Today in Mississippi December 2019 4-County

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As you are aware from past columns, I am a big fan of Christmas and all that comes with it. Over the last couple of years, with my wife’s prodding, I have really gotten into the Hallmark Christmas movie craze. Katlyne, my oldest daughter, refers to them as “happy sappy” movies. I like them. The plots are easy to follow: boy meets girl, they don’t like each other, they are forced to work together, they begin to fall for each other, some misunderstanding tears them apart, the misunderstanding is corrected, they confess their love for each other and share a passionate kiss. What’s not to like? Paul, ECM’s head of government relations, also enjoys Hallmark Christmas movies. The other day at lunch, we were discussing them and picking our favorites. Also with us were two younger members of the team, and they were watching us with looks of disbelief and pity as we talked about plots and actors. (I guess 30-year-olds have more interesting lives than those of us in our fifth decade!) One of them, Hunter, chimed in with, “My favorite Christmas movie is ‘Die Hard.’” I quickly explained to him that “Die Hard” is not a Christmas movie; rather it is merely a movie set during Christmas, much like “Lethal Weapon.” Several minutes of discussion ensued, and the ultimate question presented itself to us: what makes a movie a Christmas movie? After much deliberation, here is a set of criteria that I hope can help us determine if a movie is indeed a Christmas movie: First, the movie must be set during the Christmas season; that is a given. Second, the movie must espouse some of the following virtues: love, hope, faith, joy, concern for others, belief in something and self-sacrifice. Third, it must contain a miracle. (Now by miracle, that could be a ghost, a visit from an

angel, Santa Claus, talking animals or some miraculous occurrence of an unexplained phenomenon.) Fourth, lives need to be impacted for the better. (Seriously, if nothing good happens, how can it be a Christmas movie?) Fifth, no more than two people can die, which takes out “Die Hard” and “Lethal Weapon.” (After all, happy endings, while not a necessity, are preferred.) And lastly, the movie should be family-friendly. I admit, not all of Hallmark’s “happy sappy” movies are Christmas movies — some are just love stories set during Christmas, but I enjoy them anyway. A few of my favorite classic Christmas movies are “Miracle on 34th Street,” “A Christmas Carol” (with George C. Scott as Scrooge) and, of course, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” But, my very favorite Christmas movie is “Annabelle’s Wish.” Even though it’s a cartoon, it’s a great movie and I tear up every time I watch it. Heck, my eyes are beginning to water now just thinking about it! This Christmas season, gather the family and watch your favorite Christmas movie — or maybe it’s just a movie set during Christmas. Regardless, what matters most is spending time with people you love.

Merry Christmas! by Michael Callahan­ Executive Vice President/CEO Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi

DECEMBER 2019 | TODAY 3

in this issue

6 scene around the ‘sip A look at special people and places around Mississippi

11 outdoors today

Tales around a winter campfire

8

member 14 local communications

20

feature The Mississippi Gift Company celebrates the talent, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit within the Magnolia State

The Official Publication of the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi

Vol. 72 No. 12

OFFICERS Keith Hayward - President Kevin Bonds - First Vice President Eddie Howard - Second Vice President Randy Carroll - Secretary/Treasurer Michael Callahan - Executive Vice President/CEO EDITORIAL STAFF Ron Stewart - Senior VP, Communications Sandra M. Buckley - Editor Mark Bridges - Manager, Support Services Chad Calcote - Creative Director Elissa Fulton - Communications Specialist Rickey McMillan - Graphic Designer Kevin Wood - Graphic Designer Chris Alexander - Administrative Assistant EDITORIAL OFFICE & 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. • National advertising representative: American MainStreet Publications, 800-626-1181

Circulation of this issue: 442,522

20

24 on the menu

Savor the season with smoked turkey and roasted cinnamon pecans

29 grin ‘n’ bare it My 2019 Christmas story

24

31 mississippi seen Season of Lights

Non-member subscription price: $9.50 per year. Today in Mississippi (ISSN 1052-2433) is published 11 times a year 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. The publisher (and/or its agent) reserves the right to refuse or edit all advertising. POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. (See DMM 507.1.5.2) NON-POSTAL AND MILITARY FACILITIES: send address corrections to: Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300

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SUGAREE’S BAKERY by Sandra M. Buckley Nestled in downtown New Albany is a charming bakery, with cast iron skillet to cook caramel icing, make one cake at a time, the most delectable, made-from-scratch desserts — Sugaree’s make a labor-intensive traditional boiled red velvet icing — and Bakery. The establishment, however, is more than a thriving we do it all with the most premium ingredients available,” retail location savored by locals; it is also delighting customers Russell explained. “This is one of the things that sets us apart … across Mississippi and the country with if a technique or ingredient produces its sweet treats. a better result for us, we believe our What began in 1997 out of her home customers will recognize and appreciate kitchen, Mary Jennifer Russell has grown the end result.” Our desserts are made with her bakery into a successful brand, The bakery has become a tourist the care and love that including consumer mail order and destination in North Mississippi, so Russell remind people of those wholesale operations. “Our mail order recently opened an Airbnb rental above holiday memories and the business ships cakes every day to homes the bakery called Sugaree’s Loft. She and businesses across the country,” she also hosts cooking classes, farm to table people who baked with said. “Our wholesale business spans all of dinners and various other community love for them... the Deep South states.” inspired events. Sugaree’s best selling cake flavors are caramel, coconut Sugaree’s brings a taste of home and the ease of entertaining and strawberry. And, its famous pies include chess, chocolate to many customers in many places, especially during the meringue, pecan, strawberry and sweet potato. holidays. “We provide the opportunity for anyone to share “We make our own pie crusts, melt granulated sugar in a tiny the gift of Southern hospitality!” she said. 6 TODAY | DECEMBER 2019

“There is a whole generation of people who have childhood memories of really wonderful desserts, but don’t know how to make them or don’t have the time,” Russell added. “Our desserts are made with the care and love that remind people of those holiday memories and the people who baked with love for them, so that kind of nostalgia is a very comforting and wonderful thing to revisit.” Visit www.sugarees.com or call 1-866-784-2733 for more information.

