Whether it is colored pencils or old fashion crayons, Johnnie Swindoll, Joy Kent and Peggy Little enjoy themselves as they produce beautiful works of art at The Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

Adult coloring has grown in popularity in the past few years. Touted as a modern-day stress reliever, it has always been just plain fun and now seeing adult coloring books in many retail stores and especially at the check-out counters of grocery stores.

The library provides coloring sheets, colored pencils and crayons. Visit the Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library at 11 a.m. Mondays in the upstairs galleria if you would like to join the fun.

Rawson attends state conference

Rita S. Rawson, an alderwoman of Marion, attended the Mississippi Municipal League’s 2017 Mid-Winter Legislative Conference in Jackson.

Approximately 600 representatives participated in discussions about legislative issues and their impact on local government. Participants were also able to network with their legislators and provide important feedback on issues that are critical to municipalities. Participants visited the Capitol for the annual “MML Day at the Capitol” where local officials met with state leaders during a legislative briefing before attending a press conference held by the League.

“Getting our municipal leaders to the Capitol at the start of the Legislative Session is an important component of our Mid-Winter Conference,” MML President Mayor Jimmy Clyde of Magee said in a statement. “The excellent participation we have is indicative of the commitment and interest our local officials have in being part of the legislative process.” 

The mission of the Mississippi Municipal League is helping cities and towns excel. Established in 1931, MML represents 295 city, town and village governments in Mississippi. Rawson will be running for re-election for the town of Marion.

Rawson said she will be running for re-election.

Opening prayer for Senate

Rev. Mike Everett, retired minister from Meridian, delivered an opening prayer to the state Senate on Jan. 16 at the invitation of Sen. Videt Carmichael, who led the Pledge of Allegiance before Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves led the lawmakers into the day’s business.

Suzanne Marshall writes the Neighbors column for The Meridian Star. Submit items to editor@themeridianstar.com.