Issuu

Periodical postage (ISSN 1052 2433)

News for members of Coast Electric Power Association

The house of 6,000 Santas

Admiration for two men of the bush

Recipes to shake up deer camp cookery

Today in Mississippi

November / December 2018

think big for your

farm ranch or

Ready to think big for your farm or ranch? Let us design, engineer and manufacture a building tailor-made to fit your needs. Give us a call or drop by today, and find out more about custom metal buildings from Mueller.

www.muellerinc.com 877-2-MUELLER (877-268-3553)

November / December 2018

Today in Mississippi

OUR HOMEPLACE

‘Tis the season to celebrate the special joys in our lives eady, set go! The holiday rush is officially underway. The next several weeks will be a blur of busyness for many folks. There are family gatherings to plan, shopping to do, errands to run and special dishes to prepare—all on top of our daily routines of work, school and kids’ activities. At my house, my wife and I will have the annual “discussion” about whose holiday decorating style will win out: my over-the-top lights and tinsel versus her more restrained, traditional approach. The way I see it, this time of year is as much about fun as it is reverent. I know everyone under the age of 12 is with me on this. We parents, however, set the stage for our children’s perspectives and expectations of the holiday season. Our attitudes and behavior during My Opinion the holidays say to them, Michael Callahan “This is what it’s all about.” Executive Vice President/CEO Are we conscious of the mesElectric Cooperatives of Mississippi sages we’re sending? Are we too stressed out to keep things merry and bright? Even as my own three youngsters are not so young anymore, I hope it’s not too late for me to influence their thinking. These are a few things I hope they’ve picked up from our own family holiday traditions: • Thanksgiving is all about gratitude. Not food, football, hunting or shopping, as wonderful as these things are. Thanksgiving is a time to pause, reflect on the good things in our lives and give thanks to God. No matter who you are or what you believe in, this is

On the cover Santa may have a home at the North Pole but Linda Secovich finds him in flea markets and thrift shops throughout south Mississippi. She and her mother, Norma Jean Clinton, have amassed a collection of some 6,000 Santas. See a few of them in our story on page 4.

Visit us online at www.todayinmississippi.com

a special day of reverence above all else. • Giving to others is one of the best ways to express gratitude, not only during the holidays but year-round. Charitable giving makes a huge impact on the well-being of a society, from alleviating hunger to disaster relief. I want my children to grow up to be generous in spirit as well as actions. While I pray they will never experience hardship, I hope they will never take their quality of life for granted. • The “success” of a family’s Christmas celebration is not dependent on material things. While we certainly want to please our children with gifts as best we can, maybe we should try to dilute the focus on materialism. For Christians, Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, above all else. Then there are the outdoor lighting displays and decorations, the living nativities, the uplifting songs you hear only this time of year, downtown parades and little gifts of appreciation for, say, a teacher or a neighbor. I’d like to close by offering some unsolicited advice to all youngsters: Put the phone down at family holiday gatherings and talk with your relatives, especially those you rarely see. These folks probably have a lot of stories to share and would love to hear what’s going on in your life. Have real conversations, ask questions and share some laughs. Hug back when hugged. Show appreciation for gifts and food. Be thankful you have a life filled with people who love you. I hope your holiday season is joyful, fulfilling and meaningful. Have a happy Thanksgiving and a merry Christmas!

Today in Mississippi OFFICERS Randy Smith - President Keith Hayward - First Vice President Kevin Bonds - Second Vice President Eddie Howard - Secretary/Treasurer EDITORIAL STAFF Michael Callahan - CEO Ron Stewart - Sr. VP, Communications Mark Bridges - Manager, Support Services Debbie H. Stringer - Editor Elissa Fulton - Communications Specialist Rickey McMillan - Graphics Specialist Chris Alexander - Administrative Assistant Kevin Wood - Graphics Specialist

JOIN TODAY IN MISSISSIPPI

ON FACEBOOK Vol. 71 No. 11

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING • 601-605-8600 Acceptance of advertising by Today in Mississippi does not imply endorsement of the advertised product or services by the publisher or Mississippi’s electric power associations. Product satisfaction and delivery responsibility lie solely with the advertiser. The publisher (and/or its agent) reserves the right to refuse or edit all advertising. • National advertising representative: American MainStreet Publications 800-626-1181 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300 Circulation of this issue: 438,721

The Official Publication of the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Today in Mississippi is brought to you by your member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative to inform you about your cooperative and its various services, including wise energy use. If you are not a member of a subscribing cooperative, you can purchase a subscription for $9.50 per year. Today in Mississippi (ISSN 1052-2433) is published 11 times a year (Jan.-Nov.) by Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Inc., P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300, or 665 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, MS 39157. Phone 601-605-8600. Periodical postage paid at Ridgeland, MS, and additional office.

Mississippi is Oh, I can remember when... Gathering eggs still warm from the hen Sitting in Uncle Frank’s swing Listening to the mockingbird sing Watching the leaves fall with every little breeze Chores all done, taking my ease Yellow Sulphurs flitting about Hearing the cicada announcing, “I’m coming out” Watching the clouds darken to the south Hoping for a little rain, but not too much to flood us out. This is my Mississippi! – Norma Savage, Moss Point

What’s Mississippi to you? What do you treasure most about life in our state? Send your thoughts to Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158, or to news@ecm.coop. Please keep your comments brief. Submissions are subject to editing for length and clarity.

0 600 1

Today in Mississippi

November / December 2018

THE HOUSE OF

Santas (and counting)

By Debbie Stringer What does Santa Claus really look like? Is he a tubby old man in wire-rim glasses or a saxophoneblowing hipster? A kindly father figure or a bearded biker? These are but a few of the 6,000 interpretations of Santa (and Mrs. Claus) collected for decades by Dixie Electric Power Association member Linda Secovich and her mother, Norma Jean Clinton. Clinton, who loves to “junk” at thrift shops, purchased her first Santa “too far back to remember,” she said. “I’m pretty sure my first one came from a junk shop.” The collection eventually outgrew her house “so she boxed them up and brought them here,” Secovich said, referring to the home she shares with husband Charlie in Covington County. The collection remained packed away until the couple’s children left home. Then Charlie built shelves in a spare bedroom and out came the Santas. The items are grouped according to theme or function. There are patriotic, collegiate, nostalgic, singing and dancing, golfer, hunter, cowboy, comic book and snow skier Santas, to name a few.

Nestled among the figurines are Santa-themed jewelry items, baby rattlers, flashlights, mugs, candles, kitchen ware, slippers, dog clothing, buttons, music boxes, outdoor decorations, even bathroom accessories. Most are mass-produced items, the kind that begin filling stores before Halloween. But some are one-ofa-kind, made by skilled hands. “The handmades are my favorite,” Secovich said, referring to the Santa images painted on crab shells, sand dollars, gourds and cypress knees; carved in wood; stitched into quilts; and crocheted into soft toys. A favorite figurine of this retired high school geometry teacher is her teacher Santa, standing before a class of pint-size Santa students seated at tiny desks. Some of the Santas sing or rap and swing their hips, to the delight of Secovich’s four grandchildren. One Santa takes a spin in a red lowrider. Romantic Santa smooches with Mrs. Claus, and devout Santa cradles baby Jesus in his arms. Strings of Santa-shaped lights and a Christmas

“I say my husband hunts deer and I hunt Santas.” – Linda Secovich

Linda Secovich holds two vintage Santas from the collection. tree sprinkled with Santa ornaments complete the festive year-round display. And it just keeps growing. Secovich and her mother still enjoy scouring flea markets and thrift stores together in search of secondhand Santas. “That’s where you find the most unusual ones,” Secovich said. She is frugal in her purchases, while her husband tends to splurge; he sprang for the brand-new biker and lowriding Santas as gifts for his wife. And he’s likely responsible for the camo-clad Santa. “I say my husband hunts deer and I hunt Santas,” Secovich said.

