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Joy of the holidays and the ordinary Christmas time is here again in Mississippi. I love Christmas because it’s about family, giving, the birth of Jesus Christ, community, and joy. Joy is the special feeling in our souls brought about by God’s presence on Earth and through the words and works of Jesus Christ. Christmas joy is evident all around the holidays — from the expectant eyes of a child on the morning of Dec. 25 wondering what Santa Claus might have left them to the smile on grandma’s face after she smells that ﬁrst scent of her favorite peppermint hot chocolate on Christmas Eve. The spirit of the season might appear harder to spot on a daily basis outside of December. I have a suggestion for witnessing joy on an ordinary day throughout the rest of the year: read our cover story this month on The Mustard Seed in Flowood. Better yet, I would urge you to visit or volunteer sometime to see it up close and in person. Not everyone can drive to the Jackson area to volunteer. But you can bring joy to others and to yourself by volunteering in your local community. Volunteering in your community is intrinsic to the cooperative way of life. The Mustard Seed is a Christian community for adults with developmental disabilities.

Known as “Seedsters,” the adults who live at The Mustard Seed’s group homes and the participants in the day program are living their best lives — literally and ﬁguratively. Don’t feel sorry for these folks — they are living productive, independent, and fulﬁlling lives away from their families of origin while working, playing, and learning. The Seedsters will tell you that as well as their families. But you can also see it in their faces, smiles and interactions together and with visitors. There’s an infectious spark of joy in what they do and how they live. Whether you and your family are struggling or thriving this holiday season, we hope this story warms your heart. It certainly warmed mine. As 2021 ends and the promise of a new year is just ahead, remember to always look for the joy in others, yourself, and God. From myself and all the electric cooperatives in Mississippi, we wish you and your family and friends a safe Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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

Mississippi is... I come from baseballs and bats, from ponds and ﬁshing poles. I’m from the buttermilk biscuits and duck rolls. I come from the saying, “If you gonna be dumb, you gotta be tough,” from Lucedale, and Agricola, with baked beans and fried chicken. I come from the tears of losing my grandfather, from the picture books on the wooden shelf, bringing back old memories and good times. I come from the gun beside my bed, from the slugs I’ve shot. I come from hats off at the table, from blessings before we eat, and prayers before we sleep. I come from the dirt on my boots, from the working sweat I’ve been through, And the tea I’ve drunk. I come from going to church on Sunday, And Bible reading at night. I come from a country world.

by Case Crawley, a resident of Lucedale and a member of Singing River Electric. Case, now 16 and a junior in high school, wrote the poem in the eighth grade.

What’s Mississippi to you? What do you treasure most about life in our state? Send your brief thoughts to Today in Mississippi, news@ecm.coop or mail to P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158

DECEMBER 2021 | TODAY 3

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in this issue

5 southern gardening Peppers at Christmas? Absolutely

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

outdoors today

Remembering Christmas

10 local news 16

feature The residents of The Mustard Seed are living life to the fullest

The Official Publication of the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi

Vol. 74 No. 12

OFFICERS Eddie Howard - President Randy Carroll - First Vice President Ron Barnes - Second Vice President Tim Perkins - Secretary/Treasurer Michael Callahan - Executive Vice President/CEO EDITORIAL STAFF Ron Stewart - Senior Vice President Lydia Walters - VP, Communications Steven Ward - Editor Chad Calcote - Creative Director/ Manager Rickey McMillan - Graphic Designer Kevin Wood - Graphic Designer Alan Burnitt - Graphic Designer Courtney Warren - 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: 466,752

20 on the menu Hopping on board with charcuterie

Non-member subscription price: $9.50 per year. Today in Mississippi (ISSN 1052-2433) is published 12 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

www.facebook.com/TodayinMississippi

23 mississippi seen The state capital celebrates its bicentennial

www.todayinmississippi.com

On the cover A group of “Seedsters” at The Mustard Seed in Flowood take a break from painting for a group photo. Photo by Chad Calcote

And we think you’re going to love ours. So let’s work together: As electric cooperatives, we were built by the communities we serve—and by members just like you. 4 TODAY | DECEMBER 2021

