Send any responses to: andybowman839@gmail.com Many people do. Many people find this particular holiday season to be full of heartache, or a nameless void. They can feel a myriad of unwelcome emotions that threaten to overwhelm and sink them into a black hole. Sadness, depression, loneliness, anxiety, or just the very fear of any of those. Any one, or all of these emotions can descend without warning on their lives and take the wheel. Others around them may understand their problem and attempt to help, or they can be totally clueless. Some will begin avoiding the sufferer or even get annoyed that their own happy season is being sabotaged by such an inconsiderate person. But what is actually ground zero for this suffering? What is the root cause of the pain people suffer during what is universally accepted as the world’s greatest and happiest holiday time? Unless you are the victim, you cannot provide a real answer. There is no possible way that one person can know exactly what another is thinking, and therefore feeling, because of those personal thoughts. None of us have ESP, no matter what Aunt Lizzie has claimed. But we can know this. The emotional pain is real, and is related directly to the thoughts surrounding a time in our lives. And the more painful that time, the more difficult it is to contain and divert our thoughts from it. Think of a dog chasing his tail. That never-ending challenge is a battle in itself. “Will I ever get over this and feel happy at Christmas? Will I ever learn to smile again, and truly mean it?” Christmas-dreader, you are not alone with this problem. Many others share your pain during this season. Countless others suffer in silence, just like you. And just like you, they paste on the fake smile and use their artificial laughter for the sake of those around them. They too have learned the emergency-driven art of 8/4/8 X 15 breathing, to take control of spiraling anxiety and fear. Now, I do realize that this is no comfort to you, to know that others are struggling also. So, what can I offer you that will begin to ease the pain of memories that don’t allow you to breathe easily?To promise a future will finally allow your pain to begin subsiding into a dull ache? And provide you with real reasons to sleep well, and then awaken with a zest for living again. I’m no miracle worker. Personally, I can’t offer that hope to you, but I know the One who can. He definitely wants to help you find ways to handle your pain. If you will open up, over and over, in total honesty to Him about your anger, depression and fear, He is the one who can offer you hope of one day starting to enjoy life again. And giving you hope is one thing that I do feel comfortable offering to you this Christmas.

Special to Wesson News   Seven Mississippi School of the Arts students returned with trophies and cash prizes from the 32nd Annual Mississippi Delta Tennessee Williams Festival in Clarksdale, Mississippi.  They were: Sarah Smith and Kendra Quarterman, first and third place in Monlogues Frances Broome and Gabby Kyzar, third place in Scenes Bobby Alsworth, finalist in Stella Call Skye Ogilvie, Best Costume Judges Award Berkley Ceaser, Best Nonverbal Acting Judges Award The Mississippi Delta Tennessee Williams Festival was founded by Coahoma Community College in 1992, under the leadership of Dr. Vivian Presley, president of CCC from 1992 to 2013, with a $10,000 grant award from the National Endowment for the Arts. Tennessee Williams, America’s great playwright and Pulitzer Prize winning-author of poetry, novels, and screenplays, born in Columbus, Mississippi, spent his childhood in Clarksdale, and his works were greatly influenced by the area and its people. The annual Mississippi Delta Tennessee Williams Festival was inaugurated as a celebration of his genius and the region’s cultural heritage that he immortalized in dramas, including The Glass Menagerie , Cat on a Hot Tin Roof , Summer and Smoke , Eccentricities of a Nightingale, A Streetcar Named Desire , Orpheus Descending , Battle of Angels , Baby Doll , This Property Is Condemned  and many others. Tom “Tennessee” Williams spent a great deal of his impressionable childhood in Clarksdale where his maternal grandfather, the Reverend Walter Dakin, was rector of St. George’s Episcopal Church for 16 years (1917-1933). Tom, his sister Rose and their mother, Edwina Dakin Williams, lived with his grandparents in the church rectory while Tom’s father traveled as a salesman. In 2003 the church rectory was designated a Mississippi Literary Landmark by the Friends of Mississippi Libraries and Friends of Libraries U.S.A. Many of his works refer to actual places in Coahoma County and some of his most famous characters – Blanche, Brick, Baby Doll, Stella, and Amanda Wingfield were inspired by real Clarksdale residents. The Cutrer Mansion, built by Blanche Clark Cutrer (only daughter of Clarksdale’s founder John Clark) and John W. Cutrer, was a site he visited often with his grandfather on parish calls. The festival was headquartered for the first time in the Cutrer Mansion in 2005, and the aura and ambience of this historic setting contributes significantly to the event’s success. Although Tennessee later lived in St. Louis, New Orleans, New York, and Key West, his Mississippi Delta childhood was a strong influence on his writings. In 1995 the United States Postal Service selected the festival to host the unveiling of the Tennessee Williams postage stamp, and the festival continues to be a significant cultural event. Each year the festival focuses attention on one play and invites renowned Williams scholars, theatre professionals including actors, directors, playwrights, and artists to present lectures, readings, and dramatizations. Actors and drama groups present one-act plays on front porches of homes in the historic neighborhood where receptions also take place. The festival also sponsors a highly competitive acting contest at Coahoma Community College for high school students who vie for trophies and more than $3,000 in cash prizes for their school drama departments. The contest is judged by out-of-town theatre professionals who also direct acting workshops. Winners recreate their performances at a Saturday festival finale where they are critiqued, applauded and entertained with supper and a dance to music by a Mississippi Delta blues band.

