Today in Mississippi June 2023 Dixie

A son’s farewell

On June 13, 2022, just six days before Father’s Day, my dad, Manuel L. Callahan, suddenly passed away. He was 77 years old. I have read that the manifestation of a father’s love is the desire for his son to become a better man than his father. If that is so, how does one measure a man? Is it by the possessions he acquires? Perhaps is it the position he attains in business? Do we judge a man by the company he keeps, or his stature in the community? Does holding advance educational degrees make one man better than another?

My dad was born in Tarrant City, Alabama, just north of Birmingham. He had a G.E.D. and worked most of his life in the steel industry, until his company went bankrupt while he was in his 50s. My dad never failed to provide for my mom and myself. We always had a roof over our head, clothes on our bodies, and food to eat. I know there were times when money was tight, but he always found a way to make ends meet.

While providing for his family, my dad taught his son some valuable life lessons. My dad taught me to be thankful for what I had, because there were always others with less. One night, as our neighbor’s trailer went up in flames, I watched him open his wallet and give every dime he had to help that family.

Like most Southern men, my dad was a hunter, but his true love was bass fishing. I tagged along and it wasn’t long before every hunting or fishing trip became a competition. But what I didn’t realize until later was that my dad used these trips to talk about issues and things that I needed to know and understand to be a man. I learned many valuable life lessons sitting in the back of that bass boat. Dad always spoke to me about God, or as he would say, “the man upstairs.” We would sit outside in the swing beside the house for

hours where he talked about honoring the Lord, loving Jesus, and giving God’s share back to him and other life’s lessons. Dad told me to love and respect my mom because, “only your mama and Jesus will love you unconditionally.” Dad told me he would bail me out of jail, “just one time.” I never needed it.

When my son was born, my dad pulled me aside and told me not to raise my son the way he had raised me. “I had to be tough on you,” he said. “There was too much temptation where we lived, and I knew it wouldn’t take much for you to go down the wrong path. I had to be hard on you. I’m sorry.”

No apology was necessary.

I know my dad was proud of the things I accomplished and the man I am. If I didn’t know it before the funeral, I knew it afterward. Everyone came up and told me, “Michael, your daddy was so proud of you.” In my dad’s eyes, his son had become a better man than himself, and that was all he ever wanted.

So how does one measure a man? Perhaps the true measure of a man lies not in what he acquires, or accomplishes in life, but in how he raises and provides for his children, the impact those children have on the world, and how those children remember him after he is gone. By that measure, it’s hard to be a better man than Manuel Callahan.

For the last time…I love you dad. Happy Father’s Day.

by Michael Callahan

Executive Vice President/CEO Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi

Dear Mississippi,

When the sun sets, and when it rises birds fly with freedom all through the blue skies

From fields to town, lakes to river Hometown shops filled with love and joy in all its little spots

After a busy day I confide in evening walks by the lake, one mistake in just a take and it all fades away Calming books stores, smell of rustic pages, feeling of the vinyl records from that store down there

What’s that in the sky, it’s the eagle flying high, With the mighty BLAZERS along their side

The famous taste of “Umi,” To the small yet powerful aroma of the “Up & Down Eatery”

What people call base, I call home All over the states and this is the most calm

Eye opening opportunities, From president of CAFB Torch Club, and a Level Elite volleyball champ

Down here you can’t miss a day without a compliment, from strangers to loved ones in our community

I am forever thankful

To my dear state, Mississippi

by Laila C. Stewart,

a member of the U.S. Air Force, and a resident of Columbus, and a member of 4-County Electric

20

Southern Gardening

Colors from the hanging baskets

Outdoors Today

It’s a canoe and kayak summer

Scene Around the ‘Sip

A look at special people and places in Mississippi

Local News Feature

The Mississippi Film O ce is celebrating 50 years of Hollywood down south

On the Menu

Perfect time for seafood grilling

Mississippi Seen

Walt and his plants

The Official Publication of the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi

OFFICERS

Randy Carroll - President

Ron Barnes - First Vice President

Tim Perkins - Second Vice President

Brian Hughey - Secretary/Treasurer

Michael Callahan - Executive Vice President/CEO

EDITORIAL STAFF

Lydia Walters - VP, Communications

Steven Ward - Editor

Chad Calcote - Creative Director

Kevin Wood - Graphic Designer

Alan Burnitt - Graphic Designer

Courtney Warren - Graphic Designer

Chris Alexander - Member Services Coordinator

Steve Temple - Social Media Director

Mickey Jones - Administrative Assistant

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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.

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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 o ce. The publisher (and/or its agent) reserves the right to refuse or edit all advertising. The magazine is published for members of subscribing co-ops. The magazine is a bene t of membership.

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On the cover

Mississippi Film O ce Director Nina Parikh stands in Canton’s downtown square. The building behind her was used extensively in the lming of the 1996 Matthew McConaughey lm, “A Time to Kill.” Photo by Chad Calcote.

Central Electric Power Association, Coahoma Electric Power Association, Coast Electric Power Association, Delta Electric Power Association, Dixie Electric Power Association, East Mississippi Electric Power Association, 4-County Electric Power Association, Magnolia Electric Power, Monroe County Electric Power Association, Natchez Trace Electric Power Association, North East Mississippi Electric Power Association, Northcentral Electric Cooperative, Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association, Pontotoc Electric Power Association, Singing River Electric, Southern Pine Electric, Southwest Electric, Tippah Electric Power Association, Twin County Electric Power Association, and Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association.

Funding rules issued for $9.7 billion co-op energy program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) workable guidance for electric co-ops seeking to access $9.7 billion in energy innovation funding was released in mid May.

“This is an exciting and transformative opportunity for co-ops and their local communities, particularly as we look toward a future that depends on electricity to power more of the economy,” National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) CEO Jim Matheson said. “USDA has smartly structured this program in a way that will help electric co-ops leverage new tools to reduce costs and keep energy a ordable while meeting the future energy needs of their rural communities. I’m grateful to USDA for listening to us throughout this process and for settling on rules that ensure the program is flexible and accessible to all electric cooperatives.”

NRECA worked to help shape the program, which was passed by Congress through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). It is designed specifically for electric cooperatives interested in purchasing or building new clean energy systems and will be administered by USDA’s Rural Utilities Service.

A wide range of eligible projects — including renewable energy, storage, nuclear, and generation and transmission e ciency improvements — allows each cooperative to determine its path based on its unique circumstances. Co-ops will be eligible to receive a grant for as much as 25% of their project cost, with a maximum amount of loans and grants limited to $970 million for any one entity.

