LOCAL * From staff reports

The 16th Annual Stamp Out Hunger Letter Carrier Food Drive in Vicksburg wrapped up with postal carriers collecting fewer canned and boxed goods than last year’s.

This year’s 9,181 pounds compared to last year’s 12,000 is believed to be reflective of the economy and high gasoline prices, local organizer Charles Selma said this morning.

“We felt from the beginning – we usually get a couple of bins full before – that was an indication it was going to drop off,” he said. “Of course anything you get is a plus.”

The weekend food drive called on locals to place canned and boxed food next to mailboxes for letter carriers to pick up and deliver. What was collected was dispersed to the Community Food Pantry, Haven House, We Care, River City Rescue Mission, Mountain of Faith Women’s Shelter and the Salvation Army. Each agency received at least 24 boxes of donated food, down from last year, when agencies received between 32 and 38, Selma said.

“I’m thankful. It’s a blessing from heaven. I think it’s a neat idea – you set food out by your mailbox and carriers come pick it up,” he said. “It’s an idea straight from heaven.”

The National Association of Letter Carriers food drive is an annual event across the country.

ACLU art auction Saturday to focus on civil liberties

The American Civil Liberties Union of Mississippi on Saturday will bring back its silent and live auction in Jackson and is requesting donations from artists.

The event will feature works by Mississippi artists who will demonstrate civil liberties concepts through their art. The auction challenges state artists and collectors to contribute pieces that represent freedoms. It’s the first auction the group has presented in six years.

The auction will be from 6 until 10 p.m. at the Edison Walthall Hotel at 225 Capitol St.

Those who would like to donate art, such as graphic arts, paintings of various mediums, sculptures, metallurgy, woodworking and other genres may call 601-354-3408 or visit artauction.msaclu.org.