Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke reviews the city's accomplishments in 2019 and reveals the board's direction for 2020.

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If you have driven on Waveland Avenue lately you have seen the much-anticipated sidewalks being constructed. Once the project is completed, it will add nearly 2.5 miles to the city’s sidewalk infrastructure. The project is funded with 80% Mississippi Department of Transportation funds and just 20% direct local funds. The project should be completed in early summer 2019.

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When the Waveland sidewalk project is wrapping up, the MDOT Nicholson Avenue overlay and pedestrian pathway project should be getting started. Nicholson Avenue will overlay from the railroad track to HWY 90, and a five-foot-wide bike/pedestrian pathway will be installed on both sides of Nicholson. The project accomplishes two objectives: First, it will smooth the deteriorating and well-driven Nicholson Avenue; and second, it will provide a safeway for pedestrians to bike and walk safely along Nicholson Avenue. The total construction cost for the project is projected to be just over $1 million, but Waveland is going to be reimbursed for a majority of the cost of the project.
 
This past year has seen a continued building boom. Forty-nine homes have been constructed in Waveland, up from 33 in 2018. Over $15 million of new construction has been added to Waveland this past year alone.

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My main objective in 2020 is to aggressively address blight and improve the appearance of the Highway 90 corridor. A number of buildings and signs need to be removed. Waveland must show more pride and needs to be a more attractive “welcome mat” for the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The abandoned buildings, illegally placed signs and rough-looking median cannot be ignored any longer.

Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke shares details of exciting upcoming events in town, plus big beach news.
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For more information, visit our “Christmas on Coleman” Facebook page, contact Waveland City Hall, or contact Kristen Tusa via email at kristentusa@gmail.com.

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Waveland Food Truck Friday
 
The last Waveland Food Truck Friday for 2019 will take place on Coleman Avenue on Friday, December 13th from 5:00-8:00 pm. The section of Coleman Avenue in front of Studio Waveland will be closed to vehicular traffic to accommodate the food trucks and allow participants to set-up a canopy tent, table and chairs if they choose. 
 
Waveland Food Truck Friday admission is free and open to the public. Food can be purchased through the food trucks. The Waveland Civic Association will have a table set up selling beer, soft drinks and water. Baked goods will also be available for purchase. Studio Waveland will be open late for a little Christmas shopping while on Coleman Avenue, and there will be musical entertainment, thanks to the generous sponsorship from the Silver Slipper Casino.
 
Use the hashtag #downtownwaveland on your social media post so everyone can see all the good food and the great time you are having!
 

 
Handicapped Beach Access
 
Waveland is currently soliciting bids to construct a handicapped water access ramp at the beach.
 
The access ramp would allow wheelchairs to have quick and easier path from the Coleman Avenue beach parking lot to the beach and into the water.
 
This project was conceived from a suggestion submitted by a resident several years ago. It has taken Waveland a few years to hammer out the logistics and receive the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources Tideland funding for this project, but it is hopeful that soon it will become a reality.
 
In my opinion, having access to the Waveland beach in this way will be life-changing for disabled people. It is an incredibly worthwhile investment which will generate endless returns for our community.
 
The bids will be opened in January, 2020, and we anticipate that Waveland will be able to award in early spring.
 

Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke shares details of three exciting upcoming events in town.

The parade coordinator asks that veterans complete a parade entry form or contact her at kristentusa@gmail.com or (228) 209-7399.  Parade entry forms are available at Waveland City Hall and Bay Books (131 Main Street, Bay St. Louis).
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​Waveland's Ground Zero Museum will hold its Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, November 23. The day begins with a pancake breakfast from 7:00 am until 9:00 am. The cost of the pancake breakfast is $5.00 per person and is sponsored by the Waveland Civic Association. 

The Waveland's Ground Zero Museum Christmas Bazaar will be held from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm. Products offered include candles, jewelry, books, art and ceramics, just to name a few categories. A lunch will be available for purchase with food provided by Chappy's Rum Kitchen. 

Vendor spots are full. For more information about this event, contact the Waveland Ground Zero Museum at (228) 467-9012.
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I hope to see everyone on Coleman Avenue on Friday, November 8, between 5:00-8:00 pm for Waveland Food Truck Friday. Coleman Avenue in front of Studio Waveland will be closed to accommodate the food trucks and allow you to set-up a canopy tent, table and chairs if you choose.

​Waveland Food Truck Friday admission is free and open to the public. Food and drinks can be purchased through the food trucks. The Waveland Civic Association will have a table set up selling beer, soft drinks and water.
 
Waveland Food Truck Friday will have musical entertainment, thanks to the generous sponsorship from the Silver Slipper Casino.
 
Use the hashtag #downtownwaveland on your social media post so everyone can see all the good food and the great time you are having.

