

I ask for patience from the merchants along Howard and Johnson Streets while we are under construction. In addition, I encourage residents to always shop locally and to remember that our downtown merchants are still open for business, even during construction.

Third, older residents of Greenwood will remember how beautiful the oak trees in our historic residential neighborhoods once were. In fact, Grand Boulevard was once named one of the most beautiful streets in America, thanks to the legendary 300 oaks that once lined the street.

Over the years, as the trees have aged and died, they have been removed without being replaced. This year, spending just under $10,000 from the mayor’s contingency fund (which is used for special projects such as this), the city planted 120 large pin oaks, fully restoring the tree canopy on Grand and South Boulevard.

My hope is to continue to plant new trees each year to keep our town green and clean. The long-term benefits of a healthy tree canopy in Greenwood are certainly worth the initial investment.

Finally, the city’s desire to save and restore the historic Russell Building is two-fold. First is the need for adequate meeting space for medium-sized events and activities in downtown Greenwood.

At present, downtown Greenwood cannot accommodate meetings or events with more than 75-100 attendees. Providing new space for medium-sized meetings and events as well as a home for our city’s Convention and Visitors Bureau and Main Street program will open new avenues for conventions and visitors in Greenwood.

The other reason for the city’s interest in the Russell Building lies in the ongoing preservation of our downtown. One need only look at the vacant lots where some of Greenwood’s historic buildings once stood before they burned—Perry’s Pawn Shop on Carrollton Avenue and Railway Inn on Johnson Street, just to name a few—to see the eyesore that demolished buildings bring to an area.

Also, one need only look at the success of businesses located in our historic downtown buildings to see the positive impact that historic preservation has had on our community.

If the city had allowed the Russell Building to be demolished, as was the plan of Reveille Construction (from whom the city purchased the building), Greenwood’s elected leaders would have been sending a message to our residents that we did not care about our town’s history.

Like the burned buildings, we would have added another 14,000 sq. ft. of vacant, non-productive land to our downtown, a circumstance that could not be allowed if we are serious about overcoming the obstacles that we face as a small town in the Mississippi Delta.

I also want to reiterate that the Russell Building was purchased with the city’s annual “pass-on” money from Greenwood Utilities, not with general operating funds. If funding cannot be secured through grants, loans, incentives, or other private sources, the city has the option to sell the building back to Reveille at no loss to the city.

The projects underway have been a long time coming, and it is great to see the ground being broken on projects that have been in the planning stage for years.

As you can see, many positive things are happening by using existing bond money, grant funding, contingency funds, and pass-on funding.

We at City Hall are working hard to make sure Greenwood gets the most bang for its buck, without raising taxes. In fact, the City of Greenwood has not raised taxes during my administration and is operating with a surplus in its general fund.

And all the while, these long-overdue projects are still able to be undertaken with little to no impact to the city’s bottom line. In short, I ask for your support of our many ongoing projects and for your patience as we undergo construction in various areas of our town. The temporary inconvenience will be worth it in the end.

After all, if Greenwood is going to maintain its status as the destination of choice in the Mississippi Delta, we must not be afraid to take the necessary steps toward continued progress.

Carolyn McAdams is mayor of the City of Greenwood.

Greenwood City Hall Employees Pose in the Snow

2011-02-09T14:51:00.005-06:00

Employees at Greenwood City Hall pose for a photo in the falling snow.
Kneeling (from left to right): Bettie Ray and Mayor Carolyn McAdams;
Standing (from left to right): Thomas Gregory, Councilman Johnny Jennings,
Kathy Mosley, Nick Joseph, Kay Wier, and Cinderella Morris.

Photos from The Mayor's Great Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-29T10:16:00.009-05:00

Click above to see more pictures from the Mayor's Great Pumpkin Patch.

The Mayor's Great Pumpkin Patch on Thursday!

2010-10-27T15:40:00.010-05:00

Greenwood City Hall decorated with festive fall colors.

GREENWOOD - Mayor Carolyn McAdams is inviting all school children in grades 1 - 6 to decorate a pumpkin for The Mayor's Great Pumpkin Patch, which will be held on Thursday, October 28, 2010 beginning at 4 p.m. The annual tradition will take place on the steps of City Hall at 101 West Church Street in downtown Greenwood.