NRECA

Applications sought for state Industrial Energy E ciency Grants

The Mississippi Development Authority is accepting grant applications for the 2023 Mississippi Industrial Energy E ciency Program, which is made possible through approximately $500,000 in State Energy Program funds from the U.S. Department of Energy.

MIEEP assists industrial manufacturers with making energy-eciency upgrades to their facilities, which reduces energy consumption and operating costs. Eligible energy retrofits include lighting, water heating and energy systems control, as well as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning projects, among others. Grant awards are o ered up to 50 percent of total project costs, with the award not to exceed $50,000. The minimum grant award is $15,000.

“Supporting energy-savings systems helps Mississippi companies and communities unlock the potential for tremendous cost savings. MIEEP is a prime opportunity for companies to reduce energy usage and spur a more prosperous Mississippi,” said MDA Deputy Executive Director Laura Hipp.

To date, projects implemented through MIEEP have resulted in improved working conditions for approximately 3,000 employees across a wide variety of manufacturers in Mississippi, ranging from catfish processing to HVAC component production. Those projects include lighting upgrades, compressed air system replacements and building envelope improvements that cover over 2.95 million square feet of manufacturing space.

The deadline to apply for MIEEP funding is July 14 at 5 p.m.

Grant helps Benndale students engage in learning through podcasts

Students at Benndale Elementary in Lucedale have a new and exciting way to learn — podcasts.

Thanks to a $1,000 Neighbors Helping Neighbors Community Grant from Singing River Electric, 5th and 6th grade students can create podcasts while strengthening their research, writing, speaking, and collaboration skills.

“Many of our students are not exposed to much outside of the community in which they live, so it’s important that I, as their teacher, expose them to as much as I can while they are with me,” explains Jennifer Finley, Benndale Elementary ELA teacher.

Finley is putting the laptop, microphones, headphones, recording equipment, and editing software purchased with the grant funds to good use. The equipment will be used for a weekly classroom news broadcast, book reviews, and interviews. Listening is a key part of language comprehension, and podcasts will enhance the ELA (English, Language, and Arts) class experience.

“Podcasts will also allow students to learn new skills like producing, recording, and publishing,” adds Finley.

For more information on Singing River Electric’s Neighbors Helping Neighbors Community Grant program, visit www.singingriver.com/my-community.

Benndale Elementary ELA teacher Jennifer Finley, Principal Sean Riley, and students in Finley’s 6th grade class.

Southern Gardening

Superbells, Supertunias do well in hanging baskets

One of my favorite hanging basket combinations is Supertunia petunias and Superbells.

Supertunia petunias are great for hanging baskets because they have mounding, trailing growth habits and function as both fillers and spillers in containers. They are also excellent landscape plants, best suited to be placed near the front of beds.

Superbells are also called million bells or trailing petunias because of their prolific, bell-shaped flowers and their resemblance to petunias. Like Supertunias, Superbells have mounding, trailing growth habits.

I believe Superbells Grape Punch and Superbells Yellow planted with Supertunia Persimmon make an outstanding hanging basket combo. The color contrast of purple with warm sunset colors of orange and yellow is mesmerizing.

I believe Superbells Grape Punch and Superbells Yellow planted with Supertunia Persimmon make an outstanding hanging basket combo. The color contrast of purple with warm sunset colors of orange and yellow is mesmerizing.

These plants are native to South America and typically grow 6 to 12 inches tall and 12 to 24 inches wide. They are both best grown in containers where soil moisture can be easily controlled since they don’t tolerate constantly wet soils.

Superbells are low-maintenance plants that require no deadheading. They do best when located in a full-sun location.

Another great hanging basket combination is Supertunia Vista Fuchsia, Snow Princess, and Laguna Compact Blue with Eye. The pink of Supertunia Vista Fuchsia pops with the beautiful blue flowers with white eyes of the Laguna Compact Blue with Eye and the cascading white flowers of Snow Princess. If my plants begin to look open or a bit tired, I give them an allover trim. I use a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears to trim back up to a third of the volume of the plants. After any trim, I use a water-soluble fertilizer to provide instant energy to help kickstart new growth, branching, and flowering.

Every year, I look for ways to add interest to my front porch with colorful hanging baskets, and there are many di erent plant choices and combinations that make this possible.

Growing plants in containers is a great way to control soil moisture. These Superbells Grape Punch, Superbells Yellow, and Supertunia Persimmon do not tolerate constantly moist soil.

The plants take a week to recover from the trim, but the end result is fuller plants with more blooms going forward. I repeat the trim as needed throughout the growing season.

If you are looking for a hanging basket that is di erent and unique, try a Goldfish plant.

The dark-green leaves provide a backdrop for orange flowers that resemble tiny goldfish. The flowers on a Goldfish plant may be red or yellow. Native to southern Mexico, Brazil, and Costa Rica, this plant comes in more than 25 di erent varieties.

Consistently water and fertilize these baskets to keep them popping with color all summer long on your front porch.

by Dr. Eddie Smith

Southern Gardening columnist Dr. Eddie Smith, a gardening specialist and Pearl River County coordinator with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, is an internationally certified arborist, Produce Safety Alliance certified trainer, and one of the developers of the Mississippi Smart Landscapes program that encourages the use of native plants in the landscape.

Hanging baskets are great for bringing color to the landscape. This arrangement contains Supertunia Vista Fuchsia, Snow Princess, and Laguna Compact Blue with Eye.

The dark-green leaves of the Goldfish plant set o its unique flowers in red or yellow.

Enjoying the beauty of Mississippi for little cost

As fuel prices soar, kayaking and canoeing become more popular. After the initial purchase of a boat and required equipment, a person can enjoy a day on the water for very little cost.

“People can buy all kinds of di erent varieties of canoes and kayaks for many di erent purposes and spend as much or as little as they want,” Layne Logue of Quapaw Canoe Vicksburg said. “People can buy a used kayak for $100 to $300. A new canoe or kayak with paddles and other necessary equipment would probably cost $800 to $1,500 depending upon what someone wants.”

Besides the boat, paddles and floatation devices, paddlers should also buy a floating dry box or bag where they can keep wallets, cameras, cell phones, car keys, and other valuables they want to stay dry. People might also buy a small first aid or emergency kit.

“A kayak is low and fast, but it doesn’t hold much gear,” Logue explained. “A canoe can hold a lot of stu , but it sits higher in the water, making it more a ected by wind. A lighter boat is faster and takes less energy to paddle. After people get more experienced,

they might want to upgrade to a Kevlar or carbon fiber boat.”