November / December 2018 I Today in Mississippi

Linda Secovich, right, and her mother, Norma Jean Clinton, have collected Santa and Mrs. Claus figures and decorations for some 35 years. The entire 6,000-piece collection fills a spare room at the Secovich house. Mother and daughter hold a whole-cloth Santa quilt hand stitched by Clinton.

Today in Mississippi

November / December 2018

Season’s festivities light up communities It's the time of the year when the sun sets earliest and the nights are longest and darkest. Inverness is just one of the communities spreading holiday light with some festive events. I suppose we could let our own brighter sides shine a little more, too. Might go better for us when Santa visits if we did. Photo: Walt Grayson

s. Jo was afraid I wouldn’t be able to stay awake driving because I was taking antihistamine. So when I went to Inverness to speak at their Chamber of Commerce “Person of the Year” banquet recently, she sent granddaughter Emily Ann along to make sure I stayed awake. It really was a delight riding with Emily. When she was just a little child she went with me all over the place doing stories for TV. But Mississippi then teenage Seen years hit and they get their by Walt Grayson own lives and you hardly see them again. But we had a couple of hours each way to recall our greatest adventures from her childhood, and also to talk over almost-grown-up stuff she’s going through as a freshman in college. We made it to the banquet early enough so I could visit with folks a bit. Emily got a glass of sweet tea and found our seats at the table. After a while I joined her. When I sat down she pointed to a gentleman across the room and said he had just paid her a compliment. He told her that she was the first teenager he had seen in a long time who politely sat at a table without fiddling with their cell phone. I noticed that she didn’t have her phone out. So I complimented her too on being mature enough to patiently visit with people and not rudely have her

head bent over and her thumbs flying across a keyboard flipping from app to app and sending texts to a hundred people. Emily sort of let the corners of her mouth curl up a bit as she giggled and admitted, “I don’t have any bars.” Inverness is planning a couple of Christmas events including “Follow the Star,” which is a walk-through-the-streets live nativity play, on Dec. 1 and 2. It reminds me of the outdoor “Passion Play” that First Methodist of Kosciusko does every Easter in downtown Kosciusko. One item of Chamber of Commerce business discussed before the awarding of the Person of the Year was who, how and when the luminaries would be set out and lit Christmas Eve on the main street and on down to the bayou. It is refreshing to see a community being a community, especially doing fun things during the holidays when life is supposed to be fun anyway. And when it is less than fun, other folks will put out enough decorations to make it colorful, at least. I remember our annual holiday excursions to see the floats on Deer Creek at Leland when I was growing up in Greenville. They are still there every year. And Indianola decorates Indian Bayou downtown, as I recall. Oh, by the way, I met Santa Claus a few weeks ago. It was while we were shooting a “Mississippi Roads” show at the Alice Mosley Folk Art Museum in Bay St. Louis. Bob McGraw walked in wearing a red shirt, longish white hair and a real beard. I immediately scurried over to him and told him I knew who he was and that I had been good. Bob told me he gets to play Santa a

great deal every year. He’s even been to Santa School. He says when he bumps into a real Santa in a store during the holidays while he himself is out of uniform, he runs up to him, hugs him and hollers, “Dad! It’s so good to see you again!” I hope you get to see everybody you

want to see over the holidays and your season is full of light. Walt Grayson is the host of “Mississippi Roads” on Mississippi Public Broadcasting television, and the author of two “Looking Around Mississippi” books and “Oh! That Reminds Me: More Mississippi Homegrown Stories.” Contact Grayson at walt@waltgrayson.com.

Three Festi iv ve Experiences in Meridian

ppi ip ssi Meridian, Missis

Lazy Acres In Ligh htts . . . One of Mississippi’s brightest and best light displays

also has Mississippi’s largest hand-painted nativity scene. Visit with the elves in Santa’s workshop, view the farm animals, take in the beauttiful light displays as you celebrate “It’s a Red Flannel Christmas” . . . it’s truly a South th Pole adventure ture. Tre ees Of Christmas a att Merr re ehope . . . will celebrate 50 fabulous years decked

out in it its ts fines fin st h holiday ollida idaay attire ttire in including lu g special memories and futuristic creations. Take a guided tourr of Anteebeeellum mM Merrehope errreehope op (circa (c ca 1858) andd Victorian FF.W. Williams (circa 1886) hist h toric ic homess too see s 50 exquisite xquisittelyy deco decorated treees and seasonal delights. San ntta’s Chr C ristmas Factory . . . Snow flurries urries falling ng – plus lus Christmas Train an

rides des – pl pluss Hoolid dayy Spirit pirit eq equals q ls San qual qu nta’s a’s C Ch hrisstm mass Factory. F ctory. ry. y Tour the historic oric Soulé oulé Steam St m Works in downtow wn nM Merridiian deecorate a ed with w h th houssand a ds of lights and nd toys ys for this family amily-friendly ndly eeven nt.

5#06 6# # 5

%*4+56/#5 (#%614 (# 4; ; Lazy Acres 596 Lazy Acres Rd. in Chunky Nov. 22 – Dec. 25 6-9 pm • Closed Sundays & 12/24 Mon. - Thur. - Drive Thru Fri. & Sat. - Wagon Ride 833-327-6386 • lazy-acres.com

Merrehope/F.W. Williams HISTORIC HOMES

905 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Opening Gala Nov. 15, 6-8 pm DAILY TOURS

Mon.-Sat. 9-5 • Nov. 16-Dec. 29 Sundays 1-5 • Dec 2,9,16 601-483-8439 • merrehope.com

Mississippi Industrial Heritage Museum Downtown @ 1808 4th St. Nov. 24, Dec. 6-7-8-14 & 15 4 pm - 8 pm 601-693-9905 santaschristmasfactory.com

November / December 2018

Today in Mississippi

8 I Today in Mississippi I November / December 2018

Admiration on a distant continent ieter still wears the same hat he was wearing when I first met him quite a few years back. But as for that, so do I. I suppose we both discovered that a good thing serves well and is not quickly supplanted. In stature, my brief 5’9” surpasses his by a good 4 inches. Otherwise, we could wear the same clothes. Pieter walks with an unusual gait but covers an inordinate amount of real estate just the same. In fact, it was Pieter I was struggling to follow when I had a Outdoors first hint of heart issues. We were on Today the tracks of by Tony Kinton waterbuck—then that frightening chest disturbance. But even minus a blocked widow maker, I’m not sure I could have kept that steady, rocking pace. I had failed to do so two years prior when I was a healthy specimen. And there is William—lanky, younger. I met him three years after I met Pieter. He is Pieter’s brother; both live on the property of and work for my PH friend Louis Steenkamp of Sofala Safaris. William glides when walking, an air of dignity present in every step. And like Pieter, he follows spoor in adroit fashion. A defined track here; a bent blade of grass there. It is said about men of the bush such as these two that they can track a bird across the sky an hour after that bird has passed. Hyperbole for sure, but not by much. Purely incredible they are. Pieter and William are part of the Sotho group (pronounced Sue-too). They are from the northern region of South Africa—Limpopo Province— where their tribe is known as the Pedi or Bapedi. They speak Sepedi. This is a dialect of the language known as Northern Sotho. Since I struggled for some time trying to learn Spanish and still know only enough to get hurt, I find it captivating

to encounter individuals who are bi-lingual or even multi-lingual. Pieter and William are so equipped. They can go from their Sotho dialect to Afrikaans with ease, and William is quite proficient with English as well. However, due to his rich, lyrical South African accent, I find myself asking him to repeat what he said far more often than he has to ask the same of me. He seems to understand Mississippi English just fine.