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Ornamental peppers

have use as

above the foliage. Fruit As an ornamental hortistarts as yellow-green and culture guy, I’m always thinktransitions to a bright orange and brilliant red. ing about how to expand Chilly Chili is a great choice for container plantor extend the usefulness of our ing, as the plants reach just 1 foot tall and wide. landscape and garden plants. I’ve These peppers are not hot and are probably the safest been toying with a nontraditional to grow around curious children. use for ornamental peppers. The ornamental pepper variety Sangria holds its slender fruit This is a group of attractive plants many pointing upward boastfully as if getting ready for a party. This of us grow during the summer. They come in a colorful and wide pretty ornamental pepper bears fruit in almost unbelievable variety of selections. I have always marveled how the colors numbers so that they resemble confetti. change as the pepper fruit mature across the season. Young Sangria peppers emerge greenish yellow and then march The idea I’ve been playing with is growing some ornamental through a wonderful parade of colors peppers indoors during the winter from orange, lilac, purple, and finally and using them in Christmas and on to a glorious crimson red. Unlike holiday season décor. Chilly Chili, Sangria peppers are hot, Now, this isn’t new idea. I rememhot, hot! ber a day over 30 years ago when Growing ornamental peppers for my fellow grad students and I were the holidays is really easy. kicking around ideas. One student Find a bright window where the came up with this totally out-ofplant can receive about six hours of bounds thought of growing pepsunlight a day. Temperature-wise, if pers specifically for the holidays. you’re comfortable, the plants will We’ll call them Christmas Peppers, The slender, colorful fruit of the Sangria ornamental pepper are produced be happy. To be more specific, this he said. in such numbers as to resemble confetti. The peppers are very hot. means daytime temperatures in the This was one of those wild and low 70s and a little cooler at night to the mid-60s. Temperatures crazy ideas — and maybe has a touch of horticultural heresy — in this range will help encourage and prolong the flowering cycle because everyone knows that poinsettias are the end-all, be-all and production of the colorful fruit. holiday plant forevermore. But still the idea stuck with me, and As with all indoor plants, correct watering is important. Keep I’m so glad it did. the potting mix consistently moist, not waterlogged, as this condiSlowly over the years, garden centers and floral designers have tion leads to root rot issues that cause the flowers drop off. been adding ornamental peppers into their holiday creations. In fact, the Chili Pepper Institute at New Mexico State University has developed an entire series of ornamental peppers to celebrate the holidays, from NuMex New Year’s Day to NuMex Christmas. What I like about using ornamental peppers as holiday plants by Dr. Gary is the fact that the plants continue to produce multicolored fruit Bachman over most of the winter. Most of the ornamental peppers grown for the holidays stay small and are well mannered. Gary Bachman, Ph.D., Extension/Research Professor of Horticulture at A couple of my landscape favorites are perfect for holiday use. the Mississippi State University Coastal Research and Extension Center in Chilly Chili seems to explode in a dramatic, colorful demonBiloxi. He is also host of “Southern Gardening” radio and TV programs. He lives in Ocean Springs and is a Singing River Electric member. stration. This 2002 All-America Selections winner holds the fruit DECEMBER 2021 | TODAY 5

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SAFE DÉCOR FOR A HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON

Keep these holiday lighting tips in mind for a safe holiday season. Inspect all electrical decorations. Damaged sockets and/or loose or exposed wires can cause serious shock or start a fire. Purchasing LED lights, they use less energy and run cooler. Never mount or support light strings in a way that might damage the cord’s insulation. Make sure cords are not pinched in doors, windows or under heavy furniture, which could damage the cord’s insulation. Always unplug electrical decorations before replacing bulbs or fuses. Turn off all indoor andoutdoor electrical decorations before leaving home or going to sleep. Source: Electrical Safety Foundation International

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scene around the ‘sip

by Steven Ward

Although his life is not much like the exciting cinematic universe of Indiana Jones, retired Mississippi State University professor and professional archaeologist Evan Peacock still has an interesting story to tell. Born in the Delta and reared in the hill country of north-central Mississippi, Peacock has just released a memoir, “Kudzu on the Ivory Tower: From the Backwoods to an Academic Career in the Deep, Deep South.” When he was 10, Peacock found a stone arrow point on his family’s land, and instantly fell in love with archaeology. One of the people in his life that helped Peacock follow his dream was his ninth-grade music teacher. “Mr. Hill had an impressive library that included many large, picture-heavy books about science, which he freely shared. After I helped him move a pipe organ from Tennessee down to French Camp Academy, he gifted me with a copy of a book about the Aztecs,” Peacock said. “Not only did that help spur my interest in archaeology, but it demonstrated that such interest could be taken seriously by others.” Peacock said he’s heard over the years that some mistakenly think archaeology is not a viable career. “I cannot say how many times people told me, “You can’t get a job doing that.” It turns out that archaeology is a well-developed profession with a need for smart, dedicated practitioners,” Peacock said. “Most of the jobs are related to what is called cultural resource management, that is, commercial archaeology done in the face of development. While I was working at Mississippi State University, we started a master’s program which

boasted over a 90% job placement rate for our graduates.” Peacock also said Mississippi is a bountiful resource for archaeologists. “Mississippi has a very rich archaeological record, stretching back some 14,000 years, that remains little explored. During my career, my crews and I found and recorded about 1,000 sites that never had been formally reported before, and we were just scratching the surface,” Peacock said. “Most of what exists in the state remains to be found. And much of what we find in Mississippi can be used to address Photo by Josie Strain very large-scale questions about humankind in general, like what led to the adoption of settled life and agriculture.” Late in his career, Peacock discovered something fascinating in the Mississippi Delta — shell rings. “These are large, circular rings of freshwater mussel shells and other artifacts; they are so large that they easily can be seen in aerial photographs. They mark where Native villages stood about 1,200 years ago, when people had their houses on top of the shells and other refuse, probably as an efficient way to lift their dwellings out of danger of periodic floods,” Peacock said.

A resident of Starkville, “Kudzu” tells the story of how Peacock became an archaeologist and college professor.

I was born in Clarksdale, but was reared in the backwoods of Choctaw County. The nearest town, French Camp, was four miles away. At the time, it held fewer than 200 people, so we really lived out in the sticks. We were very poor; being the sixth of seven sons meant that I wore a lot of hand-me-downs, and government cheese was a welcome menu item.