Photos by Sugaree’s Bakery

DECEMBER 2019 | TODAY 7

The

Art

sculpture in

by Sandra M. Buckley A sculpture is presentation of a dimensional, freestanding form — and there is certainly a distinct art in it. Acclaimed sculptor Jason Kimes, of Laurel, describes the art form this way: “Sculpture, as an object that exists in the round, means it must be considered from all points of view — rather than a painting or drawing, which is only viewed directly from one perspective.” As a child, Kimes understood that creating and visual arts were a part of who he was and who he would become. It was this interest that led him on a direct path to earn an undergraduate degree in sculpture and a Master’s of Fine Art in sculpture from the University of Southern Mississippi. His preferred material to work with is metal — particularly steel. “Steel attracted me due to its permanence; wood and stone can be permanent too, but steel is more malleable and therefore has more options for how it can be shaped and formed,” he explained. His sculptures have evolved into mostly large-scale, which best fits into public settings outdoors. “I have an enormous interest in reaching everyday people who aren’t likely to visit a gallery or museum, but who could easily come into contact with an artwork in a public setting,” he said. “Large-scale work reframes the relationship between the viewer and the sculpture. A viewer looking down onto a small painting or sculpture sees it in a different way than a viewer looking up at a larger artwork. Such a simple reversing of the scale relationship can have huge effects on how one interprets or understands a work of art.” Kimes also appreciates that portraying elements of the human body creates an instinctual understanding from the spectator. “I think seeing a relatable form creates a natural connection with viewers by seeing something so easily 8 TODAY | DECEMBER 2019

recognizable,” he said, sharing that a recent example is his intricate design of a hand comprised of more than 4,000 pieces of steel he cut out and welded in place. His work and talent have been heralded in national arts publications and on display around the country. “Much of my public work has been shown and collected in New Orleans, but I’ve sold sculptures to collectors as far away as California and have a gallery in Canada, showing my work internationally,” he said, adding that his sculptures are on display in Chattanooga and he has an upcoming exhibit at Georgia Tech. Locally, three of his sculptures are displayed in downtown Hattiesburg. “Although Laurel doesn’t yet have one of my sculptures on permanent display, I’ve been able to install the last few sculptures downtown before they were taken to their final destinations,” he said. “It’s been great to share the work with the people of Laurel, even temporarily.” Kimes, his wife and their four young children enjoy spending family time at home on their 4 acres in Jones County. His studio is also on the property, which he describes as an older, 1,800 square-foot wood frame building. “Doing so much metal work, the majority of the shop is used for welding, grinding, milling and even casting,” he said. “I have a small area for wood tools that are used for making crates, pallets and small wood projects. I removed a rafter to fit a large steel gantry I use to lift finished sculptures enough to get a trailer under, several of them weighing almost 5,000 pounds. I have a forklift that’s over 40 years old and is great for moving things around the property, but doesn’t take the place of my dream of a bridge crane someday.” Visit www.jasonkimes.com for more information.

BEAN FRUIT CO FFE E

is brewing up a perfect cup by Sandra M. Buckley Paul Bonds is a coffee connoisseur. While he didn’t start out that way, as a young adult he developed a strong appreciation and passion for it and learned the art of roasting coffee beans. That led him to launch BeanFruit Coffee Company in Pearl, where his hand-selected coffees are roasted and then distributed to restaurants, coffee shops and other retailers all across Mississippi — as well as to consumers at home throughout the country. “Prior to starting the business, I was buying coffee from reputable coffee roasters all over the U.S.,” Bonds said. “After tasting many coffees, I started roasting coffee at home. It basically started as a hobby that transitioned to a part-time business, and finally I went full-time with it in 2012.” To meet customer demand, the BeanFruit facility utilizes two drum-style coffee roasters that are capable of roasting up to 1,500 pounds of coffee in one day. Another key to the company’s success has been its commitment to provide the highest quality product. To do so, Bonds, who earned a

Christmas -on-

opens the season in splendor and sparkle

business degree from Mississippi College, works with coffee importers across the country finding sustainable, green coffees. “We want to offer our customers the best of the best coffees,” Bonds shared. “We work to select coffees from farmers who produce their coffees using sustainable methods. These coffees are not only better for the environment, but also tend to yield better results in the cup. It’s a win-win for the farmer and the buyer.” BeanFruit is especially dedicated to making it easy for connoisseurs to brew up and enjoy a perfect cup of coffee at home — or to share as gifts — by offering a variety of coffees, available as whole beans or freshly ground, sampler packs and other related products online. “The majority of our online orders are from Mississippi, but we do receive quite a few orders from customers all over the U.S.” Bonds added. “We’ve shipped coffees as far as Alaska and Guam.” Visit www.beanfruit.com for more information.

by Nancy Jo Maples Christmas on Deer Creek marks its 55th anniversary this year as Leland hosts its unique tradition of welcoming the holiday season, which will be on display from November 30 until December 31. Splendid homes facing the creek feature tasteful décor and window candles. Lighted trees along the creek add sparkle, and anchored floats, evenly spaced along the creek, tell the story of the birth of Christ and showcase snowmen, carolers and seasonal symbols. November 30 is the kickoff, as a children’s parade rolls at 3 p.m. featuring folks 12 and younger riding on decorated bikes and in decorated strollers pushed by parents. The evening includes community singing and culminates with the arrival of Santa, at 5:30 p.m., in his sleigh drifting down the creek in a motorized float. Afterwards, he poses for free pictures. Leland, located about 7 miles east of Greenville, is also home of the late

Jim Henson, creator of Kermit the Frog. A museum in his memory, Jim Henson’s Delta Boyhood Home Exhibit, will offer visitors free gifts and photo opportunities with Kermit on the day of the creek event. “I remember coming to Leland as a child at Christmas time to ride around the creek to look at the floats and the beautiful homes all lit up,” said Mary Anne Brocato, of the Leland Chamber of Commerce. “It was always one of my favorite things at Christmas. When my children were young, we brought them to Leland to see the floats and lighted Christmas trees. Now that I live here, I still enjoy the beauty of it.” Call 662-686-2687 for more information. Nancy Jo Maples is an award-winning journalist who has been writing about Mississippi people and places for more than 30 years. Contact her at nancyjomaples@aol.com.

DECEMBER 2019 | TODAY 9

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And let it be noted that a campfire is not relegated to a Some will conclude late fall or winter a flawed time for camp. It can be just as memorizing in the backyard as it is camping. Too cold; too damp; too consumed by ballgames; at the campground. too choked with holiday festivities. And there is an element Campfires afford a captivating picture of life, one form of truth in these objections; however, there are exceptions. of matter giving off heat and serving that purpose for which I elect to focus on those exceptions and go camping, usually it was selected and then bursting heavenward to live on in in the travel trailer but often in canvas. When in canvas, another form. It is also therapeutic. a woodstove is employed, its pipe Watching it heals, soothes, sands off transitioning inside to out through frayed edges that have become ragged. that protective collar in the tent’s roof. And it does this sanding with supple And there are parameters for Campfires afford a cloth minus chafing. Gently; quietly; winter camping. How cold is too captivating picture of life, in caring fashion. cold? That is the camper’s decision. one form of matter giving Campfires induce story telling. I once spent four nights in a Montana Several of us recently sat entranced blizzard when the thermometer never off heat and serving that as the fire danced and flickered and rose above 21 below. Yes, below zero; purpose for which it was stories began to flow. One was about and yes, in a wall tent. We could do selected and then bursting Frank, a local personality. A jovial guy, little more than sit and feed the stove heavenward to live on Frank toys with peanuts. Each fall he with split aspen, not the most viable in another form. boils monstrous amounts and gives fuel. That was too cold. But Mississippi them away. He told me recently that and surrounding areas are not so brutal. he loved boiled peanuts, but noted they had begun to hurt Surely, there will be cold but some not too-cold days and him. I immediately offered my condolences. He said that nights available. And those other factors mentioned above after eating about two gallons at a time, he got this pain in can generally be circumvented. So, a quick camping trip his side. We all went to warm beds and waited with great could be in the making. expectation for a new winter’s morning. What are you to do on that trip? Be quiet and reflective if possible. Walk to water’s edge at dawn and absorb the majesty. Watch those tenuous and feeble fingers of fog drift upward to greet sunrise. Listen for the first crow’s caw or the lonesome honk of geese. Admire the morning sky. Take time by Tony Kinton to be thankful. And always spend ample time enjoying one specifically Tony Kinton has been an active outdoors alluring entity of camping. I discovered decades back that writer for 30 years. Visit www.tonykinton.com for more information. the most intriguing aspect of a camping trip is the fire.

