By Myra Bean

The I-55 north Bateville welcome sign is getting an upgrade and you can be a part.

Mayor Jerry Autrey received approval from the board of alderman to change the sign. Now Autrey wants to use a design generated from a contest.

Participants may submit their designs by June 1 to The Panolian, 363 Highway 51 North, P. O. Box 1616, Batesville, MS 38606.

The winning designer will be treated to a meal at Cafe Ole.

Criteria for the contest include:

1) No age restriction
2) Sign must say Welcome to Batesville
3) Must contain something to the effect of South Panola being 2010 National Champs and show state championship years of 1993, 1998, 2003-2007, 2009-2010.
4) May include, but not necessary information located on the seal including recreation – Sardis and Enid Dams; agriculture; industry; and eduction.

The remainder of the design is designer’s choice.