Visit borgopublishing.com/evanpeacock for more information about Peacock and his new book. DECEMBER 2021 | TODAY 7

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Wild game was a key component of sustenance back then and was only supplanted by the customary salt pork and black-eyed peas found on every New Year’s lunch table. Daddy and I were the hunters of our family, but neighbor boys and dads joined regularly. Quiet lessons were taught and learned during such outings and formed the basis for living decently. Those lessons shaped us. And those outings set the stage for my lifestyle and vocation that eventually afforded an audience of kind and gracious readers who follow the writings of that country boy now fully grown and tasting old age. I took my ﬁrst deer during the Christmas holidays, the day after Christmas in fact — my birthday. We had to travel a considerable distance since deer were not handy to home, and that ﬁrst encounter with a whitetail is etched deeply into my being. It was then and is still now sobering, intriguing, exhilarating, and yes, heartbreaking. The experience is cataloged among those lessons of life, lessons from the past that now impact the present and future. So, Christmas is again near. I hope it makes pleasant memories for you. And I particularly hope that the true essence of this season is known and celebrated in peaceful joy for you all. Merry Christmas.

by Tony Kinton Tony Kinton has been an active outdoors writer for 30 years. He lives in Carthage and is a Central Electric member. Visit www.tonykinton.com or email tkinton@bellsouth.net for more information.

DECEMBER 2021 | TODAY 9

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VERSION #______________ RON Date_____ Approved Revisions Requested STEVEN Date_____ Approved Revisions Requested CHAD Date_____ Approved Revisions Requested ELISSA Date_____ Approved Revisions Requested CHRIS Date_____ Approved Revisions Requested ARTIST __________ Date_____ Approved Revisions Requested

Christmas memories can take many forms and illicit an array of emotions and sentiments. Memories stepping back to childhood can be particularly poignant and are perhaps the most recalled. Christmas for us was a grand celebration but one with few fluffs and no superfluous ingredients. We had ample farm food, and never did we go without adequate clothing. But gargantuan bundles of purchased presents simply were never a part of the season. One paramount adventure was our going into the pasture and chopping down a small cedar for the living room. That tree, even when decorated sparingly, was, we always concluded, beautiful. There were also those Christmas programs Nature’s perfect Christmas tree – at that little Baptist fully decorated. Church down the road, the kids dressed as angels and shepherds and as Mary and Joseph. Some men wore bath robes and filled roles of the Wise Men. We all sang Christmas carols and closed with “O Holy Night.” No Wagnerian opera or Mozart sonata could compare. And there are yet Christmas memories of hunting, memories fresh as this morning’s sunshine. We hunted during the Christmas season — squirrels and rabbits primarily, but the occasional duck and quail when opportunities presented.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Johnny Johnson, President • Mike Banks, Vice President Marty Crowder, Secretary/Treasurer • Bill Bell • John E. “Jay” Gilliland Jr. • Bruff Sanders • Kenneth Seitz

Merry Christmas from 4-County Christmas! I love everything about this time of year. Just the thought of this season brings a smile to my face and evokes a sense of hope, peace, comfort, and nostalgia. It’s a time of reﬂection. I’m grateful for my own family as well as my co-op family. At 4-County, we’re driven by a sense of mission and purpose. Our team feels a strong connection to our community and our members, because we live here too. While many of our community-focused programs and activities such as Toys for Tots and Warm Neighbors ramp up this time of year, we have several programs and services in place to help our members year-round. We hope you’ll take advantage of our online billing services. You can get a look at your daily electric use, billing history, and set up alerts and reminders about your 4-County account. You can also download our mobile app for your iOS or Android device. Another service we offer is PrePay, a program intended to help budget your monthly energy costs. 4-County members can pay for electricity before it’s used, then use the electricity until the credit expires. During the time period paid for, you’ll receive regular feedback on your balance. We also offer energy efﬁciency programs to save you money and energy. From energy audits to energy use calculators to programs designed to save you 10 TODAY | DECEMBER 2021

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energy, to low cost no hassle tips, we’ve got something for everyone. The 4-County Foundation helps our communities be the best they can be. Since February 2015, participating 4-County members’ utility bills have been rounded up to the nearest dollar. About $1.5 million dollars in grants have been awarded to non-proﬁt organizations in our service area. But maybe the most important investment we make is in our local youth. 4-County has logged hundreds of volunteer hours supporting schools, youth clubs and programs. Each year, through our Youth Tour program, we send a group of high school juniors to Washington, D.C. for a week-long immersion to experience democracy in action. At the heart of all of these programs is you — the members we proudly serve. Looking back, I’m grateful for so many wonderful community partners and for the positive impact we can continue to make. This Christmas season, I wish you and your loved ones joy and prosperity. Speaking on behalf of our team at 4-County, I know the future will be be bright, because of you. Merry Christmas!

by Brian Clark CEO/General Manager

FASTnet celebrates 2,000th customer 4-County Electric Power Association’s new broadband subsidiary, FASTnet, began operations about a year ago. FASTnet ofﬁcials celebrated hooking up their 2,000th customer on Nov. 11. Robert Cunningham of Noxubee County was the lucky customer. In celebration, he and his wife, Libby, received a few electronic goodies and a celebratory cake at the 4-County Corporate Center in Mayhew.

