Today in Mississippi December 2023 Pearl River Valley by American MainStreet Publications

FOR MEMBERS OF ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OF MISSISSIPPI

VISITING ALL

82 COUNTIES DECEMBER

2023

SPICING UP THE GARDEN

CHILI FOR CHILLY

DAYS AND NIGHTS

If you're tired of having knee pain and want to talk to a doctor that can virtually give you your life back if knee pain is an issue, call Dr. Rob Acord... as he's the only doctor in the area... who has this newly discovered knee pain reduction technology.

"Chronic, Painful, Knee Pain Reduced in Less Than 8 Minutes?" If you have knee pain, can't walk because of an old injury, or you just think it's part of getting old, you might want to read this article. Knee pain is something that disables a lot of people every single year, but most people don't know what to do about it.

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What Are Your Choices? Some people immediately opt in for surgery, then some people watch TV and end up buying something they wrap their knee with-hoping it will help, and others just follow orders and take medications which simply block the pain signals while the underlying condition often progresses.

What Works Best? All I'm saying is this. There are a lot of ways to TREAT your knee pain, but which one will really work? If you've done your research, you know that there are not a lot of things that really work when it comes to actually helping align the knee, taking nerve pressure off the knee, and reducing the pain and swelling.

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My Opinion

These two never miss a Hallmark Christmas movie Everyone who has read my column these past 18 years knows that I am a BIG fan of Christmas. One of my favorite Christmas activities is watching those happy, sappy Hallmark Christmas movies. Paul Purnell, my senior vice-president, also enjoys watching these happy, sappy love stories. The first 10 minutes of our Monday morning staff meeting consists of Paul and I critiquing the weekend’s offerings while the rest of the staff sits there wondering, “how can these two be our leaders?” So, this year, when that first Hallmark Christmas movie review Monday rolled around, I announced to Paul my brilliant idea. We would write about our favorite Hallmark Christmas movies. The staff giggled and cheered. Paul just sat there, mostly in shock. I don’t think he really wanted to do this, but I am the boss, so here it is. In an attempt to limit the nasty emails, this is OUR list! We are just a couple of good-looking, 55-year-old lawyers by training, who enjoy weekends at home on the couch resting our brains. You might not agree with our choices. That’s ok. We wish you a Merry Christmas anyway! No. 5 (Mine) Christmas in Evergreen – A widower doctor with an adorable young daughter, a magical snow globe, a mysterious old guy that looks like Santa Claus, and let’s not forget Hallmark staple actress, Ashley Williams. It is a Hallmark classic. No. 5 (Paul) Write Before Christmas — After an unexpected breakup, a classical musician decides to send the Christmas cards she had originally bought for her now-ex to the five most influential people in her life. Each card has an unexpected and meaningful impact on the respective recipient. And of course, she finds love in the end…surprise, surprise! No. 4 (Mine) Next Stop Christmas – Ever wish you could go back and change what you thought was a mistake? Well, mistake corrected, but the ticket still is one way and not a round trip; what’s the problem? No. 4 (Paul) Mistletoe Promise — Two people who both despise the Christmas season enter into a contract whereby they pose as a couple for the holidays, which they call the Mistletoe Promise. (The validity and enforceability of which is always questioned by the lawyer in me.) No. 3 (Mine) A Crown for Christmas – I am sucker for the royal movies. A widower king, an American governess, and an impossible child. Can they find love? She had him at sewing kit! No. 3 (Paul) Christmas Next Door – An author of bachelor lifestyle books who has no Christmas spirit keeps his niece and nephew for a few days while their parents are stuck out of town.

This unexpected family time coupled with his Christmas-loving neighbor causes him to re-evaluate his life, including his whole genre of writing. In true Hallmark style, he, and the neighbor fall in love. No. 2 (Mine) Christmas Getaway – A widower lawyer trying to give his daughter a dream Christmas, a travel writer who must write about an old fashion Christmas, and a reservation mix-up that brings them all to the same cabin. Throw in a Christmas list and you come up with the “best Christmas ever!” No. 2 (Paul) Christmas Under Wraps – This one breaks the usual Hallmark plot line. A top-ofher-class new doctor ends up in Garland (get it?), Alaska. The viewers must decide for themselves, but the town pilot/handy man just might be the son of Santa, himself. As a bonus, the alleged Santa, Frank Holliday, (get it?) is played by Brian Doyle-Murray. No. 1 (Mine) A Royal Christmas - Jane Seymour is delightful as the queen who will do anything to stop her son from marrying a “commoner.” Throw in Purvis, Mississippi’s own Lacey Chabert and you have a heartwarming love story set at Christmas time. No. 1 (Paul) Christmas at the Plaza – The guy decorating the Plaza Hotel in New York for Christmas falls in love with the hotel historian. This one contains my favorite scene of all the Hallmark offerings. The longtime hotel bellman not only rediscovers his true calling but is also reunited with the love of his life after being told for 50 years by her parents that he wasn’t good enough for her. It’s a great story of redemption, which, while always wonderful, is especially appropriate this time of year. Now, I’m going to go find a football game to watch. Now that you know ours, we want to know which ones are your favorites. Go to Today in Mississippi’s Facebook page — https://www.facebook.com/TodayinMississippi — and tell us. Here’s hoping you and your family have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Mississippi is... Mississippi, Mississippi, I love you so. Although I came here just a short time ago. I was running from Florida with all its storms, and Mississippi welcomed me with open arms. The people are wonderful, kind, and sweet, And they’re helpful, everyone you meet. It was hard leaving my home of 53 years. I did so with sadness and many tears. But now I’m settled in a lovely place, And I usually have a smile on my face, because Mississippi is now my happy place!

by Betsy Thomas, a resident of Hattiesburg, and a member of Pearl River Valley Electric

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 Submit your beautiful digital photo of life in Mississippi to Today in Mississippi, news@ecm.coop

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

2023 | DECEMBER 3

In This Issue

6 Southern Gardening Peppers spice up the garden

8 Outdoors Today Small bird shooting done right

10 Scene Around the ‘Sip A family visits every county in the state

15 Local News 20 Feature

A pair of Santa Claus’ most prolific helpers live in Water Valley

The Official Publication of the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi

Vol. 76 No. 12

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 Kendle Dean - Administrative Assistant EDITORIAL OFFICE & ADVERTISING 601-605-8600

Acceptance of advertising by Today in Mississippi does not imply endorsement of the advertised product or services by the publisher or Mississippi’s electric power associations. Product satisfaction and delivery responsibility lie solely with the advertiser. • National advertising representative: American MainStreet Publications, 800-626-1181

Circulation of this issue: 472,420

Non-member subscription price: $9.50 per year.