Next Board of Mayor and Alderman meeting
Wednesday, November 20th at 6:30PM

This month, Waveland Mayor Mike Smith picks up a pen to bring us up to date on events and important projects in our seaside town.
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​I am also very proud that we recently opened up the first dog park in Hancock County, with a section for both small and larger furry friends. On that same day we officially opened the City of Waveland town green between the Ground Zero Museum and the Library. This will be an area that everyone can enjoy and will be the home of our Festival of Lights this year. We will do our official tree lighting and Christmas parade with Santa Claus all in this location on December 7 starting at 5:00.
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​We also are about 80% finished with our new community center at the Martin Luther King Jr. Park, which is slated to open in November. The community center will include a new playground, a resurfaced basketball court and a new and improved stage for our community to enjoy. We are in the final stages of the city-wide sewer program, which was a $5.5 million infrastructure project, intended to reduce infiltration and save thousands in treatment costs. 
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Last but not least, we have about 30% of the Waveland Avenue sidewalk project complete, which adds sidewalks on both sides of Waveland Ave. This project has been the works for over four years; it is a much needed safety project for pedestrians along one of the busiest streets in Waveland.

Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke reports on a new event on Coleman Avenue; the acquisition of land for a new park; and a second Waveland lighthouse?
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The next Waveland Food Truck Friday is scheduled for Friday, October 18 from 5 to 8 pm. You can “like” Waveland Food Truck Friday on Facebook to keep up with the latest news about the events.

​Avenue B Park
 
The city of Waveland is acquiring two parcels at the corner of Caspian and Avenue B in order to construct a park. Waveland saw a need for a park on the north side of Highway 90, and the property being acquired will be gifted to Waveland by the Mississippi Secretary of State. Once the property officially belongs to the city, building the park will be one of the top priorities for the city of Waveland. 
 

​I will call you, Mini Lighthouse
 
The City of Waveland is now the home to not one, but two lighthouses. Well, kinda. The Arts, Hancock County recently donated a replica of the Waveland Lighthouse to the city. The replica lighthouse originally made its debut at the Studio Waveland Street Party on Coleman Avenue in June and made another appearance in front of the original Waveland Lighthouse at the July 4th Destination Waveland event.
 
City of Waveland appreciates the artists that put in hundreds of hours in creating this lovable masterpiece.

Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke reports on an important court decision that benefits Waveland residents; and recognition of the Waveland Business of the Year.
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​Waveland owes a great deal of gratitude to Senator Cindy Hyde Smith, Senator Roger Wicker and Congressman Steven Palazzo for this endeavor. Without their leadership and perseverance Waveland would still be at a standstill.
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Business of the Year
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I would like to congratulate Pearl River Community College Hancock Center for being elected by the Hancock Chamber membership as the Waveland Business of the Year.

Pearl River Community College Hancock Center provides local students with an opportunity to receive a quality education right here in Waveland.  Pearl River Community College Hancock Center opened right before Katrina then reopened shortly after Katrina in a trailer in order to continue the mission of educating Hancock County students.  

What a blessing Waveland has that students can receive a top-notch education with just a short drive, bike ride or even walk to the Pearl River Community College Hancock Center. Congratulations to Pearl River Community College Hancock Center. 

Waveland Food Truck Friday - August 9

Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke reports on Waveland Taco Fest 2019; HemFest in Paris; and the recent MML Conference in Biloxi.
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- Photos by Lionel Haynes, Jr

​Ernest Hemingway's 120th birthday celebration will continue on Saturday, July 20 with the 1K "No Bull Fun Run."  The Fun Run begins at the intersection of Central Avenue and Coleman, and registration opens at 5:00. The "bulls" will be roller derby ladies on skates, and runners are encouraged to wear your best whites and a red scarf!  The race entry is $25 per person in advance.

To purchase your tickets for either event, contact Joanne Boyd at (985) 249-1103, or reserve your tickets at wavelandgroundzero.com.

Waveland Taco Fest 2019 will take place on Saturday, July 27 from 3:00-8:00 pm on Coleman Avenue.

This is an event to help support Madison Dobson. Madison, the 8-year-old  daughter of Joe and Mindy Dobson of Waveland, was recently diagnosed with CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome). CRPS /RSD is a disease of the central and autonomic nervous systems. It is the most painful medical condition known to man at 45/50 on the McGill Pain scale. Since January, Madison has battled pain, numbness and loss of mobility in both legs and feet. She also struggles with nerve pain internally in her stomach, esophagus, spleen and liver. 
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This disease progresses rapidly, and there is no cure. We have sought treatment over the last few months through many of the south’s best doctors and pediatric specialists with no luck. She is in Stage 1 of full body CRPS, and we are hoping to seek treatment before the disease progresses any further.

Before this illness, Madison loved gymnastics and lived for competitions and watching Olympians on YouTube. She is a very self-motivated and determined little girl, always excelling in everything she tries, best described by her parents and siblings as the overachiever of her family of nine.

Waveland Taco Fest will feature a taco cookoff competition, unlimited taco tasting, live music, craft vendors, limbo competition and much more. Taco Fest will be a fun event for a worthy cause. If you think you have the best tacos in South Mississippi, prove it and enter a team.