Before buying any canoe or kayak, prospective paddlers should rent di erent types to see what best fits their needs and bank account. Some outfitters o er “drift trips.” They drop paddlers o upriver on a stream. The paddlers float down the river to a designated takeout spot.

“With a canoe or kayak, paddlers can get into many di erent places for very little cost,” said Chris Alexander with South Mississippi Kayak Rentals in D’Iberville. “The Tchoutacabou a Paddling Trail on the Tchoutacabou a River is a great place to paddle. Anybody can paddle it and stop at numerous sandbars to eat lunch, swim, fish, or just relax.”

Not confined to boat ramps, paddlers can launch small craft practically anywhere. Paddlers can explore tiny places where large boats cannot go. Kayak anglers often find hidden backwaters that few people ever fish. Many nature preserves, national forests, wildlife management areas, and national wildlife refuges o er excellent paddling opportunities.

“Around Jackson, many people paddle along the shorelines of Ross Barnett Reservoir,” Logue said. “Pelahatchie Creek is another good place. Many people paddle the Bogue Chitto River or Okatoma Creek in Seminary. The Strong River is another good paddling stream as is the Chickasawhay River in southeastern Mississippi. In my opinion, the top paddling stream in Mississippi is Black Creek.”

A kayak is low and fast, but it doesn’t hold much gear. A canoe can hold a lot of stu , but it sits higher in the water, making it more a ected by wind. A lighter boat is faster and less energy to paddle.

The only designated National Wild and Scenic River in Mississippi, Black Creek, runs through the 5,052-acre Black Creek Wilderness in the 518,587-acre De Soto National Forest near Hattiesburg. The nearby Leaf River, another good paddling stream, runs through the 994-acre Leaf River Wilderness.

Inexperienced paddlers might consider joining a local kayaking club in which members periodically take group excursions. Logue suggests looking up The Mississippi Paddling Mafia on Facebook. Paddlers might also read “Canoeing Mississippi,” a book by Ernest Herndon.

John N. Felsher

A berry shade of blue:

by Steven Ward

There’s a reason why the blueberry is Mississippi’s o cial state fruit. The state’s largest commercial fruit crop, blueberries are plentiful and have a significant economic impact.

“The acreage for blueberries in Mississippi is estimated to be between 1,000 and 1,500 acres. The production results in 1.5 to 3 million pounds of fruit,” said Eric Stafne, fruit and nut specialist with the Mississippi State University Extension Service.

Most of Mississippi’s blueberries remain in the state and are sold at local grocery stores, roadside stands, and at “U-Pick” farms. Other blueberries go to other states, such as Texas, and some have been sold overseas in the past, Stafne said.

The abundance of blueberries in Mississippi is down to soil conditions.

“The Pine Belt region of Mississippi has the proper soil pH for abundant blueberry plant growth. There are several blueberry species native to Mississippi. The most popular type is rabbiteye blueberry (Vaccinium virgatum).

Poplarville is blueberry central in Mississippi and home to the annual Blueberry Jubilee.

In 1983, the first Blueberry Council met to begin planning the first Blueberry Jubilee. The brainchild of Mimi Montieth and Mary Hough, their goal was to create a festival showcasing Pearl River County and the small jewel of the south, the blueberry, according to festival organizers.

The first Blueberry Jubilee in 1984 had a humble beginning with only a handful of craft vendors situated on the Pearl River County Courthouse lawn. Since that time, the Blueberry Jubilee has grown and flourished and now hosts about 200 arts and crafts booths annually.

CoastConnect, the broadband internet subsidiary of Coast Electric, is one of the sponsors of the jubilee.

This year’s Blueberry Jubilee will be held June 10 in downtown Poplarville from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information about the festival, visit www.blueberryjubilee.net

Want to pick your own blueberries? Here are some U-Pick Farms in Mississippi

Always check the farm by phone or social media to check on picking hours and availability of fruit, and prices.

AMBER’S BLUEBERRY FARM

515 Chicord River Road, Waynesboro 601-735-4840

BLUEBERRY BLUEPHORIA AT TOFT FARMS

12147 Road 247, Carriere 601-749-0136 • www.toftfarms.com

BLUE HILLS FARM

259 Joe Smith Road, Carriere 601-549-2346 or 985 607-5544. bluehillsfarm@gmail.com • Payment: Cash only

BLUE TARA ORGANIC PYO BLUEBERRY FARM

257 Langnecker Road, Poplarville 601-795-0034 or 601-403-TARA • info@pickaberry.com

BLUEBERRY ACRES FARM

5307 Hwy. 43N, Carriere 601-798-1719

BLUEBERRY HEAVEN

16705 Old Kelly Road, Vancleave 228-826-5321 • info@blueberryheaven.net

BLUEBERRY RIDGE

20 Marcus Mitchell Road, Picayune 601-798-0447 or 228-365-9163

CHARLIE’S U-PIK

257 Charlie’s Lane, Lucedale 601-530-0548 • info@charliesupik.com

DABBS WOODLAND FARM

12143 School Road, Saucier 228-669-0029 • www.dabbsfarm.com

DOUBLE S FARMS

20295 Highway 53, Gulfport 228-234-9845 • mrystok1@att.net

Overnight Blueberry

French Toast

INGREDIENTS

6 slices day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes, separated

1 cup fresh blueberries

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese cut into 1-inch cubes

6 eggs, beaten

1 cup milk

¼ cup maple syrup

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ cup white sugar

½ cup water

Lightly grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish.

Arrange half the bread cubes in the dish and top with cream cheese cubes. Sprinkle 1 cup blueberries over the cheese.

In a large bowl, mix the eggs, milk, maple syrup, cornstarch, vanilla extract, sugar, and water. Pour the mixture over the bread cubes. Place the remaining half of the bread cubes on top. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

Remove the bread cube mixture from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Cover and bake 30 minutes. Uncover and continue baking 25 to 30 minutes or until center is firm and surface is lightly browned.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: Aug. 31. Select photos will appear in the Oct. 2023 issue.

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of the Brave

We want to be your trusted solar advisor

For 85 years, Dixie Electric has been the trusted electric service provider for our community. Our employees live on our lines and pay the same bills you do. We send our kids to the same schools, shop at the same stores and eat at the same restaurants. We know what it means to live here. And we think we live in a special place. To us, our members aren’t just people who own our company; you are our neighbors and our friends. That’s why we hope when it comes to making decisions about energy, especially those that can be costly, you will see us as your trusted source for information.