was. Louis interpreted and I responded. Louis then interpreted to Pieter, who simply hung his head and wagged it side to side. Turns out Pieter was a year older! I never concluded if his head wagging was an effort to commiserate or one of disgust that an old man such as I would fly halfway around the world to crawl through African thorn bush. And I recall once when I sat at midday and watched William painting a portrait. Really, he was not painting; he was cleaning out the fire pit. He had a wheelbarrow, a worn shovel and a rake. Every move was fluid. He scooped, smoothed, raked and studied the situation. When he finished the pit was a thing of beauty, even without the mystique of fire that would come at sunset. William, as it

William, left, and Pieter are quite amazing. They have my admiration. Photo: Tony Kinton

And this past June, I discovered that Pieter was beginning to venture into English. Reticent among the Englishspeaking contingent, he would try only a word or two along. One day at the end of my Cape buffalo hunt, he looked at me and said, “Knife.” I unsheathed my skinning knife and handed it to him. He responded with a quiet “Thank you.” It is intriguing to me that when these men speak English, they do so with exactness. Subjects and verbs agree. “Saw” is not erroneously replaced by “seen.” “He and I” are never stated as “me and him.” I chuckle often when I remember one early encounter I had with Pieter. He was sitting in the back of a hunting truck and in Afrikaans asked Louis how old I

turned out, was an artist. Amazing it is that these men, like many from my childhood, take whatever

tools are available and accomplish impressive tasks. From plumbing to various equipment repairs, they get things done. Immediately after I took my buffalo this past June, Louis contacted Pieter and William; they arrived within the hour. They had a ragged trailer behind a tractor and nothing inside that trailer but two posts and a chain hoist. Pieter backed up to the buffalo and William unhooked the trailer. The two of them lifted the tongue, setting the back of the trailer on the ground inches from this 1,600-pound bull. They then put one post under the trailer tongue to keep it in that posture and the other behind the wheels to prevent them from rolling. The hoist was then tied to the tongue and the chain run to the buffalo. Slow and deliberate it was, but an hour later they had the buffalo in that trailer, though it was still slanted tongue upward. It then became apparent that the chore was not fully completed. Pieter kicked the post away and motioned for us to gather around that tongue. We dangled from it to upset the weight and watched as that trailer and buffalo slowmotioned into position. Willian quickly attached trailer to tractor and they were off, back to Sofala’s skinning shed a couple miles up the two track. I left Africa June 8. Before I did, however, I located Pieter and William. I thanked them, shook their hands and said goodbye. I will likely never see them again. But the 10 years or so of acquaintance with these two have left a powerful impression. My admiration remains. Tony Kinton has been an active outdoors writer for 30 years. His newest book is “Rambling Through Pleasant Memories.” Order from Amazon.com or Kinton’s website: www.tonykinton.com.

Join us Join us fo for our our annual annual

F ADMIRSESE ION C CHRISTMAS S AS IN N THE ORCHAR O C ARD A Un Unique Fa Familily-Fr Friieenddly Ch Chri ristm tmas as Ex Experie rience ce

• Live Music M • Fir Fire Pits ts fo for Roasstiting • Ca Carr rriage Ride des • Dick ckeens Ca Caro role lers rs Mars rshmallllows ws • Hayr ayrides es isto tori orical Wa Walk lk- • Vi Visit Our Kn Knife fe Shhop op • Vi Visit Genera ral Store re • His thru Ca th Cabin ins • Holiliday ay Sh Shop oppin ing FREE hot ch chocola late & s’m ’more res ki kits ts to ch churc rch gro roup ups wi with th pririor re reeservation on Th Thurs rsday ay nig ights ts. ALSO: Res eserve your table le fo for a candl dlelilit Ch Chriristm tmas as din dinner!r! (a (at add ddititional co cost)t)

DEC. 6,7,8 • 13, 14, 15, • 20, 21, 22 / 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. Come Celebrate Keeping Christ in Christmas Info and reservations: 601-964-8222 • ffuullm merrssffaarrm mstteeadd..ccoom

November / December 2018

Today in Mississippi I 9

Christmas memories, again! few days ago Mr. Roy and I were holding our daily afternoon meeting, and he was giving me his activities report, when I said, “Well, it’s almost time to write a column again.” He smiled. “Since this is November it must be your annual holiday column.” I said, “Yes, and I’ve written so many over the years, I’m about out of ideas. Can you remember something that happened to you that my readers might enjoy?” “Give me some time to think about it and I’ll come up with something.” Mr. Roy is an engineer by profession, but he does have some “cultural” talents, and over the years he’s helped me with editing. Mr. Roy was born in Lucedale and helped in his daddy’s Chrysler/ Plymouth business. Many people stopped by and sat around telling stories, especially during the holidays. My house

was across the street from the business where he worked with his dad, when school wasn’t in session. A great way to meet my future husband. The next afternoon when I handed Mr. Roy’s coffee cup to him, he said, “You know, I looked back at some old holiday columns and you have just about covered every aspect of Thanksgiving and Christmas. But, when I think of the holidays, my mind skips from one memory to another. So much

Home of the “Mississippi Snowball”™

GOING OUT OF BUSINESS SALE After 57 years in business, we’re closing due to health reasons. Our store is known for integrity, high quality, and honest pricing. This is a complete and absolute liquidation so everything is priced for immediate sale.

Because we only sell ONE of each beautiful piece, we suggest that you shop early while the selection is best.

Newpointe Shopping Center 6555 US Hwy 98 West, Hattiesburg • 601-450-GEMS (4367)

M-F 9:30 - 5:30 Saturday 9:30 - 3:00

of the Christmas holidays are our memories of them. So, you tell me some of your fondest memories and then I'll share mine.” “Oh, my!” You shouldn’t have asked that. It will take a book to cover the shenanigans that I thought up during my childhood days...and even during my grownup years. Grin ‘n’ “One of the Bare It many Christmases by Kay Grafe I spent at my Daddy Tom and Big Mama Tyner’s house, I told my cousin Ferrell, who was a year younger, that she had to stay in bed until I awoke so we could see our toys at the same time. I’ve always been a late riser, even on Christmas. So my idea was to get some thick, wool crochet thread and tie our ankles together so if she tried to beat me out of bed, I would wake up. I woke up alright...on the wood floor with her. Not a way to start the day Christ was born, crying our eyes out.” Mr. Roy said, “I can just imagine the two of you on the old wood floor. Now, some of my favorite memories are the years we checked the list of needy families from our church and gave our daughters money to purchase gifts for the children, while we shopped for the adults. We bought some clothes for the

adults and food for the families. On Christmas mornings we delivered all of this to their homes. It still brings tears to my eyes to remember how happy they were, especially the children. “Now, we fill up shoe boxes for the Shoe Box Ministry overseas and choose a couple families from the Angel Tree and go shopping. I know our Methodist church always gives food to families in need year-round. Yet, the Christmas season is special for everyone.” He sighed. “I'll always remember Christmas mornings when our young daughters ran downstairs where we were waiting by the Christmas tree, and jumped from one toy to another. To think about that makes me feel so happy, yet also sad that those days are over. “But the one thing that gives me so much peace and comfort are my memories of sitting in our church at the Christmas Eve communion service. I still like to look up at that beautiful old sanctuary ceiling. And again this Christmas Eve, as ‘Silent Night’ is sung, I’ll look up and remember when I sat there as a little boy with my mother and father and little brother; such good memories. And I’ll look up again and remember you and me and our two little girls celebrating Christmas Eve here and singing ‘Silent Night.’ “Those memories are so special. And I look forward to our daughters, their husbands and our grandchildren being with us as we celebrate the birth of our Lord. I am so thankful for these memories.” There is little that I can add to those Christmas memories, except to say that Mr. Roy and I sincerely appreciate our faith and family and friends, especially during this holiday season. As Santa says, “Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.” Kay Grafe is the author of “Oh My Gosh, Virginia.” To order, send name, address, phone number and $16.95, plus $3.50 S&H to Kay Grafe, 2142 Fig Farm Road, Lucedale, MS 39452.