Please visit Taco Fest’s website for additional information and to purchase advance tickets for the event.

During the week of June 24-26, Mayor Mike Smith, Alderman Charlie Piazza and I attended the 88th Annual Mississippi Municipal League Conference in Biloxi. The MML Conference has over 2,500 attendees and is a great opportunity for public officials to get professional training and to network with other public officials from all over Mississippi.

Mayor Mike Smith was recognized at the conference for completing his Advanced Level Certified Municipal Official of the Certified Municipal Official (CMO) program. Mayor Smith is currently working on fulfilling the requirement for the final level of the CMO program, the Professional Development level. 

​I completed the final level of the Certified Municipal Official program, the Professional Development level in 2018 and was recognized at this conference for my accomplishment. Although I have no more levels to complete, I will continue to attend classes because I never want to stop learning.

Although the certification course is voluntary, receipt of the designation of Certified Municipal Official requires completion of core courses: Municipal Organization, Municipal Law, Municipal Finance, Municipal Land Use and Community Development. The CMO program provides the participants training to become more effective leaders for Waveland.

Established in 1931, MML represents 295 city, town and village governments in Mississippi. The mission of the MML is helping cities and towns excel through training, lobbying at the state and federal level, and providing resources and networking opportunities with state, federal and private entities. For more information about the Mississippi Municipal League, visit www.mmlonline.com.
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Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke reports on a special program at the Waveland Library; and a special art exhibition and party at Studio Waveland & Gallery.
- Photos by Ellis Anderson
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This program is sponsored by the NAACP, as an adjunct to its Reading Buddies tutoring program during the school year in the Bay St. Louis and Waveland elementary schools. No fee or advance sign-up is required.
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​2nd Annual Summer Solstice Party
 
Celebrate the summer solstice and the opening of the 25 WOMEN Art Exhibition with Studio Waveland & Gallery on Saturday, June 22 from 5-10 pm. 
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The event will feature the opening of the 25 Women Art Exhibition, ART FILMS by Women FilmMakers, and music. Studio Waveland invites you to "Bring Your Own Dinner Party” to set up under the sunset and evening stars. Yes, that’s right. Gather your neighbors, family and/or friends and bring the party to us. Bring tables, chairs, colorful tablecloths, food, drinks and any other party enhancements and set up on the street.
 
For more information please visit The Shoofly Magazine's Upcoming Events page!

Event Date: Saturday, June 22, 5-10 pm
25 Women Art Exhibition Dates: June 22 - August 17
Location: Studio Waveland & Gallery
            228 Coleman Ave., Waveland, MS 39576
            504-914-9618
 
Free to the Public

Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke reports on the start of Waveland's new sidewalk project, the St. Clare Seafood Festival and the lighthouse ribbon-cutting ceremony.
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​Waveland Avenue will remain open throughout the duration of the project, although intermittent lane closures may occur as needed to accommodate construction.  

The project is broken down into four sections in order to reduce the inconvenience to homeowners along Waveland Avenue.  The first section of construction will be from Highway 90 to Rue De Lasalle, second section is Rue De Lasalle to Herlihy, third section is Herlihy to Sycamore and final section is Sycamore to end of project.  All drainage will be complete, cut driveways repaired and sidewalks complete before the contractor can proceed to the next section of project. ​

This project has been in the works since 2015, and I’m excited to see we are finally heading down the home stretch. The project will make travel a lot easier and safer for pedestrians. It is anticipated that the project will be completed during the summer of 2020.
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St. Clare Seafood Festival
The St. Clare Seafood Festival has grown into the marquee festival in Hancock County for the Memorial Day weekend. The festival runs Friday, May 24, 5–11 pm, Saturday, May 25, 11 am–11 pm, and Sunday, May 26, noon to 10 pm
The festival features food, carnival rides, craft vendors, and the best free Memorial Day weekend live entertainment anywhere on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
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Please make plans to have a good time while supporting St. Clare this Memorial Day weekend.

Ribbon-Cutting for the Waveland Lighthouse

I'm extremely proud to offer this facility to the residents and visitors to Waveland.   The Waveland Lighthouse and Pavilion will be an anchor for the continue growth of Waveland.

Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke reports on the newly completed Waveland lighthouse and the 12th annual Crawfish Cook-off! ​

This project is a great example of a successful collaborative effort between Waveland and Hancock County Board of Supervisors. The project is a significant addition for the public at Waveland’s Coleman Avenue beach area. The project was funded using  Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act funds, Tideland Trust funds, and seawall tax funds. ​
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Much of the new facility matches the vision outlined and discussed for nearly a decade. The facility has a convenient layout, such as user-friendly ground level space, an elevator and plenty of seating along the observation deck. The facility is low maintenance, has low operating costs and is ADA accessible.

The Waveland Lighthouse, pavilion and bathroom facility will be cleaned daily.  The facility will have 24 hour video surveillance. No established hours for the opening and closing of the restrooms have been decided, but the restrooms inside the Waveland Lighthouse will not be available 24 hours a day.

