“Customer Service” - the belief that every person walking in through the door of the store needs to be treated as vital to the financial life blood of that business. When did it become “Customer To Be Tolerated Or Ignored?” Why have customers seemingly become a nuisance to many businesses? Some of their employees are projecting an arrogant attitude of “Excuse me, but you are bothering me.” Do the owner(s) of those establishments even realize that their customers are being treated badly? Here are a few actual situations that are not understandable or tolerable. Watching two or more employees huddle together talking or laughing quietly on their cell phones. While their customers are patiently – or impatiently – waiting to be acknowledged. Or, being the hungry stomach who walks into a restaurant only to be ignored by the hostess/host for a little while. Until all their personal issues of the moment are satisfactorily addressed, I guess. It is a real fact that you can approach an employee on the floor of a hardware store and inquire about the location of a certain item, and be the proud recipient of a blank stare and a disinterested monotone, “I dunno.” And then watch that employee turn his back and return to his cell phone. Yes, I do realize there are countless businesses that are under-staffed and having trouble meeting the needs of their customers. That is understandable. An over-worked waitress or waiter cannot be everywhere at once. A bank teller cannot do that job and cover for three missing co-workers too. But employees need to remember that customers are the only reason their employers can pay them. And treating customers with disdain, ignoring them, or making them feel unwanted – that is almost a guarantee that the feet that carried an individual in the front door of that business will usually never carry them back in again. A man called his local pharmacy to see why a refill on his prescription has been delayed for nearly a week and counting. He was greeted by an automated voice that kept him answering questions for a few minutes, before it finally let him speak to a real human. A real human who seems to be quite annoyed that his work day is being disrupted by the man’s phone call. After rehearsing his issue one more time to this owner of an actual beating heart, he was then asked, “Didn’t the automated call service notify you that you will have to call your doctor to have this refill authorized?” “No, my phone ID has nothing listed of any call from this pharmacy – human or non-human.” Then he heard a crisp, “Huh! Sorry ‘bout that.” Followed by a click in his ear as the phone connection was broken. Speaking of broken. Houston, we definitely seem to have a problem.

Join us for the highly anticipated grand opening of 866 Nutrition, an exciting new wellness destination located at 103 W Madison Street in the heart of Bolton, Mississippi. Opening its doors on July 15, 2023, 866 Nutrition invites you to embark on a journey of health and vitality like never before. Discover a selection of premium nutritional products, designed to nourish your body and elevate your lifestyle. From wholesome meal replacements to energizing protein shakes and refreshing herbal teas, 866 Nutrition offers a comprehensive range of options to support your individual goals. As you step into the beautifully designed space of 866 Nutrition, you'll be embraced by a warm and inviting atmosphere. Relax in the cozy seating areas while savoring a delicious and nutritious beverage. Mark your calendars for July 15, 2023! See you at 866 Nutrition!

By Kara Kimbrough It’s hard to believe, but half of 2023 has slipped away. The halfway point is a good time to reflect on the food and travel-related items are on my favorites list. So, without further ado… Here’s what I’m loving: 1. Blue Bell Sherbet – I’m not sure how I overlooked this product for so long – it was probably due to my love of the company’s delicious ice cream. Recently, on a particularly hot day, I reached for a quart of orange sherbet and checked out the nutritional label. I was shocked to learn an entire carton only serves up 9 grams of fat, or 1.5 grams per serving. Full confession – I polished off the entire carton in one sitting. After trying the rainbow-hued carton interspersed with strawberry, orange and lime flavors, it’s now my favorite. I will eventually go back to my favorite Blue Bell black walnut ice cream, but for now, I’m happy with my low-fat treat. 2. Despite my new sherbet obsession, don’t get the idea that I’ve totally sworn off ice cream. After learning a favorite chocolate treat has joined forces with ice cream, I just had to try Reese's Peanut Butter Light Ice Cream with Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and Peanut Butter Swirl. How’s that for a mouthful? I can attest the combination, like chocolate and peanut butter, is one of the best ideas I’ve seen all year. 3. Kettle Brand Air-Fried Chips – This has always been one of my favorite chip brands, but it’s now risen even higher in my esteem. Kettle-cooking chips like usual, then air-frying them to reduce fat, is nothing short of a genius idea. I can still enjoy the heavy-duty crunch and flavor of my favorite snacks, with 30% less fat. 4. Pasta in some form or fashion always makes my “favorites” lists and this one is no exception. Barilla Classic Oven-Ready Lasagne Pasta is another genius idea of which even seasoned Italian cooks approve. Rolled flat in traditional Italian style, these tasty slices eliminate boiling time when putting together delicious lasagna or other pasta dish. 5. Barilla Al Bronze Pasta – As much as I love pasta topped with a rich sauce, it can be a little challenging to keep the sauce from rolling off hot noodles into the bottom of the bowl or plate. Some genius thought of a way to keep that from happening. This pasta is engineered with a “rough” surface to catch every single drop of sauce. Bellisimo! 