28 On the Menu

Chili is perfect for December nights

31 Mississippi Seen

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. The magazine is published for members of subscribing co-ops. The magazine is a benefit of membership. POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. (See DMM 507.1.5.2) NON-POSTAL AND MILITARY FACILITIES: send address corrections to: Today in Mississippi, P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158-3300

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Walt Grayson shares his favorite Christmas gift www.todayinmississippi.com

On the cover

Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus, also known as Kent and Camille Breckenridge of Water Valley. 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.

DECEMBER | 2023

News and Notes

Cooperative Energy expands solar portfolio at Delta’s Edge Cooperative Energy recently celebrated the continued growth of its solar portfolio at Delta’s Edge — the cooperative’s newest utility-scale solar site. The 637-acre site, located in Carroll County six miles east of Greenwood, uses 250,152 panels to produce 100MW of electricity. The electricity is then delivered across the state, powering homes and businesses with environmentally friendly renewable energy. “Delta’s Edge represents a significant commitment to our Member systems and their consumer-members who have expressed a desire for more green energy where it makes good economic sense,” Cooperative Energy President and CEO Jeff C. Bowman said in a news release. As a deep south state, Mississippi is geographically situated to receive an abundance of sunlight. Bowman said expanding solar generation also makes sense because it enables the cooperative to diversify its energy generation portfolio while lessening the cost impact on Members. “Our mission is to provide our Members with reliable and affordable energy,” Bowman said. “Our Members have asked us to look for opportunities to add more renewable energy to our generation mix without negatively affecting reliability or affordability, and the Delta’s Edge facility meets those goals.” The site utilizes bifacial crystalline panels, which are mounted on trackers that enable the panels to rotate with the sun for maximum solar absorption. At its peak, the panels will convert enough sunlight into electricity to power 13,500 homes and businesses. Cooperative Energy has a 15-year power-purchase agreement with Cubico to purchase all the electricity produced by the site.

NRECA WARNS OF ELECTRICITY SHORTAGES IN WINTER ASSESSMENT More than half of the United States is at risk of electricity shortages this winter due to regional generation shortfalls, increased demand for power, and potential fuel delivery challenges during sustained cold weather events, the North American Electric Reliability Corp. says. NERC’s Winter Reliability Assessment released Nov. 8, “again shows that our nation faces looming grid reliability challenges while demand for electricity continues to soar,” said NRECA CEO Jim Matheson. “That’s unacceptable and should be cause for concern for all Americans.” John Moura, NERC’s director of reliability assessment and performance analysis, cited uncertain performance of renewable generation and increased seasonal demand for natural gas as factors raising concern over the grid’s vulnerability during winter weather.

Cooperative Energy entered into an agreement with Renewable Energy Systems (RES) for the Delta’s Edge project in September 2018. RES designed and began development of the project and secured investors for the lifetime of the facility. Cubico Buffalo Holdings I, LLC, acquired the Delta’s Edge facility in December 2020 and began construction soon after. The project hired 50 local workers and employed seven subcontractors in and around Carroll County.

“There is not enough gas pipeline to serve all the generation in certain areas,” Moura said. NERC analysts cited several potential performance weaknesses impacting grid operators and transmission associations including the Tennessee Valley Authority, PJM and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas. “Areas at elevated risks extend over two-thirds of the continent,” said Mark Olson, NERC’s manager of reliability assessments. He cautioned that natural gas generation could be threatened by fuel supply issues during prolonged cold snaps, and coal-based generation can also face operational issues and unscheduled outages during winter peaks. “About one-third of the natural gas outages that occurred during Winter Storm Elliott were due to fuel shortages,” said Moura. “In Texas, during Winter Storm Uri, there were production shortages caused by frozen wellheads.” NERC’s report warned of rolling blackouts similar to those experienced last winter in the Southeast and portions of the Northeast and expressed concern about potential reserve shortages impacting consumers in Texas served by ERCOT. NERC analysts also noted that SERC Reliability Corp., which oversees generation and transmission across TVA’s service territory and includes the Carolinas and several central states, could be plagued by electricity shortages due to increased demand with little change in available supply. NRECA is urging policymakers to recognize that their decisions can impact grid reliability, increase chances of rolling blackouts, and hurt the nation’s economy. “Policies like the Environmental Protection Agency’s recent power plant proposal will magnify today’s reliability challenges with grave consequences for an already stressed grid,” said Matheson. “I don’t think EPA thought about electric reliability as it drafted this rule.”– NRECA

2023 | DECEMBER 5

Southern Gardening

With proper care, ornamental peppers like this Masquerade pepper plant can add to your garden and landscape year-round.

I recently admired some gorgeous ornamental peppers that were still popping with color despite the state starting to get some cool weather. Did you know that you can grow ornamental peppers in spring, summer, fall, and winter? They are a great way to add color and spice to your home or garden. During the late fall and winter, you can grow them indoors to make a dramatic statement with their stunning hues and varied shapes. But if you decide to grow ornamental peppers indoors, you need to get a few basic supplies. Start with the right container. Choose one that is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and that has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating. Then fill it with well-draining soil. 6

DECEMBER | 2023

Place your container in a sunny location or use a grow light to provide the necessary light. Ornamental peppers need at least six hours of sunlight each day. Finally, water the plant regularly and fertilize it every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth. Whether grown indoors, outdoors, in containers, or in the ground, ornamental peppers have these same water and fertilizer needs. On the other hand, if you prefer to grow ornamental peppers outdoors, keep in mind that they prefer warm temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees. That means you can keep your plants indoors until the weather warms up enough to transplant them outside. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. You can start the plants from seeds or purchase young plants from a nursery. Plant them in the ground or in containers, making sure they have enough space to grow.