grin ‘n’ bare it

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It takes a village

We talk a lot about our efficiency goals here at 4-County, how we are always striving to do more with less. Last month, I talked about all the ways we are working on being efficient and noted that our success has allowed us to provide better service at lower rates. This month, I’d like to talk about the people who make all this happen. It’s the men and women here at 4-County whose hard work and dedication make everything we do possible. They are committed to you, our member owners, and that commitment is not something to take lightly. Our linemen are the most obvious example. These men truly risk their lives every day to make sure our lights are on and we are not inconvenienced as we live our lives. They are the ones who work in difficult conditions, after hours and on weekends, to repair damage and restore power when it goes out. Though, our linemen can’t do it alone. It takes many people to do what we do, as well as we do it. It takes our meter shop and the staff there that makes sure that the power members use is measured correctly and safely and that we get all the data we need to run our system. It takes the apparatus and substation crew to build and maintain the substations and devices used in the movement and supply of power. It takes our stakers, whose designs help our members tap into our distribution system. It takes our accounting department, who makes sure our bills are paid and who manages our finances so well. It takes our communication and marketing department to inform our members as to what’s happening and to tell them about our programs and services. It takes our information technology group to keep all our systems running and to implement the technology that makes us efficient. It takes human resources, who makes sure we are all happy, healthy and safe. It takes engineering, who

plans and operates our system. It takes our emobile staff and dispatchers, who make sure that our crews get to the right place at the right time. It takes our system arborists to manage our Right of Way program. And it especially takes our customer service staff, who handles the hundreds of calls and issues that happen every day. There is another group of folks that I need to brag on as well. Our 4-County families, who share their loved ones with us and support them in the work they do. It takes all of us, working together, with the shared goal of making sure we do our best for our members, every day, all day. I am proud to work with each of the people at 4-County, especially of the passion they bring to their work. We know that the work we do is effective for many reasons. First, we have internal grades and scores that we use to measure how successful our initiatives are. Second, we ask you, our member owners, to let us know how we are doing. Twice a year we have a satisfaction survey done. In it, members are asked to rate us in several areas and we’ve been getting very good grades lately. In fact, from reliability to customer service, the scores we get from our members rank us with some of the best electric co-ops in the country. We’re proud of the work we do, and it shows in our effort, our attitude and in our members’ feedback. And of course, if there’s anything we can do for you, please let us know.

by Brian Clark CEO/General Manager

BOARD OF DIRECTORS – John E. “Jay” Gilliland Jr., President • Johnny Johnson, Vice President Mike Banks, Secretary/Treasurer • Bill Bell • Kenneth Seitz • Ernest H. “Bud” Tumlinson • Marty Crowder

Merry Christmas

from everyone at 4-County Electric

Our offices will be closed December 24 and 25 for Christmas and January 1 for New Year’s Day. In case of a power outage or emergency, please call 662-327-8900. Dispatchers are on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 14 TODAY | DECEMBER 2019

4-County Electric Power Association

Youth Tour delegates chosen

Webster’s Dictionary defines leadership, simply, to inspire my community and show them that as the capacity to lead. with perseverance, patience and prayer, they can A group of area high school juniors are bringing that overcome any limitations.” definition to life through their participation in the 4-County Littlejohn described herself as “overjoyed” to be a proYouth Leadership Program. gram winner. “I believe that the best leaders begin by being Thirteen young leaders from the 4-County service area, the best servants. I can hardly wait to see what this journey selected as winners to represent their schools, competed holds for me. Thank you, 4-County, for this amazing honor!” in the Youth Leadership Program Nov. 13 at the 4-County The 13 candidates competed for the opportunity to Corporate Center. win the expense-paid trips. Three high school Nominated by his/her juniors were selected to high school, each student represent the cooperative completed an application at the 2020 Youth Leaderreflecting school and exship Workshop, sponsored tracurricular activities. The by the Electric Cooperaapplication also included tives of Mississippi, several short essay questions. in Jackson Feb. 26-28. Judges affiliated with the Memory Shuffield, Electric Cooperatives of a student at Starkville Mississippi interviewed Academy, was the each of the 13 students at Katie Littlejohn Tomyah Smith Memory Shuffield first-place winner. Tomyah 4-County’s Corporate Center. Smith, a student at Golden Triangle Early College High “All 13 candidates were truly outstanding,” said School, was the second-place winner. Katie Littlejohn 4-County’s Brad Barr, Youth Tour coordinator. “We are of French Camp Academy took home third-place honors. looking forward to Memory, Tomyah and Katie representing In addition to participating in the Youth Leadership us on local, state and national levels through this wonderful Workshop, they will travel to Washington, D.C., for the leadership development program.” National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Youth Other students participating in the 4-County program were: Tour of the Capital, June 20-26. Jacob Bandock, representing Columbus High School “I am beyond eager to learn more about how I can Liam Sanders, representing Heritage Academy improve my leadership skills to better our amazing Jeremiah Harris, representing West Lowndes High School community,” Shuffield said. “I am so thankful 4-County is Grace Massey, representing New Hope High School allowing me such a unique and tremendous opportunity. Paityn Fulgham, representing Hebron Christian School I am also grateful for family, school and friends for being Kate Dickerson, representing Starkville High School so supportive. God deserves all the praise!” Lily Barlow, representing Columbus Christian Academy Smith said she is also excited to participate in the Brady Reed, representing East Webster High School program. “I am elated to be a part of 4-County’s Youth William McCurry, representing Choctaw County High School Zachary Mord, representing Columbus Christian School Leadership Tour,” she added. “I will use this opportunity DECEMBER 2019 | TODAY 15

