FOR MEMBERS OF SOUTHWEST ELECTRIC
BENTONIA PIZZA’S
DEEPEST DISH MARCH 2022
MOSS POINT’S
CONSERVATION HUB
THE CAT
HERDER
scene around the ‘sip
Make your home more comfortable than ever
co-op involvement “To you, it’s the perfect lift chair. gardening To me, it’s the best sleep chairsouthern I’ve ever had.” — J. Fitzgerald, VA
NOW
also available in Genuine Italian Leather (as pictured here)
ACCREDITED BUSINESS A+
Three Chairs in One Sleep/Recline/Lift
You can’t always lie down in bed and sleep. Heartburn, cardiac problems, hip or back aches – and dozens of other ailments and worries. Those are the nights you’d give anything for a comfortable chair to sleep in: one that reclines to exactly the right degree, raises your feet and legs just where you want them, supports your head and shoulders properly, and operates at the touch of a button. Our Perfect Sleep Chair® does all that and more. More than a chair or recliner, it’s designed to provide total comfort. Choose your preferred heat and massage settings, for hours of soothing relaxation. Reading or watching TV? Our chair’s recline technology allows you to pause the chair in an infinite number of settings. And best of all, it features a powerful lift mechanism that tilts the entire chair forward, making it easy to stand. You’ll love the other benefits, too. It helps with correct spinal alignment and promotes back pressure relief, to prevent back and muscle pain. The overstuffed,
REMOTE CONTROLLED EASILY SHIFTS FROM FLAT TO A STAND-ASSIST POSITION
oversized biscuit style back and unique seat design will cradle you in comfort. Generously filled, wide armrests provide enhanced arm support when sitting or reclining. It even has a battery backup in case of a power outage. White glove delivery included in shipping charge. Professionals will deliver the chair to the exact spot in your home where you want it, unpack it, inspect it, test it, position it, and even carry the packaging away! You get your choice of Genuine Italian Leather, plush and durable Brisa™, stain and liquid repellent DuraLux™ with the classic leather look or plush MicroLux™ microfiber, all Now handcrafted in a variety of colors to available in fit any decor. Call now! plush and
The Perfect Sleep Chair®
durable BrisaTM
1-888-623-2047
Please mention code 116499 when ordering.
Genuine Italian Leather
Chestnut
classic beauty & style
Brisa™
Saddle
Coffee Bean
plush & durable
Long Lasting DuraLux™
Burgundy
Tan
Chocolate
Blue
MicroLux™ Microfiber
Burgundy
Cashmere
Chocolate
Indigo
stain & liquid repellent
breathable & amazingly soft
Because each Perfect Sleep Chair is a made-to-order bedding product it cannot be returned, but if it arrives damaged or defective, at our option we will repair it or replace it. © 2022 Journey Health and Lifestyle
46595
Now available in a variety of colors, fabrics and sizes. Footrests vary by model
picture this my opinion grin ‘n’ bare it
We already know
No one needs to tell us how wonderful Mississippi is because we already know. We already know our state is the birthplace of rock and roll, country music, and the blues. We already know that some of the country’s most respected and award-winning writers hail from the state that gave us William Faulkner, Eudora Welty, and Richard Wright. We already know that Mississippi is home to some of the best food in the Deep South and, for that matter, the world. Most of all, we already know that Mississippi is a place filled with some of the kindest and most giving people in our country. Even though some people who have never stepped foot in our great state like to tear us down because of the mistakes of the past, it’s nice to be reminded that there are others who see Mississippi as we do. Our cover story this month is about a man from far away who now calls Mississippi home. He now knows, just like we do. Joe Dera was born in the Netherlands and grew up in Clifton, New Jersey. After retiring from 40 years in public relations, Dera and his girlfriend moved to Yazoo County from Pennsylvania. Once you read our story, you’ll see that Dera’s career in public relations was not your average office job.
Dera is a member of Yazoo Valley Electric, and like all our electric cooperative members all over Mississippi, he is part of a special community. One of the Seven Cooperative Principles that set electric cooperatives apart from other electric utilities is Concern for Community. Cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies supported by our members. That means cooperatives do a lot more than provide safe and affordable power for our members. Whether its co-op employees volunteering in local schools or making donations of time and money to a food bank, cooperatives are not just invested in communities, they are an integral part of them. Dera has been a cooperative member since 2016, so this is a little late — welcome to Mississippi and welcome to our co-op community. We hope you enjoy the March issue.
Mississippi is... It’s where I’m from. Born in Laurel, Jones County. Raised on a dead-end dirt road. Waded most every branch of water, climbed most every tree around home. It’s where I am. Clarke County near Quitman. Home now. Beautiful country around here. Wonderful people around here.
by Michael Callahan Executive Vice President/CEO Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi
It’s where I’ll be. My wife and I have been blessed to visit all 50 states, and Washington D.C. Also, Canada and Mexico. Love it all. But no other place like Mississippi. Yes, it’s where I’ll be.