First, second and third place awards for various age groups will be based on originality and creativity and photos of participants and award winners will be taken for the Greenwood Commonwealth. Certificates will be given to each participant along with Halloween candy.

Mayor McAdams said she was thrilled to host the event for the second time as mayor. "This tradition is a fun way for school children to showcase their artistic abilities and to visit City Hall," McAdams said. "I had a really great time last year meeting with the kids and encouraging them to be creative. I know this year's event will be fun as well."

Pumpkins will be judged by members of the Greenwood City Council. Entry forms are available at local school offices, at City Hall, and will be available on the day of the event. For more information, call Thomas Gregory at 662-455-7607.

City, County Leaders Break Ground on Airport Tower

2010-10-21T17:21:00.004-05:00

From left to right: Mr. Allan Hammons, Mr. John Henson, Hon. Carolyn McAdams, Hon. Wayne Self, Hon. Bennie Thompson, Col. Elizabeth Evans, Hon. Ronnie Stevenson, and Mr. Bill Crump.

GREENWOOD - More than twenty-one years after the first air traffic control tower was built at the Greenwood-Leflore Airport, city, county, and federal officials joined with members of the Greenwood-Leflore-Carroll community to break ground on a new and permanent structure that will be something in which aviation businesses and enthusiasts can take pride.

The new tower was designed by AJT Engineering of Cocoa, Fla. and will be built by Flintco of Memphis, Tenn., the same contractor that recently finished construction of the air traffic control tower at Memphis International Airport. The $2.3 million airport project was paid for with congressionally-directed funds and will be just over 86 feet tall and 25 feet square at its base.

Greenwood Mayor Carolyn McAdams said that the new air traffic control tower will be a wonderful addition to the Greenwood-Leflore Airport. "The new tower will enhance our community's economic development strategy and will add yet another incentive to the industry recruitment toolbox, especially for aviation-related businesses," McAdams said.

With the project scheduled for completion in the summer of 2011, interested citizens can view the progress online by visiting the "Construction Cam" here. For more information on the Greenwood-Leflore Airport, please visit http://www.gwoairport.com.

City Council Adopts Greenwood Comprehensive Plan

2010-10-20T11:45:00.011-05:00

GREENWOOD - In a unanimous vote of approval, the Greenwood City Council adopted the comprehensive plan that was prepared by Johnstone & Associates and presented to the council in May 2010. The plan, which is the summation of an extensive public process, outlines the shared values and goals for the city and provides a list of recommendations that will help city leaders achieve those goals.

The plan was a year in the making and included input from a 17-member Steering Committee, as well as from the community at large through a variety of means, including two citywide public forums in November 2009 and May 2010. The plan is available on the City's Web site at www.cityofgreenwood.org/plan and is used to guide policy and zoning decisions made by the City, as well as provide a roadmap for future growth and development.

Mayor Carolyn McAdams, who championed the plan, said adopting it was the perfect gift to the citizens of Greenwood during the month of October, which also happens to be National Community Planning Month.

"Our city needs a plan to move forward, to show that we are committed to not only the sustainability of our town, but also to the future growth of our town," McAdams said. "Greenwood now has a plan that can be updated regularly and used by this and future administrations to ensure that Greenwood continues to be the most progressive city in the Mississippi Delta for generations to come."

The plan includes goals and objectives, recommendations for policy changes, new projects, and ideas for better enforcement of existing ordinances. Recommendations in the plan cover future land use, housing, transportation, design, code enforcement, capital improvements, community health, and environmental concerns, among a host of others.

Bike Racks to be Installed Throughout Downtown

2010-08-20T12:13:00.012-05:00

One of Greenwood's new bike racks outside of City Hall.

GREENWOOD - Main Street Greenwood will soon be installing thirteen new bike racks throughout downtown Greenwood in an effort to further promote Greenwood as a bike-friendly community.

The racks are the result of a design competition that was held in conjunction with Main Street's 2009 Art Alfresco event, which occurs annually in downtown Greenwood. Of the more than fifteen entries, Greenwood resident Jon Rayeski's circular design was chosen as the winner, based on its functionality, originality, and overall quality of design.