Today's consumers want and expect options, including the type of energy powering their homes. Many homeowners are looking for a way to reduce their electric bills. Some are looking for a green energy source. These are two of the motives are why many homeowners are exploring rooftop solar panels.

The interest in alternative energy sources is also being fueled by decreasing costs for rooftop solar, the availability of financial incentives, and the proliferation of companies o ering solar panel installation.

However, as attractive and popular as rooftop solar may appear, we think that it is important for consumers to fully understand its true costs, the operational reality of this source of energy, and actual energy savings. To determine whether rooftop solar is right for their situation, homeowners must undertake their due diligence.

We’re here to help.

As your trusted energy advisor, Dixie Electric can o er a candid assessment of your specific situation. After all, Dixie Electric has a di erent “bottom line” that is not directly tied to the sale of a product or service. We constantly strive to find new ways to help you use energy more e ciently. So, if you’re considering solar, call us first.

Most importantly, an engineer will provide perspective on the total energy puzzle. Considering current energy consumption, the home

“envelope,” age and e ciency of the HVAC system, and the home site, an energy advisor can help co-op members determine whether rooftop solar is the best choice given the homeowners’ objectives.

Right now, our market is being flooded with companies making promises about what they can do for you when it comes to solar energy, but we urge you to proceed with caution. While there are certainly reputable companies out there for those who are interested in rooftop solar, some are making claims that exaggerate results and downplay the cost, including that your electric bill will be reduced significantly or even eliminated. Of those Dixie Electric members who have installed solar panels on their homes, the average reduction in energy used has been between 30% and 40%. While this is significant, it may not match what was advertised.

Before you make a long-term investment, we hope you will give us a call. We can help you wade through what can often be an overwhelming amount of information and give advice about making your home as e cient as possible.

Dixie Electric recognizes that consumer interest in green energy sources and renewables is at an all-time high, and we stand ready to help our members determine their best options. As technology develops, we will grow and change with it, responding to your needs. We are invested in this community and the people we serve.

by Randy Smith General Manager

IS ROOFTOP SOLAR RIGHT FOR YOU?

To help determine whether rooftop solar is right for you, Dixie Electric’s energy advisors will look at the:

• overall energy e ciency of the home/building

• age and pitch of the roof

• orientation of the sun in relation to the home/building

• tree coverage near the home/building

• weather patterns for the region

Unlike a solar company that has one objective — to sell their products and services — we will look at the total energy picture and help you determine the best options for your home. While rooftop solar certainly works for many people, it’s not the answer for all.

When helping co-op members determine whether rooftop solar is right for them, a co-op energy advisor will also discuss the many financial considerations:

• Is there a large, up-front payment required, or are fees spread out over time?

• Will the homeowner own the panels, or will they be leased?

• Are there any hidden costs, i.e., does the roof need to be replaced before installing the panels?

• Are there ongoing maintenance fees?

• Are there rebates or other financial incentives available?

• Is the estimated energy savings worth the investment?

• Is it more cost-e ective to invest in other energy-saving measures?

communities

bella lane shines as a Cooperative Youth Leader

The Youth Leadership Council representative is selected from outstanding high school juniors from across Mississippi. Bella Lane from Wayne Academy in Waynesboro, representing Dixie Electric Power Association, earned this prestigious designation at the recent Cooperative Youth Leaders workshop in Jackson. She was also honored by her peers by receiving the Cooperative Spirit Award. This is the first time that a student has earned both awards.

Each year high school juniors from across the state gather at the Cooperative Leaders Workshop to advance their leadership skills, converse with state elected o cials, and meet other young leaders. At the workshop, one student is chosen from the 83 student leaders as the Youth Leadership Council representative after being evaluated on their participation, leadership skills, and the completion of a rigorous interview.

In addition to being selected as the YLC representative, Bella also received the Cooperative Spirit Award, which is voted on by her peers. The award represents the student at the workshop that shows the most leadership and kindness to others. It is simply described as a congeniality award.

As the YLC, Bella will represent Mississippi at the upcoming Youth Tour of Washington, D.C. in June 2023, and at the PowerXChange conference, which includes electric cooperative leaders from across the nation, in San Antonio, Texas in March 2024.

Bella will also give a speech at the Electric Cooperative of Mississippi’s Annual Meeting in Biloxi in September 2023. Her speech will recap her experience as a Cooperative Youth Leader and highlight

experiences throughout the program that have impacted her the most.

Bella will receive scholarships for earning the YLC and receiving the Cooperative Spirit Award.

The Cooperative Leaders Program is coordinated by the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and is supported by 20 local electric cooperatives from across Mississippi. The program’s mission is for students to LEARN about the cooperative form of business and how cooperatives impact their lives and communities; to GROW in their leadership skills; and to EXPERIENCE democracy in both their state and nation’s capital cities.

Dixie Electric's Energy Fairs FREE

June 8 in Waynesboro at Gatlin’s Building Supply

June 15 at the Petal Lowe's

June 16 at the Laurel Lowe's

ANTHONY SUMRALL ART CONTEST WINNER

by Amanda Mills

Dixie Electric held its second annual Student Art Contest, where 7-12th grade students, who also live within Dixie Electric’s service territory, were invited to submit artwork based around the theme of electric cooperatives.

Dixie Electric received 13 art submissions from across the seven counties it serves. The artwork was judged by an electric cooperative graphic artist from Jackson, Miss.

Anthony Sumrall, a senior at Northeast Jones High School, was chosen as the winner of the 2023 Student Art Contest. Anthony describes his artwork as a realistic abstract made of acrylic paint with texture. The painting took Anthony two weeks to complete, working two to four hours daily.

Anthony has been drawing for as long as he can remember. “My grandmother would always buy me notebooks to scribble on the page, but eventually those scribbles turned into shapes and started making figures,” Anthony said. “My favorite thing to draw when I was younger was a boat on the ocean because my papa had boats on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. I was just fascinated by boats and cars/trucks.”

Anthony is a self-taught artist from a young age who gets much of his inspiration from YouTubers and comic book artists. He primarily uses his artistic skills as a hobby but has previously sold an artwork piece. He is also an art student at Northeast Jones High School.

“I have taught art to Anthony since the seventh grade,” said Northeast Jones Art Teacher Regina Milner. “I have watched him develop into a dedicated artist deserving of recognition. We are so proud of his accomplishments and especially this award. He has overcome many obstacles to become the artist he is today. He is talented, creative, and determined to achieve his goals.”