6. California Pizza Kitchen Croissant-Inspired Crust Pizza – I’ve mentioned more than once that even though frozen pizza has improved over the years, the cardboard-type crust has held most products back from being truly outstanding. CPK has remedied that problem with a super-thin, flaky crust reminiscent of phyllo dough and a croissant. With toppings like bacon and caramelized onion and uncured pepperoni and hot honey, it’s high on my list of recommendations. 7. “Trust the Gorton’s fisherman”…we’ve sung or hummed the commercial's catch line forever, mainly because the brand has been serving frozen fish sticks, filets, shrimp and more for many years. Now, Gorton's has elevated a tried-and-true product even further by lightening up the breading and running each items through an air-frying process to create an even better seafood meal. When I heard about this new advancement, I tried Gorton's Air Fyer Butterfly Shrimp. Each piece was lightly-seasoned seasoned with the perfect crispy exterior. 8. Ken’s Steak House Thousand Island Dressing – This isn’t a new product per se, but it’s become a staple in my refrigerator this summer and here’s why. First, it’s THE most delicious Thousand Island product on the shelves – at least, from my taste tests. And second, it’s versatile enough to serve as a salad dressing, sandwich topping and dipping sauce for chopped vegetables or crackers. I have other favorite vinaigrette brands, but for a creamy, Remoulade-style dressing, Ken's is #1. 9. Fresh Cravings Everything Bagel Dip - Inspired by America’s favorite bagel, this tangy dip contains a creamy base mixed with flavorful toasted garlic flakes, sesame seeds, poppy seeds and chopped onion. Like my favorite dressing, it can be used as a dip for chips, crackers or vegetables or sandwich spread. 10. Kroger Dips – Like most Kroger brand products, the chain’s dips are a cut above most store brand dips. In fact, in some cases they’re better than national brands. Like #9, Kroger has its own version of bagel dip, but my favorite is Kroger French Onion Sour Cream. It’s really better than any other brand I’ve tried. Other flavors include ranch and Mexican-style street corn. 11. If you’re planning a trip this summer, a new product, Fold-N-Pack Smart Hanger, makes packing and arriving with clothes in wearable condition a breeze. The innovative design allows for garments to be hung on the lightweight hanger, folded and neatly packed, then hung quickly upon arrival. It’s already in my suitcase in preparation for my next flight. Check out the website at: foldnpack.com. 12. Speaking of flights, a return trip to one of my favorite destinations is on the horizon for 2023. While I’m somewhat familiar with New York City, each time I visit, I rely on the knowledgeable and helpful officials at the city’s official destination marketing organization and convention and visitors bureau to steer me in the right direction when it comes to visiting the five boroughs. I need their expertise to help navigate the constantly-changing lineup of attractions and events and thousands of places to stay and dine. This summer, the organization debuted a new name - New York City Tourism + Conventions – and a social campaign - #WHATSGOODNYC – showcasing the best the area has to offer. Visit nyctourism.com for detailed information on everything there is to see and experience in New York City. And, feel free to contact me if you’d like to receive my top picks for a truly unforgettable trip to the Big Apple. So, that's what I'm loving so far in 2023. Drop me an email if you have a favorite supermarket product, restaurant or travel destination to share. Barilla® Oven-Ready Lasagna with Bolognese Sauce 1 box Barilla® Oven-Ready Lasagne 4 ounces ground pork 4 ounces ground beef 1 3/4 ounces carrots 1 3/4 ounces onions 1 3/4 ounces celery 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1/2 cup tomato paste 1/3 cup dry red wine Salt and pepper to taste Water (about 1 cup) as needed 5 1/2 tablespoons butter 5 tablespoons flour 6 cups milk Salt to taste Nutmeg to taste 2 tablespoons butter 1 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, grated Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté minced onion, carrot and celery until golden. Add ground meat and cook over high heat until brown and cooked through. Pour in red wine, season with salt and pepper; reduce until dry. Lower the heat and stir in tomato paste and water. Cook over low heat for about 40 minutes, adding spoonfuls of warm water, if too thick Prepare Béchamel sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, stir in sifted flour and cook over low heat for 1 minute, whisking constantly. Add milk in a steady stream and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Season with salt and nutmeg. Cook for a few more minutes until thick Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In 13 x 9 inch baking dish, pour a layer of Bolognese sauce with grated Parmigiano, then arrange a layer of pasta to cover the bottom of the dish. Make a layer of Béchamel and a layer of meat sauce with Parmigiano. Continue this process, alternating pasta and sauce, and finish with a layer of pasta. Cover with remaining Béchamel sauce and pats of butter. Bake for 30 minutes or until the surface is golden crunchy. Remove from the oven and set aside to rest for 15 - 20 minutes before serving. Recipe from Barilla Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer and travel agent from Mississippi. Email her at kkprco@yahoo.com.