I find the Masquerade pepper plant truly stunning. Its fruit undergoes a mesmerizing transformation, starting off purple, then turning orange before maturing into a vibrant red. This transformation is a sight to behold and adds an extra layer of beauty to an already impressive plant. I’ve also been eyeing the Purple Flash pepper plant. It has dark, almost black foliage with occasional flashes of bright purple or white on the leaves. These beautiful leaves have a slightly glossy texture and retain their color throughout the growing season. I can’t wait to add it to my garden this spring and experiment with using it in my cooking. Another plant I’m considering is the Sedona Sun pepper plant. This versatile and compact plant is perfect for containers or small spaces. It produces small, cone-shaped, upright peppers that turn bright yellow when ripe. The last one I want to tell you about is the Samba DK Orange pepper plant, a beautiful and spicy plant that’s perfect for adding color and flavor to any space. The plant produces small, coneshaped, upright peppers that turn a vibrant orange when ripe.

The plant itself is quite attractive with a bushy, compact growth habit, and glossy leaves. I’m excited to start growing ornamental peppers this fall and adding beauty and flavor to my home and garden. With a little care and attention, I’ll be able to enjoy their unique characteristics year-round. You can, too.

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.

The compact Sedona Sun pepper plant is perfect for containers or small spaces.

Ornamental peppers perform well both in containers and in the landscape. This Samba DK Orange is a beautiful and spicy pepper plant.

I’m excited to start growing ornamental peppers this fall and adding beauty and flavor to my home and garden. With a little care and attention, I’ll be able to enjoy their unique characteristics year-round.

2023 | DECEMBER 7

Outdoors Today

can challenge even the best shooters Walking quietly along a small creek flowing through a hardwood forest just awakening to a new dawn, I paused occasionally to scan the trees for squirrels. Seeing nothing and hearing only the twitter of distant birds, I began to move forward one step at a time. When one foot hit a grass clump, a brown object suddenly exploded at my feet and leaped for my throat, screeching like a banshee on fire. In the dim light, I instinctively jumped back not knowing whether to drop to the ground, hide, run, climb a tree, or shoot the thing in self-defense. After putting my heart back in its proper place, I realized that the shrieking chestnut-colored beast, only about the size of a baseball, didn’t really leap for my throat. It did vault straight up, level off at eye level, and zip through the trees like a miniature smart missile on afterburners displaying aerial skills any fighter pilot would envy. Similar startling eruptions mark many a hunter’s first experience with woodcock. For those who don’t die of a heart attack, such exhilarating encounters imprint a lifelong love for these diminutive rockets that offer sporting challenges far above their weight class.

DECEMBER | 2023

“When woodcock flush, they are incredibly hard to hit,” Mitchell Marks, an avid woodcock hunter, said. “They’re extremely agile in the woods. They must get through that thick understory they like, so they’re a tough target to shoot. They are difficult to hit in a place with a lot of small trees in the way when trying to swing a shotgun and shoot. It’s definitely a tough bird to hunt.” I spent the rest of that morning trying to repeat the experience by kicking every bush and weedy clump I found. I flushed dozens of birds, but these feathered firecrackers always veered off in another direction at the last millisecond. Consequently, I bagged my share of leaves and branches while putting marks on numerous tree trunks.

When woodcock flush, they are incredibly hard to hit. They’re extremely agile in the woods. They must get through that thick understory they like, so they’re a tough target to shoot. Woodcock thrive in hardwood bottomlands with damp, but not mucky, soils and dense underbrush that provides good cover. They use their long flexible bills to probe the dirt for their favorite food, earthworms. A woodcock can eat its weight in earthworms daily. With their superior leaf-colored camouflage, woodcock normally hold tight in cover until someone almost steps on them. When flushed, they seldom fly far, but commonly land a short distance away. Sportsmen who watch where the birds go might get a second opportunity at them. The small birds don’t usually attract much attention from most hunters, but an ardent few pursue them passionately. Some enthusiasts follow the birds as they migrate from Canada, the Midwest, and New England to the Gulf Coast each winter. Some birds stay in Mississippi all year long, but a hard cold front can push thousands into the state overnight. The Mississippi woodcock season runs from Dec. 18 through Jan. 31, 2024, with a limit of three per day. Any hardwood forest with thick cover and damp soils could hold woodcock.

by John N. Felsher John N. Felsher is a professional freelance writer, broadcaster, photographer, and editor who lives in Alabama. An avid sportsman, he’s written more than 3,300 articles for more than 170 different magazines on a wide variety of outdoors topics. Contact him at j.felsher@hotmail.com.

2023 | DECEMBER 9

Scene Around the ‘Sip

The Mooney family traveling around the state. Rodney, wife Amber, and their three children Caroline, Race, and Aria. Photo by: Karlton Jenkins.

by Steven Ward “After, I began to live my life differently. I never took it for A Hattiesburg family of five has been traveling around granted again. Life is short. There’s a big, beautiful world out there, Mississippi for the last four years in search of fun and adventure and I want to see it all,” he said. and won’t quit until they visit every county in the state. Mooney calls the travel his The idea was the brainchild “passion project” and dubbed of Rodney Mooney, an English the plan, “Wandering the Pines teacher at Mississippi Gulf Coast We don’t just rush through them either. We of Mississippi.” Community College. Mooney, his wife Amber, and Mooney, who grew up in the don’t just see it. We experience it. The ones their three children research a Collins/Seminary area, said he that are special to me are the surprises, the county, including its history, the came up with the idea after seeing ones you had no idea about until you stumbled best food, attractions, and landand hearing national negative marks, and then visit. stereotypes about Mississippi — on to them on the way to somewhere else. “We don’t just rush through the home state he loves. them either. We don’t just “I always knew I wanted to do see it. We experience it,” Mooney said. something about how our state is portrayed. I wanted to help,” Mooney said most Mississippi residents don’t realize there’s so Mooney said. much to do and see in their state. The other impetus for his travel idea was a close call with his “The ones that are special to me are the surprises, the ones you mortality in 2003 off a Florida beach. had no idea about until you stumbled on to them on the way to Mooney almost drowned in a riptide. Mooney said his heart somewhere else,” Mooney said. stopped before he was rescued. 10

DECEMBER | 2023

The kids with Jimmy “Duck” Holmes at The Blues Front Café in Bentonia.