10 Today in Mississippi

November / December 2018

Communicators: April Lollar and Merilee Sands For Today in Mississippi information, call 877-7MY-CEPA (877-769-2372) www.coastepa.com

Where our members have the power

CEO’s message

The benefits of co-op membership Thanks to everyone who attended our 2018 Annual Meeting, held Nov. 1 at our Kiln HQ. We also appreciate memRon Barnes bers who weren’t able to President and CEO attend the meeting but registered by proxy. We were proud to offer a new method for meeting registration this year with an online option and we appreciate your feedback about how to improve our system in the future. For Coast Electric employees and board members, the meeting is a great time to showcase our programs and services but, most of all, it’s a great time to speak with members and get your feedback. We always evaluate your comments about the meeting, and any aspect of service you discuss with us, to determine how we can improve our service to you. Of course, Annual Meeting isn’t the only time of year we want to hear from you. We encourage you to give us your feedback any time. Our doors are always open. Being able to elect board leadership from among

Happier holidays

your co-op member peers is certainly a benefit of coop membership, but it’s not the only benefit. As a cooperative, one of the principles that guides our operations is having concern for the communities we serve. That is why we have made changes to our Operation Round Up program. These changes will allow us to give so much more to our communities. I encourage you to visit www.coastepa.com to learn more about our new plan for working together the cooperative way to make a difference. One thing I know we are all thankful for all year long are the men and women who have served our country in the military. While we can never thank them properly for their sacrifices and their dedication to liberty, we have installed special veterans only parking spaces at each of our offices. I want all military families to know how much we appreciate them. I pray for your safety during this holiday season and always. We hope this small gesture will show you how much you mean to us. Let’s make the holidays bright for our veterans and for our community! Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas.

with Time of Use...

Give yourself the gift of our Time of Use rate this holiday season – it’s the gift that keeps giving all year! During the holidays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day are off-peak prices all day long. Give us a call at 877-769-2372 or check out www.coastepa.com for more information.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

10a

Operation

10b-c

10d

PAGE

Round Up

Spirit of the Season

Thank You! LETTERS

November / December 2018

Today in Mississippi

10a

WINTER POWER COST ADJUSTMENT Coast Electric’s winter power cost adjustment began Nov. 1.

Coast Electric is a not-for-profit business that is owned and led by those we serve. As someone who receives service from Coast Electric, you are a member and owner of the cooperative. For the co-op to function effectively, it takes everyone doing their part – employees, board members and you – to work toward a common goal. Although the tasks in each department may differ, the goal is the same – to provide superior service to the people of south Mississippi. For Coast Electric to be successful, we must have educated, trained, hardworking and trustworthy employees. Making sure we have the right employ-

ees in place starts with Human Resources (HR). Our HR professionals are certified, highly trained and skilled in recruiting the best person for every job at the co-op. They ensure we have the right programs in place to retain and develop employees once they begin their career with Coast Electric. From benefits, wellness, employee development, employee relations, succession planning and equal opportunity for all, our HR team works hard keeping our most valuable asset – our 248 Coast Electric employees – engaged and satisfied, which leads to high levels of performance and greater member satisfaction.

Here is what you need to know.

• Power costs used to be averaged once each year, however, the price for generating power changes with the seasons. Costs paid to our power supplier are typically higher in the winter and lower in the summer. Even though we may only have a couple of days of freezing temperatures in the winter, the high demand for electricity on those days affects power costs. • To ensure that charges are equal to costs, Coast Electric averages power costs twice each year.

What does that mean for you?

• Over a period of 12 months, you won’t see a difference. However, you may notice slightly higher bills in the winter and slightly lower bills in the summer. • Since Mississippi typically has milder winters and long, hot summers, you need to be more aware of your energy use in the winter but but will have more opportunities for comfort in the months when you need it the most.

Who does this affect?

• This affects all member classes except industrial members.

Operation Round Up This Christmas, you have the opportunity to do something small that will make a big impact in your community. For an average of $0.50 a month, you, along with help from other Coast Electric members, can put hundreds of thousands of dollars into worthwhile projects benefiting our communities.

10b

Today in Mississippi

November / December 2018

2018 Coast Electric Annual Meeting and Member Appreciation Night On Nov. 1, Coast Electric hosted its 2018 Annual Meeting and Member Appreciation Night at the cooperative’s headquarters in Kiln. One of the privileges of being a member-owner of an electric cooperative is having voting rights to elect a board to represent you when making important business decisions. At the Annual Meeting, members in attendance and those who sent in proxy cards re-elected members of the Board of Directors who serve Position One of Coast Electric’s service

Coast Electric's Marisa Clayton helps a member register for the Annual Meeting.

Grand Prize Winners: Meeting Attendee Winners $250 Electricity Credit . . . . . .Susan Summers $500 Electricity Credit . . . . . .Kathleen Holland $1,000 Electricity Credit . . . . .Patrick Jones Proxy Registration Winners $250 Electricity Credit . . . . . .Donna Allen $500 Electricity Credit . . . . . .Michael Smith $1,000 Electricity Credit . . . . .Larry Frierson

Prize Winners: $100 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ulyessus Perkins $100 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Joe Milner $50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marcia Jones $50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tammy Braud $50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Richard Walker $50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Monica Ladner $50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Jacob Russell $50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Billy Ray Ladner Air Fryer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Al Kaiser

territory. The elected directors include James Baldree from Hancock County, Charles Lopez from Harrison County and Richard Dossett from Pearl River County. Besides electing members of the Board of Directors, Coast Electric members who attended the meeting had the opportunity to visit with Coast Electric employees, learn more about company programs and register to win prizes. Members in attendance enjoyed picking their prize from a treasure chest.

Coast Electric employee Scott White demonstrates how energy efficient LED bulbs can save energy and money.

Air Fryer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Christy Ladner FatMax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Leona Bowman FatMax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Natalie Watkins Video Drone . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bonnie Miller Video Drone . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Patrick Woods Bluetooth LED Work Light . .Marry Savoy Bluetooth LED Work Light . .Richard Ulerich LED Light and Air Purifie . . . .Michael Radzyniak LED Light and Air Purifier . . .Jennifer Russo Smoke and CO2 Detector . . .Karin Russell Smoke and CO2 Detector . . .Francis Adams STEM Science Pack . . . . . . . . .Henry Steen STEM Science Pack . . . . . . . . .Jan Bonham Electric Blanket . . . . . . . . . . . .Courtney Ladner Electric Blanket . . . . . . . . . . . .Pearl Sue Wyatt Digital Thermometer . . . . . . .Crawford Norris Digital Thermometer . . . . . . .Gary Scheidt Fire HD Tablet . . . . . . . . . . . . .Gloria Smotherman Fire HD Tablet . . . . . . . . . . . . .Jack Hode Echo Dot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Albert Fairley Echo Dot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Robert Glynn

CEO Ron Barnes addresses members at the 2018 Annual Meeting.

Sometimes, working parents have to go with the flow. Coast Electric employee Samantha Cooley and daughter, Addison, greet members. Addison's big sister, Alivia, and big brother, Jacob, helped at the meeting too!

Capital Credit Announcement

Ron Barnes

Coast Electric Power Association Board Chairman Richard Dossett announced at the cooperative’s Annual Meeting on Nov. 1 that the company will retire $5,257,746.00 in capital credits to members. Checks will be mailed to eligible current and former members in early December. Members with questions about their allocation can call 877-769-2372.

