News From 2012

MISSISSIPPI STATE – A wedding reception revolves around food, whether it is a formal, sit-down dinner for 150 guests or a come-and-go affair for 75 guests.

With the prevalence of food allergies and other medical conditions, couples might want to consider serving a few foods that guests with special diets can enjoy safely.

MISSISSIPPI STATE – While wedding receptions are intended to be a time of celebration for just-married couples, the event might not be so enjoyable for younger guests.

Jennifer Russell, Leflore County child and family area agent with Mississippi State University Extension Service, suggested offering kid-friendly activities and accommodations at the reception. When planning the reception, consider how many children will be in attendance and the ages of the children.

MISSISSIPPI STATE – A good wedding gift is appropriately generous, completely thoughtful and exactly right for the recipient, but finding that perfect gift can seem almost impossible.

No one wants to be the one who gave the gift that raised eyebrows or left the new couple wondering if they have been insulted. Purchasing items on the couple’s gift registry can help them set up housekeeping and results in fewer returns and duplicate items. However, some who wish them well want to make their gifts truly special.

Small, local shops can use free social media tools to create online gift registries.

I love small downtown businesses. There is just something special about wandering into local shops and looking at locally made pottery, jewelry and other knick-knacks, especially when I am shopping for myself. However, when it comes to wedding and baby gifts, online registries offered by larger companies are usually my “go-to” choice.

MISSISSIPPI STATE – Sherry Bell Surrette has been named the new head of Mississippi State University’s Central Research and Extension Center in Raymond.

Of all of our activities, wedding ceremonies may be the most symbolic. Symbolism is found in everything from the rings, representing the couple’s commitment of everlasting love, to who sits on which side of the church. Even the flowers used in ceremonies can be symbolic.

When choosing wedding flowers, the most important consideration may be the colors of the bride’s and bridesmaids’ dresses, but you should also consider the symbolic meaning of the flower. You certainly don’t want to convey the wrong message on your wedding day.

JACKSON – Mississippi State University Extension Service’s Center for Governmental Training and Technology recently gave newly elected county supervisors some of the tools they needed to begin work in the new year.

New supervisors from across the state participated in a training session designed to teach them about basic laws and ethical issues that supervisors face on a daily basis.

JACKSON – The third phase of a project intended to increase digital literacy and Internet usage among Mississippians is now underway.

If losing weight is at the top of your New Year’s resolutions list, consider using technology to make it easier. Before beginning any new diet, consult with your medical professional or nutritionist.

JACKSON -- Mississippi’s Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, or PATH, will host a statewide meeting on Feb. 7 in Jackson for anyone interested in therapeutic riding programs.

Mary Riley, therapeutic riding coordinator and instructor with Mississippi State University Extension Service’s 4-H program, said the meeting is open to members and individuals considering developing an equine therapy program in their area.

RAYMOND – Mississippi State University Extension Service agriculture experts will address integrated pest management topics at a Feb. 2 workshop in Raymond.

The annual IPM general pest management workshop will take place at MSU’s Central Mississippi Research and Extension Center auditorium. Registration is $10 and begins at 8:30 a.m. The program will conclude by 4:30 p.m. The cost includes coffee and refreshments. Lunch is not included.

In my job with Mississippi State University, I am asked a lot of questions about problems people have with plants and ideas they have for their landscapes and gardens.

As we begin the new year, here is my list of four resolutions to help make your landscape and garden more enjoyable and productive in 2012.

1- Get those pesky landscape and lawn weeds under control.