Crafting CHRISTMAS CHEER

16 TODAY | DECEMBER 2019

by Brad Barr At 89, Bruce Hufford considers it engineer for Occidental Chemical (now a wasted day if he doesn’t accomplish Ekka Nobel), retiring in 1985. He continued something. Most often, the retired to work with the company as a contract engineer is on the lookout for fallen employee for many years. limbs near his home in Lowndes County. A strong work ethic was developed in While most people see only a brush Hufford’s hometown in Pennsylvania, as pile, Hufford sees the potential within. he cycled his way through a paper route “I enjoy seeing something come out of in the small, farming community. He a limb,” Hufford said, piddling here and bought a truck at 16, converting it into there in his cozy shop in Columbus. an ice cream truck in the summer and Hufford cut his craftsman teeth as a a fish-mongering truck in the winter. youngster, carving the rich woods of maHufford has been married to his ple, hemlock, cedar and pine trees in his wife, Diana, for 70 years. They have native southeast Pennsylvania. And, while four children, eight grandchildren and the Pennsylvania Dutchman continues to 17 great grandchildren. And, yes, most carve, he has added a lathe to his arsenal of them have handcrafted ornaments of wood-working tools. The result? More from GrandDad. often than not, especially this time of He began making ornaments about year, he has a collection of rich, intricate three years ago. “That was a new challenge. I’m always looking for something wooden ornaments for his Christmas tree. new,” Hufford exMost of his woodworking practices plained. He has an involve cutting the office and adjoining wood, shaping it by workshop in his carving or with a lathe, home. And while he and lacquering it for is enjoying the lathe, smoothness. Many of Hufford continues to his intricate creations carve — surrounding are comprised of himself in his office different kinds of and shop with handcrafted birds, canwood, glued together dlesticks, caricatures to create diverse and a large variety patterns. Various objects are often of woodworking I enjoy seeing something tools and apparatus. woven into the design, come out of a limb. including golf balls Hufford paints and tennis balls. some of his carvings, He gets the largest while leaving others portion of his wood from brush piles here in their natural state. A Fellow in the and there. Walnut and oak are favorites. Mississippi Craftsmen’s Guild, Hufford Dogwood is another target. “Any limbs sells some of his work and gives some two inches and up are fair game,” he said of it away. with a smile. What does he enjoy about His advice for aspiring woodworkers working with wood? “Everything,” he is simple: “Whatever you decide to do,” answered. “I like the smell of it. I like the he stressed, “make sure it’s something feel of it. It’s so versatile. You can do so you enjoy.” many things with it.” When asked if relaxation plays into Hufford moved to Columbus in his choice of hobby, Hufford was quick 1962, after graduating from Penn State to reply. “I’m already relaxed,” he said University. He worked as a chemical with a laugh. ‘I just enjoy it.” DECEMBER 2019 | TODAY 17

Christmas sights, sounds & scents

The Christmas season is a time to energize the senses. Enter someone’s home and you’re likely to inhale the rich, enticing fragrances of a variety of tasty Christmas treats. The homes of 4-County employees (and the offices) are no different, as the cooperative has its own set of renowned homegrown cooks. With all due respect to Martha Stewart, the 4-County cooks are dishing up their own gift of recipes this year for all to enjoy. Here’s a sampling:

White Christmas Cake

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prepare a one-half sheet cake board. Set aside. CAKE INGREDIENTS

1 cup sugar ¼ cup butter 2 eggs 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour 1 ¾ teaspoons baking powder ½ cup milk Cream together the sugar and butter. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and then add in the vanilla. Combine flour and baking powder, add to the creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in the milk until batter is smooth. Bake 30 to 40 minutes. C A K E D E C O R AT I O N S

If you do not have a Christmas tree pan, cut the cake in a Christmas tree shape to fit a half sheet cake pan. To frost the cake, you will need green food coloring or green icing color. Smooth the frosting on the cake. Butter cream frosting is recommend for cake decorations. (Wanda Bledsoe, Corporate Center)

Christmas Toys for Tots makes a little brighter

Employees and members of 4-County Electric Power Association have the chance to make Christmas a little better and brighter for area children by taking part in the Toys for Tots program. Toys for Tots, a charitable organization offered through the U.S. Marine Corps, has partnered with 4-County the last seven holiday seasons. Last year, employees and members dug deep and collected nearly 300 toys for distribution in 4-County’s service territory. “This is a great Christmas project,” said 4-County Communications Coordinator Brad Barr. “We’re always excited to partner with the Marine Corps Toys for Tots project. 18 TODAY | DECEMBER 2019

Last year, the cooperative and its members made Christmas an even better experience for children in our service area. A lot of children identified by Toys for Tots wouldn’t have the same Christmas experience without the help of this charitable organization and organizations like 4-County.” Toys for Tots drop-off boxes are located in 4-County offices. Participants in this project are not required to donate toys for children of a specific age or gender. “All we ask is that you drop off a new toy in one of the boxes located in an office near you,” Barr explained. The deadline for dropping off toys is December 18. Toys for Tots

4-County CEO Brian Clark participates in last year’s Toys for Tots campaign. Drop-off boxes are in 4-County offices this month.

personnel will pick up the items by the end of that day. Call Brad Barr at 1-800-431-1544 for more information about the Toys for Tots project.

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Chris Benson is a traveling man

From November to July, Chris Benson and his family often spend their weeknights and weekends traveling the roads and highways of north Mississippi. He can probably create his own map of that well-traveled area from memory, the 4-County Electric Power Association meter technician said with a laugh. “During that time, we stay on the road,” Benson said. “That’s where we are right now in our lives, chasing kids and watching them grow up. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Originally from Aberdeen, Chris (also a certified journeyman lineman) lives in Hamilton with his wife, Victoria, and their children, Drenon, 14, and Elaina Grace, 11. When they’re not playing ball, the Benson family can often be found on a nearby river. Skiing, knee boarding, tubing. They’re all on the menu for the spring and summer months. “It’s a good family and friends kind of thing,” Chris explained. “It’s relaxing, and there’s something there for everyone to do and enjoy.” In the winter, the Benson crew can be found in the woods, looking for that trophy buck. Peace and quiet and being in a striking southern landscape are the main motivations. “We get to see all the

beautiful things God has made,” Chris said, “and we can do it as a family.” Chris began working at 4-County in May 2006. Prior to that, he was employed as a lineman with the City of Aberdeen. He studied electrical technology at Itawamba Community College. His 4-County journey started as an apprentice lineman on Harold Tallent’s Corporate Center crew. He became a journeyman lineman in 2011, and he began working as a meter technician in February. A member of the Safety Committee, Chris and his family attend Christian Chapel Church of Christ in Hatley. His time as a lineman was rewarding, and a challenge — something that not everyone can do, he explained. “There’s a certain amount of pride involved with it.” Working in the meter shop is very technical, he said. He programs, tests, installs and troubleshoots electric meters and associated equipment. “There’s a careful, step-by-step process we have to follow when we test the meters,” Chris added. 4-County is a great place to work — a home away from home, he said. “There’s prestige working at 4-County. It’s a big family. And there are opportunities to grow and develop.”