In the fall of 2009, a campaign to raise funds for the racks began. Each bike rack cost $200 and were all paid for through private sponsorships. Currently, there are two additional bike racks available for sponsorship, according to Lise Foy, outgoing director of Main Street Greenwood. Foy said the bike racks are something she is very proud to have been involved with as Main Street director.

"The whole idea began when the Art Alfresco committee decided to do something that would provide public art for the city that was functional as well," Foy said. "We wanted the design process to be an interactive part of Art Alfresco, which we achieved through the competition."

Mayor Carolyn McAdams said the project is a great contribution to her goal of making Greenwood more pedestrian- and bike-friendly. "We want Greenwood to be both walkable and accessible to the biking community," McAdams said. "The racks look great," she continued. "Because the design is creative and has aesthetic appeal, it doubles as public art."

Bike racks will begin to be installed in thirteen locations next week. If you are interested in sponsoring one of the two remaining bike racks, contact Melissa Tribble, Executive Director of Main Street Greenwood, at 662-453-0365 or via email.

City to Unveil Historic Marker at Underpass on Thursday

2010-08-09T16:12:00.007-05:00

The newly-restored Greenwood Underpass in August 2010.

GREENWOOD - The City of Greenwood will unveil its newest historic marker at the Greenwood Underpass on Main Street at Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive this Thursday, August 12, at 9 a.m. The Art-Deco underpass, which was opened to traffic in 1940, was listed on that National Register of Historic Places in November 2008.

Momentum for rehabilitating the structure picked up when local historian Marion Howard began raising funds for a historic marker to be located on the site. Main Street Greenwood, Inc., the Greenwood-Leflore Chamber of Commerce, and the Greenwood Convention and Visitors Bureau all pitched in to purchase the marker, which reads:

GREENWOOD UNDERPASS

The Greenwood Underpass was constructed in 1938 by the Mississippi State Highway Department with funding from the Federal Aid Highway Program. In accordance with WPA goals, the Greenwood Underpass was designed to improve the Y. & M.V. railroad crossing by elevating the track and eliminating the railway-grade crossing. Adding a four-lane highway and sidewalk under the railway created an entrance into Greenwood. This Art Deco-style structure was engineered by Eli Abbott, Jr.

Following the delivery of the marker to City Hall, Mayor Carolyn McAdams, with support from the Greenwood City Council, began a campaign to clean the underpass and the surrounding area. "The Greenwood Underpass is one of the city's most prominent entrances and was in need of some attention," said Mayor McAdams. "This project truly was a community effort, with many entities and individuals working together to improve the area."

An Urban Youth Corps. Grant from the Mississippi Department of Transportation provided funding for stamped-in-place concrete and sod grass to be installed in the median of Main Street at the underpass. The City of Greenwood and Leflore County pressure washed the entire underpass structure and Greenwood Utilities and the City worked to restore the original Crouse-Hinds down-lighting underneath the structure.

The unveiling of the marker will take place at 9 a.m. on the south side of the underpass at Main Street and Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive. A presentation of the colors by the Greenwood Police Department will be accompanied by remarks from city officials. The event is open to the public. For more information, contact Thomas Gregory, CAO, at 662-453-2246.

"Cocoon Greenwood" to Shine in City Arboretum

2010-07-16T16:37:00.004-05:00

GREENWOOD - A community-based arts project spearheaded by Communities in Schools of Greenwood will soon begin to transform the City arboretum into an exhibit for public art. The "Cocoon Greenwood" project is underway with New York artist Kate Browne as its leader. Browne will supervise the construction of the large cocoon and will include the talent of local artists and citizens of all ages, races and socioeconomic backgrounds.

The Cocoon will be approximately 26 feet long by 10 feet high and will be made of local materials, including bamboo and reeds. After construction, the community will be invited to the illumination ceremony, to be held on Saturday, July 24, and the Cocoon will be displayed as a public work of art, open for all to enjoy.

As part of the overall project, community members will be invited to make miniature cocoons to hang inside the larger cocoon. Individuals will select a meaningful object, then build a cocoon around it. Kate will interview these individuals about why that item is significant to them. The cocoons, along with the oral histories, will be displayed at CIS' art gallery and the University of Southern Mississippi.