by The Rev. Michael Boutwell, a resident of Quitman and a member of East Mississippi Electric Power Association
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
MARCH 2022 | TODAY 3
in this issue
5
southern gardening Getting ready for summer gardening
7 scene around the ‘sip A look at special people and places in Mississippi
9
5
outdoors today Time to talk turkey on the hunting trail
10 local news 16 feature
PR agent to the stars Joe Dera retires to Yazoo County
16
20 on the menu
Yummy deep dish pizza and chocolate cookies
The Official Publication of the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi
Vol. 75 No. 3
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 Lydia Walters - VP, Communications Steven Ward - Editor Chad Calcote - Creative Director/ Manager Kevin Wood - Graphic Designer Alan Burnitt - Graphic Designer Courtney Warren - Graphic Designer Chris Alexander - Member Services Coordinator Steve Temple - Social Media Director 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: 480,459
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 20
mississippi seen
www.todayinmississippi.com
Here kitty, kitty
On the cover Retired public relations guru Joe Dera enjoys time with his seven rescue dogs in the front of his Bentonia home. 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 | MARCH 2022
Make raised beds now for Although daffodils are starting to show their tops through the bare ground, watching them emerge does not give gardeners much to do during the winter months. But this time spent waiting for spring’s arrival is the perfect opportunity to get ready for the growing season. A project every gardener will benefit from is building a raised bed. A raised bed is simply a landscape or garden bed that is higher than the surrounding grade. These beds are useful for both vegetables and flowers. Gardening in a raised beds is one way to intensively cultivate a small area. It is also a good starting place for new gardeners who may be inGardening in a raised beds is timidated by the time and one way to intensively cultivate work involved in creating a garden from scratch. a small area. It is also a good There are many benestarting place for new gardeners fits of using raised beds. who may be intimidated by Plants require less time the time and work involved in and space to produce a creating a garden from scratch. crop. Research suggests that this is primarily due to the much-improved drainage a raised bed offers compared to in-ground gardening. Weed control is also easier. Gardeners themselves also benefit. Those with sore backs or bad knees will find that bringing the garden up a little closer means less bend and fewer aches and pains. Using raised beds also allows the gardener to reach into the bed from both sides. First, decide where to place your raised bed, as the amount of sunlight it receives affects what can be successfully grown. Most vegetables prefer full sun all day, but they can get by with at least six hours a day of morning sun. Also consider where your raised bed will be in relation to the water faucet. Successful gardens must have easy access to irrigation. It is not hard to construct your own raised bed. The first rule is that a raised bed should never be more than 4 feet wide. That means you have to reach only 2 feet into the bed from either side, and you never set foot in the bed itself. Raised beds are usually about 1 foot deep. You can make the raised beds as long or as short as you like to fit your growing needs and garden space. Some lumber yards now offer treated wood that is garden friendly. If you don’t want to use treated lumber, cedar and redwood have natural resistance to decay. These woods are more expensive but will last much longer than untreated pine.
Build sides out of any hardscape material, such as lumber, galvanized metal, stones, or bricks. Sides keep the growing mix where it belongs and your garden looking tidy. Fill raised beds with a container growing mix that stays light and fluffy. Don’t use regular ground soil. A raised bed is just a very large container, so use a mix that drains well. To calculate the volume of growing mix you need, just multiply the length by width by depth in feet. So, for a 4-by-8-foot raised bed, multiply 8 times 4 times 1, which equals 32 cubic feet of growing mix. Bagged, premixed potting soil or soilless mixes are readily available from garden supply stores. They are quick and easy but are also the most expensive. You can make your own with the same great results using equal volumes of peat moss, compost, and pine bark. To make measuring easier, remember that a 5-gallon bucket holds two-thirds of a cubic foot.
Using hardscape materials, such as treated lumber to build sides, keeps raised-bed gardens looking tidy.
by Dr. Gary Bachman Gary Bachman, Ph.D., Extension/Research Professor of Horticulture at the Mississippi State University Coastal Research and Extension Center in Biloxi. He is also host of “Southern Gardening” radio and TV programs. He lives in Ocean Springs and is a Singing River Electric member.
MARCH 2022 | TODAY 5
We
Trees, Too.
e know everyone in our community enjoys beauty and shade trees provide. But trees d power lines can be a dangerous mix We Trees, Too. hout regular trimming during the We know everyone in our community enjoys owing season. the beauty and shade trees provide. But trees If power you see usbeout in themix and lines can a dangerous without regular trimming during the community trimming, growing season. remember the many If you see us out in the benefits it brings: community trimming, remember the many • Keeps power lines clear benefits it brings: of tree limbs • Keeps power lines clear • Helps us of restore tree limbspower outages more • Helps usquickly restore power outages more quickly • Keeps crews and • Keeps crews and members of our members of our community safe safe community • Reduces unexpected • Reduces unexpected for repairs costs forcosts repairs Trimming improves service reliability for you, the members serve. imming improves service we reliability r you, the members we serve.
Luter’s Supply
Buy & Take Home Same Day
- Tubs, Showers, Faucets, Sinks & More - 14 Walk-in Bathtubs On Display - World’s Largest Walk-in Bathtub Store
(single location)
601-876-3455 6 TODAY | MARCH 2022
Tylertown, MS
LuterSupply.com
scene around the ‘sip
comes to life in Moss Point by Steven Ward There are 41 educational facilities operated nationwide by the National Audubon Society, and one of them is located on 10 acres in downtown Moss Point. The Pascagoula River Audubon Center is situated on Rhodes Bayou on a historic site where a trolly ran during the late 1800s and early 1900s, said Susan Stachowski, the center’s manager.
The center is described as an educational gateway to exploring nature and bayou habitats by offering educational programming for school groups. The center also features local nature themes, a step back in time with the historic trolley ticket booth and Scout Hut, and hands-on learning opportunities. Visitors can discover the outdoors on the nature trails, bayou pier, bird feeders, critter tanks, an art gallery, and renting kayaks. In 1974, more than 35,000 acres of land along the Pascagoula was preserved for the public. The landmark preservation, spearheaded by The Nature Conservancy, has protected a unique ecosystem, and grown to the current 70,000 acres that keep the largest free-flowing river in the contiguous United States one of the wildest. Wildlife abounds in the Pascagoula River — including some species that are endemic or found nowhere else on the planet. Stachowski said the sounds of nature at the center are her favorite part of what the area offers. “I enjoy being outside at the center listening to the sounds of nature. Squirrels jumping through the trees, birds of all types calling and the sounds of the fish jumping in the water. It is amazing that I-10 and Hwy 613 are visible from the center, but it feels like we are in the
middle of nowhere,” Stachowski said. She said guests tell her that they enjoy bird watching, seeing owls and cardinals nesting, and native plants blooming. Stachowski described the center as an outdoor laboratory where conservation education comes to life. Although the center is owned by the National Audubon Society, it is designed to be financially self-sustaining. Revenue sources come from renting the grounds and buildings for weddings, receptions, parties, and corporate events, I enjoy being outside at the center listening to the sounds Stachowski said. “The center also of nature... squirrels jumping has a gift shop that through the trees, birds of all features nature-based types calling and the sounds of items that are unique the fish jumping in the water. to the area, and we rent kayaks and a pedal boat for enjoyment on the bayou and river. Our art gallery provides local artists a place to exhibit work and offers guests the opportunity to purchase,” Stachowski said. Other than those revenue streams, the center depends on donations from area business, industry, and residents. Donations start as low as $30 for memberships and go up to $25,000 for corporate sponsorships.