Give the gift of safety this Christmas season Shopping, decorating and holiday entertaining are all part of what makes the Christmas season a cherished time for family and friends. But make sure to put safety at the top of your to-do-list. Here are a few electrical safety tips to make sure your Christmas season is a good one: • Always purchase electrical decorations and lights from reputable retailers and check that a nationally recognized testing organization like Underwriters Laboratories (UL) has approved them, according to 4-County Job Safety and Training Coordinator Joe Miller. “Inspect electrical decorations for damage, such as cracked or frayed sockets, loose or bare wires and loose connections, before use,” Miller recommended. Never connect more than three strings of incandescent lights together, he stressed. And always remember to turn off, unplug and extinguish all decorations when going to sleep or leaving the house. • Christmas, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day lead the year for candle fires, according to officials with Electrical Safety Foundation International. Mind your festive decorations for safety hazards. 1. When purchasing a live tree, check for freshness. A fresh tree will stay green longer, reducing the risk of fire. 2. On artificial trees, look for a “fire resistant” label. 3. Keep candles, matches and lighters out of reach, and never leave children unsupervised when candles are lit. Visit www.holidaysafety.org for more information.

DECEMBER 2019 | TODAY 19

20 TODAY | DECEMBER 2019

GIVE THE GIFT of MISSISSIPPI Celebrating the talent, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit within the Magnolia State by Sandra M. Buckley In 1993, newlyweds Cindy and Tim Tyler of Greenwood had a novel idea for a new business. The idea was to launch a fundraising company that schools could partner with to sell Mississippi made products as a way to raise money. What they soon discovered, however, was that their efforts would have a better chance at success if they dreamed even bigger — and so they shifted from a school fundraising concept to direct consumer-based sales. As the couple launched their startup as The Mississippi Gift Company, they refocused its mission, taking a visionary approach. Not only were they marketing top quality products to individuals, but also to an untapped niche in the form of corporate gifts — allowing their business model to double its consumer base. Business began to boom, and they soon opened a storefront. “At that time, we were the only retail store in downtown Greenwood,” Cindy said, adding that they also took a chance and created a mail order catalog. “We borrowed our brother-in-law’s camera and shot the catalog in the empty parking lot next to our retail location. The catalog gave us the appearance of a large company at the time and helped grow our business.” Such pioneering thinking is what then took the company to the next level. “We were one of the first companies to have a website and worked to build a site on one of the first ecommerce platforms available in 1997,” explained Cindy. “It was during the days of dial-up and took forever for the site to load. This really helped grow our customer base.” Today, Cindy runs the business full time and has created a convenient hub, both in store and online, for exceptional Mississippi made gifts, decorative accessories for the home and gourmet food items. And the storefront is now more than a retail shop; it’s a unique shopping experience and a tourist destination. “We have visitors from all over the world visiting our business to find something unique to take home from their travels,” she said. “We also have online customers in every state in the United States that love to give a gift of Mississippi,” Cindy added. “We have customers all across the state, the country and a few orders overseas from time to time to send something to their loved ones in the U.S.”

Over the past 26 years, the business has successfully expanded its brand and established itself as the first — and only — company dedicated to exclusively selling Mississippi products. It also maintains the largest selection of Mississippi made items available anywhere, with more than 750 product offerings handcrafted by more than 150 Mississippians. The range of products is vast, from handcrafted dinnerware, pottery, picture frames, decorative pillows, candles and jewelry to original artwork and photography as well as cookbooks and coffee table books. And, gourmet food products are equally in demand, including bread mixes, salad dressings, salsas, pickles, cheese straws, cakes, pies, cookies, dessert mixes, local honey, appetizer and dip mixes, nuts, sauces, marinades, soup mixes and more. As an additional convenience, gift cards, a bridal registry and a wish list for customers are also available. “We are so fortunate that there are so many talented artists, potters, chefs, craftsmen and gourmet food entrepreneurs in our state,” Cindy noted. “When someone receives a gift from The Mississippi Gift Company, they know the gift is high quality, handmade and made in Mississippi.” Cindy, a graduate of Mississippi State University, has not only helped connect Mississippi makers and their goods with customers, she has also established lasting relationships with them. “I have become great friends and developed wonderful relationships with the artisans whose goods I sell,” she shared. “We love that we are a part of their story and have played a certain part in introducing their product to new customers who love Mississippi.”

DECEMBER 2019 | TODAY 21

Photos by The Mississippi Gift Company

Another amenity of the company is the option of selecting and purchasing pre-filled gift packages. These beautiful, festive or holiday-inspired gift baskets, which can be customized, are loaded with assortments of customer favorites, like sweet and savory treats. These offer convenience and fit the bill for countless occasions, such as a thank you, house warming, new baby, birthday, retirement, wedding or client gift. “We have gift boxes, gift baskets and gift packages for any occasion, all filled with made-in-Mississippi items,” Cindy added. “We have even shipped gift baskets to studio sets in Los Angeles.” By offering gift packages as a convenient solution for businesses to meet gifting needs, Cindy and her team are prepared at a moment’s notice to fulfill these orders. “Our corporate gifts are a great option for small and large businesses, and we try to make it easy for them because we know that everyone is so busy,” she said. “We say, ‘Send us your list, we do the rest.’ So all the business has to do is tell us what gift package they want and send us their mailing list. We pack it up and ship it out to arrive on the date that they request.” To keep up with demand, the company stocks its items in a temperature-controlled fulfillment center adjacent to the retail space. Before, when fulfilling orders in the company’s early days, Cindy, Tim and occasionally Tim’s parents were the ones packing up and shipping out the boxes. “One time, we got a call from a customer saying that they found a wedding ring in the basket they received from us and that someone in our warehouse must have lost it,” Cindy shared. “We laughed so hard because we had no warehouse and it was just us packing and shipping, which meant that it could only be one person’s lost ring — my husband’s!” The Mississippi Gift Company has been featured in national outlets such as Southern Living, Bon Appetit and 22 TODAY | DECEMBER 2019

Owner Cindy Tyler

Cooking with Paula Dean. Also a particular honor, it was selected in 2017 to represent the State of Mississippi in the Google Economic Impact report, an esteemed recognition that brought Cindy and her staff to Google headquarters in California for an awards presentation gala. The Mississippi Gift Company holds true to its original mission to celebrate and share the talent, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit within the Magnolia State. “We have remained committed to finding the best handcrafted food, gifts and home decor that is made by hardworking Mississippians,” Cindy explained. “This allows our customers to be able to give something that is truly different and unique. And most of the time, it reflects their own Mississippi heritage and allows them to share a piece of who they are with others.” Thanks to an innovative vision nearly three decades ago, an appreciation of Mississippi makers, alongside years of hard work, The Mississippi Gift Company offers anyone, anywhere, a simple way to give the gift of Mississippi. “I am so blessed to have this opportunity to give people the ability to share Mississippi with their clients, friends and family,” Cindy said. “Mississippi has a rich heritage of food, art and craftsmanship,” Cindy added, “and it has been such a blessing to have had the opportunity to showcase the best that Mississippi has to offer over our 26 years in business.”