According to Communities in Schools, the main objective of the Cocoon Project is to bring together a diverse group of community members to achieve a common goal. As the willow branches and corn stalks will be transformed, the community members will also be transformed by sharing knowledge, history, and gaining a better understanding of one another.

The Greenwood Cocoon will impact the local community through a hands-on arts experience. Large-scale environmental artworks engage curiosity about the power of art and nature. Working together to bring an artistic vision to life will cross-pollinate ideas, change preconceived notions, and build understanding among community members who may not otherwise have a venue for quality interaction.

In addition, the Greenwood Cocoon will be a monument to the mysteries of nature and the possibility of transformation. Volunteers are needed every day except Sunday until the Cocoon lighting on July 24. Daytime activities occur from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the Old No. 3 Fire Station on Claiborne Avenue and afternoon activities occur after 4 p.m. at the site.

For more information or to volunteer, visit the CIS website or call the office at (662) 455-2864

Greenwood Farmer's Market Promotes Healthy Lifestyle

2010-06-18T13:35:00.014-05:00

Hal Fiore sells fresh vegetables at the Downtown Greenwood Farmer's Market.

GREENWOOD - This Saturday, the Downtown Greenwood Farmer's Market returns for Greenwood-area residents who value freshness and quality at their kitchen table. Now in its third year, the farmer's market, which was spearheaded by Main Street Greenwood, Inc., will continue to be held every Saturday from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. through harvest's end. The market takes place near the Senior Citizen's Building (the old C&G Depot) at the intersection of Howard and Johnson Streets.

The market was formed in the winter of 2007 by a small group of Greenwood citizens who liked the idea of a local market where area farmers could sell the fruits of their labor. Assisted by grants from Blue Cross, Mississippi Arts Commission, and USDA, the market was able to open for business in Summer 2008. Tents and tables were purchased and the event was advertised across the Delta with these funds. In addition, there have been several fundraisers that have benefited the Greenwood Farmer's Market over the years, including the Alluvian Harvest Ball in October 2008, and a Viking Farm to Table dinner held in the fall of 2009.

The Downtown Greenwood Farmer's Market would not have been the success that it is without the support of the community. "Greenwood is lucky to be home to many people who are passionate about the local food movement that is sweeping the nation," Greenwood mayor Carolyn McAdams said. She continued, "With Mississippi's high incidence of diabetes, obesity, and other health issues, our project offers a unique solution that not only encourages people to eat healthier, but supports local growers. It really is a win-win situation for the entire community."

The objective of the farmer's market is to create a community meeting place where every can come together to promote healthy lifestyles, provide farmers and back yard gardeners with a profitable location to sell their produce, plants, and other food items, and to build community pride in the downtown area. In those terms, the market has met its objective, but still seeks to expand their scope. The market averaged ten vendors per week the first year, and increased in scope to host as many as thirteen vendors each week in their second year. The market hopes to build on that number again this year.

Some of the vendors are regulars, including Hallie Streater, who brings peas, tomatoes, squash, and fresh eggs each week, and Bubba Fraiser, who sells fresh Gulf shrimp by the ounce or by the pound. Donald Bender supplies the market with his signature Mockingbird Bakery artisan breads and the Lay Sisters with their canned jellies and pickles. 3 Guys consisting of Mike McClellan, Jamie Kornegay, and Hal Fiore, regularly ply the market with heirloom vegetables and fresh lettuce and Benny Blaylock is known for his great melons. Others offer products and services such as gardening tips, free range chicken to order, and homemade dog biscuits, all with an emphasis on sustainability.

Although your senses of smell and taste are the ones most likely to be stimulated at the Downtown Greenwood Farmer's Market, you might find something pleasing to the ears if you decide to visit one Saturday morning. A few weeks each season, the farmer's market plays host to some of the Delta's best local musicians as entertainment for the selective shopper. Musicians such as Cecil Ables, the Dillionaires, and bits and pieces of Curb Service, have all played on the makeshift stage in the parking lot behind Goldberg Shoes. Each week offers up a different style of music, from blues and jazz, to rock and roll and acoustic guitar.

And if that's not enough to bring you downtown on a Saturday morning, the market also offers plenty of activities for the kids, including the occasional face painting by Kelly and Jon Rayeski. In addition, the market offers the opportunity for young farmers to make a bit of spending money, as kids have set up shop selling sweet tea, lemonade, homemade brownies, and smoothies.