By Kara Kimbrough Grapevine, Texas is known as the Christmas Capital of Texas.       A trip to the Christmas Capital of Texas  should  produce a column on…well, all things merry and bright…right? Don’t worry, everything you’d possibly want to know about Christmas in Grapevine, Texas, a magical place that adequately lives up to its official title bestowed by the Texas State Legislature, is forthcoming. Since it’s a little late to make Christmas travel plans, a complete list of reasons you should strongly consider a visit to the quaint, but lively city located just minutes from Dallas-Fort Worth Airport will be shared in time for Christmas 2025.     As a teaser, I  will  say that right now, Grapevine rivals any Hallmark Christmas movie ever produced. I’m basing this statement on the sheer number of elaborate red, green and white twinkling decorations covering almost every inch of the downtown area and beyond; Grapevine’ festive Christmas parade, the longest lighted holiday parade in the entire state of Texas and over 1,400 events spread over a mere 40 days.    A few of the special events I enjoyed during a recent short trip included a ride on a vintage train complete with jolly carol-singing sessions;  watching the spectacular Christmas parade in the crisp night air while sipping hot chocolate and nibbling on sugar cookies (sound like a Hallmark movie yet?) and a North Pole experience at the stunning Gaylord Texas Resort, which is also decorated with millions of twinkling lights, gorgeous flowers and over-the-top holiday décor.     Ice! is a dazzling holiday showplace complete with larger-than-life ice  sculptures, snow banks, frozen slides and tunnels. To illustrate just how realistic it is, donning a heavy parka only an Eskimo would appreciate is required to brave frigid single-digit temps.    You simply can’t depart Grapevine after a visit during the Christmas season without being infiltrated with the festive holiday spirit. But again, more details about the places to see and experience will be shared a little later.    Tolbert's chili is known as some of the best in Texas-- I agree. The recipe for authentic Texas chili is a little lengthy, so email me and I'll send it to you.   Right now, I’ve just got share some incredible recipes I picked up in Grapevine or at least, received inspiration to find ones that were similar to the food I sampled. Here, in no particular order, are a few of my best food finds: 1.  Best chili ever at Tolbert’s Restaurant & Chili Parlor – Some call Tolbert’s chili the “best in Texas” and after sampling it, I tend to agree. I rushed straight from DFW to the downtown Grapevine restaurant and within minutes, excitedly dipped a spoon into a steaming, hearty bowl of chili. Tolbert’s version exceeded my high chili expectations. A thick mixture of beef, tomatoes and several spices (and to my delight, no beans) was so good that I alternated between enjoying heaping spoonfuls and digging in with homemade tortilla chips. I’ve seen copycat recipes online, but since I’m not sure which one is accurate, I found a recipe for Texas chili that looks similar. Due to space restrictions, drop me an email and I’ll share it with you.  2.    French pastries in, yes, a Texas town – The name should have given it away – “ Chez Fabien for breakfast” was listed on the itinerary. Still, I had no idea of the delights that awaited. The French bistro serves a dizzying array of breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner items in its main dining areas. After enjoying a delicious breakfast of fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar and topped with maple syrup, I stepped into an adjacent room and discovered where the magic happens. In the bakery, rows of creative cakes, pies, sweet breads and an assortment of decadent pastries provide a feast for the eyes. A delicate almond croissant was my favorite among several samples. My only disappointment was not purchasing a loaf of German Christmas stollen bread the first day I spotted it. I had to depart before their stock was replenished, leaving me inspired to create my own version at home. Apple chutney is a delicious addition to a charcuterie board of meats, fruits and cheeses.  3.    Appetizers in an unusual setting – After attending a wine tasting in a wine shop, you’d assume the fruity beverage would be the topic of conversation. Ironically, it was the appetizers prepared by the owner that had our group buzzing. Besides charcuterie boards of sliced cheeses and meats, we were served bowls of spiced nuts, apple chutney spread and gingerbread cookies to complement each sample. The owner kindly shared the recipe for the spiced nuts; I found a similar recipe online for apple chutney. Apple chutney is delicious as a spread for crackers, meats and cheeses, as a topping on bagels and cream cheese or as a tangy addition to a grilled cheese or meat-based sandwich.    