THE MISSISSIPPI GIFT COMPANY 300 Howard Street Greenwood, MS 38930 www.msgifts.com 1-800-467-7763

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How to successfully smoke a turkey

by Andy Chapman Turkey can be tricky, but with a touch of love, some planning and a good grill, you can cook a stellar bird for your family that folks will rave about. It’s possible to be a hero of the grill at Christmas, without ever firing up the oven inside — or in my case, getting in the way of all of the inside cooking with pies and stuffing and cookies and candy happening in the kitchen. But first you will need to do a little prep, and this is where it all starts.

TURKEY MAGIC: Make a Beer Swamp Butter. This really is a secret weapon. This same recipe can also be used on chicken as well. My Beer Swamp Butter recipe is a simple mixture of easy-to-find ingredients that you’ll inject into your bird using an easy-to-find-this-time-of-year turkey injector. INJECTION TIME: Remember when I told you to get the turkey to room temperature? Well, if you inject melted butter into a frozen turkey, basic science says it will not work well. So, be sure to get the bird as close to room temperature as you can manage. Inject the Swamp Butter in a grid pattern around the bird until you’ve used all but about a cup of the liquid. Reserve the remaining cup for basting during cooking.

BRINE: Start the night before It’s possible to be a hero of the grill at you want to cook … I usually brine Christmas, without ever firing up the in a cup of brown sugar (packed), a cup of salt, a hand full of cinnaoven inside — or in my case, getting mon sticks, 2 to 4 oranges sliced in the way of all of the inside cooking in half (if you have a lemon, throw with pies and stuffing and cookies a sliced one of those in there as and candy happening in the kitchen. well). Stir it all up in a cooler large enough to also hold the bird with water and ice to fill to the top. Set it up and let it sit outside overnight. This process will impart some flavor and sweetness REST THE BIRD: I learned this trick from cookbook author to your bird that will make it special. Important tip: mix everyRay Lampe, and it’s a good one. Rest the turkey for an hour thing really well before you add any ice — it will mix much easier after injection and before cooking with a Ziploc bag full of ice propped onto the breast portion only. This will retard the if you do that. cooking process on the breasts, which tend to dry out during cooking. (Please, don’t cook with the ice on the meat; you TURKEY PRE-COOKING BASICS: Let your turkey come to room temperature before cooking it. That means you should won’t like the plastic flavor that results.) go ahead and pull it out of the cooler. Remove the giblets While you are resting the bird, light your fire. You’ll want and neck and clean out any icy leftovers. Pat it dry, and let to have a medium to low fire — with the internal temperature it come to room temperature. Trust me, if it’s still got some reaching about 250 to 260 degrees. I use fresh pecan chunks icy spots (because you rushed this process), it will slow down for smoke flavor, but you can use apple, cherry or pecan for this the cooking process and cook unevenly, and that’s not a particular cook. recipe for success. 24 TODAY | DECEMBER 2019

W

On a Weber style kettle grill, add half a gallon of unlit charcoal on one side of the grill. Light a half-gallon of charcoal in a chimney and pile on top (keeping it all on one side) of the other charcoal. Place the turkey on the grate on the opposite side of the kettle from the fire. Also, place the vent of the grill opposite the fire so that the airflow will pull the heat across the turkey on the grill. Be sure and add your wood chunks before placing the bird on the grate, opposite the coals. On a Kamado style smoker, just use the plate setter or the regular method for indirect heat. I can give you times, but every bird is different and so is every grill, but after about 2 to 3 hours, add more charcoal or add more air for the purpose of bringing the grill temperature up to 350 degrees. Baste the bird with the Swamp Butter until the internal temperature of the bird is 165 degrees. Remove from grill. Rest your trophy for 20 minutes and then slice and serve. It’s a little bit of work, but the end result has had folks begging for more.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Chef Andy Chapman lives in Gulfport where he owns and operates Eat Y’all, a business that helps farmers and food producers connect to chefs around the globe who are looking for better ingredients. Andy would love to hear how your turkey turns out. Contact him at andy@eatyall.com or 601-852-3463.

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Beer Swamp Butter INGREDIENTS 2 cups salted butter 1 (12-ounce) beer (I like to use a medium beer or an ale if you have one.) 1 ½ tablespoons of your favorite barbecue rub (We use June Bugg All Purpose Seasoning, but you can use any rub you like. June Bugg has coffee in it; so it really works well in this, trust me. This rub is going on the outside of the turkey, so set this aside.)

1 ½ tablespoons paprika 1 tablespoon fine ground black pepper (I usually use coarse on everything; but trust me, it has to fit through the injector needle, so fine grind is required here.)

1 tablespoon sea salt 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon onion powder 1 tablespoon white pepper 1 tablespoon mustard powder 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (Double this if you want to taste the spice, or go less if you have an especially spice sensitive crowd.)

Melt the butter at a low temperature. Whisk in the beer. Whisk all of the other spices into the liquid. Once it’s well blended, remove the mixture from the heat. Do not boil. While liquefied, inject the turkey.

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with Rebecca Turner

I

f you want to upset a Southerner, refer to winter’s tasty nut as a pee-can. In the South, it is pronounced pah-kahn. You’ll find pecan orchards throughout Mississippi with most farms near the Gulf Coast and the Delta. According to the Mississippi Pecan Growers, our state harvests and markets 2 million to 4 million pounds of pecans per year. But, you don’t have to live on a farm to make memories picking pecans off the ground before the squirrels find them. Many Mississippi backyards have pecan trees for their summer shade and delicious fall treat. Squirrels aren’t the only ones who benefit from pecans. The pecan comes packed with fiber, wholesome fats and 19 vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin E, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, several B vitamins and zinc. A 1-ounce serving of pecans, approximately 20 halves, contains nearly 200 calories, 20 grams

of fat and 10 percent of the recommended Daily Value for fiber. Pecans have a fat content of over 70 percent, which is the highest among all the nuts. Because of the caloric density and total fat content, enjoy pecans as part of a balanced diet. Don’t let the high-fat content scare you away from savoring pecans responsibility. Pecans are considered heart-healthy and can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and help prevent some forms of cancer due to the high healthy fat content. Nearly 60 percent of the fats in pecans are monounsaturated, and another 30 percent are polyunsaturated. Both types of fat help protect the heart and the mind. Recent research also found that pecans rank highest among all nuts in antioxidant capacity, meaning pecans have the potential to strengthen your immune system, too.

According to the Mississippi Pecan Growers, our state harvests and markets 2 million to 4 million pounds of pecans per year.

Traditionally, pecan servings come from pies and pastries. The unnecessary calories and added sugars found in desserts overshadow any health benefits. While pecan pie has its place, think past sweets and incorporate more raw pecans into your diet. Pecans come in several forms, such as whole, halves, pieces, granules and meals. Their rich, buttery flavor makes them a perfect pairing for both savory and sweet foods. Enjoy raw pecans by sprinkling some over salads or into wraps. Top off your oatmeal or Greek yogurt with a spoonful of pecan pieces. Add pecans to homemade whole wheat pancakes, waffles or muffin batter. Try pecan butter for a different twist to PB&J. This winter, be good to your heart and mind and opt for pecans in unexpected places.