By Bob Garver It has been 15 years since famed archeologist/adventurer Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) was onscreen in “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull” and even longer since he was onscreen in a decent movie. Fans were worried if that creative flop would be the last they’d ever see of Indy, but now he has a second chance to make a last impression. With new director James Mangold at the helm, I suppose there was a chance that this franchise could have dug itself even deeper into the hole, but I’m pleased to say that this entry is not an embarrassment. It’s too bad I can’t say anything better than that, but it's more than I could say for the last movie. An opening sequence sees a younger Indy (using not-perfect but not-distracting digital de-aging effects on Ford) rescue an artifact from Nazis at the tail end of World War II with the help of bumbling colleague Basil (Toby Jones). This sequence takes place on a moving train, so there are seemingly endless opportunities to throw bad guys off screaming. It’s fun, if a bit overlong, which can be said of all the action sequences in this movie. Flash forward to 1969. Indy is in his twilight years, and it seems the world has left him behind. His wife Marion (Karen Allen) has left him, his neighbors wake him up with loud rock music, he can’t keep his students’ attention in class, and the university is forcing him into retirement. The only pleasant surprise in his day is a visit from Helena (Pheobe Waller-Bridge), the late Basil’s daughter and his goddaughter. She has a proposal involving the Dial of Destiny, the artifact Indy and her father rescued from the Nazis. He’s not up for another adventure, but he can help her in simple fashion, and this ironically gets him pulled into an even bigger adventure. It turns out that the duplicitous Helena just wants to steal the Dial and sell it. She’s being tailed by the CIA and renowned scientist Jurgen Voller (Mads Mikkelsen), a Nazi leftover who knows the Dial’s true power. Indy just wants the Dial to be safe, and if that includes protecting Helena and her kid sidekick Teddy (Ethann Isodore) and stopping the bad guys, then so be it. The rest of the movie is mostly just an elaborate treasure hunt where Indy and Helena navigate clues, booby traps, and conflicting loyalties in various cities, with Voller usually showing up to get everyone into an action sequence. Old friend Sallah (Jonathan Rhys-Davies) shows up along the way, as does Renaldo (Antonio Banderas), a diver Indy enlists for an underwater mission. The film’s climax sees Voller try to exploit the time-travel capabilities of the Dial. As evil as he is, I had a laugh at the idea that Voller’s master plan is technically the same thing that every time traveler wants to do. Until the time-travel conclusion (which is at least handled with more dignity than those aliens from “Crystal Skull”), “Dial of Destiny” is just perfectly average for Indiana Jones. Certain visual components look a little too polished to be natural, but otherwise a familiar sense of fun is still in play. Indy’s wit is as quick as ever, and of course any character played by Waller-Bridge is going to be pretty sharp too. The charm of 1981’s “Raiders of the Lost Ark” is never quite matched, but that may be too high a standard. Some will say that putting a character as iconic as Indiana Jones in a just-okay movie is a disservice to his cinematic legacy, but I choose to focus on the upside of this movie being a satisfactory end note for the character compared to what it would have been otherwise. Grade: B- “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” is rated PG-13 for sequences of violence and action, language and smoking. Its running time is 154 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu.