November / December 2018

Today in Mississippi

10c

Cookie and Cracker Co.

A local company's delicious treats are getting attention nationwide

an unobtrusive metal building in works to determine if her homemade goodies will northwest Harrison County, a translate to a mass-produced product made in the facsmall staff works mixing fresh, nat- tory. Much of the equipment has been upgraded since ural ingredients to create delicious the company has moved to its current location, as has treats for eager customers across the shipping and distribution system. According to the south and northeast. Cat Leslie, being in a location where there is a loading Island Cookie and Cracker Co., a company that credock for delivery trucks saves $125 each way on shipates eight products – six sweet cookie offerings and ping expenses for the company and the new, larger two savory cracker options – is locally owned and ovens can bake more cookies in a shorter amount of operated but its fans reach far beyond the Mississippi time. coast. Besides having new equipment that makes producAfter years as a chef in New York, Cat Island presi- tion more efficient, Leslie says having a knowledgedent Leslie Bullock decided it was time for her family able staff surrounding her is one of the keys to success to make the move south to her quaint hometown of for the company. From shipping to packaging to marPass Christian. Leslie began Cat Island Cookie and keting, the Cat Island staff are experts in their fields. Cracker Co. in a local church kitchen until growth This level of expertise means the company has seen a meant a move to a larger location in a former restaurecord growth in sales and they don’t seem to be rant. Another wave of growth meant a move to the slowing down any time soon. Not only did sales doucurrent location on Menge Ave. and the new location ble in one month, the company just announced a has more than enough sales agreement with distrib- Cat Island Cookie and Cracker Co. President Leslie Bullock develops the recipe for each flavor sold in her home kitchen before she creates the room to handle future utors in the northeast and product in her factory. growth. While some small landed a deal as an Amazon business owners find Prime product. That, along company’s commitment to natural ingredients. The themselves surprised at the with the holiday flavors on first ingredient on the Spicy Asiago Wafers, for growth of their compathe shelves, new gluten-free example, is cheese. That might seem obvious but take nies, for Cat Island, it has options being explored and a look at some of the other snack products in your always been part of the smaller two-ounce packages home and you will probably find many words that plan. making their debut soon in are hard to pronounce. With Cat Island products, The most recent expanconvenience stores, mean consumers never have to worry about the quality of sion is due in part to a Cat Island Cookie and the ingredients they receive. loan provided by Coast Cracker Co. could expand That’s a win for everyone. And Leslie believes, Electric. Part of the elecagain on their current prop- “You have to find the win every day.” According to tric cooperative’s mission erty. It could mean expand- her, running the cookie business means long hours is improving the economy ing the 17-member staff at home developing recipes and at the factory. and quality of life in the someday, too, creating “Sometimes ‘the win’ is getting the new packaging communities it serves. more local jobs. right or developing a new recipe.” Often, she says, Supporting the expansion At the heart of the oper- it’s knowing her daughters are proud of watching of local businesses is one ation are the products Leslie their mom build and run a business. way Coast Electric can ful- Fresh, local ingredients go into each batch of Cat Island cookies takes great care to develop “Whatever Leslie’s ‘win’ is for the day,” said and crackers. fill this part of its mission. a product that Leslie is Coast Electric Vice President of Hancock County Solid growth projections proud to serve to her own Operations and Economic Development Guy and a strong history of successful expansions made daughters. Cat Island cookies and crackers are made Johnson, “it seems like Cat Island will see lots more Cat Island an attractive loan candidate. with fresh, local ingredients and no preservatives. of them in the future and Coast Electric is proud to Each flavor of Cat Island cookies and crackers When you read the ingredients on a package of Cat be part of those and to support local business begins as a test recipe in Leslie’s home where she Island cookies or crackers, it’s easy to see the growth.”

The spirit 10d

Today in Mississippi

November / December 2018

of the

season

– showing concern for our communities

As a cooperative, Coast Electric operates by a set of seven cooperative principles, one of which is showing concern for the communities we serve. Coast Electric sees great value in serving our communities in ways other than providing electric service and the company and its employees spend much time and energy giving back. Here are some of the projects Coast Electric employees have been working on recently.

Breast Cancer Awareness From participating in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk to wearing pink hard hats in the field, this October, Coast Electric employees honored those who have battled the disease. Even though Breast Cancer Awareness Month comes around once each year, our support of those who fight this battle is never over. We will continue to be advocates for survivors and remember those who have been lost.

Environmental programs Six hundred-sixty cars dropped off tons of waste at this year's Household Hazardous Waste Day, including 25 tons of scrap metal, 1,800 gallons of waste oil, more than 3,000 tires, 17 tons of electronics and much more! Eighty volunteers offloaded the items for residents. Thanks to all of the volunteers and to everyone who participated in the cleanup for doing something good for our environment!

Halloween Events Coast Electric employees were busy this fall with several spooky events for your little guys and ghouls. From Cinema by the Spooky Sportsplex to local library events, your local cooperative employees were out and about this Halloween making sure the season was frightful!

Animal Shelter Donation When a Coast Electric employee, Kay Cohen, visited the Hancock County Animal Shelter recently, she saw a great need for funds for various projects. Kay reached out to her co-workers to see if there was anything that could be done to help the shelter. Coast Electric’s Hancock County Community Service Committee agreed to make a $1,000 donation. Each of Coast Electric’s three counties have a community service account, funded by employee donations to help the community. We thank the staff at the shelter for all they do and are glad we could help!

Coast Electric

Novermber / December 2018

Today in Mississippi

the men and women who have served our country in the military, Coast Electric offices now have special veterans parking spaces. We salute you and appreciate your sacrifice and service to this great country.

WE WILL BE CLOSED

## #

Nov. 22 and 23 for Thanksgiving, Dec. 24 and 25 for Christmas, and Jan. 1 for New Year’s Day. Dispatchers will be on duty!

REMEMBER! Safety never takes a holiday.

Coast Electric crews assist after Hurricane Michael Residents of south Mississippi know that after a big storm, the sight of a bucket truck on your road brings comfort and hope. Last month, Hurricane Michael devastated communities in Florida, with its wide path of destruction destroying much of the area’s electrical system. Coast Electric employees were a welcome sight for members of two cooperatives, Choctawhatchee Electric Cooperative and West Florida Electric. Crew members, engineers and vehicle maintenance personnel made the trip to help rebuild the electrical system for co-op members. Coast Electric members showed their support for our crews and members from those cooperatives also shared their thanks with us, too. Here are a few of the notes of support we received.

I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Kevin Bond of Coast Electric Power in appreciation for him taking the time to assist me, a senior, when I was broken down along the side of busy Highway 43.

– Margurite Brunson

I live in Chipley, Fla., and yesterday one of your crews came out and restored my power after 11 days of being out. Just want you to know that this crew was amazing. They worked in rain, came in the yard and even hooked my well wires back up. They also talked to my little boys. They were just wonderful and I really appreciate what they did and how they went above and beyond to be generous. They definitely left a great impression on how your co-op operates and works together. Please let them know how thankful my two boys and I are for them. Thank you again. – Deanna Nelson

TO HONOR

wishes you the happiest of holidays!

MEMBER THANK YOUS

Just wanted to say a HUGE thank you for all the hard work, dedication, long hours and sacrifice these men put in to help us here in Wausau in addition to our local co-op and so many others. Also wanted to thank the families waiting for their safe return for their sacrifices as well. They are our heroes! My 84-year-old Mom would adopt them all! Thank you so very much!

–Janet Renee

I want to thank you so much for listening AND RESPONDING. I sent a form to you last night. You had a lineman out to fix this street light before 10 a.m. today. That is wonderful service. And your lineman was very nice. I am sorry I did not get his name. I did call in to the 1-877-769-2372 number this morning to leave comment there as well. Great job by your employee. Great job by your company. Cannot say enough good things about Coast Electric.