As for his motto, Anthony says, “Be more appreciative towards everything you have and keep your mind on the brighter side of things that are going on in your life.”

As the winner of the Student Art Contest, Anthony won a $250 cash prize, and his artwork will remain on display in the lobby of Dixie Electric’s headquarters in Laurel for one year and be featured in Today in Mississippi Anthony was also recently awarded a $500 Laurel Arts League scholarship.

RIGHT-OF-WAY PROFESSIONALS HELP US SERVE YOU BETTER

by Amanda Mills

Providing reliable power to you is and will always be a top priority for Dixie Electric. With summer storm season upon us, it is a great time to share a few measures we take to ensure you continue receiving the reliable power you depend on and deserve.

I love trees and the charm they add to our communities, and I know you do too. While trees provide shade and add beauty to our area, you may be surprised to learn that overgrown vegetation accounts for about half of all power outages nationwide. That's why we strive to keep the co-op's power lines clear in right-of-way (ROW) areas.

A ROW area is the land a co-op uses to construct, maintain, replace, or repair underground and overhead power lines. This ROW enables Dixie Electric to provide clearance from trees and other obstructions that could hinder the distribution power lines. The overall goal of our vegetation management strategy is to provide reliable power to our members while maintaining the beauty of our area.

As you know, Dixie Electric is a not-for-profit cooperative striving to keep costs in check to keep our rates a ordable. This extends to our approach to vegetation management. If trees grow too close

to power lines, the potential for expensive repairs also increases. E ective tree trimming and other vegetation management e orts are preventative maintenance, keeping costs down for everyone.

In addition, maintaining our right-of-ways is important for the safety and well-being of our members. For example, by keeping trees near power lines trimmed, we decrease the chance of children making contact with power lines when climbing trees.

As a nation, right-of-way professionals are honored during the third week in June. Dixie Electric is proud to work with contract right-of-way professionals who help us serve you, our members, better. During storms, our right-of-way crews are typically our first line of defense, clearing debris so our linemen can begin the power restoration process.

Our community is a special place. We appreciate the beauty trees a ord, but we also know our community depends on us to provide reliable energy. Through vegetation management, we can better keep the power lines clear, prepare for future weather events, and secure the grid's reliability.

CLEARING TREES AND LIMBS FOR RELIABLE SERVICE

Dixie Electric Power Association clears trees, limbs, and underbrush from the area around and below the power lines, called the right-of-way. Right-of-way clearing decreases the number of outages and reduces the risk of someone coming in contact with the power lines. Clearing the right-of-way protects individuals from the hazards of electricity and makes power restoration quicker and safer for both Dixie Electric’s members and personnel.

Clearing projects underway

Cleo: Cleo, Poole Creeke, Mill Creek, Strengthford, Myrick

Diamond: Waynesboro, Chapparal, Cypress Creek, Shubuta

Macedonia: Macedonia, Sunrise, Barrontown, Union West Richton: Richton, Runnelstown, New Augusta, Corinth, Ovett

Notice of Dixie Electric’s Director Qualification period

Candidates seeking election

to represent Districts 2 and 7 on the board of directors for Dixie Electric must visit Dixie Electric’s headquarters o ce at 1863 Highway 184, Laurel, Miss., and obtain a Director Qualification Packet during normal business hours between June 1 and July 31. Please contact Mitzi Walley at 601-425-2535 or dixieelectric@dixieepa.com to set up a time. The forms and petitions in the packet must be completed and returned by close of business on

Monday, July 31, 2023.

50 years of the Mississippi Film office

This Canton house was the home used in the filming of “My Dog Skip” which is based on the book by Mississippi author Willie Morris. The interior of the house, a few blocks away from the courthouse square, has also been used in the 2023 film, “The Ritual Killer,” which stars Morgan Freeman and Cole Hauser.

by Steven Ward

“A Time to Kill,” the 1996 film based on Oxford author John Grisham’s first novel, holds the record for the largest studio budget for a movie filmed in Mississippi: $40 million.

The film also boasts the most star power of any movie filmed in the state: Matthew McConaughey, Sandra Bullock, Samuel L. Jackson, Kevin Spacey, Ashley Judd, Donald Sutherland, and Kiefer Sutherland.

The film, set in Canton, Mississippi, was mostly filmed there with a few other scenes filmed in Jackson and Hinds County.

None of that would have been possible without The Mississippi Film O ce.

The o ce, which opened Jan. 17, 1973, is celebrating 50 years of operation and is a testament to the many feature films and television productions filmed in the state before and after “A Time to Kill.”

The film o ce is a bureau of Visit Mississippi, within the Mississippi Development Authority. The o ce’s mission is “to foster the growth of the film industry in Mississippi, connect filmmakers with necessary resources, and to cultivate and promote filmmaking by, for, and about Mississippians.”

One of the incentives Mississippi o ers filmmakers is a 25% to 35% cash rebate on eligible production expenditures and all payroll. The Mississippi Motion Picture Incentive Program began in 2004. The per project minimum investment is $50,000.

But that’s not always the main draw for filmmakers.

“What also makes Mississippi attractive to filmmakers is its wide variety of locations. We’ve got the hill country of north Mississippi, the wide open vistas of the Delta, the river views and historic buildings of Natchez and Vicksburg, the cityscape of Jackson, the beaches and casinos of the Gulf Coast, our plentiful forests, numerous timeless small towns, and the list goes on,” said Nina Parikh, director of the Mississippi Film O ce.

The other feedback filmmakers give the o ce on filming in the Magnolia State is that people are the state’s most valuable resource.

“We often hear how pleased they are with how friendly, helpful, and easy to work with everyone is from local vendors to city o cials to the talented Mississippi crew that they hire. We take pride in how our industry shows people why we’re called The Hospitality State,” Parikh said.

This o ce set from the film, “A Time to Kill” hasn’t been touched since the 1995 filming of the movie. The set was the law o ce of Matthew McConaughey’s character Jake Brigance. This set and others from the film can be visited at one of Canton’s two movie museums on the courthouse square.

Nina Parikh is the director of the Mississippi Film O ce. She is standing in front of the Canton Courthouse in the middle of the city square downtown.

This table and interior were used in a diner scene from “A Time to Kill” where Matthew McConaughey’s character and Sandra Bullock’s character talk about the murder defense of Carl Lee.