I will let everyone know when a date and time is decided for the ribbon cutting of this much needed facility.

C&R’s Bar and Grill’s 12th Annual Crawfish Cook-Off will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2019, from 10am – 4pm on Coleman Avenue.

The teams will be competing for cash prizes and for the glorious honor of being crowned Crawfish Cook-off Champion. Trophies will be given to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place teams, as well as to the People’s Choice and Most Unique Edible Lagniappe item.

Admission is just $25 for adults and $10 for kids (9–12), and under-8s are free. The C&R crawfish cook-off benefits Hancock County non-profit, Hope Haven.

No outside beverages are allowed to be brought in and please leave your pets at home. The sponsors of this event are the Silver Slipper Casino and Budweiser.  

Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke reports on the upcoming St. Patrick's Day parade and the city's new appointments.

The parade will include the regionally famous Krewe of Shamrockers, The Queens, and the Raw Oyster Marching Club.

The parade will start on Waveland Avenue, travel down Central Avenue, turn right onto Coleman Avenue,  right on Beach Boulevard, then disband at Waveland Avenue. The Waveland Police Department decided this route is logistically the best route for the parade.  Hope to see everyone lined up on the route ready to catch beads, cups, and, of course, cabbage!
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​Welcome Aboard!

In February, Waveland approved the appointment of former Lt. Phillip Pavolini to assistant police chief and  Mickey Lagasse  as city clerk.  

​Assistant Chief Phillip Pavolini has been with Waveland Police Department for a number of years and rose through the ranks.  Assistant Chief Pavolini will be an outstanding addition to the leadership team at the Waveland Police Department. He brings a wealth of experience and an impeccable service record to his new role.

​My expectations are simple: law and order and providing exceptional service while maintaining community confidence in our police force. Not only has Assistant Chief Pavolini fulfilled that expectation, he has earned the respect of the public and his fellow officers with his impressive service to our community.  

Mickey Lagasse will be an excellent fit here at the city for a host of reasons. His love of customer service will serve the city residents well. He also has years of experience leading staff, streamlining processes, overseeing budgets, preparing contracts, and is a well-organized professional. These are all necessary attributes that we were seeking when filling the city clerk position.

Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke reports on the upcoming Nereids Parade, the recent conference of the Mississippi Municipal League, and recent appointments made by Mayor Smith.

Please read the notice below regarding the Nereids parade.

​Laissez les bon temps rouler!
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​PUBLIC NOTICE FROM THE CITY OF WAVELAND
 

• There will be no parking of vehicles, trailers, or recreational vehicles before 12:00 p.m. Saturday afternoon February 23, 2019. Any vehicle parked on the right-of-way at any time that obstructs the view of traffic for cars going into or out of businesses will be towed.
• There will be no marking or reserving parking areas along the parade route with tape, rope or other means of “marking a spot.” 
• Underage consumption of alcohol will not be tolerated. There will be plain clothes officers enforcing the law.
• There will be no sale of silly string &/or Snap and Pops on the parade route.
• There will be no skateboards, hover boards, skates, scooters, bicycles or any unauthorized modes of transportation, including motorized forms of the items mentioned above, on the parade route. Any one of these will be removed from the parade route.
• There will be no drones of any kind on the parade route.
• There will be no reptiles or pets of any kind allowed on the parade route.
• There will be no glass containers on the parade route.
• There will be no parking on the median or ladders or scaffolding.
• ​Please be courteous and use the trash containers provided along the parade route.

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Board Members Go To Capitol

​Waveland Mayor Mike Smith, Alderman Bobby Richardson, and I recently attended the Mississippi Municipal League’s 2019 Mid-Winter Legislative Conference in Jackson, Mississippi.
 
Along with approximately 500 municipal leaders from all over Mississippi, we participated in discussions of current legislative issues and their impact on local governments and attended sessions to listen to ideas to help move Waveland forward. We also networked with legislators and business leaders at the Gulf Coast Legislative Reception and at the capitol to provide them important feedback on issues that are critical to Waveland.

While in Jackson Mayor Smith, Alderman Richardson and I met with Mississippi Development Authority leadership to ask for additional funding for a community building at Martin Luther King Jr. Park on Herlihy Street. I’m pleased to report that Mayor Smith got word in mid-January from the Mississippi Development Authority that Waveland got the additional funding required to fund the building at Martin Luther King Jr. Park.
 
Attending the MML's Mid-Winter Conference and visiting the capitol during the legislative session are valuable components of Waveland’s progress forward.
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Waveland Appointments
 
In accordance with Waveland’s charter, Mayor Mike Smith was required to make his appointments to several positions at the first meeting of the new administration. The list of the mayor’s appointments are as follows:

• Police Chief - Michael Prendergast
• Fire Chief - Tony Mallini
• City Attorney - Rachel Yarborough
• Superintendent of Utilities Department (Public Works) - Brent Anderson
• Judge - P.J. Mauffray
• City Prosecutor - Melinda Tucker
• Public Defender - Todd Thriffiley
• Mayor Pro Tem - Shane LaFontaine
• City Clerk (temporary) - Ron Duckworth

 
The two changes that Mayor Mike Smith made was appointing former Assistant Chief Michael Prendergast as the Waveland Police Chief. Chief Prendergast replaces Dave Allen.
 