July 8 - 12:00-3:00 p.m. $10 Microchip and Engraved ID Tag Event -Pet owners can bring their pets to get them microchipped for only $10. Plus they will receive an engraved ID tag. -All dogs must be on a leash or in a pet carrier. All cats must be in a pet carrier. -Cash only - exact change is even better. -This event is part of our efforts to help lost pets make it home. -A grant from Petco Love is making this event possible. July 8 - Anytime between 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. (Stay an hour or spend the day!) Volunteer Treat Day -Let's clean the doggie pools! Wear old clothes and closed-toe shoes. This will involve water and a little bleach. Bring a scrub brush, if possible. -Other volunteer opportunities available. -Join the fun and then enjoy a special treat of watermelon donated by Pretty Paws Grooming.

Our country. Home sweet home. The United States of America since 1776. To us citizens, it is the best country in the world. At least, to the citizens who still believe in the values of our great, great, great grandparents’ ancestors who started this country years ago. Values like loving and following our Creator. Working hard and loving even harder. Being independent enough to provide for ourselves, and compassionate enough to diligently care for others. Making the wellbeing of our neighbors a big priority in our life. A wonderful example of such compassionate and selfless giving of time and attention to others is the men and women who call continually to show their concern for the health of our automobiles. These good-hearted people must willingly make a habit of missing their own meal-times, in order to place phone calls across our country. Meals in every community are interrupted so that graciously offered extended warranties can be repeated. Coverage guaranteed for anything that might happen to our automobiles is enthusiastically offered. Car-Measles, Truck-Flu, Motorcycle-Covid, you name it, that dude on the other end of the phone says his insurance company will offer an extended warranty for it. And observing their own Sundays as a time for them to rest and reconnect with family? No way. Their work phone surely must be glued to their ear even then. Now folks, THAT is thoughtfulness and selflessness at its finest. Another marvelous sampling of the patriotism and love for all citizens of this country? The endless television ads attempting to contact possible victims and promising us justice. This is proof that the lawyer community in our beloved country is willing to work ceaselessly on our behalf, trying to make certain that each of us have a date with an attorney and a judge at the courthouse. I must say, they are an inspiration to us all. And never forget the commercials from pharmaceuticals informing us of a cure or symptom relief for every possible obscure disease known to man. These fine, upstanding companies evidently have an unbelievable dedication to helping us with our every ache and pain. The emotion that I feel when I think of them is almost overwhelming. Last but not least, as a citizen of this fine country, I stand amazed and astonished at the 24/7 attention of our country’s politicians. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that most of these men and women in our nation’s capital burn the midnight oil, providing ways for working Americans to have a plethora of guaranteed opportunities to spend our hard-earned income. Caring for the people of this country - I am absolutely convinced that is the motivation of our entire nation today. I mean, what else could be inspiring the off-spring of citizens like Susan B. Anthony, Benjamin Franklin, Florence Nightingale, Thomas Edison, Davey Crockett, Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, Amelia Earhart, and so many others? Surely not self-centered gratification and greed. Happy Birthday, USA!

By Mika Hartman In 1959, the iconic Barbie doll went on display at the American Toy Fair in New York City. Since this time, over a billion Barbies have been sold. I grew up with Barbies and even had a nice collection, in my early 20’s, of collector Barbie dolls. When Mattel started creating Barbie dolls that represented friends with disabilities in 2022, I understood how important these dolls would be and I also thought how long overdue they were. Finally, inclusion! April of this year, Mattel introduced the first ever Barbie with Down syndrome. Mattel worked with National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to create a Barbie that would capture the light of our children’s love and give respect to the beautiful characteristics of Down syndrome. They nailed it. She glows. The NDSS Barbie reminds me of gorgeous friends we’ve made on this journey. At the release, I immediately started scrambling to make sure I got mine ordered… and before the day was over, they were completely sold out! You read that right: SOLD OUT! More are available now for order on Amazon. I just checked, they are back in stock and 1K+ sold in past month. Inclusion matters. After I secured my Barbie, I then ordered the life-size necklace that is worn by the Barbie with Down syndrome. It is Barbie pink