“It’s amazing how peoples’ lives are being transformed by FASTnet,” 4-County/FASTnet CEO Brian Clark told those attending the brief ceremony. “It’s really humbling to hear the Cunningham family and other customers talk about how reliable, high-speed Internet is allowing them to do things like see a doctor or work from home.” Northern District Public Service Commissioner Brandon Presley and State Sen. Chuck Younger attended the event and joined the Cunninghams in applauding the co-op’s efforts to bring broadband to its members. For more information on FASTnet and its services, call 1-800-431-1544.

11/18/21 4:17 PM

4-County taking Toys for Tots donations Employees and members of 4-County Electric Power Association are busy filling b xes for Toys for Tots in an effort to make Christmas a little better and brighter for area children. Toys for Tots, a charitable organization offered through the U.S. Marine Corps, has maintained a partnership with 4-County the last nine holiday seasons. Last year, employees and members dug deep and collected nearly 300 toys for distribution in 4-County’s service area. “This is a great Christmas project. We have a few weeks left to donate toys. It would be great to have these boxes busting at the seams with toys,” said 4-County Communications Coordinator Brad Barr. “We’re always excited to team up with the Marine Corps Toys for Tots project. A lot of children identifie

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 offi es this month through Dec. 14. Participants in this project are not required to donate toys for children of a specific ag or gender. “All we ask is that you drop off a new, unwrapped toy in one of the boxes located in the 4-County offi e nearest you,” Barr explained. Again, the deadline for dropping off toys is Dec. 14. Toys for Tots personnel will pick up the items by the end of that day. Call Barr at 1-800-431-1544 for more information about the Toys for Tots project. (Note: Special arrangements to pick up toy donations can be made by calling Brad).

Christmas Safety • If you have a live tree, keep it hydrated! Check the tree stand water level every other day. • Beware of overloaded electrical outlets and extension cords. They are major fi e hazards. • Don’t leave burning candles unattended. Blow them out after use. • Check smoke alarms to ensure they are working. • Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food. • Keep a cell phone and portable charger with you at all times while travelling (in case of emergency). • Keep extra cold weather gear, food, water, warm clothing, a flashlight, an i e scraper, blankets, and medications in your vehicle (in case of emergency).

Merry Christmas from your 4-County team DECEMBER 2021 | TODAY 11

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have own workshops by Brad Barr Ryan Sparks, Paula Fleming, and Jerry Stennett may not be Santa’s helpers, but the trio of area artisans are busy in their own workshops this Christmas season. And they’re doing it the old-fashioned way — by using their hands. Those tired of the latest high-tech this and high tech-that will appreciate their back-to-the-basics creations. Join these Christmas Craftsmen (and women) as they take us back to a simpler time. Ryan Sparks started honing his arts and crafts skills as a child under the watchful eye of his grandfather. The duo worked in Paw Paw’s workshop (a converted portion of a single-wide trailer), creating toy cars, bird houses, and other creations. Today, Ryan (now grown and an engineer) continues the family legacy using tools inherited from his grandfather. Ryan lives in Starkville with his wife, Bekah, and their 11-year-old son, Reed. Father and son are carrying on Paw Paw’s legacy. “It’s great to put your heart into something and see a totally different creation come out of it.” Reed, with a few quick lessons from Ryan, is making his own toy, wooden cars. “I get to feel how my dad felt when Paw Paw was teaching him how to build cars. It’s fun,” the young craftsman said. Paw Paw’s workshop is up and running in the family garage, Ryan said. He often makes wooden crosses and pulpits/lecterns for churches. He even makes cutting boards and cheese slicers. How does the process work? It all starts with a block of wood, usually walnut. Ryan uses a band saw to cut the wood, shapes, and sands it, and then treats the ﬁnished product. “It’s very rewarding,” he said. “The real joy is making something that someone else appreciates.” Fellow artisan Paula Fleming lives in Lowndes County with her husband, Patrick, and their two sons, Daulton and Patrick. The Painting Lady, as Paula is known in these parts, often hosts arts and crafts parties in the area. “I enjoy the fellowship,” Paula said. “This is my stress relief. I love a paint party. I can have 40 women doing the same painting, and they’ll all turn out different. Everyone has their own artistic vision.” An accountant for the First Baptist Church of Columbus, she began her artistic journey in high school, using pastel chalks. Paula classiﬁes her work as “pop art.” Her colorful acrylic creations, displayed on canvas and wood, take the form of door hangers, paintings, and ornaments. Many of her creations have Christian themes. She makes Nativity scenes and angel ornaments. This year, Paula has

prepared about 500 ornaments and 200 door hangers. “It’s a joyful time to create,” she said of the Christmas season. Paula creates them all in a 30 by 50 workshop behind the family’s home. “This is my happy place,” she said. Jerry Stennett, better known as The Happy Carver, has his own shop in Columbus. The retired surgeon is a wood carver, working frequently with green woods to create bowls and spoons. The creative process can be lengthy, sometimes requiring days for the wood to dry. Jerry began woodworking several years ago. His father had good carpentry skills. “I picked up a few things from him,” he said with a smile. Jerry and his wife, Teresa, have four sons, Drew, Josh, Owen, and Will as well as one daughter, Laura. This time of year, he carves out Santa ornaments. He hand paints those. And he carves out sleek, wooden birds. “This is a spin-off of woodworking. I wanted to do something that was a little more artistic.” He enjoys seeing a wooden log turn into something special. Jerry uses a little walnut or flax seed oil to treat the finished product. Good motor skills are needed to carve wood, he said. “You’ve got to be good with your hands,” Jerry, a veteran of 38 years in surgery, stressed. Jerry finds wood here and there (sometimes by the side of the road) to use in his projects. He has created hundreds of items in his 16- by 20-foot basement shop. “It’s very relaxing,” Jerry said of his time in the shop. In fact, he added, it can be a time of prayerful meditation or a chance to listen to a good sermon. “You forget about all the troubles in the world.” “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” – Luke 2:14