I’m omitting many of the memorable meals, ranging from Italian fare to gourmet deli sandwiches rivaling those I've tasted in New York City to grilled pizzas served at restaurants throughout the bustling city. I’ll share more in my “Hallmark Movie Town in Texas” column next year. Until then, try these recipes to experience “just a little” of the wonderful things Grapevine, Texas has to offer. Apple Chutney Spread  2 apples  1/4 cup red wine vinegar 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup 1/2 of medium yellow onion or 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped 2 teaspoons ground ginger (adjust to taste) 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 lemon – zest and juice     Peel and finely chop apples into small pieces. Add the apples, red wine vinegar, honey, onion, ginger and garlic in a heavy bottomed pan, then place pan over low heat and let simmer for 15 minutes. While cooking, make sure to stir often.      Using a micro-plane grater, zest the lemon, being careful to not get any of the white part. Add the zest into the pan with the apple mixture. Cut the zested lemon in half and squeeze juice into the pan; stir to combine. As mixture cooks, apples and onion should turn a golden brown like the honey.      After 15 minutes (if mixture has thickened) remove from heat and stir well. If more “heat” or seasoning is desired, add a pinch of chili flakes, salt and pepper. Spiced Rosemary Nuts 3 cups salted mixed nuts 2-3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh rosemary 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper      Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Toss the nuts, melted butter, rosemary, brown sugar and cayenne in a large bowl until combined. Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake the nuts until fragrant and toasted, about 10 minutes. Let cool completely before serving. Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer from Mississippi. Email her at  kkprco@yahoo.com .

Special to Wesson News   Co-Lin's Keith Stovall received the CAST Crusader Award at the annual One Voice Conference. In attendance were Co-Lin students Drew Jones, Demessia Holloway, Latouriun Vigne and Allie Wall; Stovall; faculty members Neisha Leggett and Dr. Melnee Berry; and student Cliff Jernigan. (Photo Special to Wesson News). Co-Lin instructor and Social Science Division Chair Keith Stovall has received the prestigious CAST Crusader Award.   Each year, Children’s Advocacy Centers of Mississippi™ recognizes an outstanding individual who is committed to the Mississippi CAST (Child Advocacy Studies) program and workforce development representing systematic change for the protection of children. Stovall accepted the award at the annual One Loud Voice Conference held recently in Biloxi.   Stovall joined the Co-Lin family as an instructor in 2006 and teaches courses in Child Psychology, Marriage and Family, Adolescent Psychology, General Psychology, Introduction to Sociology and Perspectives in Child maltreatment. In 2022, the Child Advocacy Response and Education for Students (C.A.R.E.S) student organization was created with Stovall as faculty advisor.   Stovall also launched the Virtual CARE House, a simulation project to enhance child advocacy education through immersive online learning.   “Keith has dedicated his career to child advocacy in Southwest Mississippi and is incredibly deserving of this recognition,” said Co-Lin Dean of Academic Instruction Dr. Amanda Hood. “The countless hours he has poured into creating the Virtual CARE House, now recognized on a national level, are a testament to his unwavering passion for education and his commitment to advocating for healthy children and families. We are proud to have Keith at Co-Lin, and we are grateful for the impact he is making on our students, his colleagues, and the community.”   Stovall earned a bachelor’s degree from William Carey University and a Master’s Degree from the University of Southern Mississippi in Counseling Psychology. He started his professional career as a Therapist and Forensic Interviewer at the Southwest Mississippi Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) in McComb, Mississippi. While there, he conducted nearly 600 interviews in four years and served as an Expert Witness in Circuit Court cases. He is a two-time recipient of the Robert M. Segal Multi-Disciplinary Team Award and was honored in 2024 as a William Winter Scholar.   Stovall and his wife Teresa are the proud parents of three children.