With all that is going on at the farmer's market, there are constantly opportunities for improvement. In the short run, the market hopes to increase the number of regular growers that sell their wares at the market and reach more shoppers and entice them to spend their grocery money locally. Long term planning has focused on building a permanent structure for the market and to increase access to underprivileged segments of the population by expanding the Mississippi Farmer's Market Nutrition Program, which provides vouchers for people enrolled in the Senior Nutrition Program. The program provides a means for a healthy lifestyle, as well as additional sales for vendors.

With all that is occurring at the Downtown Greenwood Farmer's Market each week, it is no wonder that Main Street Greenwood takes pride in the project. "We are encouraged by what we have seen thus far and are looking forward to what this might become in the future," Main Street Executive Director Lise Foy stated. "With some time and increased support, the Downtown Greenwood Farmer's Market will become a fixture in downtown Greenwood, providing healthy options for Greenwood families for years to come."

For more information or to volunteer, call Main Street Greenwood at 662-453-7625 or online at www.mainstreetgreenwood.com.

City, MSU to Host Community Garden Workshop

2010-06-04T11:51:00.004-05:00

Community gardening is a fun and healthy form of recreation.

GREENWOOD - The City of Greenwood in cooperation with the Mississippi State University Extension Service of Leflore County will conduct a Community Gardens Seminar at the City's Youth Center on West Henry Street on Tuesday, June 8, 2010 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Andy Braswell and Dr. David Nagel, both of Mississippi State University, will discuss basic gardening skills, what to plant, how to plant, as well as garden maintenance. In addition, Master Gardeners will also be on hand to answer questions and provide technical assistance to gardeners.

Community gardens are a great way for neighborhoods to work together to provide fresh food to their residents. In a typical community garden model, local residents work in the garden, from planting to harvesting, and reap the benefits of their work in the form of produce and flowers.

Community gardens revitalize neighborhoods by adaptively reusing vacant lots and provide a point of pride in a community, bringing people together for a common goal. By providing fresh food to local communities, this project is also in tandem with the City of Greenwood's Health Initiative.

For more information on the seminar or to volunteer your property to be used for a community garden, contact Bettie Ray in the Office of the Mayor at (662) 453-2246.

Youth Summer Fun Recreation Program Begins Today

2010-06-01T10:35:00.014-05:00

GREENWOOD - Greenwood children from all across the city made their way to one of six local parks today to officially begin the City of Greenwood's Youth Summer Fun Recreation Program. The six-week program is administered by Greenwood Parks & Recreation and offers Greenwood youth a fun and safe option for recreation and camaraderie in their neighborhood.

The event is open to all Greenwood youth age six to fifteen years of age and takes place weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Six parks are being used to host the program: City Park, Avenue A Park, Little Red Park, MLK Park, Clerico Park, and Wagner Park. The program is designed to teach Greenwood's youth about active living through recreation and will offer a variety of activities throughout the summer.

Greenwood Mayor Carolyn McAdams hopes the program will teach children and teens about living a healthy, active lifestyle, as well as showcase opportunities for volunteering and giving back to the Greenwood community.

"Greenwood is a great place for children to spend the summer," McAdams said. "Greenwood's Youth Summer Fun Recreation Program is designed to encourage children to enjoy their summer days by offering an opportunity for outdoor recreation at one of Greenwood's many neighborhood parks," she said.

Parents are responsible for getting children to and from one of the six parks listed above for the day's activities. Park personnel will be on hand during the hours of program operation and are not responsible for children left unattended before 9 a.m. or after 4 p.m. Healthy snacks, including juice and water, will be offered each day, although lunch is not provided. Registration for the program is $10 and is good for the entire summer's activities.

"I remember how much the Greenwood Summer Recreation Program meant to me as a kid," Mayor McAdams recalled. "I hope that this longstanding Greenwood tradition will have as much of an impact on this year's participants as it did on me when I was their age."

Greenwood Announces 30-Year Comprehensive Plan

2010-05-25T11:42:00.021-05:00

Click on the picture above to view the full Greenwood Comprehensive Plan.

