Terry News

BY CAROLYN CLEMENTS cjclements@bellsouth.net or 601-955-6695 The residents of Terry are in a state of confusion over water bills. A new drive-by meter system was installed throughout the town recently. This has resulted in water bills three or four times high- er than usual.

There will be a meeting at the Community Center at 6 pm. on Monday evening. The town board will address the problem with the constituents of the town. Explanations and solutions are defi- nitely needed.

It is diffi- cult for senior citizens and residents, on fixed incomes, to have large sums available. I trust this will not become the issue it has been for Jackson residents. Sometimes the old ways work better after all.

The town of Terry is getting into a celebra- tory mood for the America 250 events. It will begin on July 4 at noon with all the church bells ringing, as in 1776 in Philadelphia. The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, First Baptist Church, Terry and Little Bethel, CME all have bells that will be ringing .

Mrs. Hester and I have outdoor bells to use. My bell is actually in my Mothers' yard.

Anyone that has a bell is encouraged to join in. This is the kick off of the celebrations to come. On Wednesday, July 8 there will be a reading, by Mayor Bruce Hopkins of the Declara- tion of Independence at 1 o'clock in Terry City Hall.

This will be as it was in Philadelphia in 1776 with the first pub- lic reading. Please show your patriotism and come out to join us. Saturday, July 11 at 10 o'clock, the parade begins and heads to the park.

Following the parade will be a Fun Extravaganza in the Village Square Park fea- turing vendors and exciting exhibits for chil- dren. There will be church choirs and many other items of interest. The ribbon cut- ting of the America 250 Terry Arboretum will fol- low.

The replica of the Liberty Elm Tree, spon- sored by Sheriff Tyree Jones, will be dedicated as well. The Liberty Elm Tree was in Boston Commons from 1646 to 1776, when the English cut the tree down. The American colonist were rallying and protesting under the elm tree.

The British had enough and proceeded to cut it down! Thats where the name began many years ago. We are pleased to have a replica of the Liberty Elm tree in our Arboretum!

It is also known for its resilience and historical signifi- cance. There will be an American 250 flag standing by it for identi- fication Mark your calen- dars for June 25-27. The popular Tomato Festival will be back in Crystal Springs.

A Tomato queen will be crowned on Thursday evening along with other festivi- ties. I usually go on Sat. and enjoy the food, ven- dors and come home with a large bag of toma- toes. A fun event!