By Misty Prine “I do not at all understand the mystery of grace - only that it meets us where we are but does not leave us where it found us.” - Anne Lamott Grace is such a small word with such a HUGE meaning that we often tend to overthink and misunderstand it. So, what is grace? The definition of grace is “the free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings”. Grace is sometimes hard to grasp, and it can so easily be shrouded in mystery if we "think" too much into it. What we do know is that grace meets us in the depths of despair and changes us completely. Grace never leaves us where it finds us. It lifts us up and pulls us out of that place where we once thought we couldn't and wouldn't make it out of. God's grace is such a beautiful thing. Where were you when grace and mercy found you? How deep was the valley you were walking through? Do you remember that moment when you felt the hand of God reach down and pull you out of the darkness and loneliness of that valley? That my friend is your moment of grace among many others to come. God's grace has no boundaries or limitations. Grace changes people. As the familiar lyrics say, "Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now I'm found, was blind but now I see." Grace opens our eyes in ways that nothing else can. God's grace is immeasurable and unfailing. God's grace and mercy finds us when we are buried deep in the world and lost as could be. There is a song by the group Unspoken called “Call It Grace” and I want to leave you with a few of their lyrics today. They say, “It's the light that pierces through you to the darkest hidden place. It knows your deepest secrets, but it never looks away. It's the gentle hand that pulls you from the judgement of the crowd when you stand before them guilty and you got no way out. Some may call it foolish and impossible. But for every heart it rescues, it's a miracle. It's nothing less than scandalous, this love that took our place. Just call it what it is, call it grace.”

Stephanie Duguid By Guest Columnist Stephanie Duguid Maternal health in Mississippi is a pressing concern, according to Dr. Vernesia Wilson, Director of the Maternal and Infant Health Bureau at the Mississippi State Department of Health. The data reveals alarming disparities and challenges faced by women, particularly women of color, in accessing equitable and effective maternal care. The Reality for Women of Color In partnership with Teen Health Mississippi, focus groups shed light on systemic inequities. Participants shared experiences of feeling dismissed or overlooked by healthcare providers. “Doctors tend to underestimate the level of pain for women of color,” one participant remarked. Others echoed similar sentiments, noting difficulties accessing essential services and a lack of meaningful communication with medical professionals. These testimonials underscore the need for a healthcare system that listens and responds equitably to all patients. The Challenge of Severe Maternal Morbidity Severe maternal morbidity (SMM) includes unexpected complications during labor and delivery that can lead to significant or life-threatening consequences. In Mississippi, the incidence of SMM has been rising, with 300 cases reported in 2021. While the statewide rate of SMM cases has declined slightly from 90.7 per 10,000 delivery hospitalizations in 2021 to 76.2 in 2023, it still exceeds the Healthy People 2030 target of 64.4. Racial disparities are stark: Black women consistently report the highest number of cases compared to other racial groups, highlighting an urgent need for targeted interventions. Preventable Deaths and Root Causes Tragically, 80% of pregnancy-related deaths in Mississippi are deemed preventable, with black women making up 77% of these cases. Contributing factors include social determinants of health, such as access to insurance, financial stability, and systemic bias in healthcare. Many deaths result from a chain of preventable events, suggesting opportunities for early intervention and better systemic support. A Path Forward Dr. Wilson emphasizes the urgent need for change, starting with acknowledging maternal and infant health as a priority. Ensuring that physicians respond to women’s concerns during pregnancy and postpartum care is critical. Educating communities about maternal warning signs and addressing broader issues are also part of the solution. Mississippi has the tools and data to make a difference. With continued effort and a focus on equity, the state can move toward better outcomes for all mothers and infants. For more information or to get involved, contact Dr. Vernesia Wilson at Vernesia.Wilson@msdh.ms.gov. EDITOR’S NOTE: Stephanie Duguid is the owner of Do Good ProHealth (CPR classes) and Do Good Leadership (motivational speaking, and leadership and success coaching).