and has “The Lucky Few” arrows as the “lucky” charm. I got my confirmation, but later received a message that the demand was so overwhelmingly huge, that orders would be delayed and supplies needed to be restocked. I loved getting this update because it meant that the want was high. Then, this: Mica May, the maker of the necklace, saw the beautiful response and decided to hire BIG The Brookwood in Georgetown to assemble the necklaces. When my Barbie necklace arrived, it came with a card about the artist that made my jewelry piece. Her name is Emma. She is from Texas, can light up a room with her vibrant smile, loves all things musical, does Zumba and can be found dancing all the time. Emma was born with Down syndrome. Mica May hired people with Down syndrome to help make this necklace. Perfection. Inclusion matters. A few years ago, I was searching for a doll that looked like my Hudson. At that time, I could only find one. It was created by a company called Miniland. Miniland dolls state on their website that they offer a variety of dolls, including diversity and handicaps. I discovered only one shop on the Gulf Coast carried this doll. They are sold at Riley’s Children’s Apparel in Gulfport. So I called and reserved my doll for Hudson. As I drove over, I was sharing with a friend on the phone how excited I was to have found one in time for Hudson’s third birthday. I then talked about how I could get these dolls for all our friends children for birthdays and Christmas… then it was said, “but why would you get a doll with Down syndrome for a “normal” child?”. Even remembering this conversation now is hurting my heart, it feels so heavy. I think the better question is, “why should dolls with Down syndrome only be for children with Down syndrome, how can you learn or teach like that?”. Do you know how many books and toys Hudson has that have zero representation of our friends with Down syndrome? So if Hudson can play with toys that represent typical children, read books that represent typical children, play with typical children, and more, then why can’t parents see the need to introduce their children to toys and books that teach inclusion of Hudson, too? Inclusion matters. The weeks leading up to the golf tournament, I took a new baby doll with Down syndrome to the clubhouse as a visual prop. My dad found this incredibly realistic doll for me as part of my Christmas. This doll is wonderful. While this baby was on display at The Oaks, I kept hearing how beautiful and real the doll is from people registering. One young lady said that her brother was born with Down syndrome and she had never seen a doll like this. She was so taken by this doll that she took him home for her mom to see; they both were filled with real emotions that there is now a doll that includes someone they love so much. When I told her that this doll made by Paradise Galleries is available on Amazon, to just search: Down Syndrome Awareness Baby Noah Doll. She was going home to order one. Inclusion matters. A few months ago, I was visiting the library in Pass Christian and talking with the head librarian. We were talking about how important it is to have kids that look like you in books to encourage and inspire you. How skin color matters. How ethnicity matters. How gender matters. If only boys are shown to fly shuttles into space, should a girl think she could, too? It’s true. When the Ghostbusters formed an all girl team, I was thinking “why”, when really, I should have been thinking “why not”… and I was so happy they did. It was great! So if we are to inspire needed change, we have to be open to living the life we seek. If all of this representation brings out the best in us to live our best life, then representing everyone as God created them is a must. Inclusion matters. This August, I am teaming up with The Biloxi Shuckers and Buddy Cruise for an awesome night at the MGM Park. This night will be full of surprises. The Biloxi Shuckers will be wearing Buddy Cruise Jerseys that I helped design with Teresa Arnoldson; they were created with extra love and represent people with different disabilities. These jerseys will be auctioned after the game. Our first pitch will be thrown by friend with a disability, our National Anthem will be sung by a friend with a disability, the stands will be filled with 100’s of families on the beautiful journey with their loved ones with disabilities, and so much more. The game is August 11th at 6:30 against the Tennessee Smokies. I have tickets available in our section for $16 per ticket. Please call me at 719-822-6497 to get tickets. Inclusion matters. One day, I will feel as if we have won the “inclusion matters’ campaign, when we no longer need to tell people that a disability is attached to a person… Hudson is Hudson. Hudson was born with Down syndrome; it’s a part of him, not all of him. This part of him does make him different, however, it makes him different in the most EXTRAordinary ways. EXTRA Celebration: We will be celebrating Hudson's five year Heartiversary on July 27th. Five years of learning, growing and thriving with a heart that works well. Life is a gift, we celebrate it all.