Photos by Chad Calcote

Canton: Mississippi’s Movie Capital

The small city of Canton, in northern Madison County, has two movie museums — one dedicated to the filming of “A Time to Kill,” and another set around the 2000 film, “My Dog Skip,” which was based on the book by Mississippi literary legend Willie Morris.

For “A Time to Kill,” a former restaurant on the courthouse square was transformed into the diner/co ee shop where Bullock’s law student character, Ellen Roark, tries to convince McConaughey’s character, lawyer Jake Brigance, to let her assist in the murder defense of Carl Lee, played by Jackson.

If you walk into the building today, nothing has changed from the 1995 set. It’s all frozen in time. Just upstairs, visitors can find Brigance’s receptionist’s o ce and his own o ce. Everything, including the Jake Brigance Ole Miss law degree in a frame on the wall to his penny loafers, shirts, pants, and blazer McConaughey wore in the film, is still in that o ce.

The o ce still has magazines and Clarion-Ledger newspapers dated 1995 in piles on side tables.

The Willie Morris movie museum — right next door — is a shrine to the author, who donated many of his personal belongings including books, photos, and copies of Harper’s, the magazine he edited from 1967 to 1971.

The museum also includes sets and props from the film, “My Dog Skip.” The house where the movie takes place is two blocks from the courthouse square.

The very first movie to be filmed in Mississippi after the creation of the film o ce — director Robert Altman’s quirky bank robbery yarn, “Thieves Like Us” — came out in 1974 and starred Keith Carradine and Shelly Duvall. The movie was filmed in Canton.

“O’ Brother, Where Art Thou,” the George Clooney and John Goodman musical comedy from Oscar winners Joel and Ethan Coen, was shot almost entirely in Mississippi including in Natchez, Leland, Vicksburg, Greenwood, and Canton.

“Home Town” is the popular HGTV show that has been filmed in Laurel since 2016 and features married couple Erin and Ben

Filmmakers shot the 2014 James Brown biopic, “Get on Up” in Jackson and Natchez. Chadwick Boseman, who portrayed Brown in the film, passed away in 2020.

Napier.

The 2000 film, “My Dog Skip” was filmed partly in this Canton house a few blocks away from the courthouse square.

One of the most important jobs Parikh has is scouting locations.

“I’ve scouted for locations with Joel and Ethan Coen for ‘O’ Brother, Where Art Thou,’ about 10 counties in mostly central Mississippi; with John Krasinski for ‘The Hollars’ in Jackson; and with Paul Schrader for ‘The Card Counter’ on the Gulf Coast as well as dozens and dozens of others,” Parikh said.

Parikh said the location of a film will depend on the budget.

“If it’s a small, independent movie, we can’t just put them in the middle of nowhere. We will have to have them close to a bigger city or town,” she said.

Parikh’s personal background “locations” eventually led her to the Mississippi Film O ce where she has now worked for 25 years.

“My mother is from the Philippines, and my father is from India. I was born in Paducah, Kentucky, lived in Rosiclaire, Illinois, then Brooklyn, New York, Indianapolis, Indiana, and finally Brandon, Mississippi by the age of 11,” Parikh said.

Parikh calls herself “a self-identified Mississippian and a proud resident of Jackson.”

“I studied film at The University of Southern Mississippi and New York University. I don’t have a romantic story about how I landed in the filmmaking world. It was a logical conclusion more than anything. Growing up, I loved photography and storytelling. My best friend suggested I should marry those interests together and consider filmmaking. I’ve been working in this industry for more than 30 years at this point. Sometimes your friends know you better than you know yourself,” she said.

Big Hollywood

Here are 7 of the biggest Hollywood productions filmed in Mississippi:

“MISSISSIPPI BURNING” (1988)

Directed by Alan Parker

Starring Gene Hackman and Willem Dafoe Jackson, Vaiden, and Vicksburg

“A TIME TO KILL” (1996)

Directed by Joel Schumacher

Starring Matthew McConaughey and Sandra Bullock

Canton and Jackson

“GHOSTS OF MISSISSIPPI” (1996)

Directed by Rob Reiner

Starring Alec Baldwin and Whoopi Goldberg

Jackson, Greenwood, Natchez, and Yazoo City

“MY DOG SKIP” (2000)

Directed by Jay Russell

Starring Kevin Bacon and Diane Lane

Canton

“O’ BROTHER, WHERE ART THOU?” (2000)

Directed by Joel Coen

Starring George Clooney and John Goodman

Canton, Natchez, Vicksburg, and Greenwood

“THE HELP” (2011)

Directed by Tate Taylor

Starring Emma Stone and Viola Davis

Jackson

“THE CARD COUNTER” (2021)

Directed by Paul Schrader

Starring Oscar Isaac and Ti any Haddish

Biloxi and Gulfport

For more information about the Mississippi Film O ce and a complete list of all the movies and tv shows filmed here, visit www.filmmississippi.org

Holly Hunter (left) and Alfre Woodard in a scene from the 1989 film, “Miss Firecracker,” which was filmed in Yazoo City and is based on the play by Mississippian Beth Henley.

(From left) Actors John Schuck, Keith Carradine, and John Roper are on the set of the Robert Altman-directed film, “Thieves Like Us,” which was released in 1974. The movie was filmed in Canton.

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What to know before

by Susan Collins-Smith

Not so long ago, goats were niche livestock animals in Mississippi. But these small ruminants have grown in popularity in recent years, especially dairy goats.

“Although there has been a drop in the o cial population numbers, we know interest is growing in Mississippi among all types of goats,” said Leyla Rios, Extension small ruminant specialist with the Mississippi State University Extension Service.

According to o cial statistics from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, meat and other types of goats were estimated at 19,000 head in 2022, down from 21,000 the previous year. Data for dairy goats in Mississippi are not available, but total numbers for the U.S. were down slightly.

Goats make ideal 4-H livestock project animals for young children because of their small size and docile nature. Dairy goats have become the most prevalent among Mississippi 4-H showmanship participants.

Farmers who have limited acreage or want to diversify their livestock operations often choose goats. Others want goats for their meat or milk.

Regardless of the purpose, people who want to join the ranks of goat owners should understand some important aspects of goat ownership before bringing one home.

What breed is best?

Rios said people should first identify their production goals.

“What do you want: meat, fiber, milk, or other value-added products? Or do you want to raise purebred, registered animals to sell to other farmers or people who show goats?” she said. “You need to choose the best breed that can meet your long-term production objectives.”

