Margaret Ann Knott was one of the heroes of the Civil Rights Movement in Choctaw County. On September 11th, 1971, Miss Knott was killed during a protest on the streets of Butler after being struck by a vehicle at the young age of 19. This project is to assist in funding the creation of a marker to be placed by the county to commemorate the life of Miss Knott and recognize her role in progressing the fight for Civil Rights in Choctaw County.
2019
Tremont Schools Hazardous Materials Investigation/Mitigation
The initial phase of this project was to observe probable hazards and document locations inside and outside the building and the nature of the existing hazard. Prior to the new windows and new roof that were completed in prior years, water incursion had caused some mold and mildew. The age of the building and its vacancy since 1968 except for storage made lead-based paint most likely on painted surfaces since paint used prior to 1978 contained lead. Asbestos in insulation and floor tiles were suspected. A visual observation confirmed all the above, as documented in the report and photos from Richard B. Hudgens. Laboratory testing and mitigation procedures will be carried out after the Selma School System finishes removing items stored throughout the basement and parts of the main floor so that all areas are accessible.
Quarry Lake Stock and Management
The Quarry Lake at the St. Stephens Historical Park is one of the few public lakes in Washington County. For the past few years, park visitors have remarked that fishing in our lake is not as plentiful as it once was. The lake needed to be stocked to increase our guests’ recreational fishing pleasure which should then generate increased revenue for the park.
In June 2018, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources completed a study of our lake indicated that our pond is healthy for mixed-use. it has deep, clear, unproductive (not covered with plankton) water and is suited to fishing and swimming. The seine test revealed that the bass and bream stock are at adequate levels. The catfish population is significantly understocked.
The recommendation for stocking the lake was to introduce 6″-8″ catfish into the pond. This is the recommended size so that the existing bass fish will not eat the catfish prior to maturity. Mr. Norman Green was the recommended supplier.
“Pathways to Mental Health”
The National Alliance on Mental Illness states that one in five Americans suffer from mental illness. As research, headlines, and personal testimonies reflect the devastation that mental health conditions can create, rural America is at an even greater risk of limited access to mental health resources. Therefore, the “Pathways to Mental Health” program serves as a source of refuge to rural citizens who otherwise would not have access to trained mental health counselors. “Pathways” focuses on mental health awareness, healthy mental lifestyles, and stigma removal. The program provides education tailored for children and adults, age 5 and up, and it gives each group an opportunity to dispel some of the myths associated with mental health conditions and health awareness. “Pathways” creates a judgment free, open dialogue environment in our communities and in our schools that encourages mental health awareness discussions. Moreover, it is an opportunity to conduct research and to collect data in the form of forums, surveys, and storytelling in an effort to provide resources to meet existing and future needs.
Aggie Outdoor Classroom and Garden
The Aggie Outdoor Classroom and Garden is an extension of the growing agric-science department at Jackson Middle School. The purpose of this project is to provide our students with numerous opportunities to learn about the importance agricultural plays in our area and in our daily lives. Students are provided multiple ways of learning about plant growth. Students experience the growth of plants through raise beds, aquaponic towers, hydroponic tubs and an outdoor hoop house. The hoop house serves as the centerpiece to our outdoor classroom, allowing for crops to grow throughout the year.