According to Atmos Energy, a “search engine phishing” scheme has been revealed. When customers search for “Atmos” online, the online cybercriminals are using search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to place fake websites as the top search result. Company representatives indicated that telephone scams are also on the rise. “The most effective way to combat this recent increase in scam attempts is through education, awareness and extreme caution anytime someone contacts you about a utility bill payment,” said Bobby Morgan, Atmos Energy vice president of public affairs. “In addition to online and telephone scams, beware of impostors demanding payment at your door. Always ask for an employee’s identification badge which displays name, photograph, and Atmos Energy logo. Our employees will not collect payments in person. If you suspect an impostor, call our customer service number at 888.286.6700 to verify the employee’s identity and contact local authorities.” The energy company provides gas services to over 269,000 residents in Mississippi. If someone clicks on one of the “spoofed” scam websites, it could look very similar to a real Atmos Energy webpage. However, it will feature a fake customer service number and other false information about the company. If a customer receives a phone call from Atmos that seems suspect, know that Atmos Energy will never ask for payment using a prepaid debit card, gift card, cryptocurrency, or unauthorized third-party payment or mobile application. They will also never call before 7:00 a.m. or after 6:00 p.m. Central Time. Customers should only pay their bill through a logged in online account or other authorized methods. If you have concerns regarding the legitimacy of a call, hang up and call Atmos Energy customer service at 888.286.6700. For more information on how to protect yourself from scammers, do the following: Visit the Atmos Energy website at atmosenergy.com/scams. Visit the Utilities United Against Scams website at www.utilitiesunited.org. Visit the Federal Trade Commission website at https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/ Follow Utilities United Against Scams on Twitter and Facebook, and join the conversation by using #StopScams.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) encourages firework safety this Independence Day whether at home or at a firework show. “Use common sense when shooting fireworks at home,” said State Fire Marshal and Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney. “Never point fireworks at another person and dispose of fireworks in water to prevent fire.” You should also: • Observe local laws. o Those wishing to purchase and use fireworks should first check with their fire protection officials to make sure that local laws are being followed. o Some municipalities prohibit fireworks from being used within city limits. • Read and follow the directions on each firework. • Never point or throw fireworks at another person. • Buy from reliable fireworks sellers. Store them in a cool, dry place. • Always have an adult present when shooting fireworks. • Put used fireworks in a bucket of water and have a hose ready. • Only use fireworks outdoors, away from homes, dry grass, and trees. • Light only one item at a time and keep a safe distance. • Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks. • Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks. • Never give fireworks to small children. • Never carry fireworks in your pocket. • Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers. The SFMO performs pyrotechnic inspections for shows performed on state-owned properties, like state parks. Pyrotechnics companies must apply for a permit for shows on state-owned property. Once received, the SFMO verifies all information pertaining to insurance, technicians, and local public safety information. Deputies must be on site for the firing of the display and clean up.

By Kara Kimbrough What’s not to love about the Fourth of July? It’s filled with patriotism, picnics, fireworks, family gatherings, watermelon (make that Smith County watermelons if you’re from south Mississippi), barbecues, homemade ice cream and much more. And there’s only one color scheme: red, white and blue. It’s the perfect low maintenance holiday. Think about it. Christmas is all over the place with its dizzying array of multi-colored themes and endless food choices. Thanksgiving is all about the turkey and getting the dressing “just right.” But July 4th can - and should be – simple. As long as there’s a flag flying somewhere on the premises and an assortment of grilled meats and appropriate sides are on the table, it’s the epitome of no fuss/no muss. I’ll admit I haven’t always adhered to the “simplicity is best” rule when planning my next patriotic themed tablescape or dessert. I’ve created centerpieces of gigantic Mason jars filled with sand from the Gulf of Mexico (Gulfport AND Destin beaches) to hold American flags and pinwheels; miniature Mason jars containing cupcake slices, whipped cream and berries; last year’s burger bar on a 2x4 plank and of course, my annual simple-but-elegant flag cake. This year’s Fourth of July meal will center around two racks of barbecued ribs grilled and sold by a local fire department. Proceeds will fund a scholarship for a firefighter who was also my friend. He was recently killed while crossing a busy highway to assist a wreck victim. If you’d like to know more about the fund, drop me an email and I’ll fil you in on this worthy cause. Other Fourth food will include grilled burgers with all the trimmings, baked beans, some type of cold side – either Cole slaw, potato or pasta salad- and an appetizer to stave off hunger pains while the burgers are grilling. Sliders are not what I’d call fancy or even new in most circles. But I’d never thought of placing cocktail sausages inside the top of slider buns, followed by toppings of favorite chopped vegetables and sauces. I did a test run and can attest, they’re as delicious