Healthier Pecan Pie Bars

A healthier twist to the traditional pecan pie INGREDIENTS 1 store-bought pie crust 1 stick butter 1/4 cup maple syrup 2/3 cup sugar or sugar substitute 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 tablespoon milk 2 cups chopped pecans

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bring refrigerated crust to room temperature. Roll out to line the bottom of an 8x11-inch baking dish. Bake crust for 10 to 15 minutes or until slightly golden brown. Let crust cool completely. In a saucepan, heat butter, sugar (or sugar substitute), maple syrup and vanilla until boiling (about 3 to 4 minutes), stirring constantly. Once boiling, continue to stir but let bubble for one minute and then turn off heat. Stir in milk and pecans. Mix well. Pour pecan mixture over cooled crust and bake in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Let cool and then refrigerator for several hours or overnight before cutting.

Roasted Cinnamon Pecans These lightly buttered, cinnamon roll inspired pecans are satisfying without the guilt INGREDIENTS 1/2 pound pecans 1 tablespoon butter 1/8 teaspoon salt, or more to taste 1/4 teaspoon stevia, or more to taste 1 tablespoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Roast pecans for 10 to 15 minutes. Melt butter in a saucepan large enough to hold pecans after roasted. Stir in remaining ingredients and set aside. Toss hot roasted pecans in saucepan with melted mixture and stir to coat. Serve slightly warm or cooled. Refrigerate leftover pecans.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Rebecca Turner is an author, registered dietitian, radio host, television presenter and a certified specialist in sports dietetics with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. A lifelong Mississippian, she has spent the last decade offering no-nonsense nutrition guidance that allows you to enjoy good health and good food. Her book, “Mind Over Fork,� challenges the way you think, not the way you eat. Find her on social media and online at www.theRebeccaTurner.com.

DECEMBER 2019 | TODAY 27

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MY 2019

Christmas Story

A Leyland Cypress field in Grafe’s Christmas Tree Farm in Lucedale during the 1990s

our coffee, we’ll admire the tree, but long for the ones that we It’s that special time of the year again. And after more than planted, raised to maturity and enjoyed so much. I can still smell 20 Christmas stories, I still get excited when it’s time to write the sweet, fresh aroma of a real tree. another one. It’s such a wonderful and blessed time of the year. I asked Mr. Roy if he ever remembered hearing families A few days ago, as Mr. Roy and I sat together on the patio and argue or fuss while they were picking out their tree. He told sipped our afternoon cup of coffee, I said, “It’s the first day of me he could not recall a single instance of that. Wouldn’t it be November and time to write my annual Christmas column; give great if we could live every day as if we were going to pick out me some ideas.” He said, “Since this may be the last Christmas our Christmas tree? And that is what this season is all about. article you write before retirement, why don’t you just say what Nothing is more important than love of family, love of friends comes to your mind and from your heart.” and love of Christ. As we celebrate this wonderful season and So, dear readers, that’s what I am going to do. During a the prospect of a Happy New Year, imagine that every day we period of 25 Christmas seasons, Mr. Roy and I operated a tree are picking out our Christmas tree. And when you see a family farm where we grew and sold Christmas trees. Even though member or friend, take time to say, “I love you!” the work was hard and the days were long, this was a very And to my faithful readers, as many of you have been for enjoyable part of our lives. We did this as a hobby or second over 25 years, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and I love job because we both had career jobs. Some readers of each and every one of you. “Grin ‘n’ Bare It” remember visiting our farm and buying a tree. Our selling season began Thanksgiving weekend and literally lasted until Christmas Eve night. Almost every year we would have someone ring our doorbell on December 24th, apologize for bothering us, and ask if they could get a tree. In most cases, the father had been out of town on a job and had just arrived by Kay Grafe home that night. Mr. Roy would always tell the anxious family Contact Kay Grafe at kaygrafe@bellsouth.net. to drive out in the field and he would meet them there. Those families were always so happy and excited to get a tree and were very appreciative. And the one thing that made all of the hard work associated with our tree farm worthMERIDIAN while was how happy the children and parents were. During the later years, we had young fathers or mothers tell us, “My parents brought me out here when I was a child to Snow flurries falling, plus Christmas train “Sing A Song of Christmas” will come to Lazy Acres in LIGHTS is one of get our trees, and now I am bringing my rides, plus Holiday Spirit equals Santa’s life at the 51st Trees of Christmas. More Mississippi’s top Christmas light Christmas Factory. Tour the historic Soulé than 30 trees will be exquisitely decorated displays. Tour the farm, see the elves children to enjoy the experience.” StateSteam Works in downtown Meridian to represent your favorite Christmas in Santa’s workshop, meet the farm decorated with thousands of lights and songs. Take a guided tour of Antebellum animals in Animal Acres and see ments like that made Mr. Roy and me so toys for this family-friendly event. Santa Merrehope (circa 1858) and Victorian F.W. Mississippi’s largest hand painted happy. I will always have fond memories of will be visiting at night. Williams (circa 1886) historic homes. nativity scene. our tree farm and the wonderful friends we NOV. 21 - DEC. 30 NOV. 28 - DEC. 25 TUESDAYS - SATURDAYS DEC. 10 - 21 2019 OPENING GALA WAGON RIDES Dec, 10 - 14 | Day 9:30 - 3:30 made during those years. Nov. 21, 5-7 pm Thanksgiving & Christmas • Fri. & Sat. Night (Fri. 13 & Sat. 14 only - 5-8) Like many of you, in a few weeks Mr. Roy DAILY TOURS Hours: 6pm - 10pm Dec. 17 - 21 | Day 9:30 - 3:30 Mon.-Sat. 9-5 • Nov. 22 - Dec. 30 DRIVING TOURS Night (Fri. 20 & Sat. 21 only - 5-8) and I will go into a storage room, pull out Sundays 1-5 • Dec 15, 22, 29 Sun. - Thurs. • 6pm - 9pm Downtown @ 1808 4th St. our beautiful artificial tree and set it up 905 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. 596 Lazy Acres Rd. Chunky 601-693-9905 601-483-8439 • merrehope.com 833-327-6386 • lazy-acres.com santaschristmasfactory.com in the den. And as we sit there drinking DECEMBER 2019 | TODAY 29