Volunteers are a vital part of the center’s success, she said. “We have volunteers who simply provide minnows to feed the snakes, water plants, work with customer service, assist with lawn care and maintenance, assist with educational field trips and some who work festivals and special events. We are always looking for new volunteers,” Stachowski said.
Visit pascagoula.audubon.org or call 228-475-0825 for more information about the center. MARCH 2022 | TODAY 7
g cin an ble Fin ailAaC v W * A
Military, Police, Military Police Fire, Fire Paramedic & EMT Receive Up To $500 Discount
Contact Your Local Dealer For More Information
Joystick or Twinstick Steering Patented Stand-Up Deck Up To 72” Cut Widths
Contour DTSTM
Deck Tracking System
1-800-627-7276
www.countryclipper.com
Medicare Supplements Guaranteed Renewable
Great low rates on G and F plans!
Plan G (Female) age: 65 $89.00 70 $95.00 75 $113.00 80 $134.00
Plan G (Male) age: 65 $102.00 70 $109.00 75 $130.00 80 $154.00
Plan F (Female) age: 67 $103.00 70 $110.00 75 $129.00 80 $152.00
Plan F (Male) age: 67 $119.00 70 $126.00 75 $148.00 80 $175.00
Rates with household discount, most zip codes.
Call today for other great Medicare supplement rates!
www.marrbros.com
Culotta Insurance & Investments Serving Miss-Lou STATEWIDE Since 1992
1-844-AGENT4U
FIXED INDEXED ANNUITIES MORE GAINS • NO L LOSSES • SAFETY T TY Up to 11% IMMEDIATE A ATE INTEREST BONUS on Deposits ROLLOVER CD OR 401K TODAY! A AY!
Richie Culotta • Cameron Culotta • Zach Dustin
FINANCIAL FREEDOM
SAFE RETIREMENT STRATEGIES, MEDICARE SUPPS, LONG-TERM CARE, MEDICAL & LIFE
JEFF REGISTER BUILDINGS & TRUSS www.registerbarns.com
40’x60’x12’ - Installed
Roof only, closed gables. Or, Roof only, open gables. Call for prices.
30’x40’x10’ - Installed
Roof only, open gables. Call for price.
601-928-5309 or 601-928-5308
jregister@registermetals.com
321 Madison Ave., Wiggins, MS 39577
HUTTON INSURANCE AGENCY
Mississippiʼs electric cooperatives ... serving more than 1.8 million Mississippians
800-880-2305 P.O. Box 85 Brandon, MS 39043
Not affiliated with any government agency.
everyday life! ADVERTISE WITH
Mississippi’s largest circulated publication.
SOON Church/Government uniting, suppressing RELIGIOUS LIBERTY, enforcing NATIONAL SUNDAY LAW. Be informed! TBS, Pob 374, Ellijay, GA 30540. thebiblesaystruth@yahoo.com
1-888-211-1715
Common speculation is that Benjamin Franklin wanted to proclaim the wild turkey as America’s national bird. This assumption, invalid though it was, resulted from a letter Franklin wrote extolling the virtues of the turkey and the shortcomings of the eagle. The turkey never officially gained the endorsement of Franklin, but the story has long been circulated and erroneously concluded as fact. The national bird, we all know, is the bald eagle.
Since turkeys are ground nesters, they are vulnerable to predation and spring flooding.
There is substance aplenty to place the wild turkey in a position of high regard. Franklin thought the bird courageous. Many, both yesteryear and today, consider the wild turkey a particularly delightful entity to bake or fry or handle in several other avenues of meal making. All these factors are correct, but there is even more to the wild turkey. Some may say he is gaudy, an accurate assessment. Puffed up and strutting on a spring morning, a gobbler is regal while at the same time a touch pretentious. His displays are exercises of grandiosity, of juvenile yet noble behavior, and presentation. He fans and pirouettes and drums and walks in a stiff-legged fashion comprised of short spurts of forward movement, this accompanied by that drumming and fan flaring and pirouetting. A turkey is also a gobbler. The wildest of sounds, save perhaps the bugle of a bull elk
or the dark-night rumble of a lion. Gobbling is wildness in audio. And the wild turkey is… well, wild. Whether housed in a hen or gobbler, that wildness is the leading force of the turkey’s survival. An old saw among hunters is that a deer thinks every hunter is a stump, and a turkey thinks every stump is a hunter. That is not far from the truth. Swat a mosquito or blink an eye at the wrong moment and the game is over. Turkeys can vacate real estate at near 20 mph on foot; and airborne, maybe 50. But they are not immune to all calamities. Obviously, hunters take turkeys, but this is a small percentage of mortality. The real damage comes in the form of habitat loss, predation, and spring flooding. Turkeys are, after all, ground nesters, and this affords a strong hand of destruction to those last three entities just mentioned. Still, turkey populations are strong throughout their range and are regulated with reasonable guidelines that assure turkey numbers remain solid. I still hunt turkeys from time to time. Not as often as in past years, but I generally go. Whether I shoot or not is immaterial. But having an encounter and conversation with a gobbler is much appreciated. The price of admission for this is to get in the spring woods before daylight and listen intently. Some visitors may not choose that expenditure. But those who don’t are missing a grand adventure in proximity of wild things. So, with shotgun or not, get out and enjoy the drama. It is a glorious performance.