as they are cute. Back by popular demand, I’m including the recipe for Patriotic Cupcakes in a Jar. Like charcuterie boards, the trend of using Mason jars as vessels for all manner of foods doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon. Guests can take their jar home as a souvenir of Fourth of July ’23, especially if you take the time to write their name on the jar in gold or silver ink and tie a patriotic ribbon around the rim. Happy Fourth of July, everyone! Fourth of July Mini Dog Sliders 1/2 cup sour cream 1 cup mild or medium salsa 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 24 Cocktail Smokies 12 King’s Hawaiian slider rolls Feta cheese Pickle relish Other favorite toppings Combine sour cream and salsa in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted. Add the Cocktail Smokies and cook until heated through, stirring, about 5-6 minutes. Slice vertically through each slider bun, about halfway through so it resembles a top-split hot dog bun, and place two Smokies lengthwise in each. Top with sauce, feta cheese and relish. Can also add other favorite toppings like mustard, chopped onions, etc. Patriotic Cupcakes in a Jar For the cupcakes: 1 box of your favorite cake flavor- I used Duncan Hines Lemon Supreme (you can make them from scratch, but because the cakes soak up icing and juice from the berries, the cakes are very moist) Makes 24-30 medium cupcakes Assortment of berries: sliced strawberries, blueberries, blackberries For the cream cheese frosting: 2 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened 2 sticks butter, softened 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 4 cups sifted powdered sugar Prepare cupcake batter according to package directions. Spray cupcake tins with cooking spray and fill each indention ½ full with the batter. Bake according to directions, then once they are cool, slice each cupcake in half lengthwise (not from the top). When finished, you will have a stack of tops and a stack of bottoms. Place one cupcake bottom in a jar, then add icing to a piping bag or Ziploc bag with the tip cut off and add a layer of icing over the bottom cupcake. Add a sprinkle of berries to the icing, then place on top of the cupcake on the layer of frosting and berries. Gently flatten the top part of the cupcake inside the jar and top with another layer of icing. If there’s room, add a few more berries to the top. Cover with lids and decorate with stickers, ribbon or whatever you’d like. Supplies you will need: A dozen or more 8-ounce glass jars with lids and rings Pastry bag and decorative tips or large Ziploc bag Round stickers (many websites have downloadable links to jar stickers; you can also use large white address labels and cut then into circles, then decorate) Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer from Mississippi. Email her at kkprco@yahoo.com

In 2003, the Mississippi Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks Foundation was established to support the MDWFP’s ongoing efforts to protect and conserve our fish and wildlife resources. The Foundation plays a crucial role in enhancing conservation efforts, expanding hunting and fishing opportunities, promoting shooting sports programs, and preserving our state's abundant natural resources. Today, we invite you to join us in supporting these efforts, by participating in the Foundation's Conservation Raffle. This exciting event provides you with a chance to win extraordinary prizes, while at the same time actively contributing to the conservation and enhancement of our State’s fish and wildlife resources. The funds raised through the raffle will directly benefit MDWFP's mission, to conserve Mississippi’s wildlife and fisheries resources, and enhance our state parks to provide quality outdoor recreational opportunities. Visit the raffle website today to explore the incredible prizes and join us in preserving Mississippi's natural resources and hunting heritage. By supporting the Foundation's Conservation Raffle, you become an integral part of securing a brighter future for generations to come. The raffle closes on July 30th! Website: https://mwfp.foundationraffle.com/

In the 20 years since their inception, Choose Life Mississippi has raised $4 million to protect unborn children. 166,510 car tags have been sold to people across the state who share the same dream. This achievement is monumental and one that Choose Life Mississippi does not take for granted. Every tag sold has been instrumental in the fight for unborn lives in Mississippi. June 24, 2023 marks the first year anniversary of the Dobbs Decision, a Mississippi case that overturned Roe vs. Wade. “Now that Mississippi has laws to protect our unborn babies and the last abortion clinic is finally closed, women need our help more than ever,” says President and Founder Terri Herring. “Pregnancy Resource Centers are a crucial resource for women facing unplanned pregnancies.” Choose Life Mississippi was launched in 2003. The goal was simple: to save the lives of unborn children by supporting their mothers during their pregnancies and beyond. Choose Life Mississippi achieves this goal through the sale of “Choose Life” tags. Funds provide vital resources to pregnancy centers across the state and provide the support that women need to become the mothers they hope to be. There are over 30 pregnancy care centers in the state of Mississippi. These centers meet the physical, emotional and medical needs of women in need by providing free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and compassionate, sound advice about pregnancy and parenting. They also provide adoption counseling. Supporting women has always been a goal central to Choose Life’s mission, but now more than ever, it is imperative that women are offered guidance, resources and quality care early in pregnancy. You can be a part of the solution by purchasing a “Choose Life” tag or the new “Adoption Tag” to provide funding for these centers. For more information go to ChooseLifeMS.org.