Special to Wesson News   Declaring that honoring the nation’s armed forces to be an everyday occasion, Wesson Alderman Michael King led an array speakers and special guests on Veterans Day in dedicating a new Veterans Memorial that will make sure town does just as he said.   A crowd of veterans, residents and members of the Wesson High School band participated in the celebration that also featured commentary by Wesson Mayor Alton Shaw and guest speaker Mississippi Air National Guard Brigadier General Tommy Tillman and a presentation of Colors by local American Legion members and Tori Earls from Woodmen of the World, which donated flagpoles for the Memorial site.   The Memorial is located at Wesson Municipal Park on Church Street, and Mayor Shaw said it will be a venue for people to respect service members who served America.  Shaw explained that the Memorial started with an artist’s design, and Town looked at potential locations and how to generate funds for the project. “Perseverance over time led to this,” Shaw said.  He singled out Blue Cross-Blue Shield, which provided grant money, for thanks, along with varied town leaders and public officials.   Tillman said it was his privilege on Veterans Day to celebrate men and women who have served the country, and noted people throughout the nation are gathering in the name of peace to say thank you for their courage.   “The land of the free and home of the brave, a beacon of hope in an often troubled world,” Tillman proclaimed.  “From the minute men to today’s warriors, the line of Americans willing ot risk their lives is never ending.  They have served with honor and dignity.  They have all served and sacrificed and have preserved peace.  They have lived uncommon lives under a common banner.”   At the dedication, Wesson American Legion Commander Brigadier General Bobby Thornton, Chamber of Commerce President Teri Bath and veterans cut the ribbon in unveiling a bronze battlefield cross monument that will be the central feature on the new memorial.   Other participants in the dedication ceremony were Skylor James (The National Anthem), Alton Ricks (the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag), Wesson High School Band (the Armed Forces Medley of service music), Mississippi Army National Guard Staff Sergeant Steven Lane (gun salute), Pastor James Harris and Mississippi Army National Guard Chaplain Captain Chris James (invocation and benediction) and Mississippi State Guard First Lieutenant Chuck Wallace ( Taps ).

By Bob Garver   Poster Credit IMDB             “Gladiator II” has some awfully big sandals to fill, both commercially and creatively. Its predecessor, 2000’s “Gladiator,” made $187 million at the domestic box office. The new film has thus far made an estimated $132 million after three weekends of release. With a lot of money up for grabs in the upcoming holiday season, another $55 million isn’t out of the question. Maybe I could even stretch to see it making the $68 million it needs to hit the $200 million mark. Yes, inflation means that it’s less impressive to make these numbers now than it did nearly a quarter-century ago, but these are attainable goals. What I do not see as attainable is the sequel ever becoming as well-regarded as the original. That film won the Academy Award for Best Picture, so already the new one has to live up to an impossibly high (dare I say “gold”?) standard. But even with realistic standards, this movie is still a disappointment.             The second film takes place a few decades after the first, with the once-great Roman Empire ready to collapse under the blissfully-ignorant rule of twin emperors Geta (Joseph Quinn) and Caracalla (Fred Hechinger). They’re still greedy enough to want to expand the empire, so they send out top general Acacius (Pedro Pascal) to conquer a kingdom in Africa. Acacius doesn’t believe in the imperialist cause, but he’s sworn allegiance to his home, so he sacks the kingdom, which includes killing the wife of top soldier Hanno (Paul Mescal), who swears revenge.             Hanno is taken prisoner and sold into slavery, where he’s served up as a potential gladiator without much consideration. But he impresses in his tryout against a troop of baboons, and is purchased by Macrinus (Denzel Washington), a former slave who sees managing gladiators as a way to curry favor with the emperors, feeding into political ambitions and possibly even a power grab. He makes a deal with Hanno that if his “personal instrument of destruction” can become a superstar in the Colosseum, he’ll eventually give him a chance at revenge against Acacius. Hanno is conflicted between wanting revenge and not wanting to be used as a political pawn for a slimeball like Macrinus. He’s not conflicted about wanting to stay alive, however, so he plays along in putting together a string of victories. Also, Acacius’s wife Lucilla (Connie Nielsen), the daughter of former emperor Aurelius, notices that Hanno bears a striking resemblance to her long-lost son Luscious. And Luscious’s father… is not Acacius. The story and action aren’t very engaging in “Gladiator II,” with choppy editing and plodding pacing. But the real weakness of the movie is the acting. Pascal and Nielsen are fine, and the emperors get to do some fun scenery-chewing, but whoever thought that bland pretty-boy Paul Mescal could be an inspirational protagonist on par with the iconic Russell Crowe made a severe miscalculation. Also, and I’m not saying that the rest of the cast is exactly making me feel immersed in Roman culture, but there’s something so unmistakably American about Denzel Washington. Maybe it’s his voice, maybe it’s his mannerisms, maybe it that he shares a last name with the nation’s capital, but he belongs at Caesar’s Palace much more than he belongs at… these Caesars’… palace. He’s too Vegas-y is what I’m saying. “Gladiator II” has my permission to be a modest financial hit as long as it stays in the shadow of superior recent releases “Moana 2” and “Wicked,” the latter of which has much scarier CGI primates. But it hasn’t won me over as a movie worth recommending, and I definitely don’t consider it an awards contender. Am I not entertained? Taking into account the wording of that question, I can say that yes, I am not entertained.   Grade: C-   “Gladiator II” is rated R for strong bloody violence. Its running time is 148 minutes.   Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu .

Brookhaven Little Theater kicked off its five-play 2024-25 season Friday, December 6, with ten performances of Annie  through Sunday, December 15.               The season also includes five performances of Charlotte’s Web  from Thursday, February 6 through Sunday, February 9; ten performances of Shrek -- The Musical  from Thursday, April 3, through Sunday, April 13; four BLT Teen Camp performances of Bye Bye Birdie  from Friday, June 6 through Sunday, June 8; and four BLT Kid Camp performances of Seussical-KIDS  on Thursday and Friday, June 26 and 27.   Based on the popular comic strip by Harold Gray, Annie  has become a worldwide phenomenon, the winner of seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The beloved book and score by Tony Award winners, Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, features some of the greatest musical theatre hits ever written, including "Tomorrow."  With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone's hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage that is run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. With the help of the other girls in the Orphanage, Annie escapes to the wondrous world of NYC.  In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations and even befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.  She finds a new home and family in billionaire, Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary, Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy.   The Children's Literature Association named Charlotte’s Web  "the best American children's book of the past two hundred years," and Joseph Robinette, working with the advice of E.B. White, has created a play that captures this work in a thrilling and utterly practical theatrical presentation. It’s the story and relationships that make the show. All the enchanting characters are here: Wilbur, the irresistible young pig who desperately wants to avoid the butcher; Fern, a girl who understands what animals say to each other; Templeton, the gluttonous rat who can occasionally be talked into a good deed; the Zuckerman family; the Arables; and, most of all, the extraordinary spider, Charlotte, who proves to be “a true friend and a good writer.” Determined to save Wilbur, Charlotte begins her campaign with the "miracle" of her web in which she writes, "Some pig."  It's the beginning of a victorious campaign which ultimately ends with the now-safe Wilbur doing what is most important to Charlotte.   Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, Shrek The Musical is a Tony Award-winning fairy tale adventure, featuring all new songs from Jeanine Tesori ( Thoroughly Modern   Millie ; Caroline , Change ) and a sidesplitting book by David Lindsay-Abaire. Shrek  brings all the beloved characters you know from the film to life on stage and proves there's more to the story than meets the ears.  "Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek...." And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Throw in a short-tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you've got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there's one on hand... and his name is Shrek.   A loving musical send-up of the early 1950s, Bye Bye Birdie features small-town America, teenagers, and rock & roll, and remains as fresh and vibrant as ever. Teen heartthrob Conrad Birdie has been drafted, so he chooses all-American girl Kim McAfee for a very public farewell kiss. Featuring a tuneful high-energy score, plenty of great parts for kids, and a hilarious script, Bye Bye Birdie remains one of the most popular shows in schools across the country. Hit songs include “Put on a Happy Face,” “One Last Kiss,” “One Boy,” “A Lot of Livin’ to Do,” “Kids!” and “Rosie.”​   Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in Seussical KIDS , a fantastical musical extravaganza from Tony-winners, Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (Lucky Stiff, My Favorite Year, Once on This Island, Ragtime).  Transporting audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus, the Cat in the Hat, our narrator, tells the story of Horton, an elephant who discovers a speck of dust containing tiny people called the Whos, including Jojo, a Who child, who gets in trouble for thinking too many "thinks." Horton's challenge is twofold — not only must he protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, but he must also guard an abandoned egg that's been left in his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird. Although Horton faces ridicule, danger, kidnapping and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant! Schedule of performances:   Annie :  Friday, December 6, 7 p.m.; Saturday, December 7, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, December 8, 2 p.m.; Monday, December 9, 7 p.m.; Thursday, December 12, 7 p.m.; Friday, December 13, 7 p.m.; Saturday, December 14, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, December 15, 2:00 p.m. ​ Charlotte’s Web :  Thursday, February 6, 7 p.m.; Friday, February 7, 7 p.m.; Saturday, February 8, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.;  Sunday, February 9, 2 p.m.   