Rodney Mooney at The Teddy Bear House Museum in Picayune.

The kids at the Choctaw Indian Fair in Neshoba County.

As an example, Mooney said his family was on their way to the Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale and the GRAMMY Museum in Cleveland when they discovered The Blues Front Café in Bentonia. Mooney said he was ashamed to admit he had never heard of the legendary live music venue. While there, the family was able to meet the owner, blues musician Jimmy “Duck” Holmes. “My son, Race, and I got to sing on a stage the blues greats have performed on for over 75 years. We even got to hang out with Mr. Holmes’ brother and ate boiled peanuts and listened to him talk about how his mom used to throw big Fourth of July parties there, where all the blues greats used to come and perform for a big family reunion with all the locals,” Mooney said. Mooney’s youngest, daughter Caroline, asked the owner if blues legend Robert Johnson really did sell his soul to the devil to learn the blues. “Duck leaned over the bar, looked directly into Caroline’s eyes, face to face, and replied, ‘Do you believe in Santa Claus?’ Caroline said, ‘Yes, I do!’ Duck shrugged and held up both hands and answered, ‘There you go! Don’t get me wrong. I can’t prove Santa Claus does or doesn’t exist, nor can I say whether or not Robert Johnson met the devil on them crossroads, but that don’t mean it ain’t true.’” When asked if he could name just one place in Mississippi visitors shouldn’t miss out on, Mooney said the Choctaw Indian Fair in Neshoba County. “The Choctaw welcome you into their culture and history. My family loved it! From watching the princess pageants, concerts, fair rides, historical stories, dances, and stick ball tournaments, you cannot come away without respecting and admiring the Choctaw history, culture, and its people,” he said. The Mooney family has visited 50 of Mississippi’s 82 counties at press time. The family can usually visit one to three counties during a trip and most of the trips take place during the summer and holidays. “We began this journey in 2019, so we are four years in. I expect us to finish in about two years,” he said. When it’s all over, Mooney said he plans to write a history and travel book about the experience. After that, the family will try to tackle visiting all 50 states. “If you or your family are stuck in a rut, looking for adventure, or in need of inspiration, Mississippi has an abundance of wonders to explore. We are the hospitality state for a reason,” Mooney said.

visit the Wandering the Pines of Mississippi Facebook page or on Instagram @wanderingthepinesofmississippi

2023 | DECEMBER 11

DECEMBER | 2023

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COOPERATIVE UNIVERSITY A SU CC E SS

For over 36 years, Pearl River Valley Electric has sent students on a life-changing trip to Washington, D.C. through the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s Cooperative Youth Leaders program. On the trip, students from across Mississippi, picked for their outstanding leadership abilities, visit monuments, the U.S. Capitol, and the White House. This trip has served as a hallmark for what electric cooperatives can do to inspire our youth and our communities. The first step in the Cooperative Youth Leaders program is PRVEPA’s Cooperative University, which is held at the National Guard Armory in Columbia. Cooperative University is a one-day event where each school is represented by two students. The day consists of speakers, games, and various demonstrations. This year, speakers included representatives from Cooperative Energy, past leadership program students, and local legislators. “The program has helped so many students realize a dream of traveling to see our nation’s capital,” said Leif Munkel, manager of marketing,

communications, and member services. “For many students the trip to Washington, D.C. is an eyeopening experience and exposes them to a much larger world.” This year, 28 students from 15 schools attended the Cooperative University on Nov. 8. Judges interviewed all 28 students and chose two winners. This year’s winners are Mary Xie and Stevie Thompson from Oak Grove High School. Mary Xie is active in the student council and the Hattiesburg Youth Orchestra. She has also created an educational YouTube channel to help fellow students with ACT/PSAT tips. Stevie Thompson is a member of the Key Club and the French Honor Society. She is also active on the school’s tennis team and is a member of the Forrest General Spirit Girls. Mary and Stevie will join thousands of other students from around the country in June to attend the Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. There they will have the opportunities to meet their legislators, tour the U.S. Capitol, and do lots of other sightseeing.

Mary Xie

Stevie Thompson

Thanks to all the students who participated in our

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Kensington Baugh Lorel Bryant Jada Burton Cainen Butts Dylan Carroll Jaslyn Dearman Isaiah Evans

Kyla Galloway Claire Garcia Camryn Haddox Patrick Jones Aaliyah Land Gracie Mapp Kyle Marin

Baylee Moore Fisher Mullen Drayson Patterson Sela Pfleger Jayda Porter Savannah Price Beni Raanes

Cooper Smith Camryn Sutton Stevie Thompson Heidi Thornhill Caleb Tubb JoAnna Watson Mary Xie

PearlComm

2023 UPDATE Three years ago, Pearl River Valley Electric embarked on its largest project since it first electrified farms and homes in 1938 when we began construction of a fiber network across our service territory. Our internet subsidiary, PearlComm Fiber, is already using this fiber infrastructure to deliver modern conveniences to rural areas through high-speed internet. We are again improving the lives of our surrounding communities, just as we did 85 years ago. The idea of bringing high-speed fiber internet to rural Mississippi was a daunting task which required much studying and planning and led to the creation of PearlComm back in 2020. To put this monumental undertaking into perspective, Pearl River Valley Electric will construct nearly 4,700 miles of fiber to complete this project — over 500 miles more than the distance between Mississippi and Hawaii. To date, we have now constructed over 3,500 miles of fiber. In the last year, PearlComm has made great progress by connecting new subscribers and growing the company through additional employees. PearlComm connected its 5,000th customer in April, its 7,000th customer in July, and its 8,000th in September. This is tremendous growth in a short amount of time. In addition to growing its customer base, PearlComm has opened the majority of Pearl River’s service territory for high-speed internet. Throughout the year, Phase 2 areas have opened, including Goss, Sandy Hook, and Big Level; and several portions of Phase 3 have opened much earlier than anticipated. PearlComm currently estimates that they will have completed their 4-year plan to bring high-speed internet to the PRVEPA service territory one year earlier than originally projected. At the end of this year, we also expect another milestone from PearlComm, the connection of its 10,000th customer. This shows a tremendous amount of growth for PearlComm in the last year. We started with just over 2,000 customers at the beginning of the year and now have nearly 10,000 customers. PearlComm has also thrived by adding new personnel to its workforce. In June, they added four fantastic ladies to their call center and in November added three fiber technicians. PearlComm staff are local and have a strong desire to see our area prosper through high-speed internet. I know there is plenty of excitement and anticipation surrounding the project, and we want to keep our membership updated regarding our fiber build. The accompanying map on the next page shows the detailed plan of the fiber buildout, along with tentative dates for when construction and sign-ups are scheduled to occur.