Dairy goat breeds include Alpine, Saanen, Nigerian Dwarf, Nubian, La Mancha, Toggenburg or any cross of these breeds. Meat goat breeds include Boer, Kiko or Spanish.

Breeds with short hair and tropical breeds, such as Nubian, do better in Mississippi’s hot, humid weather.

How much space and what type of shelter is needed?

Goats need about 9 square feet of open area per animal in a barn and 22 feet per animal in a pasture. A shelter is a necessity and depends on an owner’s budget and goals.

“The most important aspect is that it provides protection from the sun and from drafts during cold weather,” said Rios, who is also a researcher with the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station. “A simple three-sided structure with a roof is su cient for a start, but once the herd grows, you need a more sophisticated barn-type building with internal subdivisions for di erent groups of animals.”

How many goats are ideal?

Beginners should start with a few animals and adjust the number per acre over time. Under optimal conditions, an acre can support up to six goats, but owners should have a good grasp of management practices and nutritional requirements before adding more animals, Rios said.

What kind of predator protection do goats need?

Goats are vulnerable to predators and need a secure, fenced area. Owners may want to consider using guardian dogs as added protection.

“In the South, coyotes are the most common predators of goats. They can attack and kill adults and kids,” Rios said. “The most popular protection used is guardian dogs.”

How much food and water do goats need?

A goat gets 70% to 80% of its main diet from grasses, forages, and diverse vegetation. The remaining 20% to 30% can be any supplement such as corn, grain, or mixes of cereals, which provide a source of additional energy and protein to balance their diets. They can be commercial mixes or diets mixed on the farm.

Goats should always have a mineral supplement source, which is required for correct metabolic functions and for increased immunity.

The amount of water they need depends on how much water they are getting from fresh grass. In general, goats need 0.3 to 0.5 gallons of clean water per day and up to 3 gallons per day when lactating. Dairy goats especially need enough clean water, which helps increase milk production.

You have

THE POWER

by Steven Ward Your voice matters.

That’s the underlying idea behind a new website and initiative the state’s electric cooperatives have launched to get our members more involved in the decisions that a ect your communities.

Co-ops Vote MS is the initiative, and this is the message: You have the POWER to Register. Be informed. Vote.

Elections are important for determining the future course of Mississippi.

“Not only do we do we want to encourage our cooperative members to vote, but we also want to help you become a betterinformed voter,” said Michael Callahan, executive vice president and CEO of the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi.

The Co-ops Vote MS website is going to make it easier for members to get informed and to participate in the democratic process.

The website features quick links to important voting information including where to register to vote, our current elected o cials, what elections are occurring this year, and videos of statewide elected o cials talking about the importance of voting, and what they do on a day-to-day basis.

Michael Watson is the Mississippi Secretary of State. That o ce has a section called the Elections Division. The division trains local election o cials, runs elections in Mississippi, and collects campaign finance and lobbying reports.

Watson said registering to vote is easy.

“In the last four years we’ve registered over 200,000 Mississippians in our o ce, and we are really proud of that,” Watson said.

Not only do we do we want to encourage our cooperative members to vote, but we also want to help you become a better-informed voter.

Watson said those that need to register to vote can go to the Secretary of State’s website, download the registration form, fill it out, and deliver it to the voter’s circuit clerk o ce.

Watson said that, to participate in elections in Mississippi, you have to be registered at least 30 days prior to the election.

Watson said voter turnout for local and statewide elections is usually not great.

“During a presidential election, you might see 800,000 to a million voters turn out in Mississippi,” Watson said.

Watson said too many Mississippians and too many Americans gave the ultimate sacrifice for citizens to vote, and we shouldn’t take that for granted.

“Your voice matters. So, to get out, to play an important role in the process of letting your vote count and be heard is important to all of us,” Watson said.

Callahan echoed Watson’s sentiment.

“Voting is a form of participation, and every qualified man and woman in Mississippi should not only cast their vote, but care enough to understand who they are voting for and why,” Callahan said.

And that’s why your electric cooperative has launched Co-ops Vote MS.

Mississippi voting calendar 2023

July 3 to 10, 2023 – Circuit Clerks o ces will be open longer hours for Mississippians to register. (O ces closed on July 4, 2023)

July 10, 2023 – Registration deadline to vote in the August primary.

Aug. 8, 2023 - Primary Election Day for Statewide, State District, Legislative, County and County District O ces. Polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Oct. 2 to 9, 2023 - Circuit Clerks o ces will be open longer hours for Mississippians to register.

Oct. 9, 2023 – Deadline: Applicants who register in-person in the Circuit or Municipal Clerk’s O ces today are eligible to vote in the Nov. 7, 2023, General Election.

Oct. 10, 2023 - All mailed voter registration applications must be postmarked by this date.

Nov. 7, 2023 - General Election Day and Regular Special Election Day. Polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Michael Callahan interviewing Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson

Plated

with Rebecca Turner

Summer seafood on the grill

With the arrival of summer, the grilling season is in full swing. People celebrate summer nights by lighting the grill for flames, food, and fun. But the grill isn’t just for steaks and burgers. It’s perfect for seafood, too! Grilling seafood is easier than you think.

Pick the Perfect Catch

Firm-fleshed fish are perfect for the grill: striped bass, halibut, snapper, or grouper. Other fishes to grill include tuna, mahi, wahoo, tilefish, swordfish, and salmon. Note: Grilling fish with the skin on can make the process easier, reducing the likelihood of sticking to the grates.

Fire Up the Grill

Preheat the grill for at least 15 minutes and clean the cooking grates. Fish, unlike other proteins, has a high-water content making it challenging to snag a flavorful sear. Sprinkle filets in salt, then wrap them in paper towels and allow them to rest, drawing out moisture. Lightly brush filets with oil to prevent sticking. Sear the top

of the filet for two-thirds of the grilling time for desired grill marks and flavor. Note: Charcoal grills are more labor intensive but can get hotter than most gas grills, making them superior for cooking fin fish.

Don’t Overcook It

The general rule for grilling fish is 10 minutes for every inch of thickness. Thinner filets are best-grilled cold. Thicker filets should be at room temperature before cooking. Most fish are done when they reach 145 degrees. Aim for 110 degrees for tuna which is medium rare. Allow one good set of grill marks, flip the fish, and lower the heat for the remaining cooking time. Note: Thin, flexible spatulas work best.