Shrek the Musical :  Thursday, April 3, 7 p.m.; Friday, April 4, 7 p.m.; Saturday, April 5, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.;  Sunday, April 6, 2 p.m.;  Monday, April 7, 7 p.m.; Thursday, April 10, 7 p.m.; Friday, April 11 , 7 p.m.; Saturday, April 12, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, April 13, 2 p.m.   Bye Bye Birdie :  Friday, June 6, 7 p.m.; Saturday, June 7, 2 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.; Sunday, June 8, 2:00 p.m.   Seussical kids : Thursday, June 26, 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Friday, June 27, 11:30 a.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.               The BLT Teen and Kids Camps teach students in grades seven through and one through sixth grades theater and the performing arts.  The Teen Camp is May 27-June 6 and the Kids Camp is June 16 to 25 during the evenings. Registration for each camp starts December 2 and the fee for each camp is $200.  All registered students are guaranteed a role in the shows, with auditions Saturday, May 17, for the Teen Camp and currently undetermined for the Kids Camp.               Live concerts are also on the BLT calendar.  Brookhaven native nationally-known artist Randy Redd performed live in October with stories, standards and show tunes from his book, The Black & White, and two area groups – The J.T.McCaffrey Band and The Lincoln Outfit – will be on the BLT stage on January 11 in Keys vs Strings concert.   For ticket information, call 601-669-9200 or email tickets@brookhavenlittletheater.com .   Founded in 1968, BLT is the longest continuously running community theatre in Mississippi! For more that 50 years, it has entertained theatre-goers with an array of musical and dramatic classics, as well as modern Broadway hits.  In recent years, the theatre has expanded to include the BLT Teen and Kids Camps. BLT is led and sustained by volunteers who give generously of their time and resources to produce shows.   BLT is based at the historic Haven Theater at 126 West Cherokee Street in downtown Brookhaven, where its plays and other productions are staged.

Send any responses to: andybowman839@gmail.com I am convinced of a truth after living all these years on this earth. Simply and baldly stated, there are some people who have bathed themselves in misery for years. And they truly do not want anyone to hand them a big thick towel to dry off.  They experienced a severe trauma in their life some time before, and rather than grieving it, and then slowly moving past it - or at least WANTING to move on from it - they get stuck with that wet muck all over them.   Now I am not saying they consciously prefer to live the rest of their years on earth in sadness and misery. Not at all. I am saying that they do not know how to want  to get on with their newly adjusted life. And there lies the problem.   Deciding to move on in a new way with your life takes guts and determination. And for some, that just seems entirely too difficult, so they just stop. They have been mired in grief and depression for so long that the deep hole they have lived in simply become a way of living. Grief and depression can zap physical strength, fuzz your ability to think, and badly weaken your ability to ‘gird your loins’ to do what needs to be done. So too many hurting folks can end up feeling as if there is no way out, no hope of ever getting back to enjoying life. They will tell anyone who wants to help them that they really don’t want their help, all they really want is for their time on earth to be over. And if someone insists on offering encouragement or solutions to their problems, very often the traumatized-person-who-has-decided-to-remain-that-way will become hurt and angry.   Going down the drain of defeated thinking, feeling, and living.   What do you do - as the ‘someone’ who cares and wants to help? Certainly, you can suggest professional counseling. But beware, you best have on your asbestos suit. Talking in depth about their feelings is usually the last thing they want, and they will let you know it. Being there for them is good and necessary, but again, don the asbestos suit. You’re going to need it over your heart and feelings. Their pain level can take its toll on you.   You will really need to remember this: Each person who is grieving does it in their own way and on their own time table. The old belief: “It’s been a whole year, my word! Can’t she pull herself up by her bootstraps and get on with her life yet?” may be true for some. But it is not fool-proof and guaranteed for all. Patience, a listening ear, encouragement, and a willingness to dance the one-step-forward-and-two-steps-backward pattern with your loved one is vital.   Last advice? Be self-aware and care for yourself. Don’t ignore your own feelings and find yourself swirling the drain, when it’s almost too late.