£ ¤ 43

Construction Update

£ ¤ 42

As of October 30, 2023

£ ¤

0 1.753.5

£ ¤ 587

13N

£ ¤ 44

£ ¤

10.5 Miles

Fiber Currently Available

£ ¤ 585

£ ¤ 98

Under Construction

£ ¤ 589

Sign-ups Coming Soon

£ ¤ 586

Coming Soon Fiber Currently Available

£ ¤ 11

Coming 2023

Under Construction 2024

£ ¤ 49

¤ £ ¤£ 48

£ ¤ 29

Fiber Currently Available

£ ¤ 11N

Fiber Currently Available

£ ¤

§ ¦ ¨ 59

£ ¤

26E

26W

Coming Soon End of 2023 Early 2024

£ ¤ 15

£ ¤ 49

Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P, NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, (c) OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Currently, PearlComm plans to start connecting areas in blue on the map soon with future areas opening for installations throughout 2024. Remember, if you have not already pre-registered at www. pearlcommfiber.net, we encourage you to let us know you are interested in the service! Pre-registration is the easiest way to get notifications and service updates sent directly to your email when internet becomes available in your area. Preregistration does not automatically subscribe you to service. I know that our members are excited about high-speed internet availability, and for some members it has probably seemed like forever since we announced our plan to “light” our service territory with high-speed fiber internet. I promise you that PearlComm is moving as quickly as possible, and I look forward to providing another update in the coming months.

by Matthew Ware CEO/General Manager

8,700 CONNECTED 3,500 CUSTOMERS

TOTAL miles of fiber line built

13 4,800 TOTAL POLES

REPLACED

FIBER HUTS

INSTALLED that light the fiber for our communities *as of November 15 2023 | DECEMBER

PRVEPA distributes Sharing Success grants In partnership with CoBank, a national cooperative bank that serves utilities in rural America, Pearl River Valley Electric has distributed grants this year to area volunteer fire departments and a local children’s home. Helping our communities succeed is an objective of all electric cooperatives, and CoBank’s Sharing Success program helps fulfill that goal. The program allows banking members, such as PRVEPA, to apply for grants which provide matching funds to help non-profit organizations. Pearl River Valley Electric chose two fire departments, the McLaurin Volunteer Fire Department, and the Oakvale Volunteer Fire Department to receive grants. Both departments plan to use their donations for essential lifesaving and fire-fighting equipment. The last grant was given to Homes of Hope for Children, near Purvis. The campus serves nearly 20 children in crisis by providing a strong Christian home to every child. The organization plans to use the grant for essential items for the children. In total, $10,000 was distributed through the program this year. Pearl River Valley Electric will continue CoBank’s Sharing Success program in 2024 by choosing new non-profit organizations to receive grants.

HAPPY NEW YEAR From our Co-op family to yours, wishing you a happy holiday season and a joyous new year. All Pearl River Valley Electric offices will be closed Dec. 25 and 26 for Christmas and Jan. 1 for New Year’s Day. Dispatchers will be on duty. 18 DECEMBER | 2023

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DECEMBER | 2023

by Steven Ward Even Santa Claus needs help sometimes. He is just one man after all. Recently, one of his busiest helpers and his wife visited with some children at the Magnolia Coffee Co. in downtown Water Valley in Yalobusha County. The occasion was a holiday business open house put on by the Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce in mid November. Just after 11 a.m., parents and their children started lining up in the front porch area of the coffee shop where Santa and Mrs. Claus were holding court. Santa and Mrs. Claus started by introducing themselves to the children and asking them what they wanted for Christmas. Some children, like 5-year-old Craig Mckey Jr. sat down and told Santa about all the things he wanted. Other children could barely look at the married couple. There are children that just freeze up or get upset — sometimes to the point of tears — when facing one of the mythical figures of their childhood up close and personal. Santa and Mrs. Claus have experienced it all.

Although they answer to their more famous names, the Clauses are also known as Kent and Camille Breckenridge. Both retired, Kent, 57, and Camille, 52, live in Water Valley and became official stand ins and helpers for the original Santa and Mrs. Claus in 2020. In some ways, as soon as you look at the Breckenridges, you immediately think Santa and Mrs. Claus. But their outfits aren’t exactly what is commonly thought of as traditional. “We are not the standardized, commercial Santa and Mrs. Claus. We consider ourselves a more modern take on ‘old world’ Clauses. We have an extensive wardrobe and choose our attire based on the event. We are also members of Clan Claus and have custom kilts with each of the Claus tartans,” Kent said. “I never wanted to wear the cartoonish bonnet and apron, so I knew when I started this journey that it would be as Santa’s counterpart, not sidekick,” Camille said. “We are always color coordinated, but I’m a fun and vibrant person, so I dress and portray myself as such.” The journey to becoming Santa and Mrs. Claus began in 2016 when Kent grew a full beard in support of “No Shave November” at his corporate job. Camille and their daughter Sloan encouraged him to keep the beard and to find out how he could become an official Santa Claus helper. 2023 | DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER | 2023