Chief Allen has served as Waveland Police Chief since 2013 and served Waveland well. He led a department that was facing a number of lawsuits to one of the most respected police departments in South Mississippi. I’m happy to report that Dave Allen has agreed to stay with the Waveland Police Department to serve as Head of Investigations and a full-time Cyber Crimes Investigator for the city of Waveland.
 
I’m positive Chief Prendergast will do a stellar job. His 30-plus years of experience in law enforcement and fresh perspective will be invaluable for the Waveland Police Department. I am confident that under Chief Prendergast’s dedicated leadership, the Police Department will continue to work diligently in protecting our community against crime, while implementing best practices, new technologies and initiatives to ensure the department is able to meet the growing needs of our city.
 
The other change that was made was the appointment of Ron Duckworth as city clerk. The appointment of Ron is only a temporary appointment.  Ron will still hold his position as comptroller, but Mayor Smith informed the Board of Aldermen that his desired choice of city clerk wouldn’t be ready to begin work as city clerk until February, so Ron was temporarily appointed to fill the position. 

A giddy newcomer and seasoned bird-watcher finds a wildlife bonanza here on the Gulf Coast.
- story by Dena Temple

Black Skimmer feeds by dragging its lower mandible through the water, trolling for fish.
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“Tu-a-wee!” A flock of Eastern Bluebirds frolicked in the front yard.
 
Yes, we are birders. Bird-brains. Bird nerds! In fact, our fascination with feathered fauna helped drive our southern migration. And as birders, we weren’t looking for a home so much as a “habitat.”

​​The pretty brick house on the tracks in Waveland fit the bill perfectly – lots of land bordered by dense woods, near a bayou. We signed the papers just before Thanksgiving, and by Turkey Day we were unpacking our binoculars and setting up feeding stations.
 
We’re also a little competitive. And by “little,” I mean very. We compete with other bird nerds to see how many species of birds we can ID in our yards. We re-started our 2018 list when we moved to Waveland – and by the time the ball dropped on New Year’s Eve, our list stood at an astounding 52 species. In five weeks!

​While all seasons along the Coast provide excellent opportunities for wildlife-watching, perhaps the best kept secret is the diversity here in the winter.
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Joining the resident species of the Gulf are thousands of birds that spend their summers breeding farther north. As lakes and bays freeze over, species that rely on aquatic habitat are forced to head south.
 
In addition, land birds that eat insects must migrate to follow the food source. So, while spring and fall offer the best variety because of the migratory birds passing along the Mississippi Flyway, winter birding delights savvy Gulf Coast residents who are “in the know.” 
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​​Gulls, terns and particularly shorebirds flock to the Gulf beaches, much like our snowbirds do, for the Gulf’s agreeable climate and excellent dining. Everyone eats seafood along the Coast!
 
Ducks, too, migrate south for the winter. Many only go as far as necessary to find unfrozen water, so they can find food. Some, however, make their way to our coastline and local ponds.
 
Commonly seen from our beaches are Bufflehead, tiny black ducks with white bonnet-like caps, and Common Loons, looking drab in their “basic” winter plumage.
 

​One of my favorite places to look for birds is the Washington Street Pier in Bay St. Louis. What makes any location excellent for birds is habitat diversity, and this spot has it.
 
Along the beach you’ll see lots of terns, gulls and shorebirds. Try to pick out the Willet, a large shorebird with drab, brown plumage – until he flies, revealing a distinctive and brilliant white wing stripe.

​​Walking to the end of the pier, scan the water for the aforementioned ducks, along with Horned Grebes, which are common in the Sound in the winter, and Red-breasted Mergansers, ducks with a distinctive dagger-like bill. 
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​​Next, scan the rocks at the pier for Ruddy Turnstone, a medium-sized shorebird with orange legs and an unusually patterned chest. Perhaps you’ll get lucky and spot a Purple Sandpiper in the rocks, a rare visitor from the North.
 
While you’re out there, scan the distant skies for the beautiful white Northern Gannett, a large, graceful booby-like bird that nests on island cliffs but spends its entire winter over the water.
 
Back on land, patiently check the dune grass for birds like Marsh Wren, sparrows and Scaly-breasted Munia, a non-native, pet-shop escapee that has been spotted here recently.
 
There are many places along the Gulf Coast where beginners and pros alike can enjoy looking at, and learning about, birds. 
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​A great source is the Mississippi Coast Audubon Society, which hosts mostly free field trips to various locations in the area. Attending one of these trips is a great way to meet like-minded people, increase your local knowledge, and learn about conservation and habitat protection.
 
If you’d rather strike out on your own, you can find information on the website for the Mississippi Coastal Birding Trail . The website identifies more than 40 prime birding locations in the six southern counties of Mississippi. It’s a great resource, and I’ll be working my way through that list myself.
 