Thanks to the men that worked in Wausau, Fla., on Pioneer Rd. on hurricane detail. They are on point. They hit the ground running. Give them a steak dinner when they get back home. We love the Mississippi Coast. Thanks again. – Blake Barfield

– Kat Madigan

Today in Mississippi

November / December 2018

Cool-season dianthus lasts through spring love the annual color we can grow all winter in most of our Mississippi gardens and landscapes, so I’m going to spend a few weeks concentrating on cool-season color. Dianthus is my first choice for fall color. In my coastal Ocean Springs landscape, the dianthus I’m planting now will carry through until spring for an outstanding color display. Planting in the fall allows for a robust root system to develop through the winter, and it results in a beautiful and colorful display next spring. We all know there will be days and nights with freezing temperatures. During these colder periods, any open flowSouthern ers will be damGardening aged. Depending on by Dr. Gary Bachman how low the temperature gets, even the foliage will start to turn purplish. I like to think of it as the leaves shivering a bit. In the southern half of the state, the plants recover from these brief freezing bouts to bloom again. In northern Mississippi, you must provide some protection from cold weather for fall dianthus plantings, or you may simply replant next spring. I adore the Telstar series of dianthus. Their great colors range from carmine rose, pink and purple to one that is almost red. There are a couple of pretty bicolors that are called picottees. Telstar is the perfect choice for mass planting in the landscape. These are uniform growing, have a sturdy habit and get only about 10 inches tall and wide. Another good choice is the Super Parfait series. Super Parfait dianthuses are indeed super, and they are cold weather tolerant, as well. This group is known for its compact size and large blossoms that reach 2 to 2 1/2 inches in diameter.

But don’t think you’re out of luck if you can’t find these named series. This weekend, I bought some really nicelooking generic dianthuses at the garden center. Dianthus has a uniform growing habit that makes it a perfect mass planting choice. For best performance, always plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Dianthus is susceptible to root disease problems and doesn’t like wet feet. This is a concern in Mississippi’s cool, wet falls and winters. Dianthus is also a great choice for colorful combination containers. Try pairing with pansies and violas for a great cool-season container. Cool Wave pansies have an improved, trailing growth habit that makes them fantastic spiller plants for containers. All dianthuses are moderate to heavy feeders. At planting, place about a tablespoon of a good, slow-release fertilizer in the planting hole, and then supplement monthly with a water-soluble fertilizer. To encourage more lateral growth and more flowers, pinch or prune back the plants a couple of inches after the first flush of flowers. Many people I talk to are surprised that dianthus flowers are edible, just like pansies and violas. Gather the flowers, gently wash them and pat dry. Softly pull on the petals to separate

November / December 2018

Today in Mississippi I 13

Fall-planted dianthuses carry an outstanding color display through spring. In north Mississippi, a little cold weather protection is needed. Photo: MSU Extension/Gary Bachman

them from the base. Add the petals to any fresh lettuce or fruit salad. Be careful when selecting plants for edible flowers from the nurseries and garden centers, as you don’t know how they have been treated during the production phase. But you can easily grow dianthus from seed. This way you can

grow exactly the varieties and colors you want. Dr. Gary Bachman is an associate Extension and research professor of horticulture at the Mississippi State University Coastal Research and Extension Center in Biloxi. He is also host of “Southern Gardening” radio and TV programs.

50 T Trees o Christmas will celebrate of 50 fabulous years decked out in 5 its fineest holiday attire including sspecial memories and futuristic c creatio ons. Take a guided tour of Antebellum Merrehope (circa 1858) aand Vicctorian F.W. Williams (circa 11886) historic h homes to see 50 e exquisi itely decorated trees and sseason nal delights.

Medicare Supplement Insurance Low Rates for Plan F Male (Non Tobacco)

Female (Non Tobacco)

Age

Mo.Prem.

Age

Mo.Prem.

65 70 75 80

$126.00 $128.00 $147.00 $183.00

65 70 75 80

$108.00 $111.00 $128.00 $160.00

Rates vary slightly by zip code. Not affiliated with any government agency. Rates include household discount.

HAMILTON INSURANCE AGENCY Call

800-336-9861

6045 Ridgewood Road, Jackson, MS 39211

merrehope e .com 905 Martin i Luther h King i Jr. J Memorial i l Dr. | MERID DIAN | 601.483.8439

Today in Mississippi

November / December 2018

Apricot-Pecan Deer Camp Muffins

Recipes from

‘The Ultimate Venison Cookbook for Deer Camp’ Spending time at a deer camp is a memorable outdoors experience, says Harold Webster Jr., and camp meals should be just as enjoyable. But some camp cooks could benefit from a little more instruction in cooking techniques—and encouragement to try new recipes. For those folks Webster created “The Ultimate Venison Cookbook for Deer Camp.” Webster aimed to develop and adapt a wide variety of recipes to avoid mealtime monotony at camp. His recipes keep pantry items to a minimum (or call for easily obtainable ingredients) and were written to be useful even for “Bubbas and Bubbaleens” who may not normally cook at home. Above all, Webster strives to help

hunters get more from their harvest: a bounty of meals enjoyed among friends. The cookbook presents 300 recipes. Several of the chapters are devoted to a specific cut of venison—steak, loin, tenderloin, ground, sausage, etc. More recipes follow for marinades, sauces, appetizers, soups, stews, chilis, salads, vegetables, casseroles, sweets and much more, including the recipes reprinted here. The book is illustrated with color photographs of recipes and scenes from hunting camps. Webster also shares cooking tips and stories about hunting and history, making his book as fun to read as it is useful. The cookbook is available in retail stores and may be ordered from Great American Publishers, in Brandon. Price for the 288-page softcover is $21.95. Get details at 1-888-854-5954 or GreatAmericanPublishers.com.

Cornmeal-Crusted Black Bean Chili 2 Tbsp. olive oil 1 lb. ground venison ½ cup sliced fresh mushrooms 1 cup minced onion ½ cup diced green bell pepper 2 cloves garlic, minced ½ cup diced red bell pepper 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced 1 (14-oz.) can beef broth 2 (15-oz.) cans black beans

1 (28-oz.) can whole Roma tomatoes, quartered 2 cups water, divided 1 ½ Tbsp. chili powder 1 tsp. ground oregano 1 bay leaf Ground red pepper to taste Salt to taste 2 (8.5-oz.) pkgs. Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, plus ingredients to prepare

Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add venison and mushrooms, and cook until venison is browned. Add onion and green bell pepper, and sauté until onion is just clear. Add garlic, red bell pepper and jalapeños, and sauté for just a few moments. Add beef broth and scrape the bits from the bottom of the pot. Add beans, tomatoes, 1 ½ cups water and spices. Remove from heat. Remove bay leaf. Preheat oven to 350 F. Prepare corn muffin mix according to package directions, but do not bake. Dilute ⅓ cup corn muffin mix with remaining ½ cup water. Stir into chili broth. Spoon on remaining prepared corn muffin mix so that it floats on top of the chili. Cover pot and bake 20 to 40 minutes or until cornbread is slightly browned and crusty. Serves 4 to 6.