Camille said many children are so shocked to see Mrs. Claus “I adamantly refused for a couple of years, then in 2018 a local in person they are often speechless. She said most kids think family asked me to drop-in for a visit to their Christmas party. Mrs. Claus would be back home at the North Pole. I agreed and it only took that one night of excited children, and I Kent and Camille are sometimes asked to appear at corporate was hooked. I began researching to be better prepared for the next events, but the couple also spend a good deal of time doing needseason. I also wanted Camille to be with me,” Kent said. based community events. Kent and Camille wanted to be the best Santa and Mrs. Claus “We have always viewed our corporate events as ways to enable they could be. us to give back to our community. Our community events are often The couple enrolled at “The Harvard” of Santa Claus schools — fundraisers for outreach organizations, The Charles W. Howard Santa School school organizations, and local in Midland, Michigan. The school is charities. One of these ways is the oldest and most prestigious Santa through one-on-one home visits for school in the world, Kent said. We have always viewed our corporate needs-based children,” Kent said. There are Santas from all over the One of the couple’s most special world at the week-long training event. events as ways to enable us to give home visits was when they had the Just some of the sessions at the school back to our community. Our community opportunity to visit a young boy to tell include, looking your best, answering the most asked questions, beard and events are often fundraisers for outreach him he had found his forever home and would be adopted by his foster family. hair care, learning how to include organizations, school organizations, Santa Claus is always looking for special needs children, and storytelling. official help because there’s so much “The sessions for Mrs. Claus focused and local charities. to do before Christmas. on how to be the best helper for Santa, Kent said one of the best qualities to finding your own look, Santa and Mrs. have to become one of Santa’s helpers is a smile. “A servant’s heart is Claus’s back story, and working alone for some events,” Camille said. also needed. Additionally, the ability to think quickly on your feet is Kent said the most common questions he gets as Santa are, key because children are asking the hard questions,” Kent said. “Is your beard real? Yes, it’s real. Where is Rudolf and the other Leave it to Mrs. Claus to come up with the most important quality. reindeer? At the North Pole getting ready. Where’s your sleigh? It’s “Children remember how you make them feel, so a warm smile hidden to avoid distracting others. What’s my Elf’s name? There and a kind word will keep them believing in the magic of Santa are so many elves at the North Pole that we use numbers to identify them as it’s more efficient. Yours is No. 74982.” and Mrs. Claus,” Camille said.

For more information about the

BRECKENRIDGES, VISIT THEIR FACEBOOK PAGE AT https://www.facebook.com/Santa.Breckenridge/ or on Instagram @santabreckenridge or call 662-934-7109 2023 | DECEMBER 23

For example, instead of just going out and buying a new pickup truck, you or a business could think about the advantages of electric options. A traditional gasoline-powered model would be best for long trips, but how many miles a day does the truck really travel? What would it be like to plug it in overnight and never have to visit a gas station again? What if it could also power home appliances during a power outage? There’s a name for that kind of thinking — beneficial electrification. Although that phrase doesn’t easily roll off the tongue, the idea is catching on because it’s basically a way to get things done better and cheaper. There’s even an organization called the Beneficial Electrification League. The group aims to improve the nation’s economy by making broader use of electricity, from heating and cooling homes and businesses to electric school buses, to replacing diesel motors on farm irrigation systems with more efficient electric models. The benefits of electrification, says the League, are money savings, less impact on the environment, improved quality of life and smoother operation of the nation’s increasingly internet-connected electric grid. One of the clearest effects of switching from fossil fuel to electricity is on environmental impact. Natural gas, coal, and oil all produce greenhouse gases. Electricity uses some fossil fuels to generate power, but it is increasingly made with renewable energy. So, switching from an internal combustion engine to an electric vehicle, for example, will reduce the burning of fossil fuels.

DECEMBER | 2023

by Paul Wesslund

How using more electricity can save money and improve the quality of life Of all the world’s changes during the past 30 years, few are as significant as how we use energy. In the 1990s, new drilling techniques brought a boom in natural gas production. That increase in supply cut prices so much that natural gas started replacing coal power plants, which was used to generate half of the country’s electricity. Concern for the environment grew and now renewable energy produces more of our electricity than coal. Major changes to the ways we use energy have also come into our homes. If you go to the movies and forget to turn off your kitchen lights, you can switch them off from an app on your phone. If you’re returning from a vacation, you can adjust your thermostat from anywhere, so the temperature of your home is comfortable when you get back. Every vehicle manufacturer is racing to build electric models. Last year, Ford even started producing an electric version of their best-selling pickup truck. And the F-150 isn’t just being promoted as better for the environment. The ads show it running power tools on a remote job site. That approach to showing the benefits of an electric vehicle highlights a whole new way of thinking about energy.

Utilities are exploring ways to use the growing number of electric vehicles to create a more resilient electric grid. Using smart-grid analytics, all those electric cars sitting in garages and charging overnight could supply power back into the electric system during outages or during times when the demand for electricity is high. Consumers can consider beneficial electrification for the home as well, to see how electric options might improve quality of life. Replacing lawnmowers, leaf blowers, and other yard tools with battery-powered versions would reduce noise and could get all the gas and oil cans out of your garage. You might love your gas stove and heating system, but do you like it enough to pay for two forms of energy, with both gas and electric bills coming due even when you’re on vacation? Add to that, the continual improvements in electric heat pumps that will both heat and cool your home with an incredible 300% efficiency. And if you’re concerned about power outages, battery backup systems are getting increasingly powerful and efficient. Compared to a gasoline generator, a battery wouldn’t need to be “started up” and wouldn’t emit poisonous carbon monoxide. You may not be ready to make the switch to all electric. These shifts can take time as technology advances and costs become more competitive. But the notion of beneficial electrification offers a new way to evaluate the tools we depend on for everyday life. Paul Wesslund writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. 2023 | DECEMBER 25

by Robert Nathan Gregory promising approaches in mitigating viral diseases in honeybees.” Despite widespread populations of honeybees and the major The bee researchers will host a workshop to connect with more implications of their health, there are few direct options for queen breeders, and then collect samples from volunteer queen beekeepers to reduce viral disease transmission to queens. producers in two years to evaluate the health status of the young Two apiculturists with the Mississippi State University Extension queens they produce. The project has received financial backing Service are out to improve the health and quality of queen bees from the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. Overseen by the while collaborating with their breeders. Mississippi Department of Agriculture Esmaeil Amiri, assistant and Commerce, the program helps Extension and research professor at state agricultural departments enhance the Delta Research and Extension the competitiveness of U.S.-grown Center in Stoneville, Mississippi, In local beekeeping communities, the health specialty crops, including honey. and Jeff Harris, MSU Extension of colonies in one yard depends partly on Queen health and quality have been bee specialist, have developed a the health of the colonies maintained by a longstanding issue in beekeeping project to address viral infections operations, so queen producers are inin queen honeybees. neighboring beekeepers, because viral terested in obtaining more information Because antibiotics are not diseases can be transmitted by drifting about the health status and quality of effective against viruses, there are foragers, shared floral resources, or mating. the queens they produce and sell. limited therapeutic approaches, “While developing the proposal, and none of them can be readily we contacted several queen producers in the state and listened to incorporated into honeybee management, Amiri explained. their needs and ideas,” he said. “We also heard similar calls for “However, recent genetic and molecular biology developments may investigations into viruses and queen health from regional and provide future directions for limiting virus loads in honeybee popunational beekeeping organizations. Finding solutions for their lations,” he said. “Based on the current lack of preventive or curative needs is our priority.” medication, bee management and breeding are currently the most 26