If you are the type who likes to volunteer, there are opportunities through both MCAS and the National Audubon Society for winter shorebird monitoring.
 
Also coming up February 15-19 is the Great Backyard Bird Count, which encourages individuals to count birds in their own backyards (or a local park or hotspot), then report your findings online through a special website, www.birdsource.org. The event is held over Presidents Day weekend, which may give you an extra day to venture out and enjoy what our area has to offer.

Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke looks back at 2018 city accomplishments and looks at what's ahead for Waveland in 2019. 

At the first meeting ordinary city business will be taken care of such as paying the docket of claims, approving minutes, but in addition to normal business, several appointments are required to be made  in accordance with the Waveland Charter.  ​

​The following appointments are made exclusively by the Mayor WITHOUT approval of the  Board of Aldermen:

• Fire Chief
• Police Chief
• City Clerk
• City Attorney
• Judge
• Prosecutor 
• Public Defender
• Mayor Pro Tem 
• Water and Gas System/Utilities Superintendent

 
The appointment of the three election commissioners is recommended by the Mayor, but MUST BE APPROVED by the Board of Aldermen.

The City of Waveland took several steps forward during the year 2018. The most visible is the Public Pavilion/ Lighthouse Bathroom facility on the beach at the foot of Coleman.  Waveland will take possession from the contractor within the next few weeks. This project is a true partnership between the Hancock County Board of Supervisors and the City of Waveland. 
 
The Hancock County Supervisors pitched in more than $800,000 from GOMESA funds and the remaining is being paid through Tidelands Funds and the seawall gasoline tax. I give a huge thank you to the Hancock County Board of Supervisors for their support for this project. 
 
Waveland will continue to work on the three citywide sewer improvement projects.  All of the projects are still on schedule and on budget.  Last month, Waveland approved an additional 900 feet of new sewer to Edna Street.  The 900-foot addition will allow over a dozen property owners to be removed from the grinder pump system and will also reduce the amount of wastewater Waveland pays to treat. 

Before spring of this year Waveland along with Chiniche Engineering will give the contractor notice to begin construction on the long-awaited Waveland Avenue Sidewalk project. The sidewalk will add approximately 2.5 miles of sidewalks to the city’s infrastructure.

​This project is four years in the making and will vastly improve pedestrian traffic safety. Waveland is using MDOT funding to help pay for the sidewalk project which is the reason this project has moved at a snail’s pace.
 
During January and February, several board members and I will go to Jackson to speak with lawmakers to request funding for various projects and discuss a number of other issues that affect Waveland. 
 
I look forward at the next four years to bring great opportunity for Waveland.

Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke reports on ​the new Waveland Lighthouse, the Hope Haven Christmas Toy Drive and the city elections. 

It’s hard to believe that it is already time to say Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year. What a great year we have had here in Waveland.  This past year, our community has drawn together even closer and we have accomplished more than ever before. 

As we celebrate this holiday season, let us use this time to reflect and count our blessings. The greatest gift we could exchange this season is to serve one another. May I ask you all to remember your neighbors at this time of year, especially the elderly and those who live alone.

On behalf of my family, as well as the Waveland Board of Aldermen and Mayor, and all of our dedicated Waveland employees, we wish your family all the love and blessings this holiday season can offer.

We look forward with anticipation to another great year in 2019.

- Alderman Jeremy Burke

The current administration has been able to partner with the Board of Supervisors to aggressively find the funding to make the project a reality.  The lighthouse was built using Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act funds, Tideland Trust funds, and seawall tax funds.  The contractor is expected to turn over the project to Waveland by Christmas.
 
The Waveland Lighthouse & Public Pavilion will further enhance the use of the one of the most beautiful beaches on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Several people have expressed interest to me in hosting recreation events and festivals because of the easily available lighting, parking, power and, most importantly, a restroom facility. 

Hope Haven Christmas Toy Drive

Hope Haven Children's Advocacy Center 2018 Toy Drive provides an excellent opportunity for those who want to make a difference to bring a smile to the faces of underprivileged children during the holiday season.

Donate unwrapped toys to children less fortunate this Christmas. Sign up to have a Hope Haven CAC donation box placed in your business or organization. You can also drop off new unwrapped toys to the Hope Haven CAC office after a scheduled drop off time has been confirmed.

​Contact Hope Haven at 228-466-6395 for more information. Hope Haven Children's Advocacy Center: Supporting Children, Strengthening Families, and Restoring Hope.

Waveland Election 

Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke reports on ​the elections, a glowing Studio Waveland art opening, the Christmas Bazaar, the Waveland Ground Zero Museum membership drive and the new "Little Library." 

​Absentee voting for the December 4 Waveland Municipal Election has begun. If you will be out of town on Tuesday, December 4, you may go to the 2nd floor of Waveland City Hall on Coleman Avenue during business hours to cast your ballot.  If you have any questions about the election, please call Tammy Fayard at 228-467-4134.