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Ideas come to life at Weir Elementary

Bringing ideas to life has taken on a new meaning for second grade students in Mrs. Julie Chase’s Weir Elementary School classroom. Just ask Lailah Jabori. “It’s amazing,” the young student said, leaning in close to watch one of the school’s new 3-D printers in action. The 4-County Foundation recently awarded a $2,931 grant to Weir Elementary, used to purchase two 3-D printers. In just two weeks, the second graders have brought a variety of ideas to life, including an adjustable phone holder, objects like spheres and rectangles for use in mathematics, and even a puzzle of the brain. How does it work? The 3-D machine uses hot, molten plastic to form student designs created on a computer. Students get to watch the process throughout the day, as objects on the computer screen come to life when the plastic gradually forms on a plate in the 3-D machine. Once a novelty in many classrooms, 3D printers are a cutting-edge classroom tool thanks to an increased focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), advanced technology, lower costs and more products and services geared toward K-12 education. Weir Elementary Principal Robbie Denson said the curriculum makes mathematics and science relevant to everyday life through hands-on projects that show students how the skills they are learning in the classroom can apply to real-world applications. “The options available as far as what you can design are nearly limitless,” Denson said.

Chase said students will research a topic, then build their designs on a computer program. Most objects are created within a school day. “The 3-D printers are a great enhancement to our lesson plans,” Chase explained. “And it’s really fun. We shake, rattle, and roll,” with these projects, she added. The two printers are available to the school’s 140 1st-6th grade students 4-County believes in helping the communities it serves. That’s why the cooperative launched the 4-County Foundation, a community service program. Since February 2015, participating 4-County members’ utility bills have been rounded up to the nearest dollar; a $125.78 bill, for example, becomes $126. Now, that’s an average of only 49 cents per member, per month. That may not seem like much. But when you multiply those contributions by the thousands of member participants, that’s a lot of pennies! To date, the 4-County Foundation has distributed over $1.5 million dollars to service organizations in the Golden Triangle area. For more information on the 4-County Foundation, call 1-800-431-1544 or go to 4county.org.

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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Barr preaches co-op gospel Brad Barr lives by a communication creed. “Everyone has a story to tell,” Brad said recently. “You just have to tell it.” And that’s exactly what Brad does daily. Barr is the communications coordinator at 4-County and has been with the electric cooperative for two decades. As the co-op’s communications coordinator, Brad is responsible for writing, photography, design work, community and employee interaction, and developing programs. “I enjoy them all, in different ways,” Brad said. “Seeing any kind of project from start to finish is kind of like putting together a puzzle. When you put the last piece in and it fits, that’s kind of special.” One of Brad’s jobs is providing the writing and photography that appears in this magazine. He considers the Today in Mississippi work crucial to 4-County’s mission to help keep members informed. “Our members always know what’s going on at the cooperative,” Brad said. “I like the multi-faceted components of what I do. I get to work with every employee, at some time or another. That’s pretty cool. Obviously, I enjoy the creative part of my job. And quality of work is always important to me.” The Collins native earned his Certified Cooperative Communicator designation in 2004. He is the recipient of the Bill Leonard, W2SKE Professional Media Award. Brad is fortunate to have coordinated 34 National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) Spotlight on Excellence winning entries. He’s served on NRECA’s Communication Board of Directors and is also a former president of the communications division of the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi. Brad is a former communicator in the health care industry, serving as director of public relations for a national home health care company (working in California, Colorado, Utah, Idaho and Mississippi) and as director of marketing and admissions for a Mississippi nursing and rehabilitation center. Brad is a former journalist. He has received honors from the Golden Triangle Advertising Federation, the Public Relations Association of Mississippi, the

Southern Public Relations Federation, the Mississippi Press Association, and the Associated Press. A public relations and marketing graduate of The University of Southern Mississippi, Brad lives in Columbus with his wife, Melinda, and their two daughters, Chloe, 17, and Abby, 13. He is active in First Baptist Church of Columbus, serving as a deacon, and with the Columbus Kiwanis Club, having served as president and on its board of directors. “My Christian faith is most important to me. I want to be the same person every day of the week, not just on Sunday.” Brad enjoys spending time with his family, ﬁshing, reading, art, watching sports and collecting old stuff. He is also a “Dance Dad.” “My girls are competitive dancers, and we travel all over supporting them. I’ve learned to appreciate it. It’s a unique combination of athleticism, exercise, musicality and art,” Brad said. One of his favorite public relations exercises is to feature 4-County linemen. “They are the backbone of 4-County. What they do is dangerous, and our guys do it better than anyone else. And the rest of us are glad to support them.” Brad said one of the reasons he loves working at 4-County is because the cooperative business model is great. “I love the fact that we are an integral part of our communities. And 4-County has enabled me to take care of my family. I will always be grateful for that.” “We’ve got a great organization — our board of directors, management, employees, and members. And I’m thankful to be a part of it.”