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 for more information.
A grand spring spectacle. Nothing compares to the courting displays of gobblers.
NOVEMBER 2021 | TODAY 9 MARCH 2022
Adams • Amite • Claiborne • Copiah • Franklin Hinds • Jefferson • Lincoln • Wilkinson Southwest Electric is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
P.O. Box 5 • 18671 Highway 61 • Lorman, MS 39096 | 601-437-3611 | 800-287-8564 | Fax: 601-437-8736 | Email: info@swepa.coop southwestelectric.coop
Southwest Electric
SWElectricCoop
sw_electric_coop
Southwest Electric
Springtime is the season for thunderstorms and tornadoes. Thunderstorms can appear quickly without warning often spurring tornadoes, especially in the afternoon and evening hours. It’s important to always be prepared and know how to react before, during and after a storm. Being storm ready can save your life.
Powering Up After an Outage When a major storm or natural disaster causes widespread damage, extended outages may result. Our line crews work long, hard hours to restore service safely to the greatest number of Members in the shortest time possible. Here’s he o e e o o o e e o e m o e:
BEFORE Every family needs an emergency plan that explains what to do, where to go and what you will need to protect yourself. If it’s available, go ahead and sign up for your community warning system. The Emergency Alert System and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration provide emergency alerts. Make sure you have a radio, preferably an emergency weather radio, and fresh batteries. Identify nearby, sturdy buildings close to where you live, work or play. Make sure that limbs or trees are cut or trimmed away from your home to prevent them from falling and causing damage.
1. High-Voltage Transmission Lines: m o e h o e o o e he m e he m e e e e o e other parts of the system can operate.
2. Distribution Substation:
A substation can serve hundreds or thousands of Members. ine crews inspect substations to determine if problems stem from transmission lines ee o he o o he o e
3. Three-Phase Lines:
DURING If you are outside and hear thunder, go indoors immediately. Listen to the weather alerts and be prepared to make changes in your emergency plan to adapt to the current situation. Unplug your appliances and any electronic devices to protect them from electrical current. Avoid using running water or landline telephones as electricity could pass through plumbing and phone lines.
AFTER
he e h e he e h ee h e e o e e These lines carry power to large groups of Members.
4. Single-Phase Lines: If outages persist after all three-phase lines in the area are repaired, then singephase lines are inspected. These lines run along side streets and smaller roads.
5. Tap or Service Lines: If your home remains without power, the tap line between a transformer and your home may need to be repaired.
Listen to your weather radio and reports from local authorities to determine if it is safe to go outside. Once outside, always be aware of your surroundings and avoid downed power lines and fallen trees. Following these simple tips could save you or your loved one’s life.
POWER OUTAGES If a storm causes a power outage, please report it us by using our SmartHub app or calling 800-287-8564. Power restoration always follows the same process. A lineworker is sent to assess the situation and report the issue back to the dispatcher. Sometimes the lineworker can fix the issue and restore power. On other occasions, a crew will be needed to replace a cross-arm or pole. In every situation, we will work as quickly and as safely as possible to restore power.
For up-to-date weather and emergency information, follow these accounts on Facebook and Twitter: • Federal Emergency Management Agency • Mississippi Emergency Management Agency • NOAA NWS National Hurricane Center
10 TODAY | MARCH 2022
• US National Weather Service Jackson MS • US National Weather Service New Orleans LA
Southwest Electric Works to Increase Reliability Southwest Electric has been aggressively side-trimming its rights-of-way for years. Side-trimming is where we cut limbs back that have grown into the right-of-way. We have a six-year rotation of our 17 substations. We side-trim two to three substation areas each year. That’s an average of over 600 miles a year. In 2021, contract crews side-trimmed the Loyd Star and Lorman areas totaling 679 miles and are finishing them up now. In 2022, contract crews have started side-trimming the Woodville and Crosby areas, covering 760 miles of right-of-way. You will see contract crews use all sorts of equipment, such as Jaraffs, bucket trucks, skid steers, tractors, chippers, chainsaws and pole saws. Southwest Electric also has eight full-time employees that focus on hazard trees, Member inquiries and new construction. If you see crews in your area, know that they are helping Southwest Electric maintain lines in order to increase reliability for our Members.
Don’t forget to spring forward! Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m. on March 13.
Clean dust and lint from your refrigerator coils and dryer vent to help save money on your energy bill!
by Abby Berry A power surge is an unexpected increase in voltage, and it can occur from a variety of sources. Regardless of the cause, power surges can majorly damage electronic devices and equipment in your home. Let’s take a look at common causes of power surges and how you can protect your sensitive electronics. One of the most common causes of a power surge is lightning. Most of us have experienced this during a severe thunderstorm. When A power surge is an lightning strikes an unexpected increase in electrical system, voltage, and it can occur the excess current must be channeled from a variety of sources. somewhere — Regardless of the cause, unfortunately in power surges can majorly many cases, it’s damage electronic devices and sent through a home. Your best equipment in your home. bet is to unplug all unused devices and electronics during severe thunderstorms. Another common cause of power surges is electrical overload. This happens when devices or appliances are plugged into an outlet that can’t handle the required amount of voltage, or if multiple devices are plugged into one outlet through an extension cord. If you’re experiencing power surges due to electrical overload, it’s time to call a qualified electrician to evaluate your home’s circuits and electrical needs. Faulty wiring in a home can also cause power surges. Damaged or exposed wires can cause spikes in voltage, creating a potentially dangerous situation. If you notice signs of faulty wiring, like visible burns on outlets, buzzing sounds from outlets or frequently tripped circuit breakers, your home may be due for electrical wiring repairs and updates. Surges can also occur after a power outage. Sometimes, when electricity is being restored and reconnected, it’s common to experience a quick surge in current. Similar to advice for a surge caused by lightning, it’s best to unplug sensitive electronics during the outage — then wait to plug them back in after power is fully restored.