Set yourself a'glowing with this  2D, 3D, video, and performance under black light curated by James Flynn, opto-kinetic geometrical abstract painter!

More GLOWING events are scheduled through January 5, 2019.  ​

The 5th Annual Waveland Christmas Bazaar is Saturday, November 17 on Coleman Avenue. This free outdoor event features local arts, crafts, jewelry, candles and much more.  
 
The bazaar is a cash-and-carry-items event, and local businesses are encouraged to participate.  This event is a great way to find that unique local gift to give to your family and friends this Christmas.
 
If you are interested in being a vendor, please email clu1964@gmail and request a vendor application.  The bazaar is attempting to not have duplicated booths, so please list all items that you wish to sell on your application.  

​Waveland's Ground Zero Hurricane Museum is having a membership drive.  Annual membership is $25.  During this drive, an inflatable, waterproof solar light is being offered as a gift with membership.  This light should be in everyone's hurricane preparedness kit.  Stop by the Museum, join and get your light.  Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Tuesday through Friday. The Museum is located at 335 Coleman Avenue in Waveland.
 
Waveland's Ground Zero Hurricane Museum will be hosting an Open House on November 17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to Ring in the Holiday Season. Stop by and enjoy some hot chocolate, punch and cookies.

​Waveland's first Little Free Library has been installed at 511 Jeff Davis Avenue.  This library was built by Santa Claus and provided by the Hancock County Library System.   The Little Free Library is a "take a book, return a book"  free book exchange. Anyone may take a book or bring a book to share. Come by and see what is in the Little Free Library.

Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke reports on Hurricane Florence relief efforts, the Halloween Bash on Coleman Avenue and the Waveland budget. 

All the volunteers took leave time from their jobs for this hurricane relief effort. With monetary help from dozens of Hancock County residents, the group was able to serve thousands of meals to people in Vass and Surf City, N.C.  ​

Attention all ghosts and goblins: Waveland invites you to the annual Halloween Bash on Coleman Avenue on Wednesday, October 31, from 5:30–7:00 p.m. There will be tricks, treats, face painting, a haunted house and many other surprises! This is a family-friendly event that children of all ages will enjoy.
 
To make this an even better event, we invite residents and businesses to set up on Coleman Avenue and hand out candy. 
 
If you are interested in setting up a booth or being a part of the event, please contact Raquel LaFontaine at Raquellafontaine@gmail.com(228-493-7246) or call Waveland City Hall at 228-467-4134.

Waveland adopted the fiscal year 2019 budget during September.  Financially, Waveland is on solid ground.  The general fund budget of just over $5.5 million has line items that will allow a boost in public safety. The city budget includes an addition of a patrolman, replacing several aging police vehicles, and positioning Waveland to take on several capital improvement projects. The tax rate of 37.55 mills is the same as last year so local taxpayers will see no Waveland tax increase.  
 
Two reasons for Waveland’s current good financial position is because the city mill value increased to $62,400 and the sales tax revenue is up nearly 3% from the previous year.  It is important for Waveland residents and weekenders to continue choosing to shop in local establishments and not online so Waveland will remain on good financial footing.

​During the construction of this project, DNA Underground will do their very best to accommodate Meadow Lane residents’ ability to access their house as they please. The one request Waveland asks is for all Meadow Lane residents to have their trash on the curb by 7 a.m.  Tuesday and Friday so that Waste Management can pick up the garbage before daily construction on the street begins.
 
Project two will be the Herlihy Street sewer replacement project. DNA Underground will also be the contractor for the abandoning and replacement of the sewer on Herlihy Street. The replacement is the largest of the sewer projects that Waveland will be undertaking.
 
The third infrastructure improvement project is the 6th Street, Gladstone and Waveland Cutoff project. This will entail lining some manholes, cleaning sewer lines and replacing selected sections of sewer lines.  The project has been awarded to Gulf Coast Underground. 
 
All three of these projects will be going on simultaneously and independently of one another.  Any personal property (mailboxes, driveways, culverts, grass, etc.) that is damaged during construction will be correctly repaired before the job is complete.  As a cost saving measure for taxpayers, Waveland will be separately contracting the paving of the roads once the three projects are complete. Paving the roads after all three sewer projects are completed will save Waveland taxpayers over $50,000. 

If you have any questions, please contact project representative Mickey Lagasse at 228.372.4427 or mickey@comptonengineering.com

City of Waveland has ramped up addressing blighted properties over the last several months.  The building department, led by Dave Draz and Josh Hayes, has been addressing dozens of projects since the beginning of the year. 

​This past month, two blighted properties were removed, and this month two more blighted properties have been ordered to be removed. The most noticeable property that is going to be removed this month is the former Day’s Frontier building located on Highway 90.
 
If you have a blighted property you would like Waveland to address, please file a complaint with Waveland Building Department.

If you have driven on Highway 90 lately, you have noticed the beginning stages of construction.  This Highway 90 project is 100% funded by Mississippi Department of Transportation and it is going to address traffic safety from the Waveland city limit all the way to the Bay Bridge. 