10 paper muffin cup liners 1 cup buttermilk 1 cup bran 1 ½ cups unsifted all-purpose flour 1 tsp. baking soda ½ tsp. ground cinnamon ¼ tsp. salt 1⁄3 cup butter, softened

½ cup sugar 1 large egg 1 tsp. vanilla extract ¾ cup chopped dried apricots ½ cup chopped pecans, walnuts, hickory nuts, hazelnuts, almonds or a combination

Preheat oven to 400 F. Spray insides of paper liners with nonstick cooking spray and place into a muffin pan. In a small bowl, combine buttermilk and bran and set aside. Combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt and set aside. In a large bowl, by hand or with an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract; beat until well blended. With mixer speed on low, add flour and buttermilk mixtures to butter mixture. Beat just until batter is blended. Stir in apricots and nuts. Spoon batter into muffin cup liners. Bake 20 to 25 minutes. Remove liners from muffin pan and allow to cool 5 to 10 minutes. Remove muffins from paper liners. Makes 10.

Simmered T-Bone Steak with Lemon-Mushroom Sauce 3 Tbsp. lemon juice 4 venison T-bone steaks, cut 1 inch thick Salt and pepper to taste 1 tsp. bacon drippings 2 Tbsp. minced green onions ¼ lb. mushrooms, sliced thin ½ clove garlic, minced fine

½ cup plus 1 tsp. red wine, divided 1 tsp. meat extract ½ bay leaf 1 tsp. all-purpose flour 1 tsp. butter, melted Chopped fresh parsley

Pour lemon juice over the steaks and let marinate 10 minutes. Drain. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Heat bacon drippings in a heavy skillet over high heat. Add steaks. Brown 4 minutes on each side. Remove steaks and set aside. Sauté green onions in pan drippings until lightly browned. Add mushrooms and garlic, and sauté for a few minutes more. Add ½ cup red wine, meat extract and bay leaf; bring to a boil and simmer 5 minutes. Put steaks in gravy and heat 3 minutes. Place them on a preheated platter and keep warm. Whisk together flour, butter and remaining 1 teaspoon red wine. Thicken gravy with flour mixture. Pour some of the gravy over steaks. Sprinkle with parsley. Serve remaining gravy on the side. Serves 4.

Lemon Juice and Peanut Oil Marinade ½ cup red wine vinegar ¾ cup teriyaki sauce ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce ½ cup peanut or canola oil

1⁄3 cup lemon juice 5 garlic cloves, minced 2 Tbsp. dry mustard

Mix all ingredients and pour into a 1-gallon zip-close plastic bag. Place venison into bag, mix well and refrigerate 8 to 12 hours.

Breakfast Casserole with Dinner Roll Topping 1 lb. venison sausage 1 (8-oz.) can refrigerated crescent rolls 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese 1 small onion, chopped

4 eggs, lightly beaten ¾ cup whole milk ¼ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. pepper

Preheat oven to 400 F. Brown sausage in large skillet and drain excess fat. Press crescent rolls into bottom and up sides of a greased 9x13-inch glass baking dish, pinching to seal. Layer with sausage, cheese and onion. Combine eggs, milk and seasonings; pour over casserole. Bake 20 minutes or until eggs are set. Remove from oven and let stand 5 minutes before serving. Serves 4.

Kitchen tips • Keep your cutting board from skidding while slicing or chopping foods by placing a slightly damp dishtowel or a mousepad beneath the board. • Use a clean pair of rubber dishwashing gloves for working with raw ground meat to make burgers, meatloaf, etc.

November / December 2018

Today in Mississippi

Marketplace

Today in Mississippi

November / December 2018

Mississippi

VACATION RENTALS SMOKIES. TOWNSEND, TN 2 BR, 2 BATH Log Home, Jacuzzi, Fireplace, wrap-around porch. 865-320-4216; For rental details and pictures E-mail: tncabin.lonnie@yahoo.com.

Type or print your ad clearly. Be sure to include your telephone number. Deadline is the 10th of each month for the next month’s issue. Rate is $2.50 per word, 10-word minimum. Mail payment with your ad to Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300. Have any questions? Phone 601-605-8600 or email advertising@ecm.coop.

FREE MATERIALS: Soon Church/Government Uniting, Suppressing "Religious Liberty" Enforcing "National Sunday Law." Be Informed! Need mailing address: TBSM, Box 99, Lenoir City, TN 37771 thebiblesaystruth@yahoo.com, 1-888-211-1715.

ADVERTISE IN THE

MARKETPLACE People do read small ads in

“Today’s” Marketplace.

MISCELLANEOUS PLAY GOSPEL SONGS by Ear! $12.95. “Learn Gospel Music” - chording, runs, fills - $12.95. Both $24. Davidsons, 6727MS Metcalf, Shawnee Mission, Kansas 66204. 913-2624982.

This issue will reach 438,700+ homes and businesses.

FOR SALE CHURCH FURNITURE: New pews, pulpit furniture, cushions for hard pews. Big sale 1-800-231-8360. E-mail: www.pews1.com

FARM BARNS

Hattiesburg, MS • 1-601-296-0550 Our Prices Include Labor & Metal Sides Also Available in Wood Sides

Garage with hardy siding and concrete slab, any size.

www.farmbarnsinc.com

Home Purchase Program Misssissippi Veterans’

We will build any size barn.

Loans up to $300,000 Mississsipppi Veteraans’ Ho H me Purc rcha Must be Mississi ss ss ppi Veteran to qualify

15 year *3% (APR 3.344%)

30 year *3.2

(APR 3.440%)

• No Origination Fee • No Discount Po o Processing Fee • No Underwriting

Call: 601-576-4800 s State Sponsored Bene ithout notice

Email: vhhpbinf n o@vhhpb.state.ms.us b.vllendiing.com -or- www.vhhpb.ms.gov

PORCHES Use your generator only outdoors, away from open windows, vents and doors. Do not use it in an attached garage. Never plug your generator directly into your home outlet. Connecting a generator to your home’s wiring requires the professional installation of a power transfer switch. A safety message from your local electric cooperative.

For Mobile Homes

FOR SALE OR RENT TO OWN

# Low down payment # Low monthly payment # Free delivery & setup

334-507-4745 Brooksville, Ms

November / December 2018

Next in “Picture This”

Kittens I Submission guidelines • Photos must be in sharp focus. • Photos must be the original work of an amateur photographer (of any age). • Photos may be either color or black and white, print or digital. • Digital photos must be high-resolution JPG files of at least 1 MB in size. (If emailing a phone photo, select “actual size” before sending. We cannot use compressed photo files.) • Please do not use photo-editing software to adjust colors or tones. (We prefer to do it ourselves, if necessary, according to our printer’s standards.) • Photos with the date stamped on the image cannot be used. • Each entry must be accompanied by the photographer’s name, address, phone number and electric power association (if applicable). Include the name(s) of any recognizable people or places in the picture. Feel free to add

STOP!

THINK SAFETY when you need to use an extension cord

Kittens may be the best photo subject of all. They’re funny, cute, beautiful, mischievous, playful, cuddly and curious. Send us your photo(s) of one or more kittens, and be sure to include their name. Selected photos will appear in the January 2019 issue of Today in Mississippi. Submissions must be emailed or postmarked by Dec. 3.

any other details you like. • Prints will be returned if accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. We cannot, however, guarantee their safe return through the mail.

I How to submit photos

Attach digital photos to your email message and send to news@ecm.coop. If submitting more than one photo, please attach all photos to only one email message, if possible. Please be sure to include all information requested in the guidelines. Or, mail prints or a CD to Picture This, Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300. Photographers whose photos are published are entered in a random drawing for a $200 cash prize to be awarded in December 2019. Question? Contact Debbie Stringer, editor, at 601-605-8600 or news@ecm.coop.

Don’t forget to unplug

Extension Cords Extension cords are meant to be used temporarily, not as permanent plugs. They’re not sturdy enough for prolonged use. A safety message from your local Electric Power Association

Today in Mississippi

Today in Mississippi I November / December 2018

Events MISSISSIPPI

Want more than 437,000 readers to know about your special event? Events open to the public will be published free of charge as space allows. Submit details at least two months prior to the event date. Submissions must include a phone number with area code for publication. Send to Mississippi Events, Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300; fax to 601-605-8601; or email to news@ecm.coop. Events are subject to change. We recommend calling to confirm details before traveling.