12 TODAY | MARCH 2022
Aside from unplugging devices when you suspect a power surge, there are two ways you can take additional precautions to protect electronics in your home. Point-of-use surge protection devices, like power strips, can protect electronics during most surges. But remember, not all power strips include surge protection, so read the packaging label carefully before you buy, and don’t overload the power strip with too many devices. You can also install specialized electrical outlets that offer additional surge protection. Talk to a trusted electrician to learn more.
Another option is a whole-home surge protector, which can help protect your home from larger, more powerful surges. In most cases, whole-home suppressors are connected to your home’s service panel and include features like thermal fuses and notification capabilities that indicate when a device has been impacted by a surge. Wholehome surge protection prices vary based on the size of the home and suppressor. Whole-home suppressors should always be connected by a licensed electrician, so consider the cost of installation as well.
Occasional power surges are inevitable, but by unplugging devices when you think a surge may occur and using additional levels of protection like power strips or whole-home suppressors, you can better safeguard your sensitive electronics and devices. Contact your electric co-op if you have questions about ways to protect your home from power surges. Abby Berry writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association..
SURGE PROTECTION Keep your electronic equipment safe.
A power surge is typically caused by lightning, changes in electrical loads, faulty wiring or damaged power lines. Install power strips with surge protection to protect sensitive equipment. • Easy to use (just plug them in) • Protect electronics plugged into the device • Must be replaced over time or after a major surge event REMEMBER: Not all power strips offer surge protection. Carefully read the packaging labels when purchasing. MARCH 2022 | TODAY 13
Use slow cookers properly to avoid food-borne illness by Susan Collins-Smith Slow cookers are winter workhorses in many kitchens, helping serve everything from breakfast to dinner. But no matter the dish, cooks should be sure to follow some basic food safety guidelines. When used properly, these small, countertop appliances are safe and convenient. “Slow cookers cook foods slowly at a low temperature, generally between 170 and 280 degrees, over several hours,” said Natasha Haynes, a family and consumer science agent with the Mississippi State University Extension Service in Rankin County and host of the Food Factor. “The combination of direct heat from the cooker, lengthy cooking time and steam destroys bacteria, making the slow cooker a safe way to cook foods.” The same general food safety rules apply no matter what cooking method is used — clean, separate, cook and chill. Start with a clean cooker, hands, utensils, and surfaces. Wash hands after handling raw meat. Keep raw meats and vegetables separate and in the refrigerator until time to prep them or start
14 TODAY | MARCH 2022
the slow cooker. Use a food thermometer to ensure foods cook to the proper temperatures. Refrigerate leftovers within two hours. Make sure to use the correct size of slow cooker and do not overfill it. Foods may not reach the proper temperatures in an overfilled cooker, leading to food-borne illness. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for how full to fill the cooker. Haynes said that when buying a slow cooker, family size and leftover preferences are important considerations. “If you’re cooking for one to two people and don’t want leftovers, a 3-quart or 3.5-quart is just right for you,” she said. “While many slow cooker recipes are written for larger cookers, most recipes can be scaled down or cut in half to be made in a 3-quart cooker. “If your household includes three or four people, or you’re a couple who loves leftovers, a 5-quart slow cooker is an ideal size for you. This moderate size accommodates everything from soups and stews to chilis and casseroles,” Haynes said.
to move from 0 degrees to 140 degrees, giving bacteria plenty of Liquid makes the steam that allows food to reach the proptime to multiply. er temperature. “When cooking meat or poultry, the liquid level “For the same reason, it is best to reheat foods on the stovetop should cover the ingredients to ensure effective heat transfer or in the oven or microwave,” Jolley said. Never use the warm through the slow cooker,” Haynes said. “Some manufacturers of setting to cook food. slow cookers recommend adding liquid to fill “The warm setting is safe to use for four the stoneware one-half to three-quarters full. hours once the food is cooked,” Jolley said. Always follow the manufacturer’s recipes and “It will only keep the food warm and should directions for the best results.” The combination of direct not be used for cooking or reheating foods. Janet Jolley, an Extension family and heat from the cooker, lengthy The warm setting temperature varies on consumer science agent in Marshall County, cooking time and steam each slow cooker. To keep food safe on the said cooks should always be mindful of the destroys bacteria, making warm setting the food must remain above temperature danger zone, which is between the slow cooker a safe 40 and 140 degrees. Bacteria that can cause 140 degrees.” food-borne illness can grow rapidly in this Slow cookers are ideal for cooking more way to cook foods. temperature range. Cold foods should be economical cuts of meat, such as chuck stored at or below 40 degrees, and hot foods should be held at or steak, beef short ribs, beef brisket, lamb shanks, and pork shoulder. above 140 degrees.Foods should always be thawed before cooking The low, slow cooking method tenderizes these tougher cuts. them in a slow cooker, and leftovers should never be reheated in a Desserts, baked potatoes, casseroles, and breakfast dishes are slow cooker. also easy to make in the slow cooker. “Slow cookers are not made to move food through the temperature danger zone quickly,” Jolley said. “Foods should reach Susan Collins-Smith is a writer for the Mississippi State University 140 degrees within two hours. Frozen foods will take a long time Extension Service
For a variety of slow cooker recipes, check out the food section of the Extension for Real Life blog at extension.msstate.edu/blog/food.