Skewered Shrimp

Grilled shrimp is the easiest and quickest seafood to cook. To avoid having dry, overcooked shrimp, look for larger varieties, often labeled 16/20. Shell-on shrimp protects the meat and retains more moisture. Rinse shrimp in cold water and pat dry. Place 4 to 6 shrimp per stick, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Place the skewers on the hot side of the grill and allow the shrimp to cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they are slightly pink with opaque flesh. Drizzle them with olive oil and fresh lemon juice or melted butter. Note: Serve immediately.

Always support your local seafood market or seafood counter, look

Grilled Salmon

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 pounds salmon filets

Lemon pepper to taste

Garlic powder to taste

Salt to taste

1/3 cup soy sauce

1/3 cup brown sugar

1/3 cup water

1/4 cup vegetable oil

Season salmon filets by sprinkling lemon pepper, garlic powder, and salt to taste (meaning covered, but not coated.) In a small bowl, whisk sugar, water and vegetable oil together until sugar dissolves. Place filets in a large resealable plastic bag; add soy sauce mixture, seal, and turn to coat. Let marinate in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours. Preheat an outdoor grill, and discard marinade. Cook salmon for 10 minutes for every inch of thickness. Cook top down first for 6-7 minutes and flip to finish cooking skin (or bottom) side down. It’s done when fish flakes easily with a fork.

Honey Grilled Shrimp

INGREDIENTS

teaspoon garlic powder

tablespoon black pepper

cup Worcestershire sauce

tablespoons Italian-style salad dressing

pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails attached, optional)

cup butter, melted tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (for basting)

In a large bowl, mix garlic powder, black pepper, 1/3 cup Worcestershire and dressing; add shrimp and toss till coated. Refrigerate covered for an hour. Preheat the grill to high heat. Thread shrimp on skewers, piercing once near the tail and once near the head. Discard marinade. In a small bowl, whisk honey, melted butter, and remaining 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. Set aside for basting. Lightly oil the grill grate. Grill shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until opaque. Baste occasionally with the honey-butter sauce while grilling. Serve immediately.

by Rebecca Turner

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 nononsense 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.

Events

Events open to the public will be published free of charge as space allows. Submit details at least two months prior to the event date. Submissions must include a phone number with area code for publication. Email to news@ecm.coop. Events are subject to change.

The 11th Interactive Civil War Relic Show. June 10 and 11. Brandon. The show will include vendors, living history, antiques, reenactors, prints, weapons, Vietnam, Korea, WWI and II as well as Civil War militaria, Native American artifacts, free genealogy research, Mississippi authors, artists, and musicians. Brandon City Hall, 1000 Municipal Dr. Admission proceeds will benefit the Wounded Warriors of Mississippi. Details: 769-234-2966

Blueberry Jubilee. June 10. Poplarville. From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Arts and crafts, storytelling, live entertainment, a 5K run, a car show, and blueberries. Held downtown. Details: 601-795-7033.

Clarke County Farmers Market. June 17, July 15, Aug. 19, Sept. 16, Oct. 21. Quitman. Every third Saturday thru October. 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lots of fresh produce, food vendors, and arts and craft vendors. Depot parking lot on Railroad Avenue. Sponsored by the Clarke County Chamber of Commerce. Details: 601-776-5701

Ricky Atkinson and Compassion. July 2. Petal. The First Baptist Church of Runnelstown will host the concert at 6 p.m. A love o ering will be received. The church is located at 9211 Highway 42. Details: 601-583-3733 or 601-325-4047.

Je and Sheri Easter and Ricky Atkinson and Compassion. July 3. Waynesboro. The concert will start at 7 p.m. at the South Mississippi Freewill Baptist Campground, 1400 Pine Grove Road. This free indoor concert will be the part of 65th Southern Gospel Sing. Bring lawn chairs. Concessions will be available and a love o ering will be received. Details: 601-735-9083 or 601-270-1543

The 31st Clarke Fest. Sept. 23. Quitman. Archusa Water Park, 540 County Road 110. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Car show, entertainment, Miss Clarke County pageant, fishing tournament, arts, crafts, food vendors, and kid’s zone. Sponsored by Clarke County Chamber of Commerce. Details: 601-776-5701

Holy Land Tour Oct. 27 to Nov. 5. Join Ronnie and Beverly Cottingham for their 23rd year to host the trip. Departures from Jackson or New Orleans. Details: 601-770-1447 or email rbcottingham@bellsouth.net

Around the end of May and the first of June every year, our day lily beds are usually at their peak. Only this year, Miz Jo and I are wondering what has happened? We are used to a bunch of di erent colors popping out from the plants we’ve ordered or have been gifted over the years or bought from growers we’ve run across around the state. However, for a few years now, we’ve noticed our beds seem like they don’t fill out like they used to. But we weren’t sure. This year, however, the lilies are o .

Back at the end of April they started blooming. But only red lilies showed up at first. Also, it seemed like there were a lot more of them than I remembered. But since we had dug up some plants and combined them with others over the winter, I figured we’d must have inadvertently bunched up a lot of reds.

So, I expect we’ll make up our minds to either live with the situation and just keep the weeds out as best we can or get the catalogues down, reorder, and replant. Same kind of decisions we’re faced with a lot of time in life. Live with it or do something about it.

But when I started looking back through my files of photographs to try to pick a subject for this month’s article, I was bombarded with the pictures of lilies from years past. Now, I really am wondering why our lily beds have gotten so sparse.

My first suspect is the weather. The weather has been unkind to my gardening activity for a couple of years. For instance, I didn’t get a single tomato o my vines last year. I chalked it up to the heat. I planted late and tomatoes don’t do well above 90 degrees. And as I recall, we had temperatures in the 90s well into October.

But as far as the poor showing of our day lilies this year, we had a weird winter. A warm snap in February popped us into the 80s for a week or so. We were saying, if it got this hot already what would August

be like? And about the time we figured winter must not be coming back, an arctic cold front blew in, and dropped us into the deep freeze. My kitchen thermometer keeps up with the hottest and the coldest outside temperature since the last battery change. Since the recharge, it’s been as hot as 93 degrees and as cold as 13. I don’t think the 93 would hurt the day lilies that much. But I’m not so sure their bulbs would survive many overnights in the teens.

Now, I have to admit the weather may not be the culprit at all. Maybe Jo and I just haven’t had the time to fuss with the flower beds like we used to. There has been a lot of life going on lately. Good and bad. But all of it time consuming.

So, I expect we’ll make up our minds to either live with the situation and just keep the weeds out as best we can or get the catalogues down, reorder, and replant. Same kind of decisions we’re faced with a lot of time in life. Live with it or do something about it.

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.