Norris joins 4-County team Chris Norris of Starkville has joined the 4-County Electric Power Association team as an Apprentice Lineman 4 on Tim Adkins’ Corporate Center crew. The Hamilton, Alabama-native previously worked as an Apprentice Lineman for the City of Starkville. Chris is a graduate of the Apprentice Lineman Program at Calhoun Community College in Alabama. Chris Norris

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His hobbies include any kind of hunting. He also helps take care of horses, cows, and hunting dogs at the family home in Alabama.

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Seedster Logan Chew paints Christmas ceramics at the 2021 Mistletoe Marketplace in Jackson.

by Steven Ward It’s easy to find The Mustard Seed’s booth at the annual when she was 21. She loved it so much she moved into the Mistletoe Marketplace in Jackson each holiday season. group home. She was always scared she was going to miss Just look for the longest line. something. She just didn’t want to leave at the end of the Shoppers line up each year to buy Christmas ornaments, day,” Cindy Chew said. ceramics, paintings, and other Founded 40 years ago, The Musartwork by The Mustard Seed’s tard Seed is a Christian community residents and day program for adults with developmental participants. The Seedsters’ joy for life and friendship disabilities in Flowood. On the first day of this year’s “Many of them do not have many is infectious. You may want to come out marketplace, the booth was options for ‘life after 21.’ That’s here to bless us as a volunteer and you will packed with shoppers eyeing where The Mustard Seed enters — we are so grateful for our volunteers potential gifts while Mustard their lives. “Seedsters,” as our and their time and gifts they share Seed resident Logan Chew, 37, clients and residents are affectionsat quietly and painted ceramic ately called, can become a part of angel after ceramic angel. the Mustard Seed when they are 21 or older,” said Mustard About an hour and a half after the marketplace Seed Community Relations Director Mandy Sisson. opened, Logan finished painting eight angels while “Many of our Seedsters compare their time here to sitting at the booth. college or work. Seedsters are enrolled as a day client or a While Logan painted, her mother, Cindy Chew of resident. They come to work every day with their friends/ Madison, stood by and watched, smiled, and answered coworkers/roommates, and they take such pride in the questions. feeling of independence that The Mustard Seed provides “She started going to The Mustard Seed’s day program for them,” Sisson said. 16 TODAY | DECEMBER 2021

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Photos by Chad Calcote

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Sisson said many of the Seedsters have watched their brother, sister, cousin, or neighbor move out, go to work, and reach milestones. “It’s such a natural desire to want to have your own work and friends outside your family. The Mustard Seed provides this,” Sisson said. The Mustard Seed name comes directly from the Bible. Matthew 17:20 says that “if ye have faith even as small as a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, move from here to there, and it will move and nothing will be impossible to you.” Sisson said the group’s aim is to meet the spiritual, physical, emotional, and intellectual needs of adults with developmental disabilities by providing a loving and protected Christian community with meaningful activities that allow the participants to fulfill the potential that God has created within them. The Mustard Seed is a private 501(c)(3) and does not accept state or federal funding. Families pay a monthly tuition. Fees for services generate approximately a quarter of the annual operating budget while the remaining amount is generated through tax deductible contributions, donations, and proceeds from ceramic sales.

Photos by Chad Calcote

ote

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This mural of “The Seedsters” hangs on a wall behind the cash register in The Mustard Seed’s gift shop. The art was painted by former Mustard Seed employee and current volunteer Loris Nejam Davis.

A) Jerry Dearing B) Sarah Simonson C) Will Terry D) Matthew Nichols E) Matthew Davis F) Gabrielle Chambers G) Emily Olander

What is a typical day like at The Mustard Seed? There’s devotional time, painting and class time, a break with snacks, more painting, lunch and rest, more classes, clean up time, and chores. There is a group home for men and one for women. Ten Seedsters live in each home while 20 other Seedsters participate in the day program. Seedsters hail from all parts of Mississippi as well as other states. There are weekly activities including the Man Group on Monday afternoons, Reading with Peg on Mondays,

Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and Birthday Bashes once a month. Fridays are earmarked for off campus activities — restaurants, movies, baseball games, or bowling. Seedsters also have the choice to enroll in classes. They can choose from watercolors, rock and roll history, yoga, photography, creative writing, nutrition, coffee club, drama, Christmas carols, and hand-building ceramics. “I think people sometimes don’t realize how happy the Seedsters are to be here. I know for a fact that people misunderstand the group homes and how proud the Seedsters are to live there with their other family,” Sisson said.