Slow cooker chicken tacos INGREDIENTS
1 ½ pounds chicken breasts, boneless, skinless 1⁄3 cup chicken broth, low sodium 1 tablespoon cumin 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper 1 cup salsa 12 corn tortillas Place chicken breasts in the bottom of a slow cooker. Pour chicken broth over chicken breasts. Season chicken with cumin, salt, and pepper. Top with salsa. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours until chicken is done. Measure internal temperature of chicken with a meat thermometer. Chicken is done when internal temperature is 165 degrees. Shred chicken with 2 forks and combine with sauce in the slow cooker. Heat tortillas in a large skillet over medium heat, about 1 minute each side. Add 2 ounces shredded chicken to each tortilla and top with favorite toppings. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.
MARCH 2022 | TODAY 15
Photos by Chad Calcote
JOE DERA TRADES BIG TIME FOR BENTONIA by Steven Ward
Joe Dera is happily living out his retirement in an antebellum home in Bentonia with his girlfriend and their seven rescue dogs. “I love Mississippi. I wish I would have done this 10 years ago,” Dera, 71, said while sitting in the dining room of his residence purchased in 2016 and powered by Yazoo Valley Electric. 16 TODAY | MARCH 2022
Dera’s retirement is well earned. For 40 years, Dera worked in public relations as a publicist for some of the biggest acts in popular music. For more than half of that time — 23 years — Dera worked with Paul McCartney. “It’s funny because I was never really a big Beatles fan. I was always a Stones guy,” Dera said. “Somebody asked me how I worked for him (McCartney) for so long. Because it was a job. It was just work for me.” Although Dera’s work relationship with the former Beatle was his longest with one client, McCartney was one of many superstar artists he did public relations for. During various times in his career, Dera worked with The Who, Robert Palmer, The Bee Gees, David Bowie, ZZ Top, Beatles Ringo Starr and George Harrison, Clint Black, Barry Manilow, Peter Frampton, and UB40. Dera’s story is one that begins internationally, moves to New Jersey and New York City where he garners an opportunity to work in the music industry, before landing in Mississippi for his later years.
It’s funny because I was never really a big Beatles fan. I was always a Stones guy. Somebody asked me how I worked for him (McCartney) for so long. Because it was a job. It was just work for me. Dera was born in the Netherlands before his family emigrated to the U.S. with the help of an American soldier who became close to Dera’s father. The family moved to Clifton, New Jersey, which gave Dera close proximity to New York City, home to much of the music industry at the time. Dera, who loved music, had no grand plan to go into public relations. “It just sort of happened. I was very lucky to be in the right place at the right time,” Dera said. Dera started writing record reviews in college, partially, to get free music from the record companies in New York City. During that time, Dera went to concerts in the city all the time, including a memorable night in 1969 seeing Led Zeppelin at Carnegie Hall after buying a ticket for $3.50. Dera then started hanging out at a small public relations company called The Wartoke Concern. He got his foot in the door by, at first, offering to help out for free. That work turned into a paying job later. That experience led to an opportunity to work at Track Records, a company owned by Pete Townshend of The Who, where he worked for $300 a week and helped promote the band’s classic album, “Who’s Next” in 1971. The Track Records work led to two other stints in publicity — doing PR and auditioning bands at the Mercer Arts Center, an off, off Broadway theater in Greenwich Village, and working at Levinson Associates Public Relations.
From left, legendary guitar maker Les Paul, Paul McCartney, and Joe Dera.
MARCH 2022 | TODAY 17
In April 1976, Dera was offered a job at the New York City offices of Rogers & Cowan, one of the biggest entertainment public relations firms in the world. As the new guy, one of his first assignments included working as an unofficial personal assistant to Paul McCartney, buying McCartney and his wife, Linda, vegetarian food, and handling travel logistics for the family. “That was a time when McCartney wasn’t touring. So they sent me, the new guy,” Dera said. The relationship with McCartney led to 23 years together. McCartney was one of Dera’s first clients when he launched his own public relations firm in 1989, Dera, Roslan & Campion, Inc.
Other projects Dera worked on while at Rogers & Cowan include doing publicity for The Bee Gees and their “Saturday Night Fever” soundtrack; Peter Frampton’s “Frampton Comes Alive” album; and promoting David Bowie’s massive “Serious Moonlight” tour of the U.S. in 1983. “We took Ticketmaster out of the loop, so people lined up around the block for tickets to the Madison Square Garden show,” Dera said. After that, David Bowie wound up on the cover of Time magazine.
From top left, David Bowie speaking at a 1983 press conference; a drumhead signed by Ringo Starr; a frame filled with VIP passes to shows by artists Dera worked with; Dera standing on his home’s staircase; Paul and Linda McCartney holding Dera’s son, Sam; and Dera with Ringo Starr.
18 TODAY | MARCH 2022
Later in life, Dera met a Mississippi woman when they were both living in Pennsylvania. Dera started dating Suzy Case, who is from Madison, when she was working as a forensic psychologist in 2007. The pair visited Mississippi often to spend time with Case’s family, who still lives in Madison. Dera retired in 2011, and the couple decided to buy a house in Mississippi. The couple purchased their home, which was prefabricated in St. Louis in 1857 then moved to Yazoo County. “I’m a sucker for old houses,” Dera said. Dera said life in Mississippi is wonderful. “I love the climate. I love the people. We’ve made great friends, and we are committed to giving back in some way,” Dera said.
Dera and girlfriend Suzy Case.