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events

mississippi marketplace meaning of this holiday season. 6 to 8 p.m. Nativity Kings Gold 2020 Concert, January 17, Hattiesburg. Want more than 442,000 readers to know about your special Lutheran. Free admission. Details: 601-825-5125. performances featuring The Kingsmen and outdoors today Musical event?on Events openthe to the publicmenu will be published free of charge Gold City Quartets. Proceeds will benefit R3SM as space allows. Submit details at least two months prior to the Gun Show, December 7-8, Philadelphia. Saturday, Disaster Recovery. 7 p.m. Heritage UMC. Details: event date. Submissions must include a phone number with 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Neshoba scene around the ‘sip picture this area code for publication. Mail to Mississippi Events, Today in www.heritage-umc.org; 601-261-3371. County Coliseum; 12000 Highway 15 North. Details: Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300; or email www.bigpopgunshows.com; 601-319-5248. 10th Annual Oxford Fiber Arts Festival, January to news@ecm.coop. Events are subject to change. Please confirm my opinion 23-25, Oxford. Come and enjoy classes, vendors, December 7-25, detailsco-op before traveling. involvement WhitmanVille Christmas Village, Christmas in the Park, Now – December 28, Collins. Enjoy a driving tour featuring thousands of twinkling lights and beautiful displays that celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the United States Armed Forces and joyful holiday scenes that are sure to delight all ages. Tours are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 5 to 9 p.m. Bettie D. Robinson Memorial Park. Free admission. Details: www.covingtonchamber.com; 601-765-6012. Trees of Christmas at Merrehope, Now – December 29, Meridian. A “Sing a Song of Christmas” theme will be represented with more than 30 Christmas trees exquisitely decorated to represent holiday songs. Live musical performances and tours of the Antebellum Merrehope and Victorian F.W. Williams historic homes are also available. Details: www.merrehope.com; 601-483-8439. Southaven Christmas Parade of Lights, December 6, Southaven. Celebrate Christmas with marching bands, floats, walking groups and of course good Ol’ St. Nick. Parade begins at Southpoint Church and concludes at City Hall. Details: www.southaven.org. A Magical Christmas at the McComb Depot, December 7, McComb. Visit with Santa and his elves while Mrs. Claus makes muffins in the kitchen of the 1883 Office Car. Mail a letter to the North Pole while visiting the 1914 Post Office Car. Watch beautiful model trains navigate through Christmas villages to the delight of young and old. 1 to 4 p.m. Free admission. Details: 601-395-6456. Breakfast with the Grinch, December 7, Natchez. Presented by the Junior Auxiliary of Natchez. Photos with the Grinch will be available. Two event times: 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Admission. Details: 601-597-8244; Facebook. A Walk in the Woods Art Event and Sale, December 7, Kiln. Enjoy local artists and artwork and complimentary food and drinks. 10 a.m.to 4 p.m. 22591 Rue La Terre. Details: 228-255-4019; Facebook. 28th Annual Live Nativity Scene, December 7-8, Brandon. Come by and get into the Christmas spirit by viewing the manger scene and remembering the true

Picayune. Come visit one of Mississippi’s biggest Christmas Villages. It’s a perfect outing for church groups, clubs and more. Grand Opening is December 7, 5 to 7:30 p.m. Closed Sundays and Wednesdays. 1125 Highway 43 North, Suite I. Free admission. Details: 601-799-1093. Holiday Home Tour, December 8, Aberdeen. They’ve decked the halls! Come tour ornately decorated homes and the KCS Railroad Depot for an afternoon of Christmas fun. A reception with festive refreshments will follow at the historic Elkin Theatre. Admission. Details: 662-369-9440. Homestead for the Holidays, December 12-13, Jackson. Hosted by the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum, come enjoy story time with Mrs. Claus, pictures with Santa, a stroll through the old fashioned Small Town and farmstead, carousel and train rides and more. 5 to 8 p.m. Admission; the Museum will accept canned food donations at the door to receive a discount of half-off admission price. Details: 601-432-4500. Sip ‘n Cider, December 13, Hernando. Participating shops will serve their own special blend of hot cider. Eat, shop, mix and mingle, register for door prizes and vote for your favorite cider! 5 to 8 p.m. Hernando Courthouse Square. Details: www.hernandoms.org; 662-429-9055. Christmas Concert, December 14, Jackson. Presented by the Mississippi Community Symphonic Band. 7 p.m. Belhaven Center for the Arts; 835 Riverside Drive. Free admission. Details: www.mcsb.us; 601-594-0055. Christmas Open House at the McComb Depot, December 14, McComb. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Details: 601-395-6456. Bienvenue Acres Christmas Camp, December 23-24, 26-28, Gulfport. Now enrolling for this equine training camp for new or experienced riders. Includes riding, games and fun for ages 4 and up. Details: bienvneueacres@nocoxmail.com; 228-357-0431. Jurassic World Live, December 26-29, Southaven. At this new arena show, come face-to-face with life-sized dinosaurs and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget. Landers Center. Details: www.jurassicworldlivetour.com.

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30 TODAY | DECEMBER 2019

children’s activities, live demonstrations, and more. Powerhouse Community Arts Center. Admission. Details: oxfordfiberfest@gmail.com; 662-236-6429.

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The old folks used to call it “Christmas gift.” Or perhaps it was pronounced “Chrizmus giff.” It’s an unexpected pleasant surprise that happens during the holidays. I first heard it in association with visitors showing up on our doorstep. There would be a knock on the door and mama would open it and holler, “Christmas gift!” Well, I just had some “Chrizmas giffs” happen to me as I sat at my computer to write this article — pleasant surprises that otherwise would have never happened. First off, I had to fire up an old computer to see if any of my missing TV story scripts were stored there because I was searching for a few things in particular that I wanted to make sure I had factually correct — names and places and things like that — that I have learned the hard way not to leave up to my memory. There were a gillion files in there — things I hadn’t seen in years. Things I had forgotten about. Things I thought I had lost. Not only the scripts I was looking for but no telling how many photographs and bits and pieces of stories I had started to write but never got any further than the first day. And music I downloaded from Internet services that have long since fallen by the wayside. So as I started “Charlie Brown’s Christmas” on the old computer, I remembered the task at hand and turned to write this that you are reading now. I was looking for Morie Moore’s name. He was an elderly man (probably younger than I am now, but this was from 30 years ago) who was the first person I ever met who did elaborate Christmas light displays. I did a story with him one Halloween night at his home out in the hills of Yazoo County where he was already stringing up strands of Christmas lights. He started early

so he would have them all up by Thanksgiving. He built all sorts of frames on which to hang the lights — geometric patterns and poles like clotheslines with strings strung blinking between them. His was the only light show on his road that year. A few years later, all of his neighbors had one. And then there was the big light show Earl Boyd started in the Salem Community in Walthall County that wound up being the origins of the annual Tylertown “Christmas in the Water Park” display. Now there are lights all over the place this time of year. Everywhere there is a waterway there are some type lights, from Biloxi’s Christmas on the Water to the floats (that really float) in Deer Creek at Leland. And you don’t EVER want to miss Canton’s decorated town square. All of those lights are “Chrizmas giffs,” in a way — pleasant surprises someone started and others pitched in on and enlarged or started anew until this really is the Season of Lights nowadays.

by Walt Grayson 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 him at walt@waltgrayson.com.

DECEMBER 2019 | TODAY 31

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