GREENWOOD - The City of Greenwood has announced the Final Draft of its 30-year Comprehensive Plan. The plan, which was prepared by Johnstone & Associates of Hernando, includes goals and objectives, recommendations for policy changes, new projects, and ideas for better enforcement of existing ordinances. The recommendations cover future land use, housing, transportation, design, code enforcement, capital improvements, community health, and environmental concerns, among a host of others.

The plan was a year in the making and included input from a 17-member Steering Committee, as well as from the community at large through a variety of means, including two citywide public forums in November 2009 and May 2010. The plan, which is available on the City's Web site at www.cityofgreenwood.org/plan, is intended to generate feedback from the community, all of which will be taken into consideration once the plan is introduced to the Greenwood City Council for adoption by resolution.

The Mississippi Code of 1972, Annotated requires that municipalities adopt and regularly update a comprehensive plan as a means to enforce its zoning ordinance. This is the first comprehensive planning activity to be undertaken by the City of Greenwood in over 30 years.

'Que on the Yazoo Photos

2010-05-25T11:24:00.008-05:00

Magnum P.I.G. was one of the many winners at 'Que on the Yazoo.

GREENWOOD - Check out the City of Greenwood's Facebook page for photos from Main Street Greenwood's 'Que on the Yazoo BBQ Festival, which was held on Saturday, May 22 in downtown Greenwood.

The weekend consisted of a BBQ contest with fourteen cooking teams, the Y'all Magazine Sweet Tea Challenge, Delta Artisan Showcase (including pottery, original art, and vendors from the Downtown Greenwood Farmers Market) and three musical acts.

Despite hot, humid weather a crowd of people showed up to hear the awards ceremony, which resulted in the Viking Cooking Team being named Grand Master of the contest. For more information on other Main Street events, please visit the Main Street Greenwood Web site.

'Que on the Yazoo to Feature BBQ, Tea Competition

2010-05-21T16:34:00.017-05:00

Good food, art and music will abound in Greenwood this weekend!

GREENWOOD - Main Street Greenwood's 'Que on the Yazoo festival will feature a BBQ contest and Y'all Magazine's Sweet Tea Challenge, in addition to the Delta Artisan Showcase and the Downtown Greenwood Farmers Market Iron Chef Competition.

All events will take place along Front and Howard Streets in historic downtown Greenwood. Things start cooking around 10 a.m. Saturday morning and continue until later in the night. Starting at 3 p.m. and continuing at 6 p.m. on Saturday, the air in downtown Greenwood will be filled with live music. Featured musical acts include Tryk3, Jonboat and the Trolling Motors, and Jay Lang and the Ringers. Organizers promise that there will be something for everyone.

For more information on the competitions and how you can still enter, visit the Main Street Greenwood Web site.

'Que on the Yazoo is the second event in the Main Street Summer Series, a collection of events produced by Main Street Greenwood, Inc. as a replacement for the former River to the Rails Festival. Art Alfresco, the first event, was held last month. Main Street Chrome Show will be held June 12 and there will be two downtown concerts held in late summer, one on August 6 and the other on September 18.

Join Greenwood, Mississippi on Flickr

2010-05-20T21:00:00.005-05:00

A new group on Flickr features photos taken in and around Greenwood.

GREENWOOD - Flickr, a popular online photo sharing tool, now has a group dedicated to Greenwood thanks to some local photographers. Although in its infancy, the Flickr group already features some artistic photos taken in and around the Greenwood, Mississippi area. Featured photos include the Keesler Bridge, the Leflore County Courthouse, Cotton Row, Viking Range's headquarters at Front Street, and Rhythm on the River.

Since the group is comprised of photos uploaded by members of the site, all Flickr users with photos taken in Greenwood are encouraged to upload their Greenwood photos to the group.

City of Greenwood Begins Blogging

2010-05-20T16:14:00.003-05:00

GREENWOOD - In anticipation of its forthcoming new Web site to be found at www.cityofgreenwood.org, the City of Greenwood has started a blog in an effort to keep its citizens up-to-date on the goings-on at City Hall. Entitled Greenwood City Hall, the blog will feature local news, special events, policy items, projects, and other city-related information. Return to Greenwood City Hall often for Greenwood's latest news.