“Gulf of America” Art Exhibit, through Nov. 22, Long Beach. Sixty watercolor paintings of gulf scenes by Bay St. Louis artist Herb Willey. University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast Library. Details: 228-214-3450. “In the Dark” Exhibit, through Dec. 31, Jackson. About the unseen creatures and insects active at night. Admission. Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. Details: 601-5766000; MDWFP.com/museum. Trees of Christmas at Merrehope, Nov. 16 - Dec. 29, Meridian. Daily tours of antebellum Merrehope and Victorian F.W. Williams homes featuring 50 decorated trees. Opening gala 6 p.m. Nov. 15. Details: Merrehope.com. Lazy Acres in Lights, Nov. 22 - Dec. 25, Chunky. Light display, special activities. Drivethrough Monday -Thursday 6-9 p.m; wagon tours Friday, Saturday 6-10 p.m. Admission. Lazy Acres Christmas Tree Farm. Details: Lazy-Acres.com. 15th Annual Christmas in the Park, Nov. 22 - Dec. 29, Collins. Drive-through display of lights, nativity, life of Jesus displays, animated displays, more. Free admission. Open Thurs., Fri., Sat. only, 5-9 p.m. Bettie D. Robertson Park. Details: 601-765-6012; CovingtonChamber.com.

Santa’s Christmas Factory, Nov. 24, Dec. 68, Meridian. Tour decorated historic Soulé Steam Works, Christmas train rides; 4-8 p.m. Mississippi Industrial Heritage Museum. Details: 601-693-9905; SantasChristmasFactory.com. Coast Chorale Concerts, Nov. 25, 4 p.m., Christ Episcopal Church, Bay St. Louis; Dec. 7, 7 p.m., Main Street United Methodist Church, Bay St. Louis; Dec. 11, 6:30 p.m., Diamondhead Community Church, Diamondhead; Dec. 14, 6:30 p.m., Most Holy Trinity Church, Pass Christian. Free. Details: 238-324-8213. Christmas Parade: “Once Upon a Christmas,” Nov. 29, Carthage. 6 p.m. Details: 601-267-9231. Homestead for the Holidays, Nov. 29-30, Jackson. Photos with Santa and Rudolph, carousel and train rides, story time with Mrs. Claus, hands-on historic crafts, music, breakfast sampler; 5-8 p.m. Admission. Miss. Agriculture Museum. Details: 601-432-4500; MSAgMuseum.org. Old Towne Christmas Tree Lighting with Santa, Nov. 29, Olive Branch. 7 p.m. City Hall. Details: 662-893-0888. 42nd Chimneyville Arts Festival, Nov. 30 -

CD or IRA Coming Due? Over

10%

First YYe ear Guaranteed!

L.D. O'Mire FinViissait onur wcebbsisaite:lwSwww.e.llddromvirreie.cccoomes

Sounds Too Good to Be True? IT IS TRUE! Check Us Out And You Will See! We have been In Business For Over 50 Years!

Better Business Bureau A+ Rating

# Call 1-601-957-384 411 # Or Call Me Personally at 601-209-3131 Guarantees subject to the claims-paying ability of the Insurance Company. Surrender of the Contract may be subject to surrender charge or market value addjjustment. Product not available in all states. This is a single premium deferred annuity. Interest rates are subject to change. Withdrawals prior to age 59 ½ may be subject to a 10% IRS penalty.

Dec. 1, Jackson. Featuring the work of Craftsmen’s Guild of Miss. artisans, plus fine artists and photographers. Preview party Nov. 29, 6-9 p.m. Admission. Miss. Trade Mart. Details: MSCrafts.org. A Magical Visit with Santa, Dec. 1, McComb. See Santa, elves and Mrs. Claus. Christmas villages display, magician, visits to 1914 rail post office car and red caboose; 1-4 p.m. Free admission. McComb Depot. Details: trainmaster@mcrrmuseum.com. Ballet Magnificat!: “Light Has Come – The Angels’ Story,” Dec. 1, Hattiesburg. Ballet depicting salvation story from angels’ perspective; 7 p.m. Admission; benefits Christian Services’ Meals on Wheels. Saenger Theatre. Details: 601-582-5683; HattiesburgSaenger.com. A Walk in the Woods Art Event, Dec. 1, Kiln. Potters, canvas artists, weavers, spinners and fabric artists demo and sell works; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; 22591 Rue La Terre. Details: 228-2554019. “Together for Christmas” Tour, Dec. 1, Meridian. Jonathan Wilburn and The LeFevre Quartet; 3 p.m. Meridian Temple Theatre for the Performing Arts. Details: 800-965-9324, 601-416-1630. Pine Belt Holiday Expo, Dec. 1, Hattiesburg. Shopping, food, holiday decor ideas, children’s activities, more; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free admission. Historic Train Depot. Details: PineBeltHolidayExpo.com. Breakfast with the Grinch, Dec. 1, Natchez. Two time slots: 9 and 10:45 a.m. Admission. Duncan Park Canteen. Details: 601-442-7061; Facebook: Junior Auxiliary of Natchez MS. Live Nativity, Dec. 1-2, Brandon. Manger scene with stable animals; 6-8 p.m. Free admission. Nativity Lutheran Church. Details: 601-825-5125. Philadelphia Gun Show, Dec. 1-2, Philadelphia. Neshoba County Coliseum. Details: 601-319-5248; BigPopGunShows.com. Dinner Dances, Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Gulfport. Dinner, 7 p.m., dance 8-10 p.m.;

casual dress. Admission. Amour Danzar School of Ballroom Dance. Details: 228-324-3730; AmourDanzar.com. GFWC-MFWC Florentine Clubs 22nd Annual Christmas Tour of Homes, Dec. 2, Florence. Tour homes decorated with the Christmas spirit. Admission. Details: 601-8456662. Christmas Tour of Homes, Dec. 2, Wiggins. Tour six decorated homes; 1-6 p.m. Garden Gate Garden Club event benefitting community beautification projects. Admission. Details: 601-928-7370, 601-928-3267. Christmas in the Orchard, Dec. 6-8, 13-15, 20-22, Richton. Carriage rides, hayrides, carolers, music, live music, more; 6-9 p.m. Free admission. Fulmer’s General Store. Details: 601-964-8222; FulmersFarmstead.com. 155th Anniversary of the Battle of McLeod’s Mill, Dec. 7-9, Leakesville. Living history displays/demonstrations, period music and dancing. Free admission. Green Park and Leakesville landing of Chickasawhay River. Details: 601-395-2383. Carols of Christmas, Dec. 7, 8, 14, 15, Collins. Walk-through exhibit of Christmas trees inspired by hymns and seasonal songs; live entertainment. Free admission. Williamsburg United Methodist Church gym. Details: KaySmith2854@gmail.com. Life of Christ, Dec. 8, Monticello. Drivethrough event with life presentations of scenes from birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ; CD with readings and music provided; 5-8 p.m. Free admission. Atwood Water Park. Details: 601-587-3007. Sturgis Community Christmas, Dec. 8, Sturgis. Vendors, pageant, Mr. & Mrs. Claus photos; 9 a.m. Details: 662-418-5538. The Talleys Concert of Christmas Music, Dec. 9, Osyka. Gillsburg Baptist Church; 6 p.m. Love offering. Details: 601-248-7387. Repticon, Dec. 22-23, Southaven. Vendors offering reptile pets, supplies, equipment, plus live animal seminars. Admission. Landers Center. Details: 863-268-4273; Repticon.com.

November / December 2018

Today in Mississippi