DECEMBER | 2023

More than 30 viruses have been detected in honeybees, and many of them, such as deformed wing virus, sacbrood virus, black queen cell virus, and acute bee paralysis virus have been detected in queens. The most problematic vector is the Varroa mite, and minimizing its presence in a honeybee colony lightens the viral impact on honeybee health. “These viruses have been known for a long time due to their observable symptoms and are a major concern throughout different stages of a queen’s life,” Harris said. “They have a direct impact on the queen’s health and survival, but they also indirectly affect the health and vigor of the colonies she leads. In addition, since queens are sold nationally and internationally, they arguably play a role in long-distance distribution of viruses.” Harris said understanding viral transmission routes is a crucial step to manage honeybee viruses. Hive spacing, visual landmarks, and entrance reducers can reduce drift between routes. High-quality

diets, which ensure proper nutrition and foraging throughout the active season, can mitigate the impact of viruses. “In local beekeeping communities, the health of colonies in one yard depends partly on the health of the colonies maintained by neighboring beekeepers, because viral diseases can be transmitted by drifting foragers, shared floral resources, or mating,” he said. “The queen is central for vertical virus transmission, so queen breeders who produce most of the honeybee queens used in the U.S. have a crucial role to play in virus control.” Harris and Amiri have started collecting queen samples from different queen breeding operations across Mississippi. The free service will provide the participating beekeepers information about viruses that are circulating and their main transmission routes. “This provides useful information for queen breeders and will allow them to make informed decisions and improve product quality,” Amiri said. 2023 | DECEMBER 27

On the Menu

with Rebecca Turner

Chili is perfect for the chilly days of December A hot bowl of chili on a cold Mississippi day hits just right. Whether you prefer beans or no beans, chili is one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to feed a hungry crowd. And while you can debate what are the best toppings for chili, don’t forget chili itself can be a desirable topping for hot dogs, fries, corn chips, baked potatoes, nachos, burgers, and even rice. Some even like to add a scoop to mac and cheese or enchiladas for a winter twist on a family favorite. The basic chili is made with cooked ground meat (beef, bison, or turkey), canned tomatoes, beans (unless you’re from Texas), and simple seasonings simmered on the stove or in a crockpot until ready. You can stop there or make it personal with add-ins that provide extra flair or some richness for a more memorable chili. Start with bacon to add a smoky, meaty depth. Cook three to four strips of thick-cut bacon to your liking, remove, and pour off the grease. Now, start your recipe. Use the rendered bacon fat to cook all your ingredients. When you’re ready to serve, crumble the strips over the chili. Spices matter when it comes to your chili. If your recipe calls for garlic powder, substitute two to three whole cloves of minced garlic instead. Add fresh garlic to the pot when the onions are about done. Add heat from an ingredient other than chile powder. You can cut back on chile powder by half and add in diced jalapenos for a fresh spiciness or minced chipotles in adobo for more of a smoky flavor. Go bold with a secret ingredient. Cinnamon, strong coffee, and even dark chocolate have made for a good chili. Pick only one of the following: 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a shot of espresso, or two tablespoons of cocoa powder. Simmer your chili for at least an hour to give all your ingredients a chance to mingle. In the end, if you still feel like it’s “missing something,” add a splash of cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, or even lemon juice. And when feeding a crowd, cook your chili the day before for ample flavor. Upgrade your crowd’s chili experience by serving a tasty chili charcuterie board. Let the chili be the star, then surround it with toppings, cornbread, chips, and more. Set it out, and watch everyone enjoy! 28

DECEMBER | 2023

Classic Chili Recipe INGREDIENTS

3-4 thick-cut bacon 1 medium yellow onion-diced 1 pound 90% lean ground beef 2 ½ tablespoons chili powder 2 tablespoons ground cumin 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 2 tablespoons tomato paste 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 ½ teaspoons salt

½ teaspoon ground black pepper ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper* -optional 1 ½ cups beef broth 1 (15 oz.) can petite diced tomatoes 1 (16 oz.) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce

Cook bacon to crispy and remove. Pour off the grease but leave bacon renderings. Add the onion. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the garlic with 2-3 minutes left on the onions. Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook for 6-7 minutes, until the beef is browned, stirring occasionally. Add the chili powder, cumin, sugar, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne. Stir until well combined. Add the broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), drained beans, and tomato sauce. Stir well. Bring the liquid to a low boil. Then, reduce the heat (low to medium-low) to gently simmer the chili, uncovered, for at least an hour, stirring occasionally. Remove the pot from the heat. Let the chili rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Crumble bacon for optional toppings.

Chili Board Toppings Diced tomatoes Chopped avocado Diced red onion Sliced scallions Shredded Cheddar cheese Crumbled queso fresco Sliced jalapeño chiles

Chopped fresh cilantro Sour cream Crumbled bacon Corn chips Assorted crackers Cornbread

Green Chile Cornbread INGREDIENTS

1 package corn muffin mix (or your favorite from scratch recipe) 1 egg 2 tablespoons of milk 1 can green chilies, drained a little ¼ cup cheese, shredded 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon chili powder Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Mix all ingredients together. Let batter rest for 3-4 minutes. Pour into a greased 8x8 baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

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 no-nonsense nutrition guidance that allows you to enjoy good health and good food. Her book, “Mind Over Fork,” challenges the way you think, not the way you eat. Find her on social media @RebeccaTurnerNutrition and online at www.RebeccaTurnerNutrition.com.