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The holidays are always a special time for The Mustard Seed. Besides selling Seedster artwork at Mistletoe Marketplace, the site’s gift shop, which is open Monday through Friday, stays busy with Christmas shoppers at a steady clip. “We paint ornaments and Christmas ceramics all year. For every $7 it takes to run The Mustard Seed, $2 comes from our ceramics art program. That’s a huge number and a huge outreach tool for us,” Sisson said. Each piece of artwork sold by The Mustard Seed has the name of the Seedster who worked on it on the bottom of the piece. “In a way, each piece of artwork has its own story,” Sisson said. “We love to hear stories about how someone was gifted a mug and didn’t know about us, but then they turned the bottom of that mug around and saw Logan Chew’s name on the bottom and then looked her up on our website and learned about her and then wanted to write her a letter or come and meet her. “That is special. Logan is an artist. This is her work. This is her job. She is talented, and there is no denying that. And then the fact that someone bought that mug for you and you feel this connection to Logan is such a neat thing to be a part of,” Sisson said. One of the pillars of Christmas is giving. There’s an enormous atmosphere of giving on The Mustard Seed’s campus. There’s a feeling of warmth and giving to the Seedsters who thrive in an environment of creativity and everyday life. The Seedsters represent giving through their artistic talent and gifts, both personal and literal. Sisson said people should volunteer or visit. “I think people want to get involved; they want to ask questions; they want to bring their children here, but they are

sometimes intimidated or aren’t sure where to even begin. Call us, come shop, schedule a tour. Let us show you around and meet our friends. If you don’t like hugs, then this isn’t the place for you,” Sisson said. “The Seedsters’ joy for life and friendship is infectious. You may want to come out here to bless us as a volunteer and you will — we are so grateful for our volunteers and their time and gifts they share. But I think volunteers will be blessed far more by the Seedsters who I believe remind us how to be the hands and feet of Jesus. To love unconditionally and not see what makes us different.”

Visit mustardseedms.org or call 601-992-3556 for more information about volunteering, the gift shop, or donating.

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with Rebecca Turner

CHARCUTERIE BOARD THE BASIC CHECKLIST A WOOD OR SLATE BOARD SELECT 3+ KINDS OF CHEESE ADD SOME CURED MEATS ADD SOMETHING SAVORY ADD SOMETHING SWEET DON’T FORGET THE SPICE OFFER BREAD & CRACKERS DRIED FRUIT, NUTS & SEEDS VEGETABLE DIPS OR HUMMUS FRESH HERBS & EDIBLE FLOWERS CREATIVITY & IMAGINATION

Charcuterie boards first became popular in 15th century France and have been on 5-star menus and served at swanky shindigs for centuries. Now, thanks to social media, the concept of creating artistic food boards is trending. An authentic charcuterie board is truly a work of art with a curated array of flavor profiles that is also visually appealing. These edible works of art are piled high with cured meats, cheese, crackers, fruit, nuts, and more, and when done right, they look effortless. Putting together a show-stopping charcuterie board worthy of a viral internet moment is simple but not easy. Magnolia Milk Maids in Vicksburg creates customized sweet and savory charcuterie boards in all shapes and sizes. What started as a hobby has become a thriving Mississippi small business. Since I am still learning to master the craft of charcuterie, I went to the professionals to learn the basics. “The perfect charcuterie board needs to contain at least five elements,” said Lauren DeRossette, co-founder of Magnolia Milk Maids. “Starting with cheese! Use at least three different kinds of cheese, one being a domestic cheese that everyone is familiar with, like cheddar or Monterey. Add in a savory element with salami, pepperoni, olives, and nuts.” “Walnuts pair well with various cheeses. Provide a sweet bite from artisan chocolates, fresh local honey, or seasonal fruits. Go unexpected and add spice with spicy cheese, or spicy soppressata, to your favorite pepper jelly. An artisan bread or cracker gives something to scoop all of it up with!” Leigh Arnold, a co-founder of Magnolia Milk Maids, has additional tips to get you started if you need further inspiration.

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Photo of cheese boards provided by Magnolia Milk Maids

“A delicious spread that will please everyone is as easy as going to your local grocery store. I recommend a combination of well-known and specialty meats and cheeses. Pair pepper jack with a BellaVitano merlot soaked or an aged cheddar,” Arnold said. “Boar’s Head pit craft turkey compliments pepperoni and salami, and it is a meat option most guests will enjoy. “Fresh fruits and vegetables add color and crunch while citruses act as a palate cleanser, so include lemon wedges or orange slices. Vegetable dips or roasted pine nut hummus are always a crowd-pleaser.” A charcuterie board offers an answer to “What can I bring?” this holiday season. Pair your creativity and food favorites with Mississippi’s charcuterie inﬂuencers’ advice, and you’ll have an aesthetically pleasing and delicious spread.

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 lives in Brandon and 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 @RebeccaTurnerNutrition and online at www.RebeccaTurnerNutrition.com.