One of the ways Dera gives back is doing free publicity for his Mississippi friends. One of those friends is David Raines, owner, chef, and operator of The Flora Butcher, a high-end specialty meat shop and the Flora restaurant, Dave’s Triple B: Barbecue, Beer & Blues. Raines practices the local farm-to-table philosophy with his shop and restaurant. A Michelin-trained chef originally from Monroe, Louisiana, Raines has worked all over the world including stints at Emeril Lagassee’s NOLA in New Orleans and Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Dera met Raines after he spotted a sign in Flora for the upcoming opening of The Flora Butcher. “I was on the side of the shop, and Joe walked up, introduced himself, and said he was new to the area,” Raines said. Dera told Raines he needed a press agent. “I was just trying to pay it forward,” Dera said. Dera said Raines is helping revitalize downtown Flora with his businesses, which is soon to include a third venture, a wine shop. “I don’t consider this (publicity for Raines) work. If I like somebody, it’s not working,” Dera said.
Dera with Chef David Raines, owner and operator of The Flora Butcher and Dave’s Triple B restaurant.
MARCH 2022 | TODAY 19
This chewy, cheesy pizza is a cross between Detroit-style pan pizza and focaccia. Now, if it’s the weekend, and I think I can scoot through without a trip to the grocery, I’ll whip-up a batch of this dough and pile whatever is around on top. (I highly recommend warming a big square of this pizza then topping it with a cracked egg and running it under the broil for a dynamite breakfast.) Reversing the order of toppings by putting the cheese directly on top of the dough and then adding toppings and then, if desired,
INGREDIENTS 4 cups all-purpose flour 1 package (4 ounce) instant yeast (Rapid Rise) 2 teaspoons sugar 2 cups warm water 2 tablespoons kosher salt 4 tablespoons olive oil Assorted toppings In the bowl of a heavy duty stand mixer, combine the flour, yeast, and sugar. Attach the dough hook and add the water. Mix on low speed for 2 minutes or until dough begins to form a shaggy dough. Turn off the mixer and cover bowl with a damp tea towel or cling wrap. Allow dough to rest for 10 minutes. Remove the covering and mix dough on medium-low, sprinkling the salt over the dough. Increase speed to medium and mix for 10 minutes occasionally pulling the dough off the hook.
spooning a few light stripes of sauce over the toppings gives these pizzas a wonderfully crisp, almost fried crust. Aside from the classic pepperoni and such, I like to top mine with some “Delta-style” toppings like crawfish tails, venison sausage, barbequed pulled pork, smoked brisket, even tablespoons of pimento cheese. Mix and match, add sauce, or just go full on cheesy. This dough can be made by hand by following the same steps and times.
Pour two tablespoons of olive oil into two 9 x 13-inch metal baking pans. Tilt the pans around to get oil all over the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pans. Cut dough into two equal pieces and place a hunk of dough in each pan. Press dough to form a thick rectangle and cover with a damp towel or cling wrap. Place in a draft-free warm
spot. (I put mine in the closet with our hot water heater.) Let dough rise undisturbed for 2 hours. Press, stretch, and pull dough to cover the bottom of each pan. The dough may shrink back a bit. Cover again and let dough rest for 10 to 15 minutes. Once again, press the dough, dimpling the surface to cover the bottoms of each pan. Heat oven to 500 degrees and arrange an oven rack in the lowest position. Top each pizza with shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese making sure to sprinkle cheese all the way to the edges of the pans. Add toppings. Bake pizzas 15 to 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly or beginning to turn dark brown around the edges. When pizzas are out of the oven, run a sharp knife around the edges to loosen the cheesy crust. Let pizzas cool for 5 minutes and enjoy.
Makes two 9 x 13-inch-deep dish pizzas 20 TODAY | MARCH 2022
These are so easy and impressive! With the help of some old friends on all sorts of apps (that I’m not sure how to use) I cobbled together a close approximation to a cookie served at a beloved deli that closed years ago. I coupled those leads with an inspiration from what’s going on with peanut butter cups these days. The classic incorporates toasted pecans and chocolate chips. I tried batches with mixtures of crushed saltine crackers, pretzels, kettle cooked potato chips, and honey roasted peanuts. These cookies are deeply chocolatey with a salty crunch, chewy chocolate, and meringue crisp crust. Yum!
INGREDIENTS 3 cups powdered sugar 1⁄3 cup plus 2 tablespoons cocoa powder 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour ¼ teaspoon kosher salt 3 eggs (6 tablespoons egg whites) ½ teaspoon vanilla extract Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a baking mat. In a large bowl, sift together the powdered sugar, cocoa, and flour. With an electric mixer, beat the egg whites and salt together for 2 minutes at medium speed. Reduce speed to low and add the dry ingredients a little at a time until all incorporated. Stir in additions. Scoop eight scant ¼ cup portions of dough onto prepared pans. Bake 15 to 20 minutes on the middle rack of the oven. The cookies will be crisp with trenches of chewy chocolate. Allow to cool before removing from pan.
Makes 8 large cookies
Martha Hall Foose, the author of “Screen Doors & Sweet Tea: Recipes and Tales of a Southern Cook,” won the James Beard Award for American Cooking. Her latest collaboration is “A Good Meal is Hard to Find: Storied Recipes from the Deep South” with Amy C. Evans. Martha makes her home in the Mississippi Delta with her husband and son. She is a member of Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association.
MARCH 2022 | TODAY 21
mississippi seen
mississippi is...
events
mississippi marketplace Events open to the public will be published free of charge as space allows. Submit details at least on the outdoors two months prior to menu the event date. Submissions must include a phone number with today area code for Mississippi’s publication. Email to news@ecm.coop. Events are subject to change. scene around the ‘sip picture this The 29th Annual Spring Arts Festival. The 53rd Annual Gospel Singing Jubilee. Lowest March 26 and 27. Ocean Springs. Presented by March 19. Magee. Featuring the Freemans, The Ocean Springs Chamber ofmy Commerce-Main Terryco-op Joe Terrell, Tim Frith and The Gospel Echoes, opinionLife Insurance involvement Street-Tourism Bureau. Fast becoming a mini–Peter Revelations, and Messiah’s Men. The show starts at 6:30 pm at the Magee High School Auditorium. 501 Choctaw St. Details: 601-906-0677.