The project will improve safety of traveling on the highway by thinning out the median, making some turning lanes longer and moving lighting to the outside of Highway 90.  Several construction crews will be working on the project at one time so traffic on the highway will be congested at times.  

The project will take around six months to complete, so allow yourself extra time if you have to travel along Highway 90. 

Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke reports on the 2018 Waveland Business of the Year, Waveland Ave. sidewalks, Elwood Bourgeois Park, and garbage pick-up.  

The Waveland Avenue sidewalk project just got a lot closer to reality. Mississippi Department of Transportation has finally approved for Waveland to go out for bid for a contractor. This means Waveland will be advertising statewide for a contractor to construct sidewalks.  

​The proposed project will have 3 miles of 5’ sidewalks, ramps, and necessary drainage along the east and west sides of Waveland Avenue.  The project will paid from 80% federal funds and 20% local fund. If the project comes in above budget, Waveland will seek additional funds or will slightly scale back the project until additional funds become available.

The plan as of now is to select a contractor before the end of the year and have construction start soon after. The awarded project will be completed before the end of 2019.

Local engineering company and sponsor of the What’s Up, Waveland column, Chiniche Engineering, designed this project and will be overseeing the construction of the project.

​A restroom facility is currently being constructed at Elwood Bourgeois Park. The permanent cinder block facility will be completed by the end of the month. In addition to the restrooms, a small covered sitting area will be constructed near the splash pad.
 
Waveland had a majority of the materials needed to construct the restroom facility from previous projects and was able to do a lot of the work with city employees.  The cost to construct these two projects at Elwood Bourgeois Park is less than $15,000 and will allow Waveland to get rid of the weekly rental of the portable toilets.

 As the chairman of the Hancock County Solid Waste Authority, I am working closely with Waste Management to make sure all our garbage is being picked up as scheduled.  Please let me or Hancock County Solid Waste Authority administrator, Dawn Malley, know if your garbage is not picked up as scheduled.
 
Contact Information:
 
Jeremy Burke (HCSWA chairman) – 228.493.7399
 
Dawn Malley (HCSWA administrator) – 228.549.2052

Waveland Alderman Jeremy Burke reports a celebration of Ernest Hemingway's birthday to benefit the Ground Zero Museum, the MS Municipal League Conference and Waveland capital improvements. 

This patron party event is limited to 250 guests. Advance tickets are $66 per person or $119 for two and tickets at the door are $75 per person and $140 for two. The proceeds of the sales of the tickets go to benefit the Ground Zero Hurricane Museum fund of the Hancock Community Development Foundation.

Ernest Hemingway's 119th birthday celebration will continue on Saturday, July 21st with the "No Bull Fun Run".   This event is a 1K Fun Run for HemFest and begins at Central Avenue and Coleman at 6:00PM. The bulls will be roller derby ladies on roller skates and runners are encouraged to wear your best whites and red scarf!  The race entry is $25 per person in advance and $35 per person on-site. During and post-race refreshments include paella, sangria, and cold brew courtesy of Rum Kitchen.

To purchase your tickets for either event, contact Linda Aiavolasiti at 228.216.0561 or linda@wavelandgroundzero.com.

During the week of June 25th to June 27th Mayor Mike Smith, Alderman Charlie Piazza and I attended the 87th Annual Mississippi Municipal League Conference in Biloxi. The MML Conference has over 2,500 attendees and is a great opportunity for public officials to get professional training and to network with other public officials from all over Mississippi.

I am delighted to report that Mayor Mike Smith was able to satisfy the graduation requirement for the advance level of the Certified Municipal Official (CMO) program.

I was also able to complete the final level of the Certified Municipal Official program, the professional development level at the conference.  Although I have no more level to complete, I will continue to attend classes because I never want to stop learning.

Although the certification course is voluntary, receipt of the designation of Certified Municipal Official requires completion of core courses: Municipal Organization, Municipal Law, Municipal Finance, Municipal Land Use and Community Development. The CMO program provides the participants training to become more effective leaders for Waveland.

Established in 1931, MML represents 295 city, town, and village governments in Mississippi. The mission of the MML is helping cities and towns excel through training, lobbying at the state and federal level, and providing resources and networking opportunities with state, federal and private entities. For more information about the Mississippi Municipal League, visit www.mmlonline.com.

In the past month, the Waveland Board of Alderman submitted a number of applications for  capital improvements.

Waveland's goal is to make transportation for pedestrians more safe. The Board has applied to construct a bike/walk lane on Central Avenue from Waveland city limits to Waveland Avenue.  I will report back in a few months to inform everyone if the project will get funding from MDOT.

The Board of Alderman also applied for 3 Tideland Trust projects.
The project we applied for are as follows:
1. Handicapped accessibility ramp to the water's edge
2. Beach pagodas
3. Parking bay along Beach Blvd with electric car charging station

Waveland will learn which Tideland project will be funded in early 2019.