Local Digest
By Staff
U.S. Postal Service to give exams
The U.S. Postal Service has re-opened registration for individuals interested in taking the rural carrier associates exam. The Meridian Area QWL-EI Group is presenting a workshop for the public. There will be two sessions, 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., on Jan. 24 at the main post office, 2100 Ninth Street, Meridian.
The workshop will explain the duties and responsibilities of a rural carrier associate, give test-taking tips and sample test questions. Participants will be allowed to sign-up for the exam at this time.
For information call 626-8190.
Girl Scouts sponsor blood drive
The Girl Scouts of the Gulf Pines Council will sponsor a blood drive from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Jan. 26 to help with the critical shortage in our area.
Each donor will receive a free T-shirt. The Blood Services Bloodmobile will be parked at the Girl Scout office at 307 24th Ave. South in Meridian. Refreshments will be provided.
In addition, Girl Scouts have begun their annual "Cookie Sale." Cookies may be ordered from any Girl Scout or by calling the office at 693-2903.
MHS Band Boosters meet
A meeting of the Meridian High School Band Boosters Association for the 2001-2002 school year takes place at 7 p.m. Jan. 28 in the MSH library. The upcoming concert band season, the annual MHS Band Banquet and other important items will be presented.
Membership in the association costs $5 a year and is open to all parents, grandparents, family and friends of students. Call 482-2532 for information.
McRae's begins school benefit
McRae's Department Store is inviting local schools and school organizations to participate in their annual "School Benefit Sale." This year's event will take place from 6 a.m.-10 a.m. March 2.
Participants sell tickets for $5; all proceeds from the sales go to the school or school organization. McRae's provides schools with tickets and produces all collateral materials.
To sign up your school or to receive more information, contact the store are 484-7809.
Nominations sought for 2002 Excellence in Arts Awards
Nominations for the Meridian Council for the Arts "2002 Excellence in the Arts Awards" are now being accepted. The awards recognize outstanding contributions and achievement in the arts. There are four award categories.
Artist achievement: A Meridian area artist who has made an outstanding contribution to the cultural life of the area.
Arts educator: An individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the enhancement of arts education.
Arts patron: An individual who has made a significant contribution to the cultural life of the area through exemplary funding or services.
Arts patron: A corporation or business that has made a significant contribution to the cultural life of the area through exemplary funding or service.
Nomination forms are available at the Meridian Arts Council's office on the third floor of City Hall, Room 304. They also can be found on the city of Meridian's Web site www.meridianms.org.
Nomination forms must be postmarked by Feb. 22. Winners will be announced April 5 at the awards reception at Highland Park to kick-off the 31st Annual Arts in the Park Festival.
Time to file for Homestead Exemption
According to Jimmy Slay, Lauderdale County Tax Assessor, it is Homestead Exemption time again. You have until March 29 to file.
If no changes are necessary and you do not qualify for an additional exemption, there is no need for you to reapply for Homestead Exemption.
Homeowners are encouraged to contact the Tax Assessor's office and fill out a new application before March 29 if there has been a change.
in Homestead Exemption for any of the following reasons:
Purchased a new home in 2001
Death of a spouse
First time filing for over 65 or disability
Change in property ownership (new deed recorded)
Change in marital status
Change in use of property (renting part of home or business in home)
Change in property description (adding or deleting land)
Homestead denied the previous year
Change in occupancy of home
For information, call 482-9779.