Anderson Festival, this event will feature artists, and
The 2022 Columbus Spring Pilgrimage. March 24 through April 16. Columbus. Put together by The Preservation Society of Columbus. The daily home tours show off some of the most historically significant private homes in America with a comprehensive view of the architectural periods of the homes that tells part of Columbus’ storied history. The tours feature nationally recognized, multicultural, interactive, interpretive, educational programs for all ages. Proceeds fund preservation, research, and programming of the Preservation Society of Columbus, a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization. Details: 662-368-2503 or preservecolumbus.com.
artists’ demonstrations, entertaining lectures and more. This year’s herb of the year is pansey. Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Downtown Ocean Springs. The annual festival showcasing more than 150 artists, crafters, and plant vendors is co-coordinated by the Ocean Springs Art Association and Ocean Springs Fresh Market. Details: 228-875-4424 or visit oceanspringschamber.com.
Rates
in various media including painting, pottery, southern gardeningcrafters ‘n’include bare it jewelry, plants and more.grin Festival activities
Marion County Model Train and Railroad History Exhibit. Now through March 26. Columbia. The exhibit includes a 10x12 foot table with three running model trains on a landscape including Columbia’s Main Street and the Marion County Courthouse. Video interviews of former railroad employees and accounts of the Red Bluff train derailment into the Pearl River. Kids can enjoy a “Young Engineer’s” play area and the movie, “The Polar Express.” The museum is FREE and includes additional exhibits of military, sports, rodeo, farming, logging, arrowheads, Civil War, and Civil Rights. Museum hours are Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 200 Second St. No. 3. Details: 601-731-3999.
Maker Faire Meridian. April 2 and 3. Meridian. A free hands-on show-and-tell event showcasing invention and creativity for and by all ages. Indoors and outdoors demonstrations and exhibits at Soule Steam Works in the Mississippi Industrial Heritage Museum. Details: makerfairemeridian.com or 601-693-9905. The Gulf Coast Military Collectors & Antique Arms Show. April 29 and 30. Biloxi. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 29 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 30. Historic artifacts from all wars bought, sold, and exhibited. War souvenirs, weapons, swords, daggers, bayonets, flags, uniforms, medals, helmets, badges, insignia, and field gear. The Joppa Shriner’s Center, 13280 Shriner’s Blvd. Details: 228-224-1120 or 228-392-9345 or email terrell.hamilton@gmail.com.
No Health Questions No Medical Exam Monthly Rates Guaranteed for Life Whole life Insurance Age
$10,000
$15,000
$25,000
45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80
$36 $40 $45 $57 $68 $87 $113 $157
$54 $60 $68 $85 $102 $129 $169 $235
$89 $99 $112 $141 $170 $215 $282 $391
10-Year Term Life Monthly Premium
Age
$100,000
$250,000
25-35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70
$7 $8 $11 $14 $20 $30 $44 $87
$10 $12 $17 $24 $37 $65 $102 $178
Call today to request a FREE Price Comparison Report for you and your family members.
At your electric co-op, we help you find more ways to save energy, save money and help the environment. So small savings today lead to big savings tomorrow.
1-800-323-3220 Mississippi Agency Lic. 9804790, Agent 9203639
22 TODAY | MARCH 2022
About this time last year, I was asked to be the host of the annual Volunteer Mississippi GIVE Awards. Pretty much every kind of meeting or ceremony at that time was done virtually. So, my “hosting” consisted of reading a script off the teleprompter at Mississippi Public Broadcasting while they recorded it and put it online later. I never met the winners. Nor did any of us get the usual banquet meal that normally accompanies such affairs. I was impressed by all the recipients’ stories. By far the most unusual awardee was Bob Reese of Starkville. He was selected to receive an award for a service he provides — rescuing cats. Reese rescues cats that have inadvertently climbed a tree without an exit strategy. All cats can climb. But not all cats can UN-climb. Sometimes cats are stuck up there for days without food or water. Bob says it is not true that every cat will eventually come down on its own. Some may die of starvation, dehydration, or exposure. So, someone must go up to haul them down. Bob became a cat rescuer after his pet made a venture up a tree. He tried to find a cat rescue service but couldn’t. So, he did what all of us do when we are faced with a daunting task. He pulled up a YouTube video. Bob, being way more adventurous than I am, then rigged up some ropes and a harness. He hoisted himself high up into the branches and gathered his wandering pet into a waiting pillowcase and lowered himself and the cat safely back to the ground. But, as it sometimes happens after one has accomplished a one-of-akind task, Bob Reese wanted to do it again. And again. And again, and again. Now, several hundred cats later, Bob is still harnessing up in his now professional climbing gear, pulling himself up the rope into the dizzying tops of oaks and pines, and helping someone’s frightened feline back down to terra firma. Bob doesn’t charge for his services but asks the people he has helped to donate to a nearby animal shelter. He has raised thousands of dollars in the process. Bob says he will travel up to three hours from home to perform his service. He has been all over north Mississippi, Alabama, and into Tennessee climbing to nose-bleed heights, grappling with uncooperative pets, and returning them to grateful owners.
I, on the other hand, still prefer to stand on the ground under the tree with a bowl of cat food in hand, looking up and calling, “Here kitty, kitty.” Just a quick postscript. Since last year, Bob has moved to Huntsville, Alabama. (He wanted to be near his grandkids.) But he still rescues cats. He has allowed me to put his phone number in this article. If he can’t come help you, he knows other cat rescuers in Mississippi who can. But try, “here kitty, kitty” first. Bob can be reached at 662-418-0479.
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.
MARCH 2022 | TODAY 23
FOR THE MEMBERS OF