INGREDIENTS 1 (16-ounce) container cottage cheese 1 (14 ounce) can cannellini beans, drained 4 roasted garlic cloves 1 teaspoon sea salt ¼ teaspoon black pepper fresh herbs olive oil In the bowl of a large food processor, place cottage cheese, drained beans, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, about 1-2 minutes. If necessary, scrape down sides and blend another minute. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs such as thyme and parsley, drizzle with a little olive oil if desired. Serve with fresh vegetables or crackers. Dip can be made 1-2 days ahead of time. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Recipe credits: The Dairy Chef, Rebecca Egsieker

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mississippi seen

mississippi is...

events

mississippi marketplace onEvents theopenmenu outdoors today 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. Email to news@ecm.coop. scene around the ‘sip picture this Events are subject to change or cancelation due to COVID-19. Please confi rm details before traveling. opinion co-op involvement Christmas Lights at Landrum’s my Christmas in Columbia. Nov. 20-Jan. 1. Columbia. Homestead. Lakeside Treasures. Dec. 4. Columbus. Arts and crafts Outdoor ice-skating rink. Christmas lights will shine after dark. Rides and booths open from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Lightshows and music will continue daily through the season at the top of each evening hour. Parade of Lights on Dec. 4 from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Will feature dozens of decorated floats. Uplifting live music for the Light Your World event on Dec. 12 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. On Dec. 31, there will be live music and fireworks for New Year’s Eve. The festivities begin at 5 p.m. and go until midnight. Tickets $15. Details: www.experiencecolumbiams.com.

Dec. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, and 18. Laurel. Take a Christmas

bazaar presented by The Friends of Lake Lowndes.

with Santa and a tour of the working homestead with more than 85 buildings. Hot chocolate, a marshmallow roast, funnel cakes and the open Smokehouse will be available. Tickets are $10. Children 3 and under are free. 1356 Highway 15 South. Details: 601-649-2546. Landrums.com.

662-549-0190.

tour of the past with thousands of Christmas to 2 p.m. Lake Lowndes State Park. 3319 southern gardeningwalking grin ‘n’ bare 8Lake ita.m.Lowndes lights. There will be Christmas music, Photos Road. Details: 205-399-1248 or

Trees of Christmas at Merrehope. Nov. 21-Dec. 30. Meridian. Two historic homes elaborately decorated including more than 40 trees and festive exhibits. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on four Sundays — Nov. 21, 28 and Dec. 5 and 12. 905 MLK Drive. Details: 601-483-8439.

The Life of Christ. Dec. 3. Monticello. Drive through presentation features volunteers from local churches depicting scenes from the life of Christ from birth to resurrection. A CD with music and scripture accompanies each scene. Atwood Water Park. 1362 E. Broad St. 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Details: Email Kelsey Wells at wellskelsey2@gmail.com.

Carl Jackson’s 23rd Annual Home for Christmas. Dec. 18. Louisville. Beneﬁt for the restoration of the historic Strand Theater. Featuring Larry Cordle, Jerry Salley, Val Storey, Bradley Walker, Johnny Rawls, and Issac Moore. 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. shows. First Methodist Church Christian Life Center, 300 West Main Street. Details: 662-773-3921. The Inspirations in concert. Jan. 22. Petal. First Baptist Church of Runnelstown will host the group at 7 p.m. A love offering will be received. 9211 Highway 42. Details: 601-583-3733.

And we think you’re going to love ours. As a member of an electric cooperative, you can help guide our future as we efﬁciently deliver affordable, reliable and safe energy.

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their eyes! Well, actually not. There wasn’t even a decent road connecting Jackson to the outside world for four years, and the railroad didn’t come through until the 1840s. The new location was so remote and isolated that for the first 10 years of Jackson’s existence, every time the Legislature met, they proposed moving the capital elsewhere. In 1832, the constitutional convention declared Jackson would remain the capital city until at least 1850. Following that time, lawmakers would take another look at the situation. The thing is, by 1850, people were more or less used to the idea of Jackson as the state capital. But it wasn’t until the 1920s that Jackson finally had more people living in it than in Meridian. When Ulysses S. Grant and William Tecumseh Sherman occupied Jackson during the Civil War, the government moved to Columbus and Macon. The original furniture from the Governor’s Mansion was lost at Macon. But after the war everything gravitated back to Jackson — except the Governor’s furniture. So, Jackson it has been for 200 years. And the city celebrates its existence over the next year for both being the capital in the first place, and managing to stay the capital.

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.” Walt is also a reporter and 4 p.m. news anchor at WJTV in Jackson. He lives in Brandon and is a Central Electric member. Contact him at walt@waltgrayson.com.

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The most unlikely city in the state is celebrating its 200th birthday in 2022, starting right now, during the holiday season of 2021. Jackson is the “unlikely city” because the capital city was not supposed to be there. And if members of the early state Legislature had had their way, Jackson wouldn’t be the capital today. The very first capital of the Mississippi Territory was Natchez. But there was an element in government that thought there was too much “river” influence in Natchez, so they moved the capital to Washington, about six miles away. I guess six miles was a lot farther then than it is now. When Mississippi became a state, Natchez once again became the seat of government. But the capital needed to be more centrally located. So, in 1821, Columbia became the capital. That’s where the Legislature appointed a three-member commission to find a site in the dead center of the state for the permanent capital. Well, turns out, the dead center of Mississippi was a swamp. So, the commission started inching southwest along the Pearl River until they came to the bluff where Louis LeFleur had a trading post. It wasn’t the center of the state, but it met the other requirements — high ground near a navigable river, good drinking water, and soil rich for growing. Lawmakers planted their stake at LeFleur’s Bluff and created the new capital city and named it named Jackson, in honor of Andrew Jackson, war hero of the Battle of New Orleans in the War of 1812. He had not been elected president yet. A new state house was built in Jackson, and the Legislature met there for the first time in December 1822. And people flocked to the new “Emerald City” with hopes and dreams and stars in

FOR THE MEMBERS OF

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