2023 | DECEMBER 29

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. Trees of Christmas at Merrehope. Now to Dec. 31. Meridian. Tours are daily on Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Decorators and designers from Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, and all over Mississippi have joined individuals and groups to turn the magnificent 20-room Neoclassical Revival mansion into a fascinating holiday attraction. Over 50 uniquely decorated Christmas Trees and exhibits found throughout the house, on the veranda, and on the grounds. Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. 905 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Details: 601-483-8439. Cocoa and Cookies with Mrs. Claus at Merrehope. Dec. 3. Meridian. 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Join the jolliness with Mrs. Claus as you enjoy delicious cookies and hot cocoa at the 55th Annual Trees of Christmas at Merrehope. 905 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. $5 for children and students. (Tour included) Details: 601-483-8439. Pictures with Santa at Merrehope. Dec. 3. Meridian. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Photos of children can be made with Santa at the Victorian Tree by professional photographer, Mark Davis. $20. 905 Martin Luther King Jr. Details: 601-483-8439. Barnyard Marketplace. Dec. 9. Poplarville. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come shop the field of vendors, including crafts, food, plants, boutiques, specialty items, jewelry, handsewn purses, baked goods, woodworks and more. 295 Buck Kirkland Rd. Details: 504-234-3579 or barnyardmarketplace504@gmail.com. Christmas in the Park. Nov. 23 to Dec. 30. Collins. Open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays only. Put on by the Covington County Chamber of Commerce. From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Driving tour with lighting displays that honor Jesus Christ and celebrates his birth. Event is free. Details: 601-765-6012. Journey to Bethlehem and Beyond. Dec. 9 and 10. Pelahatchie. Driving tour Nativity scene. 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The Church at Shiloh, 2394 Shiloh Rd. Details: 601-854-8158. Mimosas and Merrehope. Dec. 9. Meridian. 10 a.m. to noon. Tickets are $50. Sip on mimosas and enjoy scrumptious brunch fare with live entertainment. 905 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Details: 601-483-8439.

Spirits of Christmas at Merrehope. Dec. 14. Meridian. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets are $15. Bring your own spirits and experience the magic of Trees of Christmas at Merrehope at night under thousands of Christmas lights. The festive event includes live entertainment, light refreshments, and a tour. 905 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Details: 601-483-8439.

21st-century audiences in the 19th-century art of Vincent van Gogh. This experientially rich exhibit uses modern technology and participatory learning to immerse new audiences in van Gogh’s genius, his personal struggles, and his creative process. Includes a 12-foot-wide, interactive version of Van Gogh’s Starry Night! 1608 US 82. Details: 662- 453-0925.

“Most Incredible Christmas” by Ballet Magnificant! Dec. 16 and 17. Jackson. Performances on both days at 2 p.m. Tickets range from $25 to $70. With over 100 dancers in the cast, the show is a Broadway-style contemporary ballet highlighting the most extraordinary and incredible thing about the Christmas season. Loveable traditions, songs that capture the spectacle of the season, and reflections on the first Christmas are set to heartwarming, familiar Christmas tunes from around the world with Jesus, the Messiah at the heart of it all. Thalia Mara Hall. 255 E. Pascagoula St. Details: 601-977-1001.

Big New Year’s Eve Gospel Sing Concert. Dec. 31. Byrum. The event starts at 7 p.m. at Central Baptist Church, 5751 Terry Road. Featuring the Revelations Quartet, Tim Frith & the Gospel Echoes; and the Resolve Quartet. Refreshments will be served. Details: 601-906-0677 or 601-720-8870. Toast Together Reception at Merrehope. Dec. 31. Meridian. Adults $15, military and senior citizens $10, and students $5. Celebrate the final day of the six-week 55th Annual Trees of Christmas at Merrehope. 905 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Details: 601-483-8439.

Museum of the Mississippi Delta Presents: Van Gogh for All. Dec. 2023 – Feb. 2024. Greenwood. Van Gogh for All is a traveling exhibit that immerses you in the works of the world’s most famous painter. It’s designed to engage

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DECEMBER | 2023

My favorite I was rummaging through some of my old television video files the other day when I ran across a story I filmed several years ago at the Mississippi Petrified Forest near Flora in Madison County. In that story I said the only reason anybody in Mississippi doesn’t have petrified wood in their rock collection is because they just don’t want any. The wood certainly isn’t that hard to find. Almost any creek or river gravel bed will have some.

Grandmother didn’t pay too much attention until a few years later when a stonemason came to the house and attached granddaddy’s name and birthdate to the face of the petrified stump. Granddaddy called grandmother to come out and see what she thought. She wiped her hands on a dishtowel as she came out of the kitchen and looked at the stump and his name. Granddaddy reminded her that he had worked in wood, and this would be a good testimonial to his life. Grandmother grunted and said, “Well, if that’s the case, when I die, y’all can just take the oven door off the stove for my grave marker.”

The stone logs in the Petrified Forest came from somewhere up in the Appalachians. The theory is they were washed here in a giant flood and were buried for eons under sand. A lot of what you find in rivers and creeks in Mississippi is petrified palm. The stone logs in the Petrified Forest came from somewhere up in the Appalachians. The theory is they were washed here in a giant flood and were buried for eons under sand. A lot of what you find in rivers and creeks in Mississippi is petrified palm. A geologist told me that it grew here a long, long time ago. My grandfather’s headstone is made from a petrified stump. He was intrigued by pretty much everything. So, when he found a huge hunk of petrified wood in a creek bottom in Northeast Mississippi, he got a tractor and drug it back to the house. For years it sat at the end of the front porch. We cousins used it as a launch pad when we jumped off the porch playing tag. At some point, granddaddy told grandmother that he wanted to use the stump as his headstone. I suspect by that time she had quit asking “what on earth for” every time he came up with another idea. So, she patiently listened as he explained why. Grandaddy — a timber man — had worked in wood all his life. He surveyed timber in Tennessee when he was young. Running and owning sawmills later in life, he reasoned it would be fitting to have a petrified headstone as a memento of his life’s endeavor.

I’m reminded of that story and many more of my family tales every year about this time because we spent so many Thanksgivings and Christmases at my grandparents, along with uncles, aunts, and a small army of cousins. The greatest gift I ever received was to be born into a storytelling family who gathered at the holidays to tell those stories to one another.

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.

2023 | DECEMBER 31

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