The Mississippi Egg Marketing Board (MEMB) works to promote and expand the market for Mississippi produced eggs. Every year, the MEMB and the American Egg Board (AEB) combine efforts to educate communities on the versatility and cost-effective nutrition source that eggs provide. As part of those efforts, the American Egg Board's Eggcelerator Lab® is excited to launch its annual Product Development Competition. This year's competition challenges students to develop new and innovative products featuring egg yolk. Students can win a total of $18,000 in prizes and a trip to Chicago. This competition will engage, excite and encourage students to think big by showcasing their knowledge, expertise and ideas in creating food products that focus on new and novel uses for egg yolks. Eggs are an ingredient with endless nutritional and functional benefits. Through this competition, participating students will have the unique opportunity to develop innovative ways of using common egg ingredients to meet today's consumer preferences for new types of food products. Undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in institutions within the United States are eligible to compete in creating new food products that incorporate egg as an ingredient. Successful entries will meet specific competition criteria demonstrating innovation and providing value to consumers. AEB's Eggcelerator Lab® is the egg industry's innovation center, created to spearhead innovation and help bring new egg-based product ideas to market through unparalleled insights and proven innovation methodologies, along with unmatched technical, functional, culinary and nutrition expertise. The Eggcelerator Lab® is addressing consumer needs through transformative products and technologies that capitalize on the unique functional and nutritional benefits of the incredible egg. Visit www.incredibleegg.org/eggceleratorlabcompetition/  for guidelines and eligibility requirements. For more information about the Mississippi Egg Marketing Board, contact Jennifer Thompson at msegg@mdac.ms.gov .

By Kara Kimbrough     I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating: those on your Christmas gift list would prefer a gift you make over something that comes from a store. Even better if it’s a gift from the kitchen or at the very least, a bakery or specialty food or beverage item they can enjoy during the holidays.     My argument for homemade gifts is bolstered by a personal testimony from Christmas 2023. Stumped by the prospect of finding something to give to three different high school principals at whose schools I serve as a career coach, I filled gift bags with tins of homemade spiced nuts and cookies and a bag of Christmas coffee and a matching mug. I dropped them off with the instructions to "relax and enjoy this during your Christmas break!"     On the first day back at school following the break, one of my principals watched for my arrival on the school’s camera system. She then met me at the front door to personally thank me for the bag, adding that she enjoyed watching Christmas movies while munching on the snacks and drinking spiced coffee in the holiday mug. I considered it high praise from someone who most likely received many Christmas gifts but was still touched by my simple bag of treats.    This year, I plan to make my own Christmas coffee blend and pour it into decorated Mason jars with a printed tag listing instructions. I’m also changing up my treats, switching to shortbread cookies and pralines – two of my favorite items to make during the holidays.     I’m happy to share the recipes, with another word of encouragement: “Make your own gifts - your friends, neighbors, teachers, bosses and others will appreciate them more than you know!” Christmas Coffee Mix 2 cups powdered creamer 1-1/2 cups hot cocoa mix 1-1/2 cups instant coffee 1-1/2 cups granulated sugar (adjust according to taste) 1-1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon ground clove 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon ground cardamom       In a large container or jar, combine the powdered creamer, hot cocoa mix, instant coffee, sugar, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground clove, ground nutmeg and ground cardamom.   Make sure   the container or jar is tightly sealed, then shake or mix the ingredients very well. This step is crucial to make sure all ingredients are mixed well. Microwave Pralines 1 pound light brown sugar 1 cup heavy whipping cream 2 tablespoons butter or margarine 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 to 2 cups chopped and/or whole pecans      In a 2-quart bowl, combine sugar and whipping cream only and microwave on high for 10 minutes or until soft-boil stage. Stir in butter or margarine, vanilla and pecans QUICKLY, stir until glossy.      Drop QUICKLY by tablespoonful onto ungreased wax paper. Shortbread Cookies with Pecans 3/4 cup butter,  softened to room temperature ½ cup granulated sugar 1 egg yolk 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 2-3 dozen pecan halves     Preheat oven to 300 degrees. In a medium sized mixing bowl, beat butter with a hand mixer until creamy. Next, gradually add the sugar, beating well between each addition until light and fluffy. Then add the egg yolk and mix to combine. Add the flour and beat on low and keep mixing until well combined and the dough forms. Next, add the vanilla and mix to combine.     Shape dough into 1 ½ inch balls and place on a parchment lined baking sheet. Gentry press a pecan half in the center of each cookie. Bake 16-18 minutes or until lightly browned. Allow the cookies to cool slightly then transfer to wire cooling racks and cool completely. Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer from Mississippi. Email her at kkprco@yahoo.com .